Northern District of Indiana

HAMMOND- Jonas Derrico Smith, 54 years old, of Hammond, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Smith was sentenced to 66 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

“A drug dealer and robber will go to prison for five and a half years for possessing a firearm.  The Defendant sold Xanax twice in October 2023 from his residence in Hammond, Indiana. Law enforcement executed a search warrant and recovered a loaded revolver, a semi-automatic pistol and multiple rounds of ammunition.  Smith has prior felony convictions for armed robbery, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and twice for distributing cocaine; all of which prohibit him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.  Our community is safer due to the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula as part of Operation Take Back America,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.    

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.            

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.

HAMMOND – Rodolfo Perez, 40 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien with a prior felony conviction, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Rodolfo Perez was sentenced to 21 months in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term would go into effect should the Defendant remain in, or return to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

“Violating a nation’s borders is violating that nation’s laws and defying its sovereignty.  The Defendant was an illegal alien with a long history of violating our nation’s laws, borders, and sovereignty, and did it again.  He had previously been removed and sent home to Mexico.  At the time of his arrest in this case, Perez was displaying erratic behavior and was in possession of cocaine. Further, his criminal history includes felony convictions for attempted burglary, aggravated DUI, and burglary, and misdemeanor convictions for criminal trespass to a vehicle and battery causing bodily harm.  Thanks to the efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Hammond Police Department, and AUSA Emily Morgan, the Defendant has been prosecuted and sentenced,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Hammond Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

HAMMOND-  Chester Maclin, Jr., 29 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Maclin was sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

“On September 30, 2023, the Defendant was the driver of a vehicle pulled over in Munster, Indiana.  Evidence led law enforcement to conduct a search of the vehicle, and they found a loaded Glock pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device that allows for the handgun to fire rounds rapidly.  Maclin has a prior felony conviction which prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and AUSA Kristian R. Mukoski brought the case as part of Operation Take Back America, and we are safer for their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.     

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.             

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.

HAMMOND – Rosalio Pena Sandres, 45 years old, of Luquigue, Honduras, is the latest Honduran national to be sentenced to prison for his role in an expansive bank fraud conspiracy resulting in significant losses to small businesses and community banks in more than a dozen states, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Pena Sandres was sentenced to 33 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of illegal re-entry. He was also ordered to pay $533,043 in restitution to the victims of his crimes. The sentence was imposed by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon at a hearing held on June 18, 2026.

“Rosalio Pena Sandres will spend 33 months in prison because he and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 169 fraudulent paychecks totaling $233,569 at three branches of the same bank in the Northern District of Indiana on January 11, 2023. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a company that operates dairy farms in the Northern District of Indiana.  Almost six months later, on June 23, 2023, Pena Sandres and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474 at five branches of the same bank and three check cashing businesses in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.  As he has no legal no legal status within the United States, he will be subject to a separate and immediate removal process upon release from prison.  Thanks to the combined efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Indiana State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Benton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County (Indiana) Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau (Oklahoma) Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Travis County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office, the Houston (Texas) Police Department, the Nebraska State Police, and the Stanton County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office, the case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Steven J. Lupa from the Northern District of Indiana and Assistant United States Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan Howanitz from the Eastern District of Oklahoma,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“The economic impact of these fraud schemes damages the well-being and quality of life in these communities,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “Small businesses are the backbone of our country. I’m proud of our agents and law enforcement partners for disrupting the fraud scheme and ensuring that the individuals involved were held accountable for their criminal actions.” 

“The sentencing of another member of this fraud conspiracy sends a clear message that those who target American businesses and financial institutions will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI remains committed to working with our partners to protect the integrity of our financial system and hold offenders accountable.”

“Indiana State Police remains committed to working diligently with our federal and local law enforcement partners to investigate complex criminal organizations that victimize businesses and communities. This case, involving a multi-state bank fraud conspiracy that resulted in significant financial losses, is a testament to the strong partnerships and coordinated efforts that help bring offenders to justice and protect the public,” said Sgt. Jeremy Piers, Indiana State Police.

Five co-conspirators were previously sentenced to prison for their roles in this scheme: Luis Banegas Rodriguez (27 months), Ricardo Castro Murillo (37 months), Carlos Aquino Sosa (41 months), Edwin Palacios Sosa (27 months), and Delvin Velasquez Romero (time served of approximately 17 months).

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Indiana State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Benton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County (Indiana) Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau (Oklahoma) Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Travis County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office, the Houston (Texas) Police Department, the Nebraska State Police, and the Stanton County (Nebraska) Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Steven J. Lupa from the Northern District of Indiana and Assistant United States Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan Howanitz from the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

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 towards 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 Indianapolis comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, IRS, Indiana State Police, and other partners, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana.

HAMMOND – On June 18, 2026, Lamario Delgado-Gonzalez, 31 years old, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of 100 grams or more of heroin, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Lamario Delgado-Gonzalez was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

“The Defendant participated in the sale of over 10,000 pills containing a total of over 100 grams of heroin to undercover law enforcement agents on February 14, 2025, in Merrillville, Indiana. Between December 2024 and April 2025 in Merrillville, Delgado-Gonzalez also participated in the sale of additional pills containing a variety of controlled substances including methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a fentanyl precursor to undercover law enforcement agents.  As part of Operation Take Back America, this dealer of poison is going to prison due to the hard work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA Enforcement Group with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory, and AUSA Dean Lanter.  Our district and nation are safer because of their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA Enforcement Group with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.  

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.

HAMMOND – Justyn Arch, 40 years old, of Florida, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and tax evasion, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Arch was sentenced to 36 months in prison and ordered to pay $520,897 in restitution.

“The Defendant bilked Indiana Medicaid out of money set aside to help members of our community with their medical bills and the Internal Revenue Service of over half a million dollars combined.  As the vice president of a dental practice that had locations in Chesterton, Indiana, and Crown Point, Indiana, he violated that position of importance and trust over a period of over two and a half years by submitting claims to Indiana Medicaid by falsely billing for hundreds of dental surgeries that were never actually performed. To carry out this scheme, the Defendant used, without authorization, the personal identifiers of patients to support payment for the fraudulent claims. To conceal the illegal income from this scheme, he also committed tax evasion.  Thanks to the combined efforts and partnership of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Northern Indiana Region 10 Office of the U.S. Trustee, the Porter County Prosecutor’s Office led by Gary S. Germann, and AUSA Philip C. Benson and AUSA Kevin F. Wolff, this fraudster has been sent to prison and ordered to pay back his ill-gotten gains,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indiana Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Porter County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Northern Indiana Region 10 Office of the U.S. Trustee. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Philip C. Benson and Kevin F. Wolff.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support 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.

SOUTH BEND – Nery Leonel Rivera, 49 years old, a felon from Honduras who had been previously removed from the United States in 2015, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Rivera was sentenced to 7 months in prison.

“The Defendant is a convicted felon and his repeated violations of our nation’s borders laws are not victimless crimes in that he was caught trying to steal an identity that would allow him to perpetuate his violations.  He was convicted of possession of cocaine in 2013, removed from the United States and returned to his home country of Honduras in March 2015.  He violated our nation’s borders and laws when he reentered the United States a few months later and was removed a second time in September 2015.  He violated our nation’s borders and laws yet again and progressed in his disregard for our nation’s laws.  Investigators found Rivera in Indiana while investigating a report of stolen identity. Rivera had paid cash to purchase the identity of another person and used a fake Social Security card and forged birth certificate to misrepresent to his employer that he was a United States citizen.  Thanks to the efforts of the US Department of Homeland Security, the Indiana State Police, and AUSA Jerome W. McKeever, the Defendant was prosecuted and convicted for his crimes,” U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred said.

This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security with assistance from the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

SOUTH BEND – Bao Xu, 33 years old, of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine and distributing five grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Xu was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

“For more than a year, Xu distributed harmful drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine across the country. From his Los Angeles apartment, Xu marketed drugs on the Dark Web, sold them in exchange for virtual currency, and arranged their delivery via mail. This high-tech scheme distributed drugs to every state in the United States, including cities and towns throughout Indiana, averaging more than 260 drug deals and $55,000 in sales per month and ultimately leading to the seizure of more than $2,000,000 in virtual currency. Xu’s sentence makes clear that drug traffickers cannot hide on the Dark Web: They will be tracked down and brought to justice for sending poison to the heartland.  This prosecution was brought through the combined efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Indiana State Police, New York City Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and South Gate Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney and NDIN Appellate Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“The Drug Enforcement Administration is leading efforts to combat cyber and Dark Web-based criminal networks responsible for the surge of controlled substances throughout the United States. These illicit operations pose a significant threat to public health and safety, exploiting vulnerable individuals and fueling addiction within our communities. For more than a year, Xu managed a highly sophisticated, nationwide drug trafficking organization that operated on a mass scale, thus profiting from the suffering of others. Even Indiana was not immune to his illegal and immoral actions. The sentencing of Xu sends a clear message that this type of criminal activity is not welcomed here in our Hoosier state,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

“The FBI is committed to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into our communities and holding accountable those responsible for distributing them,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “Today's sentence is the result of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to protecting the public from the dangers associated with drug trafficking.”

Xu’s co-defendant, Jianhua Zhao, is currently scheduled for sentencing on September 3, 2026.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Indiana State Police, New York City Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and South Gate Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney and Appellate Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey.

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 towards 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.

HAMMOND – DeShawn Mitchell, 20 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to possession of a machinegun, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Mitchell was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

“On June 12, 2024, the Defendant sold a machinegun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock Switch” to a confidential informant working for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. On August 12, 2024, Mitchell sold a machinegun, namely a Glock-style firearm with an affixed machinegun conversion device and no serial number. Thanks to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the efforts of Assistant United States Attorney Ambris Saravanan as part of Operation Take Back America, the Defendant was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ambris Saravanan.

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.

HAMMOND – Nathaniel Johnson, 21 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distribution of a schedule II-controlled substance and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Nathaniel Johnson was sentenced to 96 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

“An armed drug dealer will spend the next 8 years in prison because he sold over 20,000 pills containing a fentanyl precursor to undercover law enforcement agents while in possession of a semi-automatic pistol loaded with 27 rounds of ammunition in an extended magazine, after which he was arrested at the scene.  Thanks to the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force, the DEA North Central Laboratory, and Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter, the poison was intercepted and the drug dealer went to prison,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), along with its law enforcement partners, will use every available resource to investigate and stop those who distribute illegal drugs and possess illegal automatic weapons. DEA’s commitment to protecting the people of Northern Indiana remains unwavering. The sentencing of Mr. Johnson sends a clear message to those who engage in this dangerous, criminal conduct. You will be identified, held accountable, and brought to justice,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and supported by the DEA North Central Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean Lanter.

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.

SOUTH BEND – Michael Carpenter, 39 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Carpenter was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

“The Defendant will spend over twelve years in prison because he chose to distribute about 352 grams of methamphetamine. Thanks to the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse, the Defendant was prosecuted and sentenced for peddling this poison,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse. 

SOUTH BEND – Steven Briones, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Briones was sentenced to 32 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

“Investigators intercepted two postal packages containing thousands of pressed methamphetamine pills and obtained a search warrant for Briones’ house after they watched another person go into his house carrying the two packages. While executing the search warrant, investigators found a Ziploc bag that contained about 64 grams of orange pressed methamphetamine pills packed away in Briones’ living room chest.  Thanks to the combined efforts of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the South Bend Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office led by Ken Cotter and AUSA Lydia Lucius, the poison was intercepted, and the Defendant is going to prison,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.       

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

SOUTH BEND – James Hanback, 61 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to unlicensed dealing in firearms, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Hanback was sentenced to 6 months in prison followed by 18 months of supervised release with the first 6 months to be served on home detention.

“As part of Operation Take Back America, agents of the BATFE traced numerous firearms that were involved in crimes to unlicensed gun dealer James Hanback.  The Defendant purchased about 204 firearms from licensed dealers between January 2021 and the summer of 2025, and he listed about 165 firearms for sale on the internet, though he himself was not a federally licensed firearms dealer. He also made numerous cash deposits totaling more than $98,000 into his bank account. Investigators executed a search warrant at Hanback’s home after he sold two firearms to an undercover officer, and they recovered 10 more firearms and other documents relating to firearms transactions,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse. 

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

HAMMOND – Omar Adali Mojica-Manzano, 37 years old, of El Salvador, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien with a prior felony conviction, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Omar Adali Mojica-Manzano was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term would go into effect should the Defendant remain in, or return to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

“An illegal alien in possession of cocaine violated our nation’s borders yet again despite being deported three previous times in 2014, 2022, and 2023.  He clearly does not believe the laws of our country apply to him.  His criminal history includes convictions for illegal entry, failure to provide vehicle registration, and alien unlawfully found in the United States after deportation.  The Defendant needs to return to his home and not return,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the East Chicago Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

SOUTH BEND – Bernardo Chagala-Cosme, 34 years old, of a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to felony Reentry of Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Chagala-Cosme was sentenced to time served.

According to documents in the case, Chagala-Cosme is not a citizen of the United States. He was previously removed from the United States in September 2013, but he quickly reentered the United States. He was removed again in October 2013, and again in April 2015. Police found Chagala-Cosme in LaPorte in January 2026 after they responded to the scene of a car crash. Police followed a trail of leaking fluid, which led directly to the house where Chagala-Cosme was living. He had 0.5 grams of cocaine in his pocket, and his blood alcohol content tested at 0.35. Police discovered he was in the country illegally when they booked and fingerprinted him.

“The Defendant was a drunk illegal alien with cocaine in his pocket and found at the end of fluid trail after a car crash.  He has been removed after two previous violations of our nation’s borders, and does not seem to think the rules apply to him.  He clearly does not respect our nation’s laws or its sovereignty,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the LaPorte Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.

HAMMOND – Edgar Omar Ortiz-Alvarado, 44 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Edgar Omar Ortiz-Alvarado was sentenced by Judge Simon to time served followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term will go into effect if Ortiz-Alvarado remains in, or returns to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

“The Defendant is an illegal alien who has three prior convictions for operating while intoxicated/driving under the influence and multiple other traffic-related convictions.  He has also been previously removed twice from the United States in March and April 2015.  The Defendant disrespected our nation’s laws and sovereignty as he repeatedly violated our borders,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nadia Wardrip. 

HAMMOND – Luis Alfredo Meneses-Silva, 35 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Luis Alfredo Meneses-Silva was sentenced to time served followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term will go into effect if Meneses-Silva remains in, or returns to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

“The Defendant does not believe our nation’s laws apply to him and has been previously removed twice from the United States in 2017.  He also has prior convictions for public intoxication and interference with official acts.  He needs to return home and not violate our nation’s borders again,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nadia Wardrip.

HAMMOND – Victor Manuel Arellano-Cetina, 34 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Victor Manuel Arellano-Cetina was sentenced to 6 months in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term would go into effect should the Defendant remain in, or return to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

According to documents in the case, Arellano-Cetina’s history includes three prior deportations from the United States in 2010, 2023, and 2023.

“The Defendant has been deported three prior times and clearly does not respect our nation’s laws or her sovereignty.  After his jail sentence, he needs to return to his home country and not come back,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Crown Point Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

HAMMOND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana has selected FBI Indianapolis Staff Operations Specialist Susan Graff as its “Hometown Hero.” She was nominated by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin Padula and selected by U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

The “Hometown Hero” award honors individuals who exemplify Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility. It recognizes a sustained commitment to these ideals and to public service in support of the community and the mission of justice.

“Susan Graff has served the Federal Bureau of Investigation for more than thirty years,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred. “She is currently assigned to the Indianapolis Division - Merrillville Resident Agency and is widely respected for her professionalism, institutional knowledge, and steady support to investigative teams. Her contributions have strengthened complex investigations and supported law enforcement efforts across a wide range of matters.”

Known for her behind-the-scenes work and dedication, Graff provides critical support to investigative efforts and plays an important role in helping advance cases. Those who work with her note that her contributions have repeatedly helped move investigations forward and that her work has had a meaningful impact across a wide range of matters.

Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin Padula said, “Her work has been essential to supporting complex cases in this district. She consistently brings strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to public service. We are fortunate to have her as part of the team.”

FORT WAYNE – Cecil Spangler, 37 years old, formerly of Roanoke, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Spangler was sentenced to 720 months in prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Restitution will be imposed at a later date.

“A predator who used a minor to engage in sexual conduct and produced a visual depiction of that sexual conduct will spend the next 60 years in prison for his sick and depraved decisions.  He did this over the period between June 2021 and August 2023.  Thanks to the combined efforts of the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Police Department, and Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery, along with support and coordination of the Huntington County Prosecutor’s Office led by Prosecutor Jeremy Nix and Chief Deputy Theresa Searles, the Defendant was arrested, prosecuted, convicted, sentenced, and locked up in a place where he can no longer harm children,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“Cecil Spangler’s horrific conduct has caused unimaginable physical and emotional trauma to children,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “I’m proud of our agents’ diligence and tenacity in facilitating this 60-year sentence, ensuring he can never hurt another child.”

This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Police Department, and the Huntington County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.  

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

SOUTH BEND – Pamela McDonald, 41 years old, of Knox, Starke County, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.  McDonald was sentenced to 12 months of probation and ordered to pay $21,280.42 in restitution.

According to documents in the case, Pamela McDonald worked as the “jail matron” at the Starke County Jail. Her duties included paying invoices with funds from the jail commissary account. She devised a scheme to unjustly enrich herself by depositing commissary funds into her personal PayPal account while camouflaging the transfers as payments for legitimate invoices. Between August 15, 2022, and May 15, 2023, McDonald made at least 19 unauthorized withdrawals and pocketed at least $20,621.85 that she was not entitled to receive. She also used a Starke County debit card to purchase a video gaming chair, a memory foam mattress, and a full-size bed frame for her home totaling $658.57, resulting in a total loss to Starke County of $21,280.42. 

“Starke County entrusted Pamela McDonald with maintaining the welfare of its prisoners.  She took advantage of that trust to steal over $20,000 from the jail and the prisoners, presuming that no one would care about them.  She chose to no longer wear the white hat of law enforcement and found out that justice is blind.  Fraud is a serious crime warranting a serious response, no matter the identity of the victim.  In some ways, her level of corruption is even more troubling because she acted while filling a position of authority in the community.  Thanks to the combined efforts of the FBI, Indiana State Police, Indiana State Board of Accounts,  Prosecuting Attorney Leslie Baker’s team in the Starke County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever, the public can see that public corruption will not be tolerated for their work bringing McDonald to justice,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“McDonald was supposed to be a public servant in her role at the Starke County Jail, but she chose to use her position of trust to line her own pockets,” said Timothy J. O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Office.  “The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue to investigate all public officials who use their positions for personal gain.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police Organized Crime and Public Corruption Unit, the Indiana State Board of Accounts, and the Starke County Prosecutor’s Office. It was prosecuted as part of the Northern District of Indiana’s Small County Outreach Program, which aims to bring federal law enforcement resources to bear in rural counties throughout the Northern District of Indiana.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

FORT WAYNE – Kenneth Porter, 39 years old, of Fort Wayne, IN, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm after being convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Porter was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

“A convicted robber and domestic batterer had no business possessing a firearm and will be going to prison for five years because he chose to do so.  Thanks to the ATF, Fort Wayne Police Department, and AUSA Dawn Ransom, our streets are safer with him behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“The sentence imposed in this case demonstrates what is possible when federal law enforcement partners work with local law enforcement to keep firearms out of the hands of prohibited persons. ATF will continue to work with our partners to aggressively pursue those who unlawfully possess firearms and endanger our communities,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

According to documents in the case, Porter was found to be in possession of a firearm despite being prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions for robbery and domestic battery. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dawn R. Ransom. 

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

HAMMOND – Katie M. Tristan, 41 years old, of Cedar Lake, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Tristan was sentenced to 15 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. Tristan was also ordered to pay $125,157.67 in restitution to the victims of the offense. Of that amount, which was paid in full at sentencing, $123,192.22 will be returned to the Hanover Community School District. 

According to documents in the case, between October 2020 and June of 2023, Tristan used her leadership positions in the parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) at two Cedar Lake elementary schools to embezzle over $107,000 in funds that had been donated to support extracurricular programming. For a period of over two years, Tristan used the PTO debit cards for personal expenses including car rentals, travel and entertainment, utility payments, and retail shopping. Once Tristan had exhausted the PTOs’ funds, she executed a series of fraudulent check transactions to falsely inflate the balances of the PTO bank accounts and prolong the fraud.

When school administrators and the Cedar Lake Police Department began investigating the missing PTO funds, Tristan obstructed those investigations by forging bank documents and using fake email accounts to impersonate other PTO volunteers. In September 2023, Tristan used a fake email account to impersonate the Cedar Lake Police detective handling the investigation, enabling her to manipulate the detective’s communications with a key witness. 

“By stealing from her parent-teacher organization (PTO), Katie Tristan stole from the children that she had supposedly volunteered to help,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “Money meant to support their education and personal growth was diverted to funded her personal wants and expenses to the tune of $107,000.  She compounded her crime through blatant fraud and obstruction designed to hide the fact that she was a thief.  Thankfully, the law enforcement professionals from the FBI, Cedar Lake Police Department, and our office saw to it that justice was served.  While Tristan failed to honor her duties as a PTO volunteer, her example can at least serve to teach other would-be fraudsters a valuable lesson—if you steal from Hoosier students, you will be held accountable.” 

“Tristan sought out and obtained a position of trust in the Cedar Lake elementary schools and then violated the trust the community placed in her,” said Timothy J. O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Office.  “The FBI is proud to have worked this investigation with the Cedar Lake Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to help protect a local Indiana community.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Lake Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary D. Heater. 

FORT WAYNE – Khalid Ahamad, 55 years old, of Little Elm, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Ahamad was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release, and he was ordered to pay $2,617,107.82 in restitution to the victims of the offense, including a victim company in Fort Wayne.  As part of the sentencing judgment, Chief Judge Brady ordered the forfeiture of the fraud proceeds derived from the offense, further ordering a money judgment against Ahamad in the amount of $2,617,107.82.

“The Defendant knowingly conspired with others to defraud victims throughout the United States and taxpayers of millions of dollars and then laundered the fraud proceeds through his bank accounts.  Starting in 2020, and extending through April of 2023, Ahamad and his conspirators engaged in several fraud schemes, including business email compromise schemes, unemployment benefits fraud from state agencies, and Small Business Administration loan fraud.  The conspiracy primarily deceived victim businesses and some individuals into wiring money to accounts under Ahamad’s control.  After laundering the money through his accounts, Ahamad sent fraud proceeds via cryptocurrency to other conspirators.  In total, the conspiracy tried to steal over $6 million, and Ahamad and his conspirators obtained over $2.6 million in fraud proceeds. Thanks to the professional investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Colony (Texas) Police Department and work of Assistant United States Attorneys Justin Sheridan and Anthony Geller, the Defendant has been caught, prosecuted, and sentenced,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

This conspiracy victimized many businesses through business email compromise schemes.  With this type of scheme, conspirators gained access to a business’s emails and obtained inside information about existing invoices and account payments.  Conspirators then sent emails that looked legitimate and purported to change existing payment information, with the new payment account being under the control of a conspirator such as Ahamad. In wiring money, victims believed that they were sending payment to their vendors, clients, and business associates, but they were instead deceived into sending money to Ahamad.    

“This 70-month prison sentence is another example of the FBI and our law enforcement partners working tirelessly to protect victims from fraudsters and scammers,” said Timothy J. O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Office.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from The Colony, Texas, Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin Sheridan and Anthony Geller.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is 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.

HAMMOND – Morrell Steven Neely, 65 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was found guilty of wire fraud after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 6, 2026.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Francis Sohn and Philip Benson.

HAMMOND – Tomas Hernandez-Orzuna, 40 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien with a prior felony conviction, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Tomas Hernandez-Orzuna was sentenced to 6 months in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term would go into effect should the Defendant remain in, or return to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings.

According to documents in the case, Hernandez-Orzuna’s criminal history includes felony assault with intent to commit sexual penetration, and misdemeanor malicious destruction of a building.

“Tomas Hernandez-Orzuna is a violent sexual predator who should never have been in this country in the first place,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “This conviction sends a message—illegal aliens with a history of sexual violence will be found, tried, punished, and then ejected from this district and this country.  My hope is that they hear this message and stay out.  If they do not, they will meet the same justice that was doled out to Hernandez-Orzuna.  As ever, my thanks go out to HSI, Merrillville Police Department, and U.S. Marshals Service for their exceptional efforts in this case.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Merrillville Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

SOUTH BEND –Justin Ring, 37 years old, of Hobart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, and possessing a firearm as convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Ring was sentenced to168 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in the fall of 2024, law enforcement identified Ring as a methamphetamine distributor operating in the Michigan City area. On three occasions between October 2024 and December 2024, Ring sold high purity methamphetamine to another person. In January of 2025, Ring was driving his car, and law enforcement performed a traffic stop on him. Ring had 439 grams of methamphetamine, 4 grams of cocaine, and 15 grams of fentanyl inside of the car with him, which he intended to distribute to another person. Ring also had a 9-millimeter pistol hidden in a compartment area behind the radio. On the same day of the traffic stop, law enforcement searched the hotel room where Ring was residing at the time. Officers found additional methamphetamine, another 9-millimenter firearm, and plastic bags and a digital scale used for packaging and weighing drugs. Ring has prior felony convictions for dealing a counterfeit substance and possession of paraphernalia, either of which prohibited him from possessing a firearm. 

“Justin Ring’s business plan was simple—he sold high-test poisons to users who needed a fix and had the means to buy it,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “As he well knew, there is money to be made on other people’s addictions.  But he should have remembered that, in northern Indiana, anyone who deals in the narcotics that feed those addictions will face a swift and devastating justice.  He will now have plenty of time to commit the lesson to memory while residing in the Bureau of Prisons.  My thanks go out to the DEA, ATF, La Porte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, and La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney Sean Fagan’s team at the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for the work they contributed to achieving this conviction and sentence.”  

“The primary role of law enforcement is to serve and protect the community. Through the arrest and successful prosecution of Mr. Ring, northern Indiana is most certainly a safer and better community for everyone. In the world of drug law enforcement, little is worse than a violent drug trafficker, which is a perfect description of Mr. Ring. Not only did Mr. Ring deal a plethora of drugs, all leading to addiction and death, but he did so while possessing a firearm. He was a danger and a nuisance to Hoosiers, but he is no longer. The Drug Enforcement Administration, in collaboration with its law enforcement partners, will forever identify, investigate, and stop those who choose to destroy our communities through their evil actions,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke. 

“The combination of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and engaging in drug trafficking presents a grave threat to public safety. ATF and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in combining our resources towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting armed drug traffickers,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory, La Porte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, and the La Porte County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

SOUTH BEND – Two men have been sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to various cocaine drug and gun related charges, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Derrick Glass, 40 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Glass was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

Shawn Pettis, 35 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pettis was sentenced to 130 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

“Two armed Defendants teamed up and conspired to peddle cocaine and did so while armed with a firearm.  They will spend nearly 13 years in prison because they ran into a much better team of the ATF, the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enhancement Unit, and Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle, with the support of Elkhart County Prosecutor Vicki Becker and her office.  Our communities and nation are safer because of their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“ATF and our partners are out on the streets of Northern Indiana everyday investigating violent crimes including armed drug trafficking. The sentence imposed today reflects the serious consequences for those who use firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. ATF and our partners remain united in investigating and disrupting this violent criminal activity and working with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute this conduct,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

According to documents in the case, in February and March of 2025, Glass distributed firearms, ketamine, and cocaine to another person. During that time, Pettis assisted Glass with the distribution and stored cocaine and firearms at his home. Police found additional cocaine and firearms when they executed a search warrant at Pettis's home in March of 2025.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Elkhart County Intelligence & Covert Enforcement Unit and the Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle. 

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

SOUTH BEND – Tevin Keyshawn Lewis, 26 years old, of Trail Creek, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing 40 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

According to documents in the case, on four separate occasions between December 2024 and May 2025, Lewis sold blue M30 pills containing fentanyl to another person in Michigan City. For each transaction, Lewis sold at least 50 pills. He distributed over 1300 pills across all the transactions.    

Lewis was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

“Tevin Keyshawn Lewis sold fentanyl, which remains one of the deadliest drugs on the market,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “He compounded his crime by selling fentanyl in pill form, which makes the poison look both safer and easier to ingest to his customers. Thankfully, our excellent team of investigators from DEA and the La Porte County Drug Task Force ended his illicit trade.”

“Illicit fentanyl remains the primary driver of fatal drug overdoses and poisonings in Indiana and across the United States. Anyone who is pushing this deadly, synthetic opioid drug into the hands of Hoosiers is a danger and a nuisance to our communities. Mr. Lewis committed evil and immoral acts through his drug dealing, which included the selling of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills, all containing illicit fentanyl. His cowardly, greedy actions brought him to the attention of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the La Porte County Drug Task Force, and the United States Attorney’s Office. And as a result, Mr. Lewis is being held accountable for his crimes. Drug dealers will never find a sanctuary for their criminal actions in northern Indiana,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory and La Porte County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

HAMMOND- Kevin Robinson, 46 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and for distributing cocaine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Robinson was sentenced to 68 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

“Like many before him, Kevin Robinson thought it was a good idea to possess guns he wasn’t allowed to have and deal drugs he wasn’t allowed to sell,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “And like many before him, he has learned that the brave federal agents and committed federal prosecutors of northern Indiana will not rest until criminals like him are convicted, sentenced, and serving their time in the Bureau of Prisons.  I would like to thank the agents and prosecutors involved in this case for the work they put in to bring Robinson to justice.  And I would like to reiterate a warning I’ve given many times before—if you want to trade poisons or possess illegal firearms, do it somewhere else.  Northern Indiana will not tolerate it.”

“Despite having a prior felony conviction, the defendant repeatedly possessed firearms and sold them to law enforcement, demonstrating a complete disregard for Federal law. The sentence imposed in this case reflects the seriousness of the conduct and continued accountability for those that violate Federal law,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

According to documents in the case, on October 2, 2024, Robinson sold a firearm and cocaine to law enforcement. Robinson also sold firearms to law enforcement on three occasions in September and November 2024. Robinson has a felony conviction which prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.     

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ambris Saravanan and former Assistant United States Attorney Joel L. Mathur.             

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

SOUTH BEND – Oscar Solano-Salinas, 44 years old, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien and Reentry of Removed Alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

“An illegal alien with two convictions for sexual battery was sentenced to 41 months in prison for possessing a rifle and ammunition and reentering the country for a third time after having been removed on two separate occasions.  Once he finishes his sentence, he will be removed a third and hopefully final time.  Armed recidivist sexual offenders who violate our borders are not welcome here,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“When the Defendant was caught, he was found to possess a rifle and ammunition, both of which he was prohibited from possessing due to his felony convictions and his being in the country illegally.  Solano-Salinas was removed from the United States in July 2010 after he was convicted of sexual battery in two different cases involving two different victims in Cass County, Indiana.  He illegally reentered about six months later and was removed a second time.  He illegally reentered the United States again in 2011. Officers executed a search warrant and found a Winchester rifle and ammunition at his home in Logansport in November 2025,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Through ‘Operation Take Back America,’ and the combined efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, the Logansport Police Department, the Cass County Sheriff's Office, the Monticello Police Department, and Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Jerome W. McKeever, the Defendant has been caught, prosecuted, and sentenced,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force, the Logansport Police Department, the Cass County Sheriff's Office, and the Monticello Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Jerome W. McKeever.

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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

FORT WAYNE, SOUTH BEND, AND HAMMOND – On May 5, 2026, the Honorable Adam L. Mildred completed his fourth month as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana.  To mark the date, U.S. Attorney Mildred shared statistics demonstrating the year-on-year increase in federal criminal law enforcement efforts.  

“We are proud to announce a great period of progress and renewed momentum for the Office, reflecting the hard work of the attorneys, litigation support team and our critical local, state, and federal law enforcement partners with whom we share this fight,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“During the first four months of 2026, this Office brought 80% more indictments and charged twice as many defendants as it did during the same period of 2025.  Both our narcotics and violent-crimes indictments increased by over 60%, our child-exploitation charges doubled, and our white-collar/fraud charges quadrupled.  Meanwhile, we have aggressively pursued long prison sentences for those ultimately convicted of federal crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Since being appointed, my focus has been on the core mission of protecting the citizens of the Northern District of Indiana and vigorously enforcing the law.  Our office focuses on prosecuting violent offenders and gangs, child predators and those that peddle poison in our communities.  We seek to fight terrorists and enemies of our nation, both foreign and domestic.  We address critical illegal immigration issues and are committed to the total elimination of drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations.  We also represent the civil interests of the United States and defend the foundational rights of all Americans, particularly the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“These sorts of increases put criminals on notice—if you choose to commit federal crimes in the Northern District of Indiana, you will be hunted down and held accountable by the exceptional law enforcement professionals who have dedicated their lives to keeping Indiana safe,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. 

The following notations of recent sentences illustrate the types of cases captured by those statistics:

United States v. Miguel Angel Vera-Rosales: Mexican national with a previous felony conviction sentenced to 20 months for illegal reentry into the United States.

United States v. Annamarie Fleischman: Roanoke woman sentenced to 600 months in prison following her conviction for sexually exploiting children and distributing child pornography.

United States v. Keith Hall: Kokomo man sentenced to 188 months in prison for possessing child pornography.

United States v. Michael Deckinga: Dyer man sentenced to 180 months in prison for distributing child pornography.

United States v. Lucas Kern: Huntington man sentenced to 168 months in prison for possessing child pornography.

United States v. Devin Melvin: Michigan man sentenced to 270 months in prison for organizing and leading a fentanyl trafficking group.

United States v. Robert Crayton: Illinois man sentenced to 216 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine. 

United States v. Michael O. Beers: Fort Wayne man sentenced to 190 months in prison for possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and various firearms offenses.

United States v. Aguila Binion: South Bend man sentenced to 144 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and for possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute.

United States v. Mark A. Lyons: Gary man sentenced to 158 months in prison for possessing over 25 pounds of methamphetamine and a firearm.

United States v. Jahmal Sanders: Hammond man sentenced to 192 months in prison for possessing a stolen firearm as a felon.

United States v. Gary Schmucker: Warsaw man sentenced to 46 months in prison for possessing a firearm while an unlawful drug user following a standoff with police.

United States v. Jerry Boomershine: Elkhart man sentenced to 51 months in prison for bank robbery.

United States v. Bethany A. Cataldi: Chesterton woman sentenced to 97 months in prison and ordered to pay over $19 million in restitution for committing health care fraud.

United States v. Christine Reese: Crown Point woman sentenced to 84 months in prison for committing health care fraud and aggravated identity theft by fraudulently posing as a psychologist.

United States v. Janis A. Sexton: Ossian woman sentenced to 60 months in prison and ordered to pay over $1.6 million in restitution for conspiring to commit wire fraud and money laundering against multiple defendants.

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SOUTH BEND – Terrence Baker, 46 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Baker was sentenced to 109 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

“As a convicted armed robber who also had a felony conviction for possession of cocaine, the Defendant had no business possessing a firearm when he shot approximately 8 times at an occupied house located in a residential neighborhood in South Bend.  Police Officers responded and observed multiple bullet holes in the side of the two-story house.  Law enforcement located and collected spent casings and reviewed text messages sent by Baker threatening the occupant of the home over a $500 dispute.  When officers found Baker a couple weeks later, he was in possession of the same .380 caliber handgun used in the shooting,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“As part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and thanks to the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Bend Police Department with the cooperation of St. Joseph County Prosecutor Ken Cotter and his office, AUSA Hannah Jones and AUSA Joel Gabrielse were able to prosecute him in federal court” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Preventing gun violence requires close coordination between our federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial partners. In this case, the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), provided a critical investigative link that helped identify and remove another violent offender from our community. The outcome in this case reflects our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office as well as the South Bend Police Department and I am grateful for their continued collaboration and investigative assistance,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Joel Gabrielse.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

SOUTH BEND – Charles Pheal, Jr., 35 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Pheal was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

“The Defendant sold 100 methamphetamine pills while on probation for burglary of a dwelling and domestic battery where he kicked open a door of a residence and slapped a mother in the presence of three minor children.  His criminal history also includes a misdemeanor domestic battery conviction where he broke into a residence through the window of a child’s bedroom and struck the child’s mother causing swelling to her left eye and scratches on her hands and knuckles.  He was sentenced for that misdemeanor domestic battery on the same day that he was sentenced in a different case for carrying a handgun without a license.  The criminal justice system’s efforts at the Defendant’s rehabilitation have failed because he chose to continue his career of antisocial behavior by peddling poison in our community,” US Attorney Adam Mildred said.

“While drug dealing, Mr. Pheal alleged to be selling ecstasy; however, his drugs were methamphetamine, a highly addictive and deadly substance. Methamphetamine is often mixed with illicit fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, which are driving the overdose and poisoning deaths in the United States. Mr. Pheal’s actions are yet another example of the cruelty of drug traffickers. They always lie. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, along with their prosecution partners, will continue to collaborate to bring drug dealers to justice and to keep the Hoosiers of northern Indiana safe. Northern Indiana is not where drug dealers should want to do their evil work. Mr. Pheal is realizing that now,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the DEA North Central Laboratory and LaPorte County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

FORT WAYNE – Neumen Jacobs, 32 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

Jacobs was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Jacobs sold a confidential informant 40 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Jacobs was also in possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony offense.

“An armed, recidivist drug dealer is going to prison for dealing fentanyl.  He forfeited 6 and a half years of his life because he wanted to peddle poison in our district.  Thanks to the combined efforts of the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Fort Wayne Police Department and Assistant United States Attorney Dawn R. Ransom, the Defendant was caught, prosecuted, and sentenced,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Fentanyl remains the country’s deadliest drug threat, claiming nearly 50,000 lives last year. The Drug Enforcement Administration, along with its law enforcement and prosecution partners, will continue to hold accountable anyone who is willing to drive Americans towards the poison of fentanyl. Mr. Jacobs is now being held accountable for his criminal actions, which includes being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Fort Wayne region is safer today with Mr. Jacobs distant and away from the community,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dawn R. Ransom. 

HAMMOND– David Winchell, 48 years old, of Rohnert Park, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana and money laundering, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Winchell was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $680,000 money judgment. 

“The Defendant was at the head of a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of marijuana and marijuana related products throughout the Northern District of Indiana and elsewhere.  The conspiracy involved at least 892 kilograms (1,966.52 pounds) of marijuana and 55,000 separate marijuana related products and has earned him seven years and three years of supervised release,” US Attorney Adam Mildred said.  “Law enforcement pieced together the scope of the conspiracy through painstaking analysis of ledgers created by Winchell and recovered through trash pulls and search warrants of his residence and other locations which detailed the marijuana sales over a two-year period.  Investigators also uncovered that Winchell would launder the proceeds of the drug sales in part by purchasing money orders used to pay off personal credit cards.  As part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath have shown that our combined efforts can make a ton of a difference, both literally and figuratively, for the Northern District of Indiana by shutting down this crew,” Mildred said. 

“The Drug Enforcement Administration will continue to work closely with its law enforcement and prosecution partners to hold drug traffickers accountable. There is no room in northern Indiana for those who want to commit drug crimes. Mr. Winchell’s money laundering activities were particularly unethical and illegal. He is worthy of today’s sentencing in federal court. His criminal actions have consequences,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

“David Winchell ran a large-scale marijuana business and tried to clean the money when it came in,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “IRS-CI special agents followed those profits and exposed the operation for what it was. This sentence makes clear that if you try to profit from illegal sales and hide the money, you will be held accountable.”

“This sentence sends a clear message that those who engage in drug trafficking and attempt to hide their profits through money laundering will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “We will continue working with our partners to combat these crimes and safeguard our communities.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas McGrath. 

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 towards 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.

SOUTH BEND – Paul R. McDowell, Jr., 29 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography, aggravated identity theft, and unauthorized access of a computer, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. 

McDowell was sentenced to 94 months of prison followed by 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $66,000 in restitution.

“The Defendant was a hacker-for-hire and would hijack the online social media accounts of several young women in exchange for money from third parties.  Evidence showed that he illegally obtained and used victims’ personally identifiable information to gain access to their online accounts and to download private photographs and videos. He then exploited those victims by sharing the private photos and videos with other people online.  The Defendant boldly attempted to hack into at least 37 different victims’ accounts!  Thanks to the vigilant efforts of our partners at the FBI as a part of Project Safe Childhood, the law enforcement team executed a search warrant at this predator’s house and recovered his computer and cell phone.  The Defendant ‘s devices and computer accounts contained more than 3,000 images and 3,000 videos of child sexual abuse material.  Our nation’s children are safer with him behind bars,” said US Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Paul McDowell was a hacker for hire, who violated the privacy of dozens of unsuspecting young women, stole their personally identifiable information, and subjected them to sustained harassment, shame, and even blackmail, all so he could boost his confidence and make a few bucks,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “To make matters worse, the FBI found tens of thousands of images and videos of child sexual abuse material on his devices. This guy didn’t just break into computer systems, he broke young people’s lives, violated their privacy, and today’s sentence will keep him locked up for a good long time so he can’t harm anyone else.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston and Indianapolis Field Offices.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Luke N. Reilander.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

HAMMOND – Michael Deckinga, 42 years old, of Dyer, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip S. Simon after pleading guilty to Distribution of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Michael Deckinga was sentenced to 180 months in prison, 15 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution to the victims of the offense.

According to documents in the case, between November 22, 2024, and May 14, 2025, Deckinga distributed child pornography, and further he admitted to accessing child sexual abuse material on Kik Messenger for approximately five years.

“The Defendant was a wolf in sheep’s clothing.  To the public, Michael Deckinga presented himself as Vice President of Advancement at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana dedicated to providing a religiously inspired education to Indiana’s young people,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “But once behind the Internet’s veil of anonymity, Deckinga betrayed his true self.  He collected a trove of some of the vilest child pornography available, which he then distributed to likeminded users.  Over the same period, he sent a host of graphic online messages to multiple purported minors to solicit additional child pornography.  Thankfully, agents from Homeland Security Investigations, working closely with partners in the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, uncovered Deckinga’s crimes so that he could be held accountable by the federal justice system.  I thank HSI, the Indiana State Police, and the Dyer Police Department for their excellent investigative work.  I also thank Mr. Patrick Harrington’s team from the Tippecanoe County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and AUSA Emily Morgan from the US Attorney’s Office, for their excellent work bringing this case to a just conclusion.  Their combined efforts show how effective Project Safe Childhood can be when its members work as a team and a predator is now behind bars.

“Homeland Security Investigations will relentlessly pursue those who distribute child pornography and exploit innocent children. Our agents are dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice. We thank our law enforcement partners for their collaboration and remain committed to safeguarding our communities from these horrific crimes,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino.

All of the agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case would like to thank the local community for their outpouring of support.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Dyer Police Department, and the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

SOUTH BEND – On April 23, 2026, Devin Melvin, 33 years old, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to two counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Melvin was sentenced to 270 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Melvin was the organizer and leader of a fentanyl trafficking group consisting of Clinton Rouse, Tyler Wood, Justin Hervey, and Raquan Perry. The group worked together to distribute fentanyl pills throughout Michigan City over a period of approximately 10 months, between October 2023 and July 2024. During the spring of 2024, Melvin, Wood, and Rouse lived together at a home in Michigan City, and Melvin would transport tens of thousands of pills from the Detroit area to Michigan City for further distribution by the group. Law enforcement seized approximately 10,000 of these fentanyl pills during its investigation.  

Last year, the other members of the drug trafficking organization pled guilty to various drug and firearm related offenses and were sentenced in federal court.

On May 20, 2025, Clinton Rouse of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced to 188 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl.

On May 22, 2025, Tyler Wood, of Michigan City, Indiana was sentenced to 160 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and illegal use of a communications facility.

On February 27, 2025, Justin Hervey, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced to 125 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and unlawful possession of a firearm.

On June 6, 2025, Raquan Perry, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and unlawful possession of a firearm.

“Devin Melvin and his accomplices trafficked one of the most harmful drugs into our community,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. “Twenty-two and a half years in federal prison is the price he has chosen to pay for profiting from his illegal drug enterprise.  Let this message be clear to those who seek to distribute this poison into the Northern District of Indiana: our law enforcement team will work tirelessly to find you and stop you. We are safer with this crew behind bars, thanks to the partnership of the DEA and their North Central Laboratory, ATF, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan and his office,” Mildred said.

“Illicit fentanyl remains the primary cause of overdose deaths and poisonings in the United States, to include northern Indiana. Often, fentanyl is hidden in the form of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills, much like the ones trafficked by Mr. Melvin. Over the course of his unethical, immoral, and illegal career as a drug dealer, Mr. Melvin brought thousands of counterfeit pills, all containing deadly fentanyl, to northern Indiana from Michigan. It is unknown how many lives and families he destroyed. The Drug Enforcement Administration celebrates the collaborative effort among law enforcement at the local, state, and federal levels in bringing Mr. Melvin to justice. He is now being held accountable for his crimes – and northern Indiana is safer and healthier because of it”, said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

“This case is another example of the strength of our shared partnerships in Northern Indiana in addition to highlighting the effectiveness of the Homeland Security Task Force as an important tool in combatting drug trafficking. The defendants in this case put profits over human life and helped contribute to an epidemic that is causing destruction in our cities and neighborhoods. Today’s sentence sends a strong message, but our work is not done. ATF will continue to work with our HSTF and other partners to disrupt firearm and drug trafficking networks and ensure those responsible are held accountable,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

“This case reflects what is possible when agencies commit to a unified, intelligence-driven approach to public safety,” said Michigan City Chief of Police Steven Forker. “This was not a short-term effort—it was a sustained, coordinated investigation that removed a dangerous organization responsible for distributing fentanyl and contributing to violence in our community.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, and the DEA North Central Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

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 towards 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 Indianapolis comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, IRS, Indiana State Police, and other partners, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

FORT WAYNE – Robert Elsten, 57 years old, of Huntington, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to Fraud and False Statements, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Elsten was sentenced to time served, followed by one year of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $347,038.02 in restitution.

According to documents in the case, Robert Elsten owned and operated Global Paving, LLC, a family-owned asphalt paving company. Elsten’s customers routinely paid Elsten by check for paving work. Elsten would then deposit some of those checks into the business bank account. Other checks received by Elsten for paving work were cashed by Elsten at various check cashing facilities. Elsten then failed to report on his taxes all gross income earned from Global Paving, LLC.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

FORT WAYNE – On April 23, 2026, a federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne, Indiana, approved an indictment charging Rodney L. Naylor, Bruce Naylor, Chae David Naylor, Jawauna P. Davis-Parker, Michael L. Carter, Douglas W. McKinney, Christian R. Naylor, and Paul G. Rowan with conducting, financing, managing, supervising, directing, and owning an illegal gambling business in violation of Title 18, United States Code section 1955.

The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana Gaming Commission, the Indiana State Police, and the Allen County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony Geller and Dawn Ransom.  

SOUTH BEND – Jerry Boomershine, 62 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Boomershine was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment with 48 months to be served consecutively and 3 months to be served concurrently with his state sentence, followed by 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay $8,450.00 in restitution.

“The Defendant thought he got away with it when he robbed a Goshen Bank in May of 2018, as he wore a mask over his face when pointed a gun at employees and robbing them of about $8450.  While police were unable to find the bank robber at the time, they did recover the sweatshirt that he was wearing.  In April of 2025, the Defendant’s luck ran out when a sample of his DNA was compared to the DNA on the sweatshirt.  The Defendant was caught, prosecuted, and sentenced due to the vigilance and unrelenting efforts of the FBI, the Goshen Police Department, Indiana State Police, and the United States Attorney’s Office,” said US Attorney Adam Mildred.

“Regardless of age, those who choose to commit violent crimes will be held accountable. Crimes like bank robbery create fear and danger for victims who are simply going about their day,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our partners will continue to use every available resource to identify offenders, hold them accountable, and safeguard the communities we serve.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Goshen Police Department and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse. 

HAMMOND- The United States Attorney’s Office in Northern Indiana will commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 19-25, 2026.

This year’s NCVRW theme— “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities.” —recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing.

United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred said, “This week is a time to reflect and dignify the experiences of survivors of crime, and for us to publicly commit to making sure they are heard and supported.  It is also a time to honor the quiet, steady work of those who stand beside them in their darkest hours – victim advocates, agents, officers, counselors, family members, and legal professionals.  Something was taken from the victims by the perpetrators, and our goal is to ultimately help them to take it back, by standing up in the courts and community to fight for accountability and justice.  It is also our hope to help them see themselves as we see do:  They are not merely victims… they are survivors and brave partners in the fight.”  

In fiscal year 2025, across the country, USAO victim witness professionals contacted victims more than 513,000 times regarding services and court updates; asset forfeiture personnel contributed to almost $331 million in forfeited funds being granted to victims via remission or restoration; and Financial Litigation Programs collected over $1 billion in restitution from criminal defendants for the benefit of victims.  This impressive work illustrates how the U.S. Attorney community listens, acts, and advocates on behalf of victims, and should be recognized during NCVRW.

NCVRW began in 1981 to honor victims and survivors of crime, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services and recognize the dedication of those who work with crime victims.

For more ideas on supporting crime victims, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

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FORT WAYNE – Annamarie Fleischman, 36 years old, formerly of Roanoke, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children and Receipt of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Fleischman was sentenced to 600 months in prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Restitution will be imposed at a later date.

According to documents in the case, between April 2023 and August 2023, Fleischman used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct. On or about June 2023, Fleischman also received images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

“This Defendant will spend the next fifty years in prison for choosing to not only violate a child, but also to document it!  This was nothing short of deplorable, and prison is the only appropriate response to this behavior.  The Northern District of Indiana is safer thanks to the hard, professional work and partnership between federal and local law enforcement, particularly the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Police Department, and the Huntington County Prosecutor’s Office led by Prosecutor Jeremy Nix and Chief Deputy Prosecutor Theresa Searles.  Those that predate on children in this way need to be put away where they cannot harm more kids,” Mildred said.

“Annamarie Fleischman’s heinous actions deserve every day of her 50-year sentence.  HSI will continue to utilize every resource at our disposal to protect children from those who seek to exploit and do them harm,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino.

This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Police Department, and the Huntington County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery. 

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

HAMMOND – On April 14, 2026, a federal Grand Jury in Hammond, Indiana, approved a two-count Indictment charging Charleasa Johnson and Micah Franklin of St. John, Indiana, and Ebony Star Wilson, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud related to fraudulently obtaining Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The Indictment alleges that as part of the conspiracy, the defendants collectively assisted in submitting more than 80 fraudulent PPP loan applications, resulting in the distribution of fraudulent PPP loan funds in an amount over $2 million. 

The Indictment also charges Charleasa Johnson and Micah Franklin with conspiracy to commit money laundering.

The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

As part of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Task Force, this case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin F. Wolff. 

The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.

SOUTH BEND – Clayton Morgan, 49 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Morgan was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Morgan sold about 512 grams of methamphetamine to another person on two occasions. Police obtained a search warrant for his home and recovered an additional 581 grams of methamphetamine. Morgan was serving a term of supervised release from a prior federal felony conviction for drug distribution.

“Clayton Morgan was under federal supervision for a past felony drug conviction when he decided to reenter the illegal methamphetamine business,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “That was a mistake.  He learned the hard way that federal law enforcement, working with our state and local partners, will hold a person accountable each and every time they violate the laws designed to protect citizens from dangerous narcotics.  I commend our law enforcement partners for their excellent work on this matter, and the just outcome it produced.”

“The sentence imposed in this case sends a clear message that drug trafficking will not be tolerated and underscores the threat dangerous drugs pose to our communities. This case also reflects strength of our partnerships. ATF remains committed to working with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the South Bend Police Department as well as our other federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to further reduce violent crime and protect the public,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

“Today, DEA reports that methamphetamine seized and tested has reached the highest purity and potency ever recorded. Average purity levels reached nearly 97% in 2025. The Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico, along with Mr. Morgan, should be ashamed of themselves for driving Hoosiers to addiction and death through methamphetamine. While on supervised release for a prior federal drug conviction, Mr. Morgan had an opportunity to be a productive member of society, which he threw away. His new stint in federal prison will give him plenty of time to consider the pain and agony he brought to his northern Indiana community. Law enforcement at every level in northern Indiana will never back down to the immorality of drug trafficking. Mr. Morgan’s arrest and conviction are proof of that,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse. 

HAMMOND – Angel Mario Rosas-Martinez, 40 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien with a prior felony conviction, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Angel Mario Rosas-Martinez was sentenced to four months in prison and a $100 Special Assessment.

According to documents in the case, Rosas-Martinez’s criminal history includes two prior convictions for attempting to or illegally entering the United States, theft, a felony conviction for stalking when a temporary restraining order was in effect and was previously deported on three occasions.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Officer. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

SOUTH BEND – Monica Del Real, 26 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Del Real was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, law enforcement observed Del Real driving in LaPorte County and discovered that she had active warrants for her arrest. Officers performed a traffic stop on her car. During the stop, a drug K9 alerted on the vehicle. Officers searched the car and found 136 grams of pure methamphetamine and 12 grams of fentanyl hidden in a compartment near the gas pedal. 

“Monica Del Real thought that she could freely traffic in dangerous narcotics,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “State and local law enforcement, and their K9 partner, proved her wrong.  Thanks to their excellent work, both the drugs and Del Real are off the streets.  I thank DEA, Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan and his office for their partnership.”

“Methamphetamine and fentanyl are dangerous drugs and poisons that have driven addiction, death, and violence across northern Indiana. The Drug Enforcement Administration, along with its Indiana law enforcement and prosecution partners, will continue to hold accountable those who disregard the moral values of society by trafficking narcotics. Ms. Del Real is now being held accountable for her criminal actions, which is the appropriate response for anyone wishing to bring pain and suffering to our northern Indiana home,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

INDIANAPOLIS – Dedrick Brown, 32 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker after pleading guilty to threatening a federal employee, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

Brown was sentenced to 21 months in prison.

According to documents in the case, on March 25, 2025, Brown appeared at a supervised release revocation hearing in the Southern District of Indiana. During the hearing, Brown made several threats against his probation officer, who had just testified against him, including that he would shoot his probation officer and that he would “make it his job” to find and kill him when he was released. Brown then attempted to spit on his probation officer.

“Federal employees who take an oath to support and defend the Constitution should never have to fear that performing their jobs faithfully will provoke an attack,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. “This office takes such threats seriously and will continue to hold those accountable who threaten and intimidate public servants.  My thanks go out to the dedicated federal agents and prosecutors who brought Dedrick Brown to justice.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by the United States Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Steven J. Lupa and Thomas M. McGrath, who were appointed as Special Attorneys in the Southern District of Indiana.

SOUTH BEND – Vance White, 40 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.

White was sentenced to 46 months of prison followed by 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $264,705.53 in restitution.

According to documents in the case, White engaged in a scheme to defraud and to obtain money from retail stores by paying for merchandise with counterfeit checks. He would then return the stolen merchandise to different outlets of the same retail store and receive cash for the returns. White committed his fraud at retail stores in the Northern District of Indiana and in more than 25 states, including Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota.

“Vance White methodically executed a scheme to defraud store after store across half of the states in the Union,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred.  “He must now repay over a quarter of a million dollars in ill-gotten gains that he accrued over four years, and he must now spend several years in federal custody.  Fraudsters should take note—any illicit scheme designed to bilk innocent citizens or their businesses of hard-earned money will be investigated, prosecuted, and punished.  My thanks go out to the brave agents and prosecutors who brought White to justice.” 

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Customs and Border Protection. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.