District of Connecticut

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MICHAEL CABASSA, 48, of Torrington, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to a narcotics trafficking offense and also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2007, Cabassa was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 240 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for trafficking crack cocaine.  He was released from prison after receiving an executive grant of clemency on January 17, 2025.  Connecticut State Police arrested Cabassa on December 27, 2025, after he was involved in a one-car motor vehicle accident while driving under the influence, and a search of his vehicle revealed distribution quantities of cocaine and fentanyl.

Cabassa pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, which, based on his prior federal drug conviction, carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.  He faces additional penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

Cabassa has been detained since his federal arrest on May 21, 2026.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Connecticut State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that three Missouri men have been charged by indictment for their alleged involvement in an attempted robbery of Bitcoin in August 2024.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 25, 2024, Danbury Police arrested six Florida men who were involved in a violent carjacking and the beating and kidnapping of two occupants of the vehicle on that date.  The investigation revealed that the kidnapping victims are the parents of an individual who participated in the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars in Bitcoin.

It is alleged that, in an attempt to steal some of that Bitcoin, the individuals who coordinated the attempted robbery and kidnapping first recruited SEDRIC LOUIS, 32, JOHN DAVIS, 34, and MARTEL WILLIAMS, 27, all of St. Louis, Missouri, to carry out the plan.  Between approximately August 21 and August 24, 2024, Louis, Davis, Williams, and others traveled to Connecticut and obtained rental vehicles and supplies, including air rifles and walkie talkies.  They then stalked the intended target and his parents over the course of two days, waiting for the opportunity to force their way into their home where they would threaten the target and demand that he transfer the stolen cryptocurrency into accounts controlled by the scheme’s coordinators.  Fearing that they had been captured on home security cameras and frustrated by the plan and a lack of communication with their co-conspirators, Louis, Davis, and Williams left Connecticut.  Shortly thereafter, another crew from Florida arrived to carry out the plan.

On May 22, 2026, a grand jury in New Haven returned a second superseding indictment charging Louis, Davis, and Williams with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (“Hobbs Act Robbery”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Louis and Davis have been detained since each was arrested on June 25, 2026.  On July 30, 2026, they each appeared in Bridgeport federal court and enter a plea of not guilty.  Williams appeared in Bridgeport federal court on July 17, 2026, entered a plea of not guilty, and was released on bond.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Los Angeles, FBI St. Louis, and the Danbury Police Department.  The FBI Task Force includes members from the Connecticut State Police and several local police departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Daniel George.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central District of California, the Eastern District of Missouri, the District of Columbia, and the District of New Jersey, and the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Danbury, for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.

David X, Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that HEATHER BROWN, 50, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for robbing three Connecticut banks in 2024.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Brown robbed the Wells Fargo Bank located at 800 Wolcott Street in Waterbury on February 6, 2024; the Liberty Bank located at 1030 Hamilton Avenue in Waterbury on February 7, 2024; and the Webster Bank located at 575 Farmington Avenue in Bristol on February 9, 2024. 

Judge Oliver ordered Brown to pay $8,328 in restitution.

Brown, who last resided in New Haven, has been detained since her arrest on February 9, 2024.  She pleaded guilty on October 7, 2025.

Brown was convicted of state bank robbery offenses in 2006 and again in 2010, and she served more than 15 years in prison for those offenses.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Waterbury, Bristol, and Southington Police Departments.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan J. Guevremont.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that FELIX JIMENEZ, 38, a citizen of the Dominican Republic unlawfully residing in the U.S., pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to a cocaine trafficking offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, members of the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force coordinated a purchase of cocaine with an individual in New York.  On April 9, 2026, Jiminez drove to the meeting location in Waterbury and provided approximately one kilogram of cocaine to an undercover officer.  After the transaction, task force officers converged on the location.  Jimenez drove his car into several law enforcement vehicles and fled at a high rate of speed.  He was found a short distance away hiding in a closet in an autobody shop in Waterbury and was taken into custody.

Jimenez has been detained since his arrest.  While incarcerated, he was overheard on a phone call with his girlfriend discussing the possession of firearms at a residence they shared in Ansonia.  Law enforcement subsequently conducted a court-authorized search of the residence and seized two handguns.

Jimenez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 23.

Jimenez was deported to the Dominican Republic in 2019 after he was convicted of a prior federal offense.

The NHDO Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police, and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lembo.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HAROLD RAMIREZ CAGUA, also known as “Gordo,” 42, a citizen of Colombia last residing in Miami, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 57 months of imprisonment for his involvement in an organized jewelry theft ring that targeted mall-based stores and kiosks across the country.

According to court documents and statements made in court, from May 2023 through April 2024, Ramirez Cagua and several other Colombian nationals burglarized jewelry stores and kiosks in malls in Connecticut and other states and then transported the stolen property or the proceeds from it across state lines.  Before the burglaries, the co-conspirators surveilled the stores and kiosks to formulate game plans and, as part of that reconnaissance, posed as legitimate customers to examine the desired merchandise and assess the establishment’s security measures.

Ramirez Cagua served as the crime ring’s logistics operative, booking flights for co-conspirators to travel for the burglaries, securing rental cars, and reserving lodging.  During the burglaries, he and his associates forced his way into closed businesses, sometimes by cutting a hole through a wall, and then pried open and smashed locked display cases.  They then carted off the stolen merchandise.

Ramirez Cagua and his co-conspirators burglarized jewelry establishments in Paterson, New Jersey, on May 17, 2023; in Mentor, Ohio, on July 21, 2023; in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on August 14, 2023; in Greece, New York, on September 20, 2023; at the Connecticut Post Mall in Milford, Connecticut, on October 5, 2023; in Lombard, Illinois on October 17, 2023; in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, on October 27, 2023; in Henrico, Virginia on November 4, 2023; and in Horseheads, New York on April 18, 2024.  The total losses from these burglaries exceed $4.4 million.

Members of the conspiracy also cased additional jewelry stores and kiosks in Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Delaware.

To date, none of the stolen jewelry has been recovered by law enforcement.  The investigation revealed that much of the stolen jewelry was sold to the owner of a jewelry store in Queens, New York, who then sold it to others, including those he knew would melt down the gold.

Ramirez Cagua has been detained since July 18, 2024.  On March 5, 2025, he pleaded guilty to interstate transportation of stolen property.

This investigation has been conducted by the FBI New Haven’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force with the assistance of the Milford (Conn.) Police Department, the Hamilton Township (N.J.) Police Division, the Delaware State Police, the Henrico County (Va.) Police Division, the New York State Police, the New York Police Department, the Pensacola (Fla.) Police Department, the Paterson (N.J.) Police Department, the Mentor (Ohio) Police Department, the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department, the Greece (N.Y.) Police Department, and the Lombard (Ill.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Huang and Conor M. Reardon.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, and FBI Field Offices in New York, Dallas, Miami, and Tampa for their assistance.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.  The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.  Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.  In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ORONDE JEFFERSON, 42, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for a drug-related firearm offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department learned that Jefferson’s associate, Moeties Brown, was selling narcotics in the vicinity of Brown’s residence on Maple Street in Bridgeport.  On November 20, 2024, investigators observed Jefferson and Brown at Brown’s residence, and Brown and others engaging in suspected drug sales.  Jefferson was arrested on state charges after he was searched and officers found him in possession of 32 individual glassine folds of fentanyl, a ziplock bag containing 71 capsules of crack cocaine, and a loaded Glock 9mm handgun equipped with a loaded high-capacity magazine.  Brown was also arrested after a search of his person revealed a distribution quantity of marijuana, and a search of his vehicle and residence revealed more than 100 grams of fentanyl, two handguns, and ammunition.

Jefferson was arrested on federal charges on May 9, 2025.  On March 23, 2026, he pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Jefferson’s criminal history includes convictions for robbery, firearms, burglary, and larceny offenses.

Jefferson, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on August 25.

On May 19, 2026, Brown pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 5.

This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department.  The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Fairfield, Norwalk, Trumbull, and Westport Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary G. Vitale and Daniel George.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE LUIS RODRIGUEZ, 46, a citizen of the Dominican Republic unlawfully residing in the United States, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 50 months of imprisonment for passport fraud and identity theft offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2025, an individual who had been recently released from prison (the “victim”) applied for a Connecticut identification card at the Waterbury branch of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”).  When processing the victim’s application, the DMV determined that there was already an active driver’s license for the victim that had been issued in 2001 and renewed multiple times.  An investigation determined that Rodriguez, who lived in Waterbury, was the unlawful holder of the driver’s license and had assumed the victim’s identity.  Investigators discovered that the victim’s identity had two different FBI fingerprint profiles, and that the Waterbury Police Department had arrest records and booking photographs of Rodriguez posing at the victim.

On March 5, 2020, Rodriguez used the name, date of birth, and place of birth of the victim to apply for a U.S. passport in Waterbury.  He received the passport and used it for travel and identification purposes.

Rodriguez was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on December 30, 2025, after he submitted the false passport to the U.S. Department of State and falsely represented himself as the victim and as a U.S. citizen.  He has been detained since his arrest.

On April 28, 2026, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of using a passport secured by a false statement and one count of aggravated identity theft.

Rodriguez will be removed to the Dominican Republic when he completes his prison term.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles and the Waterbury Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that REBECCA BARBERA, 44, of Guilford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 24 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for assisting the commission of numerous violent robberies across Connecticut in September and October 2022.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between September 5 and October 13, 2022, Barbera’s associate, Lonny Cross, committed 37 robberies and attempted robberies of gas station convenience stores, mini-markets, and liquor stores in North Branford, Waterbury, Wolcott, Plymouth, New Haven, North Haven, Orange, West Haven, Wethersfield, Bristol, Southington, Naugatuck, Watertown, Franklin, Norwich, Waterford, Groton City, Stonington, Ledyard, Darien, Norwalk, Stratford, and Seymour, Connecticut, and Port Chester, New York.  In total, Cross stole more than $58,000 in cash.  Several of the robberies occurred on the same day, only minutes apart.

For at least 24 of the robberies, Cross traveled to the store with Barbera, who would sometimes enter the store to determine the number of employees and customers in the store, exit the store, and then report that information to Cross.  Cross then entered the store, displayed a knife or facsimile firearm while threatening employees with statements including “I know where you work” and “if you call the police I’ll come back and blow your head off,” and stole cash and other items.

Cross grabbed some victims and held a knife to them.  During a robbery in Wethersfield on September 24, 2022, Cross threatened the 12-year-old son of the store owner with a knife and robbed the register.  The boy was alone behind the counter while his father was in a back office when Cross entered the store.

On October 14, 2022, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of Cross’s residence and a black 2014 Chevrolet Impala that Cross was known to drive.  The search of the residence revealed clothing consistent with clothing worn by Cross in several of the robberies, as well as quantities of heroin, crack cocaine, and narcotics paraphernalia.  A search of the car revealed 120 bags heroin, approximately 14 grams of crack, and a knit hat matching the description of one worn by Cross during a robbery the day before.  Cross, who was on state parole for prior robbery convictions, was arrested on state charges on that date.  The morning after his arrest, from jail, Cross directed Barbera and others to go to a storage unit and dispose of a weapon he had used in the robberies.

Barbera was arrested on October 28, 2022.  On May 24, 2024, she pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence.

Barbera, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on September 4.

Cross pleaded guilty to robbery offenses and, on March 5, 2025, was sentenced to 188 months of imprisonment.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police, Orange Police Department, Port Chester (N.Y.) Police Department, and numerous other police departments from the municipalities where the robberies occurred, with the assistance of Connecticut State Parole.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr. and Robert S. Ruff.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSUE MUNIZ, 35, of Ansonia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl and cocaine.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Stamford Police Department learned that an individual, subsequently identified as Muniz, was trafficking fentanyl and cocaine in the Naugatuck Valley, and that a 32-year-old woman had died from an overdose after using drugs obtained from Muniz.  Investigators conducted multiple undercover purchases of narcotics from Muniz in November and December 2024.  On December 20, 2024, after investigators coordinated a purchase of narcotics, Muniz was arrested at a car dealership in Milford where he was employed.  Muniz possessed approximately 58 grams of fentanyl at time of his arrest, and related searches of his vehicle and Ansonia residence revealed quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine.

Muniz, whose criminal history includes state felony convictions for narcotics offenses, has been detained since his arrest.  On April 9, 2026, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine.

This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lembo with the assistance of Law Student Intern Isabelle Kennedy.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DAVID L. JOHNSON, 66, of Greenwich, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to an offense stemming from his embezzlement of more than $2 million from an elderly victim and his estate.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson operated an antiques business, Antique Treasures LLC, and an auction business, Greenwich Auction, both based in Stamford.  In approximately October 2018, an individual (“the victim”) executed a power of attorney, will, and trust naming Johnson as the victim’s agent, executor, and successor trustee, respectively.  Johnson was not a beneficiary of the victim’s estate or trust.  The victim died at the age of 87 in August 2020.  After the victim’s death, Johnson stole more than $436,000 from one of the victim’s federal tax refund checks.  The investigation revealed that Johnson stole a total of $2,168,719.24 from the victim and his estate.

To date, Johnson has paid approximately $1.1 million in restitution.

Johnson pleaded guilty to money laundering, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30.

Johnson has been released on a $250,000 bond since his arrest on December 18, 2025.

This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, announced that AMILY COLON, 31, of Wethersfield, was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint charging her offenses related to her alleged sexual coercion of a minor she met online.

As alleged in court documents, Colon, who identified herself as “Alice,” initiated an online relationship with a 13-year-old boy in New York (the “minor victim”).  Communicating primarily through the Discord app, the conversations became sexually explicit, and Colon coerced the minor victim to send her a sexually explicit video of himself.  In turn, Colon sent sexually explicit images and videos of herself to the minor victim.  On June 26, 2026, Colon traveled to Long Island, picked up the minor victim, brought him to her residence in Wethersfield, and attempted to engage in sexual activity.  Colon drove the minor victim back to Long Island the next day, dropping him off a few blocks away from his home.

The criminal complaint charges Colon with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, and with transportation of a minor to engage in sexual activity.  Each offense carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years imprisonment and a maximum of life.  

Colon appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the FBI New Haven Child Exploitation Task Force, the FBI’s Long Island Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Suffolk County (N.Y.) Police Department, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexis L. Beyerlein and Nancy V. Gifford.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York for its assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; J. Buck Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that HECTOR GONZALEZ, 42, of Ansonia, and DAREL EDWARDS, also known as “Woo,” 48, of New Haven, have been charged by indictment with narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, a long-term investigation revealed that Gonzalez, Edwards, and others were involved in the manufacture and distribution of pills containing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other substances.  Gonzalez used multiple tableting/pill pressing machines to manufacture counterfeit pills resembling pharmaceutical grade Oxycodone and Adderall pills and containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, and generic pills in various shapes, colors, and sizes, and bearing logos and designs, which contained various illicit substances, including fentanyl, carfentanil, xylazine, methamphetamine, and cocaine.  Gonzalez distributed the pills through a network of associates, including Edwards, who sold them to customers in Connecticut and, using the U.S. Mail, to others out of state.

It is further alleged that on March 14, 2025, New Haven Police arrested Edwards after finding him in possession of more than 200 grams of narcotics pills that had been produced by Gonzalez.  On May 8, 2025, while he was released on bond in his state case, investigators observed Edwards meeting with Gonzalez for the purpose of acquiring additional pills.  Connecticut State Police attempted to stop Edwards’ vehicle after the meeting, but Edwards fled at a high rate of speed before abandoning his vehicle in New Haven.

It is also alleged that, in June 2025, Edwards and an associate sold narcotics pills and a short-barreled rifle to an undercover ATF agent.

Gonzalez and Edwards were arrested on federal criminal complaints on June 30, 2026.  On that date, a search of Gonzalez’s residence revealed three mechanical pill pressing machines, more than two kilograms of fentanyl in both powder and counterfeit pill form, more than two kilograms of methamphetamine, two firearms, approximately $280,000 in cash, and diamond encrusted jewelry.

On July 14, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment charging Gonzalez and Edwards with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances.  If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of drug narcotics attributed to each defendant, Gonzalez faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Edwards faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.

The indictment also charges Gonzalez with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, and Edwards with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances.

The indictment also alleges that each defendant faces enhanced penalties based on a prior conviction in Connecticut state court for a serious violent felony.  In 2007, Gonzalez was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and, in 2004, Edwards was convicted of assault in the first degree.

Gonzalez and Edwards have been detained since their arrests.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of Homeland Securities Investigation (HSI), the Connecticut State Police, and the New Haven, Hamden, and Ansonia Police Departments.  The DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad is composed of personnel from the DEA, and the Bristol, West Haven, Fairfield, Glastonbury, Seymour, and Torrington Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FERNANDO GONCALVES DOS SANTOS, 38, a citizen of Brazil, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to unlawful reentry of a removed alien.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2023, Danbury Police arrested Goncalves, who did not have lawful status in the U.S., in connection with multiple domestic violence offenses.  Goncalves was subsequently arrested by Danbury Police in March 2023 for violating a protective order, and in May 2023 for threatening and for violating a protective order.  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Goncalves on June 22, 2023.  On November 17, 2023, he was removed to Brazil.

Goncalves subsequently illegally reentered the U.S.  In 2025, he was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court for violation of conditions of release – second degree.

ICE arrested Goncalves on a federal criminal complaint on March 27, 2026, in Bethel.

Goncalves, who has been detained since his arrest, is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson on October 9 in Hartford, at which time Goncalves faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.

This matter has been investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KUTTINO JAMAL SCOTT, 24, of Miami, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 32 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his role in a scheme that defrauded numerous individuals who used the electronic payments system Zelle.  Judge Shea also ordered Scott to perform 125 hours of community service while on supervised release.

According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement has been investigating crimes against users of digital payment applications, including Zelle.  Typically, through this scheme, a victim receives a fraudulent text message, purporting to be from the victim’s bank, asking the victim to confirm whether a Zelle transaction was authorized.  When the victim denies the transaction, the victim receives a response that a bank representative will be in contact.  The victim then receives a phone call from an individual impersonating a bank representative who informs the victim that an unauthorized transaction has occurred and that they need to work together to reverse the transaction.  Without the victim’s knowledge, the fraudsters will link the victim’s actual phone number or email address via Zelle to a bank account that does not belong to the victim.  The victim is then instructed to “reverse” the fictional fraudulent transaction by making a Zelle payment to what they believe is their own account, but is, in fact, an account controlled by the fraudsters.

From approximately February 2021 through August 2023, Scott and others, including Kader Gahmaal Biwaki Edmond, stole $657,680.79 from approximately 140 victims, including victims in Connecticut, through this Zelle scheme and other fraud schemes.  The investigation revealed that Edmond had more direct contact with victims, and Scott managed at least eight “money mules,” individuals who allowed their bank accounts to receive and transfer proceeds of the fraud scheme.

Judge Shea ordered Scott to pay full restitution.

Scott was arrested on August 31, 2023.  On January 13, 2026, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

Scott, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 15.

Edmond pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on August 19, 2024, was sentenced to three years of imprisonment.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Chang with the assistance of Law Student Intern Lucas Alexander.

Victims can report Zelle fraud to their bank or credit union, or to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), which is run by the FBI and serves as the country’s hub for reporting cybercrime, at www.ic3.gov.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that YOVANI DE JESUS ALVAREZ MURILLO, 42, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegal reentry of a removed alien.

The criminal complaint alleges that Alvarez was first encountered in the U.S. in February 2005 when he was arrested by the New York State Police in Tarrytown, New York, and charged with driving while ability impaired by the consumption of alcohol.  In August 2008, Greenwich (Conn.) Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs/alcohol.  In December 2008, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the names “Geovany Alvarez-Murillo” and “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” for two counts of failure to appear in the second degree.  In November 2009, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of larceny in the third degree.  In December 2011, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs/alcohol.  In June 2012, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of failure to appear in the first degree.  In October 2012, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name Geovany Alvares-Murillo, on a charge of forgery in the second degree.  Alvarez was convicted of, and sentenced for, these offenses.

The complaint further alleges that, in October 2012, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) interviewed Alvarez while he was serving a sentence in the custody of Connecticut Department of Correction.  During the interview, Alvarez admitted that had illegally entered the U.S. in approximately 2002 by crossing the border from Mexico.  Alvarez was removed to Honduras in October 2013.

The complaint further alleges that, Alvarez illegally reentered the U.S. and, in August 2021, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” was arrested by Stamford Police on a charge of breach of peace in the second degree.  He was convicted of the offense and ordered to pay a $150 fine.  In May 2023, Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares Murillo,” was arrested by Stamford Police on a charge of criminal trespass in the third degree.  He was convicted of the offense and was ordered to pay a $300 fine.

The complaint further alleges that, in November 2024, Connecticut State Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovanny Alvares,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.  In August 2025, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, also under the name “Geovanny Alvares,” for operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device (breathalyzer).  Alvarez was convicted of these offenses on May 14, 2026, in Stamford Superior Court.  He served a 60-day state sentence and was transferred to ICE custody today.

Alvarez appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was ordered detained.

If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Alvarez faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael S. Deel and Neeraj N. Patel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, and Hartford Police Chief James C. Rovella today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging KIJUAN TERRELL, 40, of Hartford, with firearm possession and fentanyl distribution offenses.

The indictment alleges that, on March 11, 2026, Terrell possessed a Smith & Wesson .38 Special revolver with an obliterated serial number, and fentanyl that he intended to distribute.

It is alleged that Terrell’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for criminal possession of a firearm, possession of narcotics, and escape.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

The indictment, which was returned on May 13, 2026, charges Terrell with unlawful possession of a firearm by felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years; possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. 

Terrell has been detained since his arrest.  He appeared yesterday in Hartford federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges in the indictment.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Hartford Police Department and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, which includes members from the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the East Hartford, Hartford, New Britain, West Hartford, Wethersfield, and Newington Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Dearington.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY PRIMAVERA, 22, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 18 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for trafficking firearms.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI New Haven Safe Streets Task Force investigated a drug trafficking organization led by Primavera’s associate.  The investigation included controlled purchases and the seizure of various narcotics, including multi-colored pills pressed to look like ecstasy and containing methamphetamine and metonitazene, a synthetic opioid with a potency similar to or greater than fentanyl.  During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than six kilograms of methamphetamine pills, approximately 600 grams of metonitazene pills, and approximately 300 grams of pills containing a synthetic amphetamine.  In October 2024, Primavera’s associate also sold a stolen pistol and a Polymer 80 handgun (“ghost gun”) to a convicted felon.  The investigation revealed that Primavera had supplied the two firearms involved in the transaction.

Primavera was arrested on May 20, 2025.  On March 10, 2026, he pleaded guilty to engaging in a firearms trafficking conspiracy.

Primavera, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on October 14.

This matter is being investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Brendan J. Keefe.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that NICOLAS BROWN, also known as “Breezy,” 30, of New York, New York, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 180 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for child exploitation offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on multiple occasions in March 2024, Brown arranged Uber trips to pick up one to three teenage girls, two of whom were under the age of 18, from a state-run group home in Connecticut and deliver them to him at various Connecticut hotels and shopping malls where he engaged in sexual conduct with one of the minor victims.  On one occasion, an Uber trip that Brown arranged took the two minors to meet him at the Bridgeport train station.  Brown and the two minors traveled to Manhattan, and then to a hotel in South Hackensack, New Jersey, where they stayed for several days.

On March 20, 2024, Brown was located at a hotel in Danbury and arrested on state charges.  An iPhone seized from Brown at the time of his arrest revealed videos depicting child sex abuse, including videos that that he took engaging in sexual conduct with a minor victim.

Brown has been detained since his state arrest.  On December 20, 2024, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography and one count of possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Hartford Police Department, and the Danbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Lembo.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Danbury for its cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JASON GIBSON, 46, of Ledyard, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release for possession of child pornography.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2020, Gibson was convicted in state court of possession of child pornography and sentenced to 10 years of incarceration, suspended after 30 months, and 10 years of probation.  He was released from state custody in January 2021.  In April 2023, Gibson’s probation was revoked for violating the conditions of his release and he was sentenced to 90 months of incarceration, suspended after six months, and 94 months of probation.  He was released from state custody in August 2023.

On March 6, 2024, state probation officers made a routine home visit to Gibson’s residence and seized an unapproved cellphone that also contained a dark web application.  Subsequent analysis of the phone revealed more than 200 child sex abuse images and videos, and numerous text messages with links to access child pornography on the dark web.  On April 2, 2025, probation officers made another home visit to Gibson’s residence and seized an external hard drive.  Analysis of the hard drive revealed more than 18,000 images and 1,400 videos depicting child sex abuse.  Gibson has been detained since that date.

Judge Williams ordered Gibson to pay a total of $181,500 in restitution to 24 victims depicted in the images and videos he possessed.

On January 13, 2026, Gibson pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography.  The penalties in this matter were enhanced because of Gibson’s prior state convictions.

This investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Town of Groton Police Department, the Watertown Police Department, the Westport Police Department, and the Connecticut Court Support Services Division – Adult Probation Services.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BELIN ANTONIO GONZALEZ-GARCIA, also known as Belin Garcia and Belin Gonzalez, 39, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegal reentry of a removed alien.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in October 2009, Gonzalez-Garcia, under the name Belin Gonzalez, was convicted in Connecticut state court of assault in the first degree and sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment, suspended after seven years, and three years of probation.  In April 2015, Gonzalez-Garcia was removed from the U.S. to Honduras.  In September 2016, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in Brownsville, Texas.  He was subsequently convicted in the Southern District of Texas of illegal reentry of a removed alien and sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment.  In December 2018, Gonzalez-Garcia was again removed to Honduras.

The complaint further alleges that, in August 2020, USBP encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in La Joya, Texas.  In January 2021, he was convicted in the Southern District of Texas of illegal reentry of a removed alien and sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment.  In June 2023, he was again removed to Honduras.  In December 2023, USBP encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in Eagle Pass, Texas.  In January 2024, he was again removed to Honduras.

The complaint further alleges that, on June 7, 2026, Connecticut State Police arrested Gonzalez-Garcia, who identified himself as “Belin Garcia,” in Andover, Connecticut, following a car accident.  Gonzalez-Garcia was charged in Connecticut Superior Court in Rockville with illegal operation of motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, evading responsibility – injury/property damage, failure to drive in proper lane, and operating a motor vehicle without a license.  He was released on a $2,500 bond.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Gonzalez-Garcia into custody on June 23, 2026.

Gonzalez-Garcia appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.

If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Gonzalez-Garcia faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Michael S. Deel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, today announced that ABISAI RODRIGUEZ, 38, of Hartford, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with multiple child exploitation offenses.

As alleged in court documents, in December 2010, Rodriguez was convicted in Connecticut state court of possession of child pornography in the first degree.  In November 2018, Rodriguez was convicted in Connecticut state court of illegal sexual contact with a minor and, in February 2019, was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment, suspended after five years, and 10 years of probation for the offense.  He was released from state custody in January 2023.  On March 23, 2026, Rodriguez was arrested by Manchester Police for failure to register as a sex offender.  Following Rodriguez’s arrest for this offense and for violating his state probation related to his arrest, investigators searched Rodriguez’s two cellphones and his laptop computer.  One of the cellphones contained approximately 211 images and 154 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.  Rodriguez was using encrypted messaging apps to trade and store the child sex abuse material.

The criminal complaint charges Rodriguez with both receipt and distribution of child pornography, offenses that each carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and with possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  The penalties in this matter are enhanced because of Rodriguez’s prior state convictions.

Rodriguez has been detained since his federal arrest on June 11, 2026.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, with the assistance of the Connecticut Court Support Services Division – Adult Probation Services, the Connecticut Computer Crimes and Electronic Evidence Laboratory, and the Farmington Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis L. Beyerlein.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE RAUL MAITA, 55, a citizen of Ecuador, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 18 months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the United States.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 1996, Maita was granted status as a legal permanent resident in the United States following approval of an application based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen.  In February 1998, Maita was convicted in Westchester County Court in New York of sexual abuse first degree involving sexual contact by forcible compulsion.  The victim of the offense was nine years old.  Maita was sentenced to five years of probation and was required to register as a sex offender.  In November 2000, Maita was convicted in New York of failure to register as a sex offender.  In August 2001, he was convicted of driving while intoxicated and for violating his probation stemming from his sexual abuse conviction.  Maita’s probation was revoked and he was sentenced to one year of incarceration.  In October 2003, Maita was deported to Ecuador.

Maita illegally reentered the U.S. and, in November 2006, he was convicted in Westchester County Court of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.  In April 2007, he was convicted in New York of failure to register as a sex offender.  In April 2008, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Maita and, in October 2008, he was convicted in the Southern District of New York of unlawful reentry.  In August 2009, Maita was again removed to Ecuador.  He subsequently unlawfully reentered the U.S.

On September 20, 2025, Maita, who identified himself as “Jose P. Maita” and provided a false date of birth, was arrested by the Connecticut State Police in Southbury on charges of illegal operation of a motor vehicle without a license and illegal operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.  Maita was subsequently released on bond.

On November 4, 2025, the U.S. District Court in New Haven issued a criminal complaint charging Maita with unlawful reentry.  Maita was located and arrested by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations on March 18, 2026, in Waterbury.  He pleaded guilty to the offense on April 8, 2026.

Maita has been detained since his arrest.

This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JONY GALEANO LOPEZ-GARCIA, also known as Yoni Lopez Garcia, 27, a citizen of Guatemala last residing in Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to unlawful reentry of a removed alien.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2017, Lopez-Garcia was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona.  He was deported to Guatemala in December 2017 and warned that he could not return to the U.S. for a period of five years.  Lopez-Garcia subsequently reentered the U.S. in January 2018.  He was convicted in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas of illegally entering the U.S.  In February 2018, he was deported to Guatemala and warned that he could not return to the U.S. for a period of 20 years.  Lopez-Garcia subsequently unlawfully reentered the U.S.

On November 27, 2025, Hartford Police arrested Lopez-Garcia under the name Yoni Lopez Garcia and charged him with assault first degree, conspiracy to commit assault first degree, assault third degree, carrying a dangerous weapon, threatening second degree by physical threat, and other offenses.  He was released on bond in his state case.

On April 27, 2026, the U.S. District Court in Hartford issued a criminal complaint charging Lopez-Garcia with unlawful reentry.  He was located and arrested by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations on April 28, 2026, in Hartford, and has been detained since his arrest.

At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Lopez-Garcia faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.

This matter has been investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that FERNANDO TORIBIO, also known as “Fernando Toribio-Balbuena,” 32, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to theft of government funds.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, Toribio agreed to become a cooperating source with the Drug Enforcement Administration in an effort to avoid prosecution for narcotics offenses.  Under the terms of an agreement Toribio entered with the DEA, any unauthorized criminal activity by him would constitute a breach of the agreement, exposing him to criminal prosecution.

In November 2022, Toribio told DEA special agents and task force officers in Connecticut about a female from the Dominican Republic who was living in Massachusetts.  According to Toribio, the female had left a sample of fentanyl pills for him in a mailbox in Waterbury.  Investigators retrieved approximately 10 pills from the mailbox, and testing confirmed they contained fentanyl.  The DEA and Toribio subsequently coordinated the following transactions with the female:

• On December 2, 2022, the female provided 1,000 fentanyl pills and a sample of powder fentanyl at a meeting in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, and was paid $5,000 in government funds provided by the DEA.
• On December 16, 2022, the female provided 1,000 fentanyl pills at a meeting in Manchester, Connecticut, and was paid $5,000 in government funds provided by the DEA.
• In January 2023, the female provided approximately one pound of crystal methamphetamine and was paid $5,000 in government funds provided by the DEA.
• On January 26, 2023, at a meeting in Norwalk, Connecticut, the female provided approximately 10 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and 3,000 fentanyl pills, and was expecting to receive a payment of $65,000.  However, DEA special agents seized the drugs and did not make the agreed-upon payment.

In pleading guilty, Toribio admitted that he had arranged with the female to receive a cut of the government funds paid by the DEA for the drugs.  After the December 2, 2022, transaction, the female and Toribio met in Boston where she paid him $1,200.  After the December 16, 2022, transaction, the female met Toribio in Revere, Massachusetts, and paid him $1,800.  After the first January 2023 transaction, the female paid Toribio $1,200 at location in Massachusetts.  The female also sent funds over CashApp to an account controlled by Toribio’s wife.

In addition, Toribio and the female had agreed that he would receive $18,000 of the $65,000 anticipated payment for the January 26, 2023, transaction.

Toribio was arrested on a criminal complaint on January 8, 2026.

Theft of government funds carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for September 23.

Toribio is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen L. Peck.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAJONNE BLAKE, also known as “Ray Ray,” 26, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 121 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his participation in the violent armed robberies of an Amazon delivery truck in December 2022 and a Cumberland Farms store in January 2023.

According to court documents and statements made court, Blake and others committed gunpoint robberies of an Amazon delivery truck and merchandise in Bridgeport on December 23, 2022, and a Cumberland Farms, located at 1290 West Broad Street in Stratford, on January 2, 2023.  

During the Amazon truck robbery, Blake’s accomplices forced the driver into the back of the truck at gunpoint where they assaulted him.  Blake supplied the firearm for the robbery and served as the getaway driver.  During the Cumberland Farms robbery, where Blake again served as the getaway driver, Blake’s accomplices entered the store with firearms, threatened employees, forced victims to the ground, and stole $1,200 from the cash registers and personal items from the customers, including an iPhone.

In addition, Blake’s associates committed the gunpoint robberies of Omega Deli, located at 999 Maplewood Avenue in Bridgeport, on December 15, 2022; Milford Convenience & Tobacco, located at 784 Boston Post Road in Milford, on December 21, 2022; and Smoke Shop, located at 2175 Boston Avenue in Bridgeport, on December 23, 2022.

Blake has been detained since August 1, 2024.  On January 27, 2026, he pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery (“Hobbs Act robbery”) and carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bridgeport Police Department, the Stratford Police Department, and the Milford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAVON MORSE, 30, of Norwich, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 90 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for cocaine distribution and firearm possession offenses, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 13, 2017, Morse was sentenced in Bridgeport federal court to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking cocaine.  He was released from prison in January 2021.

On October 14, 2024, while on federal supervised release, Morse fled from Norwich Police during a traffic stop.  After he fled, Morse went to a storage facility where he maintained a storage unit.  As Norwich Police again attempted to stop Morse’s vehicle, Morse threw a backpack from the vehicle and sped away.  Morse’s vehicle became disabled a short distance away and he was taken into custody.  Morse possessed $2,356 in cash at the time of his arrest.

A search of the backpack Morse discarded revealed nearly a kilogram of cocaine, numerous narcotic pills, items used to process and package narcotics, and other items.  A search of Morse’s storage unit revealed four handguns, including two “ghost guns;” loaded gun magazines, including high-capacity magazines; ammunition; and other items.  A subsequent search of Morse’s vehicle revealed approximately 10 pounds of marijuana, narcotic pills, quantities of methamphetamine and crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics, and $4,449 in cash.

Morse has been detained in federal custody since December 12, 2024.  On March 19, 2026, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

Judge Nagala sentenced more to 78 months of imprisonment for the drug and firearm offenses, and a consecutive 12 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

This investigation was conducted by the Norwich Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TERRENCE DAVIS, 41, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to a narcotics trafficking offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, members of the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force developed evidence that David was selling fentanyl and crack cocaine from a hotel in Branford.  On October 15, 2025, investigators made a controlled purchase of narcotics from Davis.  On October 17, 2025, a court-authorized search of Davis’ hotel room revealed nearly 700 grams of cocaine, more than 70 grams of fentanyl, drug packaging materials, and $13,867 in cash.  Davis was arrested on state charges at that time and was subsequently released on bond.

This matter was adopted for federal prosecution and, on January 7, 2026, Davis was charged by indictment.  He was arrested federally on January 8, 2026, and, on that date, a search of the same hotel room where Davis was staying revealed approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, 25 grams of crack cocaine, and seven grams of powder cocaine.

Davis pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.  Sentencing is scheduled for September 30.

Davis has been detained since his arrest.

This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan Guevremont and Christopher Lembo.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.  The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.  Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.  In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that YUNIOR BENAVIDES, 50, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to unlawful reentry of a removed alien.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2009, Benavides and others were charged with federal offenses related to their participation in a Hartford area narcotics distribution conspiracy.  He pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment and, in November 2013, was deported to the Dominican Republic.  Benavides subsequently illegally reentered the U.S.

On March 6, 2026, HSI agents stopped a car in West Hartford in connection with a drug trafficking investigation.  Benavides, the driver of the car, was identified as being unlawfully present in the U.S. and was taken into custody.  He was also in possession of a false identification document.

Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for September 22, 2026, at which time Benavides faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  He has been detained since March 6.

This matter has been investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHAWN STEPHENS, 35, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 97 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his participation in the large-scale manufacture and trafficking of counterfeit pills containing synthetic opioids and other substances.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation led by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service targeting the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit oxycodone, Xanax, and Adderall tablets containing methamphetamine, protonitazene, dimethylpentylone, xylazine, and other substances.  Protonitazene is a Schedule I synthetic opioid that is three times more potent than fentanyl.

In June 2023, law enforcement received information that Stephens’ co-conspirator, Kelldon Hinton, was using a pill press to manufacture large quantities of counterfeit pills containing controlled substances.  Through the use of physical and electronic surveillance, the seizure and searches of parcels sent through the U.S. Mail and commercial delivery services, undercover purchases of counterfeit pills, trash pulls, and other investigative methods, investigators determined that Hinton, with the assistance of Stephens and others, was purchasing protonitazene, dimethypentalone, xylazine, other substances, and pill press parts from China and elsewhere, using tableting machines (“pill presses”) to manufacture counterfeit pills in a garage he rented in East Haven, marketing and selling the pills on the dark web, and mailing pills to customers around the U.S.  In text messages, Hinton referred to the rented garage as his “lab.”  Between February 2023 and February 2024, Hinton shipped more than 1,300 packages through the U.S. Mail.  Hinton also distributed the counterfeit pills to associates in Connecticut, who sold them to their own customers.

Hinton, Stephens, and other co-conspirators were arrested on September 5, 2024.  On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of several locations, including the garage located on Tyler Street Extension in East Haven, which yielded approximately one million narcotic pills weighing nearly 100 kilograms, approximately 300 grams of cocaine, two large pill presses, pill manufacturing equipment, drug ledgers, and other items.  One of the pill presses seized was capable of producing 100,000 pills per hour.

The investigation subsequently revealed that Hinton rented a unit at a storage facility in West Haven.  On September 18, 2024, a court-authorized search of the storage unit revealed hundreds of thousands of additional narcotic pills weighing nearly 100 kilograms.

Stephens helped Hinton maintain both his garage lab and storage facility, and he mailed customer orders for Hinton.

On October 21, 2025, Stephens pleaded guilty to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  Stephens, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on July 30.

Hinton pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

This investigation has been conducted by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with the assistance of the DEA Chicago Cyber Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the East Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and Konstantin Lantsman.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that the following four individuals have been charged with federal offenses related to the theft of more than $500,000 in an ATM “jackpotting” scheme:

EUCLIDES MORENO ITANARE, 28, of Raleigh, North Carolina
WILLIAN RICARDO FLORES, 49, of the Bronx, New York
ALBERTO JOSE FREITES ARVILLA, 41, of Queens, New York
LUIS JOSE FREITES ARVILLA, 38, of Lynn, Massachusetts

The four defendants are citizens of Venezuela.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in August 2025, Itanare, Flores, Alberto Freites Arvilla, Luis Freites Arvilla, and others conspired to steal cash from at least nine ATM’s in Connecticut through what is known as a “jackpotting” scheme.  Jackpotting often involves using specialized hardware and malware that forces an ATM to dispense its stored cash.

It is alleged that the defendants accessed ATMs in Milford and Ansonia, and at I-95 rest stops in Fairfield, Branford, Madison, and Darien.  For each of the thefts, the pattern of behavior was similar.  Surveillance video shows that while Luis Freites Arvilla acted as a lookout, Alberto Freites Arvilla opened the hood of the ATM, accessed the internal components of the ATM, and then left the area.  Over the course of several hours, Luis Freites Arvilla, Itanare, and Flores then took turns withdrawing cash from the ATM.  The defendants sometimes changed clothes in an attempt to avoid suspicion when approaching the same ATM multiple times.

It is alleged that the defendants stole $529,220 from eight ATMs between August 8 and August 18, 2025.  They were prevented from stealing any money from the ATM in Ansonia due to a software patch that protected the ATM against this type of theft.

The four defendants were arrested on June 25, 2026, on federal criminal complaints charging each with interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and with conspiracy, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.  They are currently detained.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police, the Raleigh (N.C.) Police Department, and the New York City Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel George.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of North Carolina for its assistance.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.  The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.  Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.  In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BENJAMIN DOZIER, also known as “Ace” and “Blanco, 44, of Bridgeport, was sentenced on June 26, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for trafficking narcotics in southwestern Connecticut.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Rodney Canada as the leader of a drug trafficking organization that was distributing large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Stamford and elsewhere in southwestern Connecticut.  An investigation in 2024, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Canada and others orchestrated the street level distribution of narcotics through other members of the conspiracy.  Investigators intercepted more than 5000 text messages and calls in which Canada coordinated his drug trafficking activities.  

Dozier was identified during the investigation as supplier on fentanyl to Canada.

Dozier, Canada, and other members of the conspiracy were arrested on May 14, 2024.  On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches at locations in Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Darien, and seized approximately three kilograms of cocaine, nearly 400 grams of raw fentanyl, more than 500 bags of fentanyl, five firearms, a bulletproof vest, and seven vehicles.

A subsequent search of a storage unit that Dozier rented revealed a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun, drug-packaging materials, and ledgers documenting drug trafficking activity.

Dozier’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics distribution and weapon possession offenses.

On December 30, 2025, Dozier pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

Dozier, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 9.

Canada pleaded guilty and, on December 15, 2025, was sentenced to 110 months of imprisonment.

This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments.  The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, today announced that MARCOS FRANCISCO JAVIER GOMEZ, 23, of Norwalk, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with multiple child exploitation offenses.

As alleged in court documents, on April 3, 2024, Gomez was arrested by the Putnam County (N.Y.) Sheriff’s Office after he had traveled to New York to meet with a 13-year-old girl with whom Gomez had engaged in sexually explicit communications via text messages, FaceTime, and various social media applications.  Subsequent court-authorized searches of Gomez’s cellphone revealed evidence that Gomez had been communicating with at least five minor females in Connecticut, had recorded himself engaging in sexual activity with four of these minor victims, had requested that the minor victims send him videos depicting them engaging in sexually explicit conduct, and had sent obscene images of himself to at least one of the minor victims.  Gomez typically met his minor victims through Snapchat.

The complaint charges Gomez with production of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of life; receipt or attempted receipt of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; possession or attempted possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; and transfer of obscene materials to a minor, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

Gomez, who has been serving a New York state prison sentence related to his conduct with the 13-year-old minor victim in New York, appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Putnam County (N.Y.) Sherrif’s Office, the Norwalk Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, the Watertown Police Department, and the Waterbury Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Stamford/Norwalk for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that CHANEL AYBAR-PENA, 31, a citizen of the Dominican Republic unlawfully present in the U.S., pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to a fentanyl trafficking offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration identified Aybar-Pena as a significant fentanyl distributor.  Aybar-Pena was arrested on March 19, 2026, after a court-authorized search of a house on Chipper Drive in East Hartford where he was living revealed approximately five kilograms of fentanyl.

Aybar-Pena pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.  A sentencing date is not scheduled

Aybar-Pena has been detained since his arrest.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the East Hartford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reed Durham.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, and J. Buck Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, today announced that the following six individuals have been charged with federal fraud and money laundering offenses stemming from their alleged participation in a sweepstakes scam that defrauded primarily elderly victims across the country of millions of dollars:  

ANDRE-JON GAYLE, 33, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida
AALIYAH MAYNE, 25, of Dania, Florida
ONAJE CHEVERS, 29, of Dania, Florida
MATTHEW HUTCHINSON, 24, of Williamsburg, Virginia, COURTNEY REYNOLDS, 31, of Miami, Florida
ROSHAUN THOMPSON, 24, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Gayle, Mayne, Chevers, Hutchinson, and Reynolds are citizens of Jamaica.  Thompson is a U.S. citizen.

The indictment alleges that, beginning in approximately 2022, the defendants participated in a “Publishers Clearing House scam.”  As part of the scheme, the defendants and others purchased lists of names of elderly individuals located in Connecticut and throughout the U.S.  Claiming to represent Publishers Clearing House, they then contacted individuals on the lists and informed them that they won millions of dollars in the Publisher Clearing House sweepstakes.  Victims were told that to claim their prize they had to pay upfront fees or taxes and were directed to send checks, cash, and money orders to the defendants and others.  At times, victims were told to send money to other victims of the scheme who believed that, as part of a “sponsor program,” the money was coming from previous winners who were “sponsoring” them by helping to pay their taxes and fees.  The “sponsored” victims were then directed to send the money they received on to other victims, the defendants, and their associates.

The indictment further alleges that certain victims also provided scheme participants with their driver’s license, other personal identifying information, and banking and credit card information, which scheme participants used to make personal expenditures.  Scheme participants also diverted victims’ social security benefits into Green Dot banking accounts that scheme participants opened and controlled.

On June 2, 2026, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging each of the six defendants with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, five counts of mail fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.  Each of these offenses carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Mayne, Chevers, and Reynolds were arrested on June 4, Thompson was arrested on June 5, Hutchinson was arrested on June 9, and Gayle was arrested on June 10.

Gayle, Hutchinson, Reynolds, and Thompson appeared today in Bridgeport federal court, pleaded not guilty to the charges in the indictment, and were released on $ 250,000 bonds.  Mayne and Chevers are currently detained.

“As alleged, this was an organized sweepstakes scam that ruthlessly preyed upon the vulnerability of our elderly citizens to defraud them out of millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Sullivan.  “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners, we have dismantled this illicit operation and will hold those responsible accountable for their actions.  It is crucial for the public to know that legitimate sweepstakes winners will never need to pay upfront fees or taxes in order to claim a prize.  Anyone who demands money to release a lottery or sweepstakes payout is a fraudster, plain and simple.”

“The indictment of these six individuals demonstrates IRS-CI’s ongoing commitment to investigate all those that prey upon the American public,” said Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office.  “These individuals attempted to not only steal the life savings of the elderly to enrich themselves but took it a step further by siphoning off their Social Security benefits, a financial safety net that many older Americans depend on to survive.  IRS-CI is committed to our continued cooperation with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify any and all individuals that victimize the nation’s elderly population.”

“These charges demonstrate our unwavering commitment to holding fraudsters accountable,” said Acting Inspector in Charge J. Buck Buckley.  “Exploiting vulnerable communities through these schemes is a cruel crime, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to aggressively investigate operations that target vulnerable citizens for personal gain.  We are deeply grateful to our law enforcement partners and prosecutors whose dedication and teamwork made these charges possible.”

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the West Saint Paul (Minn.) Police Department, and the Southborough (Mass.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.

As a result of a long-term Homeland Security Task Force investigation into gang violence in New Haven, a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned a 19-count indictment charging 16 alleged members and associates of the “Stand On Business” or “SOB” street gang in New Haven with various offenses, including conspiring to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, murder, attempted murder, drug trafficking, firearms trafficking, and related offenses.

Today’s announcement was made by David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; John P. Doyle, Jr., State’s Attorney for the New Haven Judicial District; Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; New Haven Police Chief David Zannelli; and Hamden Police Chief Edward Page Reynolds.

The indictment, which was returned on June 17, charges

BRIAN BACKMAN, a.k.a. “Bri” and “Lil Bri,” 19
EMANUEL LOWERY, a.k.a. “Flip,” 24
SHAQUAN RAGHUBIR, a.k.a. “Quando,” 21
KERWIN ROMERO, a.k.a. “Kerbo,” 20
BRIAN REDD, 18
MAURICE BEVERLY, a.k.a. “Mo Dizz,” 21
LAMONT QUADIR SMITH-REED, a.k.a. “Steph Curry,” 23
SHYON EDWARDS, 20
GIOVANNI CABASQUINI, a.k.a. “Gio,” 22
TAQUORE GOMES,  a.k.a. “Poppa,” 23
WADE JOHNSON, a.k.a. “G-wade,” 20
JOHN BROWN, a.k.a. “Man,” and “Hot Head Man,” 21
ANTWAN BALDWIN, a.k.a. “Ant” and “Lil A,” 20
OMARI MUNDLE, a.k.a. “Mari,” 19
JA’TWAN ROBINSON, a.k.a. “Foolie,” 20
JAIVON WILLIAMS, a.k.a. “Jay,” 21

The indictment was unsealed after Romero, Redd, Edwards, and Robinson were arrested yesterday. They appeared in federal court and are detained.  The other defendants are presently in state custody and will be arraigned in federal court at a later date.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address violence in New Haven, the ATF, FBI, DEA, New Haven Police Department, Hamden Police Department, and Connecticut Department of Correction, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, have been investigating an ongoing gang war. The Stand On Business or SOB street gang, which during its existence has also referred to itself as “Get Back Gang,” “Everybody Killers,” and “EBK,” originated in the geographic area of New Haven known as the “Hill” in the southwestern-most neighborhood of New Haven.  In addition to the Hill, SOB has members and associates who are incarcerated, living in other areas of New Haven, and in other Connecticut cities and towns.  The SOB gang has long-standing rivalries with other neighborhood gangs in New Haven, including the “Exit 8” gang, which based in the geographic area accessed by exiting Interstate 91 at Exit 8 in New Haven, as well as “24-Hour Shorty,” “Sleepy Land Bitches” or “SLB,” and “the 3s.”  Violence between these groups is retaliatory in nature, and members of SOB are responsible for fatal and non-fatal shootings in the Exit 8 section and other areas of New Haven.

The indictment alleges that members and associates of SOB engaged in drug trafficking, used and shared firearms and machine gun conversion devices, and, since 2019, have committed at least two murders and numerous attempted murders.  SOB members and associates promoted, coordinated, facilitated, and celebrated their criminal conduct, including acts of violence, through text messaging and the use of social media applications, and in rap songs and videos posted online.

The indictment specifically alleges that SOB members and associates committed the following violent acts:

• On January 26, 2019, Lowery shot and attempted to kill an associate of a rival gang; 
• On May 7, 2020, Backman, Cabasquini and others shot and attempted to kill a member and associate of the Exit 8 gang;
• On July 18, 2020, Backman and others shot and killed Kaymar Tanner after mistaking him for a member of the Exit 8 gang;
• On November 19, 2020, Backman, Beverly, and others shot and attempted to kill an individual they mistook for a member of the Exit 8 gang; 
• On December 3, 2020, Romero, Lowery, and Johnson shot and attempted to kill a member and associate of the Exit 8 gang;
• On May 8, 2021, Cabasquini, Smith-Reed, Gomes, and others shot at and attempted to kill a member and associate of the Exit 8 gang; 
• On May 30, 2021, Backman, Smith-Reed, and Brown shot and killed Semaj Reddick, a member and associate of the rival SLB gang.
• On July 33, 2022, Raghubir and others shot at and attempted to kill a member and associate of the 24-Hour Shorty gang;
• On February 18, 2023, Beverly and others shot and attempted to kill a member and associate of the Exit 8 gang;
• On May 14, 2023, in the early morning, Backman, Raghubir, and Gomes shot at and attempted to kill Exit 8 gang members in downtown New Haven; 
• On May 14, 2023, in the evening, Backman and others shot at and attempted to kill Exit 8 gang members and struck an unintended victim in the head;
• On June 23, 2024, Beverly shot and attempted to kill and individual based on a mistaken belief that the victim had provided information to law enforcement leading to the arrest of an SOB associate;
• On November 16, 2024, Edwards shot at and attempted to kill individuals in order to protect SOB drug territory;
• On October 8, 2025, in the early morning, Backman and Redd directed Mundle to shoot at and attempt to kill an individual in retaliation for the murder of an SOB member.  Later that day, Backman directed SOB members and associates to shoot at and attempt to kill the same individual;
• On October 8, 2025, in the early evening, Backman directed SOB members and associates to shoot at and attempt to kill an individual for disrespecting SOB and a deceased SOB member.

The indictment charges Backman, Lowery, Raghubir, Romero, Redd, Beverly, Smith-Reed, Edwards, Cabasquini, Gomes, Johnson, and Brown with racketeering conspiracy.  If convicted of this charge, Backman, Smith-Reed, and Brown face a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and the others face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

The indictment also charges Backman, Redd, and Mundle with one or more counts of conspiracy to commit murder in aid racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, and use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, all related to attempted murders on October 8, 2025.  The racketeering offenses carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and the firearm offense carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least 10 years.

In addition, the indictment charges Backman with illegal possession of a machine gun, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and with possession of a machine gun during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least 30 years; Robinson and Johnson with firearms trafficking related to their receipt of machine gun conversion devices, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years; and Cabasquini with use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years.

The indictment also charges each defendant, with the exception of Mundle, with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Cabasquini and Backman are also charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, which also carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

“This indictment describes a cycle of gang warfare that has plagued the streets of New Haven for years,” said U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan.  “What is truly alarming, and tragic, is the collective ages of these young men who have chosen a path of extreme, unchecked violence.  Their alleged actions demonstrate a reckless disregard for human life and the safety of innocent bystanders.  Alongside our federal, state, and local partners, this office remains unyielding in our commitment to dismantle these violent networks and restore peace and safety to our neighborhoods.”

“This investigation and prosecution represent the hard work and shared ongoing commitment of federal, state and municipal partners in using all resources available to stem violent crime in our cities,” said New Haven State’s Attorney John P. Doyle, Jr.

“These charges reflect ATF’s unwavering commitment to reducing violent crime by targeting the individuals and criminal organizations responsible for driving gun violence in our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco.  “Through relentless investigation and strong partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement, we will continue to identify, disrupt, and dismantle those who use firearms to intimidate, injure, and kill.  Today’s charges demonstrate that those who choose violence will be held accountable, and that ATF remains steadfast in its mission to protect the public and deliver justice for victims.”

“Violent gangs thrive when they believe they can operate without consequence,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge P.J. O’Brien. “This investigation demonstrates that law enforcement agencies working together can penetrate these organizations, disrupt their criminal activity, and pursue justice.  The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting the citizens of Connecticut by targeting those responsible for violent crime, while building lasting partnerships with the communities we serve. We will continue to bring every available resource to make our neighborhoods safer.”

“Today’s indictment alleges a shocking pattern of violence that includes murders, attempted murders, drug trafficking, and the illegal use of firearms,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget. “These charges underscore the devastating impact that violent gangs have on our communities, where narcotics trafficking and gun violence often go hand in hand.  The individuals charged are accused of using violence and intimidation to further their criminal enterprise, placing countless innocent lives at risk.”

“The results of this long-term investigation demonstrate once again that only a small number of people commit the majority of gun violence in our community,” said New Haven Police Chief David Zannelli. “This indictment proves that we do not forget, and that those who perpetrate the most serious offenses will be identified and held accountable for their actions.  We are extremely proud of NHPD Detective Cunningham and NHPD Officer Borges for all their hard work throughout this investigation.  We are also grateful to the ATF, FBI and DEA New Haven field offices for their collaboration, as well as the US Attorney’s Office and our local law enforcement colleagues.”

“This investigation reflects the determination, faith, and unwavering commitment of our detectives and law enforcement partners,” said Hamden Police Chief E.P Reynolds.  “Although years have passed, those involved never gave up on seeking justice for the victims and their families.  Today is the result of countless hours of hard work and perseverance. While our hearts and prayers remain with the victims’ loved ones, we hope this outcome brings some measure of peace and serves as a reminder that justice may take time, but we will never stop pursuing it.”

This investigation is being conducted by ATF, the FBI, the DEA, the New Haven Police Department, the Hamden Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. 

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.  The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.  Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.  In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Nathan J. Guevremont.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ONIEL ACOSTA-REYES, 27, a citizen of the Dominican Republic residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 48 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for a fentanyl trafficking offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force revealed that members of a Hartford-area drug trafficking ring were using an apartment on Franklin Avenue in Hartford as a stash location for narcotics.  On August 25, 2025, investigators stopped Acosta-Reyes and an associate as they exited the apartment carrying a large cooler.  On August 25, 2025, investigators stopped Acosta-Reyes and an associate after they exited the apartment and placed a large cooler in their car.  When investigators searched the cooler, they found a kilogram brick of fentanyl, bags of powder fentanyl, cutting agent, and parts for a mechanical press.  A subsequent search of the apartment revealed additional drug trafficking paraphernalia, a kilogram drug press, and two firearms.

Acosta-Reyes has been detained since his arrest on August 25, 2025.  On March 24, 2026, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, which includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Dearington.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAIME SANTIAGO, 44, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department investigated an open-air drug market that was operating in the area of Noble Avenue and Shelton Street in Bridgeport.  Between March and September 2024, investigators made 11 controlled purchases of narcotics from various sellers.  The investigation, which also included court-authorized wiretaps and physical surveillance, revealed that Santiago and others supplied fentanyl to the drug sellers.

Santiago was arrested on February 12, 2025.  On January 22, 2026, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

Santiago, who is released on a $25,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 24.

This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department.  The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JIMMY SMITH, 31, a citizen of Jamaica residing in Hinesville, Georgia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment for operating a sweepstakes scam.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in a sweepstakes scam, scam participants contact victims by telephone and falsely inform them that they have won large sums of money.  Victims are told that they need to pay fees or taxes to claim their winnings and they are instructed to send money through the mail to various addresses controlled by scam participants, or to various bank accounts through wires. 

Smith and others defrauded at least four victims residing in Connecticut, New York, Texas, and California, by telling them they had won a Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes and needed to pay taxes or money to claim the prize. Smith recruited others to use their bank accounts to deposit money that had been mailed by scam victims.  Smith’s co-conspirators then withdrew cash and gave it to Smith, or sent Smith money using bank transfer applications.

For example, in July 2022, a Connecticut victim was contacted by telephone and told that she had won a $2.5 million sweepstakes prize and needed to pay taxes to claim her winnings.  In August 2022, the victim mailed a $75,000 check paid to the order of Keshelski & K Transport to an address in Brooklyn, New York.  The account was deposited into an account in the name of Keshelski&K Transports LLC, which was controlled by Keshelski Bates, a co-conspirator of Smith.

Smith also participated in a separate scheme that defrauded an Arkansas resident who believed he was paying for farm equipment.

Victims lost more than $2.6 million through these schemes.

Smith was arrested on March 17, 2025.  On November 18, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud.

Smith, who is released on bond and is on electronic monitoring, must report to prison on August 24.

Bates pleaded guilty to the same charge and awaits sentencing.

This investigation has been conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of Army CID, the Hinesville (Ga.) Police Department, and the Orlando (Fla.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather M. Cherry.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Litchfield for its close cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MONTEL CAPLE, also known as “Forbes,” 30, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his involvement in a southwestern Connecticut narcotics trafficking ring.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2022, the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, which was investigating gang activity in the South End and West Side of Bridgeport, identified Christian Pichardo as a supplier of various narcotics to gang members and other drug distributors.  During the investigation, investigators intercepted calls and text messages over court-authorized wiretaps between Pichardo and his associates, made controlled purchases of narcotics, and seized drugs from members of the conspiracy and their drug customers.  Some of the drugs seized during the investigation had been cut with fentanyl analogues, nitazines, and xylazine.  Nitazines are synthetic opioids stronger than fentanyl, and xylazine is a large animal tranquilizer.

Pichardo supplied fentanyl to Caple, which Caple sold to his own customers.  Caple also sometimes supplied narcotics to Pichardo.

Caple was arrested on August 5, 2024.  On December 11, 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.

Caple, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on August 24.

Pichardo pleaded guilty to a related charge and, on July 14, 2025, was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment.

This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bridgeport, Stratford, and Norwalk Police Departments.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen L. Peck.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that HABROON HABIB, 30, a citizen of Pakistan and lawful permanent resident of the U.S. residing in Middletown, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in Bridgeport federal court to operating an unlawful money transmitting business.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2025, Habib registered “Around The World Solutions LLC” with the State of Connecticut and rented shared commercial office space at 386 Main Street in Middletown.  In February 2025, Habib opened a bank account for Around The World.  Shortly thereafter, Around The World Solutions began to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare Advantage (also known as “Medicare Part C”) plans in Connecticut for durable medical equipment, including orthotics and braces, that Medicare beneficiaries did not ask for, consent to, or receive.  The claims were submitted by an individual in Pakistan.

Between March 12, 2025, and May 14, 2025, a total of approximately $680,571.28 in payments from Medicare Advantage plans operated by private insurers were deposited into Around The World Solutions’ bank account, based on fraudulent claims for orthotics purportedly provided to approximately 413 Medicare beneficiaries residing in 36 states.  None of the Medicare beneficiaries resided in Connecticut.  Payments for some of the claims were stopped by the Medicare Advantage programs when they discovered the fraud.  The total amount of fraudulent claims Around The World Solutions submitted to Medicare Advantage plans was approximately $1,901,200.

Habib sent a total of 14 wire transfers totaling $425,000 from the Around the World Solutions bank account to bank accounts located in Pakistan.  At no time were Habib or Around The World Solutions licensed by the Connecticut Department of Banking to engage in the business of money transmission in Connecticut.  Under Connecticut state law, knowingly engaging in the business of money transmission in the State of Connecticut without obtaining a license is a class D felony, and engaging in unlicensed money transmitting without a state license is a violation of federal law.

Habib was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on August 24, 2025, shortly after federal investigators learned that he was scheduled to fly, using a one-way ticket, from JFK Airport to Pakistan the following day.

Habib is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford on September 8, at which time Habib faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.  He is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.

This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon.

This announcement is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death.

Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Justice Department history.  In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme.

The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.

Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including:

• Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
• 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
• Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
• 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that EDVIN BARNICA ESQUIVEL, 34, a citizen of Guatemala, was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint charging him with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on February 25, 2012, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) arrested Barnica in Falfurrias, Texas.  On March 22, 2012, Barnica was removed to Guatemala.  On November 19, 2017, Barnica, who was using the alias “Edvin Morales,” was arrested by the Hammonton, New Jersey, Police Department and charged with aggravated assault.  He subsequently pleaded guilty to third degree aggravated assault and was sentenced to three years of incarceration.  On April 4, 2019, Barnica was removed to Guatemala.

It is further alleged that, on February 23, 2025, Barnica was arrested by Danbury Police and charged with assault in the third degree and disorderly conduct.  These charges were subsequently dismissed.  On October 18, 2025, Barnica was arrested by Danbury Police and charged with attempted arson, breach of peace, and criminal mischief offenses.  These charges are pending, and Barnica was released on a $20,000 bond and resided in Danbury at the time of his federal arrest.

Barnica appeared yesterday in Bridgeport federal court and was ordered detained.

If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Barnica faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that SERGIO HIPOLITO REYES CORDERO, 52, a citizen of Guatemala, was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint charging him with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on October 22, 2011, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) arrested Reyes in Freer, Texas.  Reyes, who was using the alias “Jose Armando Mendoza Jimenez” and claimed to be a citizen of Mexico, was returned to Mexico that same day.  On October 27, 2011, USBP arrested Reyes in Calexico, California.  USBP transferred Reyes to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which determined that Reyes was a citizen of Guatemala.  Reyes was removed to Guatemala on November 16, 2011.  On December 6, 2011, USBP arrested Reyes in Laredo, Texas.  He was removed to Guatemala on December 28, 2011.  On January 23, 2012, USBP again arrested Reyes in Laredo, Texas.  Reyes was charged in the Southern District of Texas with illegally reentering the U.S., convicted of the offense, sentenced to 15 days of imprisonment, and removed to Guatemala on February 22, 2012.

It is further alleged that Reyes again illegally reentered the U.S.  On August 18, 2025, Reyes was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court in Danbury of two counts of tampering with physical evidence and one count of moving a dead body without a permit.  Reyes was sentenced to five years of incarceration, execution suspended after two years, and five years of probation, for the offenses.  He was released from state prison yesterday.

Reyes appeared yesterday in Hartford federal court and was ordered detained.

If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Reyes faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis L. Beyerlein.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANEL DEL CARMEN ZAPATA POLANCO, also known as Anel Polanco, Anel Zapata Delcarme, and Anel Zapata, 42, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint charging him with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in February 2006, Zapata, under the name Anel Zapata Delcarme, was convicted in New York County Criminal Court of possession of a forged instrument third degree.  He was sentenced to time served for the offense.  In January 2016, Zapata, again under the name Anel Zapata Delcarme, was convicted in the U.S. District Court of the District of New Jersey of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.  He was sentenced to 57 months of imprisonment for the offense.  On September 19, 2017, Zapata was removed to the Dominican Republic.

It is further alleged that Zapata illegally reentered the U.S.  On February 11, 2026, Zapata, under the name Anel Zapata, was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court in New Haven of drug and firearm offenses and sentenced to 10 years of incarceration, execution suspended after three years.  On February 24, 2026, Zapata was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court in Middletown of firearm possession and threatening offenses and sentenced to six years of incarceration, execution suspended after two years.

Zapata was arrested after he was released from state prison today.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.

If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Zapata faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that COASTAL DIAGNOSTICS, LLC, a reference laboratory located in Branford, and its owner, TRICIA CONROY, have entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments and have paid $145,720 to resolve allegations they made material misrepresentations to the Connecticut Medicaid program in their Provider Enrollment Application.

In order to participate in the Connecticut Medicaid program, providers must complete a Provider Enrollment Application.  On or about March 6, 2024, Conroy, on behalf of Coastal Diagnostics, completed and submitted a Provider Enrollment Application to the Connecticut Medicaid program.  One of the questions in the application asks:  “Are any owners, partners, members, officers, directors, shareholders, or managing employees of applicant related by family, marriage, ownership, membership, control, or business relationship to any other provider that is currently, or within the last 5 years, has been, enrolled in the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program?”  Conroy answered “No” to this question.

The United States and the State of Connecticut contend that this was a material misrepresentation, as Genco Lab, LLC, a reference laboratory located at the same business address as Coastal Diagnostics, was a Medicaid provider at the time.  Genco Lab was owned by Conroy’s husband, and Conroy served as the Chief Operating Officer of Genco Lab.  If the question had been answered truthfully and Coastal Diagnostics had disclosed its relationship with Genco Lab, Connecticut Medicaid would not have approved Coastal Diagnostics’ application because, at the time, Genco Lab was under a payment suspension and was being investigated for fraud.

After Coastal Diagnostics began submitting claims for laboratory services, Connecticut Medicaid learned that Coastal Diagnostics and Genco Lab were related and terminated Coastal Diagnostics’ provider agreement.

Based on the above, the U.S. and the State of Connecticut contend that the claims submitted by Coastal Diagnostics were false and fraudulent. 

To resolve the government’s claims, Coastal Diagnostics and Conroy agreed to pay $145,720, which covers the time-period from March 6, 2024, to June 3, 2024.

In 2025, Genco Lab and its owners entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments in which they paid $1,255,825 to settle allegations that they submitted false and fraudulent claims to government health care programs for medically unnecessary urine drug tests.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot and by Assistant Attorney General Christine Miller of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.

This announcement is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, a coordinated enforcement action involving a whole-of-government approach, including:

• Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
• 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
• Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
• 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SALIM SAKAL, 55, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 24 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for buying and selling jewelry stolen from mall-based stores and kiosks across the country.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between May 2023 and April 2024, an organized jewelry theft ring of Colombian nationals burglarized jewelry stores and kiosks in malls in Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, Ohio, and Virginia.  The total losses from the burglaries exceed $4.4 million.  Members of the conspiracy also cased additional jewelry stores and kiosks in Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Delaware.

Sakal was the co-owner of Ramoun Jewelry, located in Corona, New York, which sold jewelry and gold to retail customers.  The business also purchased jewelry and gold from third parties.  Sakal conspired with members of the organized jewelry theft ring to receive, store, and sell jewelry stolen from seven burglaries between August 2023 and April 2024.  Sakal paid his co-conspirators cash for the stolen merchandise for a fraction of the actual retail amount, and then sold it to others, including those he knew would melt down the gold.  Ramoun did not have a valid second-hand dealer license required under the laws and regulations of New York City, and he did not maintain required records, including the identifying information of the sellers, a description of the items purchased, and the date and time of the purchase.

To date, none of the stolen jewelry has been recovered by law enforcement.

Judge Dooley ordered Sakal to pay restitution of $2,471,457, jointly and severally with others convicted in this case.

On January 27, 2026, Sakal pleaded guilty to conspiracy to sell and receive stolen goods.

Sakal, who is released on a $1 million bond, is required to report to prison on October 5.

This investigation has been conducted by the FBI New Haven’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force with the assistance of the Milford (Conn.) Police Department, the Hamilton Township (N.J.) Police Division, the Delaware State Police, the Henrico County (Va.) Police Division, the New York State Police, the New York Police Department, the Pensacola (Fla.) Police Department, the Paterson (N.J.) Police Department, the Mentor (Ohio) Police Department, the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Police Department, the Greece (N.Y.) Police Department, and the Lombard (Ill.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.

U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, and FBI Field Offices in New York, Dallas, Miami, and Tampa for their assistance.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.  The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.  Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.  In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that LUIS OLIVER-GARCIA, also known as “Bebo,” 36, of New London, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for cocaine distribution and firearm possession offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force identified Oliver-Garcia as a large-scale distributor of cocaine and learned that he rented a storage unit at a facility on Cross Road in Waterford to store narcotics and other items.  On June 21, 2024, Oliver-Garcia arrived at the storage facility shortly before investigators were about to conduct a court-authorized search of his storage unit.  Oliver-Garcia was arrested after the search revealed more than three kilograms of cocaine, approximately $30,000 in cash, and a 9mm firearm, and a search of the car that he drove to the facility revealed an additional quantity of cocaine and two boxes of 9mm ammunition.

Ortiz-Garcia’s criminal history includes state convictions for drug distribution and weapon possession offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Oliver-Garcia has been detained since his arrest.  On January 20, 2026, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, including personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reed Durham.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that WILLIE REDD, 45, of Naugatuck, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 42 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release, for his role in a Waterbury-area drug trafficking organization.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task Force and other law enforcement agencies investigated two drug trafficking organizations based in the city of Waterbury.  One organization was headed by Angel Quiros and operated in the area of William Street, and the other was headed by Daniel Diaz-Rivera and operated in the area of Maple Avenue.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, video surveillance, GPS tracking of vehicles, and numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that the two organizations distributed cocaine, crack, and fentanyl through a network of sellers.  The organizations shared sources of supply, worked together to further their operations, and sold narcotics all hours of the day and night.

Redd distributed cocaine and crack as part of the Quiros organization.

Redd, Quiros, Diaz-Rivera, and 14 associates were charged with federal offenses as a result of the investigation.  Redd, Quiros, Diaz-Rivera, and several codefendants were arrested on November 29, 2023.  In association with the arrests, investigators executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately 700 grams of crack cocaine, more than 900 vials (“caps”) of crack, approximately 200 grams of loose fentanyl, more than 1,600 dose bags of fentanyl/heroin, two stolen firearms, numerous rounds of ammunition, and more than $39,000 in cash.  

On April 15, 2024, Redd pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  He has been detained since February 26, 2026, when his bond was revoked.

Quiros and Diaz-Rivera pleaded guilty to related charges.  On August 19, 2025, Quiros was sentenced to 63 months of imprisonment, and on June 23, 2025, Diaz-Rivera was sentenced to 210 months of imprisonment.

The FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task includes members from the FBI, the Waterbury Police Department, the Naugatuck Police Department, and the Connecticut Department of Correction.  The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, Wolcott Police Department, and Meriden Police Department have assisted the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel.  U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the Waterbury State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GAYRAAN LANIER GAITER, 44, pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to failing to register as a sex offender.

The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”) provides a comprehensive set of minimum standards for sex offender registration and notification in the United States and seeks to strengthen the nationwide network of sex offender registration and notification programs.  In part, SORNA requires registered sex offenders to register and keep their registration current in each jurisdiction in which they reside, work, or go to school.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2000, Gaiter was convicted in Dade County, Florida, of multiple counts related to the sexual abuse of a minor and was sentenced to 20 years of incarceration.  Following his release from prison, Gaiter registered as a sex offender in Galveston County, Texas, in July 2021, and, without notifying Texas authorities, in January 2022 in Lee County, Florida.  In December 2025, the U.S. Marshals Service in Connecticut was notified that Gaiter was being sought in both jurisdictions for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements, and that he was believed to be living in Connecticut.  The investigation revealed that Gaiter was residing in Bridgeport and that he failed to register as a sex offender in Connecticut.

Gaiter was arrested on March 18, 2026, and has been detained since his arrest.

The charge of failure to register as a sex offender carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.

This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service’s District of Connecticut Violent Fugitive Task Force and Southern District of Texas Gulf Coast Violent Offender Fugitive Task Force.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that FEDRICK GEORGE CHAPMAN, 37, of Bridgeport, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for a drug-related firearm offense.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between December 2023 and August 2024, Chapman mailed at least eight packages containing controlled substances to addresses in Naples and Fort Myers, Florida.  On August 20, 2024, a court-authorized search of a package that Chapman mailed contained approximately 10 grams of fentanyl.

On August 27, 2024, a search of Chapman’s Bridgeport residence and his vehicle revealed a loaded .380 caliber handgun, approximately 50 grams of fentanyl, 486 methamphetamine pills, approximately 30 grams of cocaine, approximately four kilograms of marijuana, and $76,262 in cash.  Chapman was arrested on state charges on that date.

The case was adopted for federal prosecution and, on September 29, 2025, Chapman pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Chapman, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on August 12, 2026.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Connecticut State Police, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Shelton Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Gresham.

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.

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OMAR PARRA, also known as “D” and “Dee,” 39, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 100 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Jimmy Arce as a distributor of fentanyl in southwestern Connecticut.  During the investigation, investigators regularly observed Arce supplying Parra with fentanyl for redistribution, and made multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl, as well as crack cocaine, from Parra.

Parra was arrested on March 14, 2024.  On March 15, 2024, a search of Parra’s residence and vehicle revealed distribution quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and crack; items used to process and package narcotics; a loaded .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun; and $16,574 in cash.

Parra has been detained since his arrest.  On December 9, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and a quantity of heroin; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Parra’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and arson offenses.

Arce pleaded guilty and on January 12, 2026, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.

This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments.  The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone.