Southern District of Indiana

EVANSVILLE- Samuel Kirkwood, 36, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to production and attempted production of child sexual abuse material and possession of child sexual abuse material. 

According to court documents, Samuel Kirkwood was arrested on May 11, 2023, in connection with a state-level child exploitation offense. At the time of his arrest, Kirkwood was found in possession of two cell phones. Investigators obtained search warrants for both devices and conducted forensic data extractions, which revealed multiple images depicting nude minors in sexually explicit poses.

Photo analysis identified Kirkwood’s hand in one of the images that depicted the sexual abuse of a minor female proving that Kirkwood produced the image himself. In addition to the image he produced, more child sexual abuse files were found on Kirkwood’s cell phones. At the time of sentencing, Kirkwood admitted that he photographed a 10-year-old minor female at a time when he was caring for the child.

“The exploitation of children is among the most heinous crimes we prosecute,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This case reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable victims and holding offenders fully accountable. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure children are always protected.”

“By targeting the most vulnerable, the defendant caused lasting harm, and today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of his offenses,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will never relent in pursuing those who prey on children, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguard those who cannot protect themselves.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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INDIANAPOLIS- Michael Martinez, 30, of Camby, Indiana, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to distributing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

According to court documents, in May 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referred a cyber tip to the Indiana Crimes Against Children Task Force. The tip indicated that a user with the handle “the_goose_boi” had uploaded 28 files containing suspected child sexual abuse material to the social media messaging application Kik.

Through their investigation, law enforcement officers quickly identified Martinez as the individual responsible. Records obtained from Kik revealed numerous private and group messages sent and received by Martinez that discussed child pornography and expressed a sexual interest in children. These included messages stating, “I'd 100% date a 10-year-old girl if it was legal lol,” and “Can we all just agree preteen girls are sexy and they should be able to do anything a woman can do.”

Martinez has a prior conviction from June 2020 in Marion County for possession of child pornography and child exploitation. He was sentenced to five years’ incarceration and four years of Sex Offender Probation. At the time of the current offense, he was still serving probation.

“Michael Martinez is a known predator who chose to victimize children again while still on probation from a prior offense where he had been banned from even accessing the internet. His actions were brazen, disturbing, and deeply dangerous,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the relentless efforts of the U.S. Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and our dedicated federal prosecutors, we have removed a sexual predator from our community and sent a clear message that we will not tolerate the exploitation of our children.”

“The U.S. Secret Service is committed to stopping child sexual predators who harm innocent victims. The sentencing in this case illustrates the heinous nature of this repeat offender’s crimes against vulnerable children,” said Ike Barnes, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “I am proud of the work of the Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations in bringing this person to justice. Thanks to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Indiana for its efforts in prosecuting this case.”

The U.S. Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Eakman, who prosecuted this case.

This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a multiagency task force led by the Indiana State Police that investigates and prosecutes persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. Visit https://www.internetcrimesagainstkids.com to learn more about their efforts.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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INDIANAPOLIS- Mikell Shepard, age 22, of Connersville, Indiana, has been charged by federal complaint with three counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child and one count of Possession of Child Pornography.

According to the criminal complaint, on October 23, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Indianapolis received a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The report included investigative findings submitted by Google, which identified content in Shepard’s account believed to depict sexually explicit images and videos of minor children.

Google reviewed and flagged more than 400 files allegedly showing minors engaged in sexual acts, as well as over 1,000 files depicting the lascivious exhibition of the genitals of minors.

On October 24, 2025, law enforcement executed a state search warrant at Shepard’s residence.  Investigators discovered sexually explicit images and videos of minors allegedly produced by Shepard in both professional and personal settings, including while babysitting. These images reportedly include both female and male children, as young as 9 months old. The images and videos date from as recently as October 2025, with some files from the summer of 2024.

Publicly available information lists Shepard as the owner of “Shepard Photography” and “Boudoir by Shepard.” His Facebook account advertises him as a professional photographer who “works well with families, children, and infants.”

Shepard has been known to babysit several children, and has photographed children at a daycare, skating rink, and a gymnastics center in or near Connersville. Investigators believe there may be additional victims.

If you believe a child may have been victimized by Mikell Shepard, please contact Fayette County/Connersville Police non-emergency dispatch at (765) 825-2111.

According to the Writ of Habeas Corpus Ad Prosequendum filed today, Shepard will be transported from the Fayette County Jail to federal custody and will remain in the custody of the United States for all other necessary proceedings in this case.  

Homeland Security Investigations, Indiana State Police, Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Connersville Police Department are investigating this case. Should Shepard be convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who is prosecuting this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Carlos Fredy Granados, 35, an immigrant illegally residing in Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a child, coercion and enticement of a minor, and possession of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

At the time Granados entered his guilty plea, he acknowledged that upon completion of his sentence, he will be subject to removal from the United States.

According to court documents, between at least May and August of 2023, Carlos Granados sexually exploited and abused a 15-year-old girl who was in his care, custody, and control. Granados engaged in sexual intercourse with Minor Victim 1 and sexually exploited her for the purpose of producing images and videos of the abuse.

On October 28, 2023, IMPD Officers responded to a report of child sexual abuse after a witness discovered nude images and videos of the minor on Granados’ cell phone. Investigators searched Granados’ cell phones and discovered 12 sexually explicit videos and 16 images of the child, including some alongside Granados. The images and videos were taken inside the shared home and at a hotel. Investigators also found sexually explicit messages between Granados and the victim, discussing a sexual relationship and exchanging sexually explicit material.  

“Carlos Granados’ crimes are among the most heinous we encounter, and his conviction underscores our commitment to removing the most violent and predatory illegal immigrants from our communities,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana “Consistent with Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Operation Restore Justice Initiative, we will continue to prioritize prosecutions that protect our children and uphold the rule of law.”

“This sentence shows that child sexual predators will be held accountable and punished for their heinous crimes preying on innocent victims. The U.S. Secret Service is committed to protecting innocent victims from criminals who seek to sexually exploit them,” said Ike Barnes, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “Thank you to the Indianapolis Metro Police Department, Secret Service personnel and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for their work on this case and bringing justice for this victim.”

The U.S. Secret Service and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

NEW ALBANY - Todd Wilson, 52, of Charlestown, Indiana, has been sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, after pleading guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. 

According to court documents, Todd Wilson was a sworn police officer with the Jeffersonville Police Department (“JPD”), where he also served as the department’s evidence custodian. In that role, Wilson was entrusted with the careful receipt, storage, tracking, and release of evidence and property collected during investigations.

From 2020 to 2021, Wilson abused his position by lying during the purchases of nine firearms on eight separate occasions from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Under ATF regulations, law enforcement officers may purchase firearms without completing ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record), which is typically required for purchases from federal firearms licensees. To utilize this exemption, officers must submit a certification on agency letterhead, signed by an authorized official, affirming the firearm will be used for official police duties and that the officer has no convictions for misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. Firearms dealers are required to retain these certifications in their permanent records.

Wilson purchased firearms through this program by submitting certifications on JPD letterhead in which he forged the signatures of the authorized official. Contrary to his claims on the certifications, Wilson intended to use the firearms for personal use, not his official duties, or to transfer or resell the firearms to third parties.

Wilson gifted two Glock 48 9mm pistols and a Glock 43x 9mm pistol to two individuals and sold a fourth firearm to another individual for $400.  eTracing was conducted on the firearms, which showed only the JPD, not Wilson or any of the other owners.

“The power entrusted to police officers demands an unwavering commitment to truth. When that trust is broken through deliberate dishonesty, it undermines the very foundation of justice and the safety of our communities. This offense wasn’t a momentary lapse, but a grave betrayal by someone sworn to uphold the truth,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “ATF Forms serve the critical purpose of ensuring law enforcement can trace crime guns. We remain committed to working with our federal partners to hold accountable those who misuse their authority.”

“Lying to obtain a firearm is a serious crime, and wearing a badge does not place anyone above the law,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “This sentence underscores that when law enforcement officers choose to break the law and mislead the system, they will be held fully accountable. The officer’s own department initiated the investigation, reflecting its commitment to justice and the rule of law.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jeffersonville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.    

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Wood, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS- A federal jury has found Gilberto Hernandez-Sanchez, 29, of Mexico, guilty of illegal reentry of a removed alien.

According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, Hernandez-Sanchez was removed from the United States to Mexico in 2021. In 2024, he was arrested at the Plainfield, Indiana Correctional Facility, where he had been incarcerated following a state conviction for domestic battery. 

Hernandez-Sanchez had previously been removed from the United States on four separate occasions. His initial entry occurred on August 5, 2014, when he crossed the Mexican border into the United States without legal documentation or authorization to apply for admission and was promptly removed. He unlawfully re-entered the country and was removed twice more that same month. At an undetermined later date, Hernandez-Sanchez re-entered the United States and was again removed in November 2021. Undeterred, he re-entered in 2022 and was subsequently convicted on state charges.

Hernandez-Sanchez has an extensive criminal history, including convictions for false informing, public intoxication endangering the life of another, domestic battery, battery resulting in bodily injury, and domestic battery resulting in serious bodily injury.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated this case. U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon presided over the trial and will sentence Hernandez-Sanchez at a later date.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn Haney and Adam Eakman, who are prosecuting this case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
 

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TERRE HAUTE- Jeremy Mack, 50, has been sentenced to 30 years and 5 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to murder in the second degree. Mack was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution.

According to court documents, in 2021, Jeremy Mack was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, serving a life sentence imposed by the Northern District of Ohio for Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking and Drug Trafficking, Sex Trafficking of Children by Force, Fraud or Coercion, Witness Tampering and Obstruction of Justice.

On September 3, 2021, at approximately 9:28 p.m., correctional officers responded to an inmate duress alarm in the general population housing unit. Upon arrival, the officers found inmate Jeremy Mack standing near the door with the lights off. Officers instructed Mack to turn on the light and immediately observed blood on Mack’s hands and forearms. His cellmate, Stephen Cannada, was lying on the floor in a pool of blood.

Officers attempted CPR and other life-saving measures on Cannada but were unsuccessful. He was later pronounced deceased by medical staff. The medical examiner ruled the official cause of death to be multiple stab wounds to the neck and abdomen.

“This additional sentence underscores our office’s commitment to ensuring accountability, even within the walls of a federal prison. The sentence imposed reflects the gravity of this crime, and we hope it brings a sense of justice and closure to the family and loved ones of Mr. Cannada,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.

“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message: violence within our correctional system will not be tolerated. Even individuals already serving lengthy prison terms are accountable under the law when they commit further acts of violence. The FBI remains committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure that every life is protected, and justice is upheld – no matter where the crime occurs,” said Timothy O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Indianapolis.

"Today's sentencing sends a clear message - those who threaten or harm others will be held accountable. The safety and security of our facilities will always be the BOP’s top priority in our mission to ensure public safety,” said a BOP Spokesperson.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson.    

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath, who prosecuted this case.

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EVANSVILLE- Dekoda Scott Clark, 32, of Tell City, Indiana, has been sentenced to 2.5 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank theft and access device fraud. Clark must also pay $158,208.53 in restitution to the bank he defrauded.

According to court documents, between January 2023 and March 2024, Dekoda Clark was employed as a Relationship Banker at a bank branch in Evansville. During this time, Clark exploited his position to steal approximately $158,208.53 from customer accounts by making unauthorized cash withdrawals and issuing fraudulent debit cards.

Leveraging his access, Clark created debit cards linked to the checking accounts of five individuals and two businesses without their knowledge or consent. He then used these cards to make 17 purchases at various retailers, including Dicks Sporting Goods, Guitar Center, and Best Buy. Several of the purchases were for high-value technology items, including three Apple iPads, a MacBook Pro, an Apple Watch Ultra, two large televisions, a Lenovo gaming laptop, memory cards, a DJI Mini Drone, and an Xbox game drive. One of the transactions was for a $2,000 deposit into Clark’s account with Draft Kings, an online sports betting platform. These fraudulent purchases totaled $15,708.53.

Clark also withdrew a total of $142,500 as cash from the checking accounts of three individuals without their knowledge or consent.

“Bank employees are entrusted with safeguarding their customers’ hard-earned money, not exploiting that trust for personal gain,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Clark not only harmed individual victims but also undermined confidence in the financial system. This sentence, and the restitution he now owes, reflects the serious consequences of betraying that trust, and the level of accountability our office will seek for those who exploit their positions to defraud the public.”

“Instead of serving his bank’s customers, Dekoda Clark lavishly served himself by illegally taking their money to pay for video game systems and other expensive tech gadgets,” said Ike Barnes, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to safeguarding the nation’s financial infrastructure and pursuing this type of malfeasance. I am proud of our work in this case, and I want to thank the FBI, Evansville Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Indiana for their efforts in bringing justice to this defendant.”

“This sentence demonstrates that those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Timothy O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Indianapolis. “By stealing more than $158,000 from customer accounts, this defendant not only violated the law, but also the confidence placed in him by both her employer and the community. The FBI remains committed to protecting the integrity of our financial institutions and pursuing those who commit fraud and theft.”

The U.S. Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Robert Williams, 57, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 29 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, three counts of brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, between July 8 and August 14 of 2023, Robert Williams committed six robberies of four different Dollar General stores across Indianapolis, stealing $1,799 total in cash. In each robbery, Williams flashed either a revolver or handgun in his waistband to intimidate employees and further the crime.

Williams has a criminal history dating back nearly four decades, with convictions for theft, possession of a narcotic drug, battery against a public safety official, and domestic battery. These felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm.

“Six different times the defendant terrorized innocent people who simply had the misfortune to work at a business he decided to target for a few hundred dollars,” said Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Armed, repeat criminals are a menace to our communities and must be held accountable. This sentence demonstrates that this type of violent lawlessness carries serious consequences.”

“Robert Williams made the choice to commit violent crimes, and now he will spend nearly three decades in federal prison because of it. He terrorized employees, brandished weapons, and tried to instill fear in our communities. That conduct is unacceptable, and today’s sentence proves there is a heavy price for it. The FBI will never hesitate to go after violent offenders. If you pick up a gun to commit crime, we will track you down, we will take you off the streets, and you will go to prison. It’s that simple,” said Timothy O’Malley, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted this case.

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

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EVANSVILLE- Troy Ogburn, 44, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, beginning in October of 2024, members of the DEA Evansville Resident Office and Detectives with the Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force (EVCDTF) initiated an investigation into the Troy Ogburn Drug Trafficking Organization after receiving information that Ogburn was selling large amounts of crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl out of his Evansville apartment.

On October 24, 2024, during a search of Ogburn’s apartment, members of the EVCDTF recovered 1,470 grams of methamphetamine, 143 grams of fentanyl in pink powder form, 25 grams of cocaine, 109.8 grams of fentanyl in pink pills marked “K/56” and 238.6 grams of fentanyl in blue pills marked “M30.”

Additionally, detectives recovered two sets of digital scales, a loaded, stolen, Glock 21, .45 caliber handgun and two 9mm handguns, each with 14 rounds in the magazine, as well as a total of $1,695.00 in cash and a drug ledger indicating names of buyers and dollar amounts paid. 

At the same time as the apartment search, Ogburn was arrested during a traffic stop. During a search of his vehicle, officers recovered another drug ledger and $4,572.00 in cash. 

Ogburn has a prior federal conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Five Grams or More of a Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base and a felony for Dealing in Marijuana, which prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again.

“Trafficking deadly amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl fuels addiction, overdoses, and violence in our communities,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This sentence ensures that a dangerous offender is removed from our streets and sends a clear message: those who deal in these poisons while armed with illegal firearms will face serious federal prison time.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Evansville Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Evansville Vanderburg County Drug Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookaman.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley, who prosecuted this case.

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EVANSVILLE- Ellen L. Corn, 50, of Petersburg, Indiana, has been sentenced to one year and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to five counts of wire fraud. Corn has also been ordered to pay $121,439.72 in restitution.

According to court documents, from March 2017 to August 2022, Ellen Corn served as the Executive Director for a Dubois County nonprofit that facilitates a youth mentoring program and provides college scholarships for local high school students. During her employment, Corn had various financial responsibilities including entering all income and expenses into the organization’s accounting software and had access to the organization’s credit card.

Over that five-year period, Corn stole a total of $161,344.85 via several methods, including by using the organization’s credit card to pay for personal expenses at various businesses and restaurants, such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart, and to make tuition payments to colleges for her children. She made approximately 1,226 unauthorized transactions with the credit card. Corn also stole funds by making unauthorized transfers from the organization’s PayPal account to her personal PayPal account. Additionally, Corn made unauthorized purchases directly from the nonprofit’s checking account via debit card and check. 

Corn ensured that the organization’s accounts had enough funds to pay for her illegitimate expenses by reducing funding for certain departments and programs. In 2022, she also failed to notify a first-generation college student that the student had been selected to receive a scholarship.

To conceal her fraud, Corn deliberately omitted the unauthorized transactions from the nonprofit’s accounting records, which she regularly presented to the Board of Directors and the organization’s tax preparer.

“Ellen Corn abused her position of trust and stole from an organization dedicated to serving and mentoring local youth. Her crimes not only harmed the program and its ability to serve young people but also betrayed the trust of the public who support and rely on its mission,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This sentence holds her accountable and demonstrates our commitment to protecting community nonprofits from fraud and financial exploitation.”

“The sentencing in this case holds Ellen Corn accountable for violating the trust she held as the executive director of an organization focused on mentoring youth. It also reinforces the U.S. Secret Service’s commitment to pursuing officials who shamefully break the public’s trust by illegally enriching themselves through fraud and deception,” said Ike Barnes, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “Thanks to the Jasper Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Indiana for pursuing this case.”

“This case is a testament to the dedication and diligence of Detective Sergeant Greg Brescher, whose thorough investigation uncovered a serious breach of public trust. Thank you to those that came forward to provide the initial information as it your courage to contact us played a vital role in bringing this case to light.  We are proud of the strong collaboration between the Jasper Police Department and the U.S. Department of Justice, which ensured that justice was served. Our agency remains steadfast in its commitment to holding individuals accountable, no matter their position, and to protecting the integrity of programs that serve our community’s youth.”

The U.S. Secret Service and Jasper Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Ryan Austin Lauless, 31, of, Colorado, has pleaded guilty to 21 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, 5 counts of Sex Trafficking of a Minor, 2 counts of Noticing and Advertising Child Sexual Abuse Material and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material.

According to court documents, between late 2019, and May 19, 2023, Ryan Lauless used social media applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, Yubo, Purp, and others, to coerce, sexually exploit and threaten at least 68 minor victims into producing thousands of images and videos of sexually explicit conduct. The victims ranged in age from 13 to 16 at the time of the offenses and lived in nearly every state in the United States and in at least five foreign countries.

Using the above social media applications, and others, Lauless misrepresented his identity, and falsely represented to minors that he was “Cason Fredrickson,” purporting to be a teenager from New York or other cities. In reality, Lauless was in his late 20’s, unemployed, and living in various hotels and motels in Texas and Colorado. To conceal his identity, Lauless accessed the public Instagram page of Individual A, and without Individual A’s knowledge or consent, saved their images and videos to falsely claim that he (Lauless) was Individual A, posing as “Cason Fredrickson.”

Lauless’ criminal tradecraft included misrepresenting his age, identity, background, and likeness, to groom minor children, and provide a false sense of safety in their online communications.  Lauless’ tradecraft further included the use of voice modulators and third-party image and video applications to edit images and videos to make them appear as though they were taken live through social medial applications, such as Snapchat.  

Lauless also feigned interest in his victims, told his victims that they were attractive, and pretended as though they were in an online romantic relationship.  He purchased items for many of the minor victims over Amazon, including fishnet stockings, sexual devices, and unique t-shirts that he instructed minor victims to wear when producing sexually explicit images and videos, and shipped those items either directly to victims, or to a designated Amazon locker for pickup.

As part of Lauless’ efforts to avoid detection and continue the sexual exploitation of minor victims for a prolonged period, he threatened many of the minor victims with dissemination of their images and videos if they failed to comply with his demands, or if they intended to seek help from parents or law enforcement. At least one minor victim told Lauless that she was contemplating suicide.

Further, Lauless sex trafficked at least five different minor victims by forcing them to them engage in oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse with adult males, and producing numerous videos of the commercial sex acts. Some victims were forced to engage in sadomasochistic abuse at Lauless’ direction.

Once Lauless received images and videos from his victims, he advertised the sexually explicit material he enticed them to produce for sale on social media applications such as Discord, Instagram, Telegram, and MEGA. He engaged in at least 141 transactions in which he sold the child sex abuse material for payment via Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and CashApp. Lauless admits that his collection of child pornography included images and videos depicting prepubescent children in sexually explicit conduct, as well as children engaged in bestiality and sadomasochistic behavior.

“Thanks to the courage of these victims and the dedication of our law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to justice. Exploiting children is one of the most reprehensible crimes, often going unnoticed by those closest to the victims,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John E. Childress. “In today’s digital age, predators use sophisticated tactics to target our kids and manipulate them into feeling trapped and ashamed. I urge parents and caregivers to have open, honest conversations with children in their lives to help stop this abuse before it starts.”

"Protecting children from online predators is a responsibility we all share,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “Crimes that target and exploit children are among the most egregious we investigate, and they too often remain unseen until it is too late. We urge parents to stay engaged, talk with their children, and remain vigilant. The FBI’s mission is clear: we will relentlessly pursue those who prey on children, hold them accountable, and stand with victims every step of the way.”

"Today’s guilty plea is a stark reminder of the dangers our children face online. This defendant exploited the trust and vulnerability of children through social media, committing acts of unimaginable cruelty, said Boone County Prosecutor, Kent Eastwood, on behalf of the C.A.S.E Task Force. “We will continue to pursue these cases relentlessly, and we remain committed to supporting survivors and holding predators fully accountable.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Boone County Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation (CASE) Task Force investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Lauless faces up to life in federal prison and will be sentenced by a U.S. District Judge later.   

The Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation, or CASE, Task Force was established in 2023 to support the investigatory and prosecution efforts of Boone County law enforcement as they pursue persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. The task force is made up of law enforcement personnel from the following Boone County agencies; the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office, the Lebanon Police Department, the Whitestown Police Department, and the Zionsville Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Preston and Carolyn Haney are prosecuting this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood.

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EVANSVILLE- Regene Newman, 59, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 1.5 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to wire fraud. Newman has already paid $101,133.55 in restitution to two victims, and settled privately with a third. 

According to court documents, Regene Newman exploited positions of public trust over a period of more than seven years, stealing over $125,000 intended for community programs and nonprofit organizations. She used the funds to support a lavish lifestyle, making large purchases at retailers including Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Bath & Body Works, Bra Goddess, Hobby Lobby, Target, and Macy’s.

From 2015 to June 2021, Newman served as Director of Finance for the Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office, where she had authorized access to both an office credit card and a debit card for My Goals, a nonprofit operating under the Prosecutor’s Office to assist at-risk youth.

Between March 2016 and March 2021, Newman made approximately $60,028.66 in unauthorized purchases with the My Goals debit card. To conceal the theft, she arranged for the Prosecutor’s Office to make sham “donations” to the nonprofit by submitting false Accounts Payable Vouchers. These fake donations created the appearance that the funds would be used to support My Goals’ mission of helping the community. During that time, Newman also made $26,381.04 in unauthorized purchases using the Prosecutor’s Office credit card.

In June 2021, Newman left the Prosecutor’s Office and became Business Director for Vanderburgh County Community Corrections. There, she gained access to a separate county credit card and later requested responsibility for managing the checking account of a local nonprofit that supports individuals battling addiction. Once granted access, she made an additional $10,725 in unauthorized credit card purchases and $23,929.46 in unauthorized debit card purchases.

“Regene Newman stole from public institutions and nonprofit organizations whose mission was to serve vulnerable members of the Vanderburgh County community. She deliberately exploited positions of public trust to fund a lifestyle of self-indulgence—stealing not only taxpayer dollars, but also resources earmarked for addiction treatment and youth intervention,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Today’s sentence is a stark reminder that those who abuse positions of trust and steal from the public will be held accountable.”

“This sentencing underscores an uncompromising truth: those who corrupt positions of trust and steal from the public will be brought to justice,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge, Timothy O’Malley. “For years, Regene Newman diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars intended to serve at-risk youth in Vanderburgh County, instead funding a life of personal extravagance. This calculated abuse represents not only financial theft, but a profound betrayal of the very communities these resources were meant to uplift. The FBI will continue to pursue those who exploit the public trust and ensure they are met with the full weight of accountability.”

“This outcome reflects the strength of interagency collaboration and the importance of vigilant oversight,” said Paul Joyce, State Examiner. “The State Board of Accounts is proud to work alongside our federal partners to uncover fraud and restore integrity to public service. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that public funds serve the people- not the personal interests of those entrusted to manage them.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Indiana State Board of Accounts investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.

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EVANSVILLE- Three Evansville locals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a methamphetamine trafficking operation.

Patrick L. Adams, 60, has been sentenced to 17 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Jorden Ott, 36, was sentenced in March 2023 to 10 years, 10 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.

Amanda Lamm, 35, was sentenced in January of this year, to five years, three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.

According to court documents, Patrick Adams was the leader of a drug trafficking operation, selling methamphetamine to Ott for distribution. Lamm stored and transported the methamphetamine for distribution. Between January and April of 2021, the Adams drug trafficking organization distributed at least 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine ice in Evansville.

In May of 2021, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Adams’ home and located 1,518 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside a roll of carpet and rubber-banded bundles of cash hidden in an air vent and the closet of a child’s bedroom.

Adams has a lengthy criminal history, including previous felony convictions for dealing cocaine and unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon.

“Drug traffickers like Patrick Adams and his co-conspirators fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the outstanding work of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, these defendants have been held accountable. This office will continue to pursue those who profit from spreading dangerous and highly addictive methamphetamine in Evansville and across Southern Indiana.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Evansville Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Evansville Vanderburg County Drug Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley, who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS- Douglas Gibson, 40, of Lebanon, Indiana, has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Committing a Felony Offense while Required to Register as a Sex Offender.

According to court documents, between 2018 and 2021, Douglas Gibson gained access to Minor Victim 1, who was born in 2011. During that time, Gibson placed hidden cameras in the child’s bedroom and bathroom shower drain to surreptitiously record her while showering and getting changed. Gibson then saved images and videos depicting the child in various stages of nudity to his laptop. Gibson also distributed and possessed images and videos of other unknown prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct on his laptop. These files were uploaded and shared with other users on a social medial platform through private chat rooms.

Gibson is a convicted sex offender and was required to register from at least September 2011 to September 2021 due to his 2010 conviction of Sexual Misconduct of a Minor (Intercourse) in Boone County.

“Simply put, Douglas Gibson is a danger to children,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “A child’s home should be a sanctuary of safety and love. Instead, this sick abuser took advantage of a child’s vulnerability to sexually exploit them and invade their safety and dignity. The sentence imposed here will ensure that our children are protected from this defendant for decades to come.”

“The exploitation of children is one of the most serious crimes we investigate. This sentence makes clear there are severe consequences for those who attempt to harm or exploit children,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.”

"The investigation symbolizes how collaborative efforts of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force alongside its local, state and federal partners create a powerful force that is more effective in protecting vulnerable populations than any single entity could be on its own,” said ICAC Task Force Commander, Sergeant Christopher Cecil. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indiana ICAC Task Force, and Boone County C.A.S.E. Task Force investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Preston, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood.

Indiana’s ICAC Task Force is a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate many thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse.

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INDIANAPOLIS- 11 individuals have been sentenced for their roles in an armed drug trafficking ring responsible for trafficking hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills and over 15 kilograms of methamphetamine into Central Indiana. The individuals were sentenced as follows:

Christopher Miller, 29,

Indianapolis

26 years’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

24 years’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

20 years, 10 months’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

20 years, 10 months’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

20 years’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

20 years’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances; Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances

Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime

16 years, 8 months’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

Afrika Railynne Williams, 29,

Indianapolis

13 years, 4 months’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

12.5 years’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

11 years, 8 months’ imprisonment

5 years’ supervised release

Regina Weatherford, 60,

Indianapolis

5 years’, 5 months’ imprisonment

4 years’ supervised release

According to court documents, Jaraughn Bertram led a drug trafficking organization in Central Indiana that trafficked significant quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Arizona to the Indianapolis, Anderson, and Muncie areas. Bertram and Christopher Miller utilized multiple couriers to obtain the drugs from Joaquin Carranza in Arizona and fly them to Indianapolis, concealed in their checked baggage. Drugs were also shipped to Indiana using U.S. mail. The drugs were then distributed to the other defendants for storage, packaging, and selling to individuals. Multiple members of the organization possessed and used firearms, including weapons than had been converted into fully automatic firearms (a/k/a machineguns), to further their drug trafficking activities, despite previous felony convictions.

Machinegun conversion devices, sometimes called “Glock switches” or “auto-sears,” are devices that convert ordinary semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machineguns. Machinegun conversion devices are themselves considered machineguns under federal law, even when not installed, and are illegal to possess or sell without a special license.

In addition to dealing controlled substances, Christopher Miller, Afrika Williams, and Jamie Sullivan also laundered the proceeds of the criminal organization using CashApp transactions, structured bank deposits and currency exchanges, and the purchase of vehicles.

While the case was being investigated, Jaraughn Bertram fled Indianapolis to Mexico. After federal charges were announced in June of 2023, Joaquin Carranza also fled to Mexico and remains a fugitive. Jaraughn Bertram was killed in September of 2024 in Mexico.

This case was part of a long-term investigation which resulted in multiple federal indictments. In total, the investigation recovered the following contraband and proceeds of the criminal activity:

• 128 firearms
• 61 machine gun conversion devices (MCDs)
• $722,626 currency
• 22 vehicles
• 118 pounds of methamphetamine
• 78 kilograms of fentanyl
• 501 pounds of marijuana
• 315 grams of cocaine
• 216 grams of heroin

“This was not just a drug bust- it was a takedown of a massive, highly organized criminal enterprise flooding Central Indiana with poison on an industrial scale,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Dozens of law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels worked tirelessly together, coordinating for years across jurisdictions to take down this operation. Thanks to their extraordinary partnership, these dangerous traffickers are behind bars, and our communities are safer.”

"This extraordinary investigation, made possible through the collaboration of numerous law enforcement partners, underscores our commitment to justice. We believe the sentences imposed on these violent offenders will have a lasting positive impact on the communities they targeted," said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge, John Smerglia. 

“The defendants profited by flooding our neighborhoods with deadly drugs, leaving devastation in their wake—shattered families, lost lives, and communities in crisis,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “Today’s sentences send a clear message: if you exploit our communities and profit from their pain, we will come for you. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will be unrelenting in hunting down these traffickers and driving them off our streets.”

“Drug traffickers don’t just flood communities with narcotics—they disguise their profits through complex laundering schemes,” said Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “IRS-CI special agents used forensic accounting to expose how this network tried to wash its money clean. By seizing their drugs, firearms, and illegal assets, we’ve cut off both the poison and the profits. IRS-CI will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to keep our neighborhoods safe.”

“US Postal Inspectors are dedicated to maintaining the sanctity of trust placed in the US Mail. We will aggressively pursue anyone who uses the US Mail to transport and distribute deadly drugs which impacts the safety of postal employees and postal customers,” said USPIS Detroit Division Acting Inspector in Charge Felicia George. “The Postal Inspection Service is proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in identifying, disrupting, and dismantling these drug tracking organizations which endanger our communities.”

“The Indiana State Police actively collaborates with various law enforcement partners at all levels (local, state, and federal) to combat criminal enterprises involved in illicit narcotics and firearms. This collaborative approach aims to enhance public safety by disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and firearms and bringing those involved in their trafficking to justice,” said Indiana State Police Captain, Ron Galaviz.

The following agencies investigated this case:   

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigation
• Federal Bureau of Investigation- Indianapolis
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• United States Marshals Service
• U.S. Postal Inspection Service
• Homeland Security Investigations
• The Indiana Crime Guns Task Force
• Indiana State Police
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
• Fishers Police Department
• Carmel Police Department
• Boone County Sheriff’s Department
• Zionsville Police Department
• Anderson Police Department
• Lawrence Police Department
• Muncie Police Department
• Fort Wayne Police Department
• Avon Police Department

The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle P. Brady and Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought in conjunction with the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is a partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms.

This case was also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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EVANSVILLE- Casey Lee Smith, 48, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 17.5 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to two counts of distribution of sexually explicit material involving minors.

According to court documents, in January of 2022, the Evansville Police Department received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, stating that 16 files containing child sexual abuse material had been uploaded to the instant messaging application, Kik, by Casey Lee Smith. The video files included depictions of prepubescent minors and minors under the age of twelve years, as well as depictions of sadistic or masochistic conduct.

Investigators searched Smith’s cellphone and uncovered 95 images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material that had been accessed and viewed by Smith, with some involving infants. Investigators also located the Kik application, which Smith did not disclose on his list of social media accounts when updating his sex offender registration information, required annually.  

Smith has been a registered sex offender since 2003 due to felony convictions for Child Exploitation and Possession of Child Pornography.

“This dangerous criminal used Kik to share the horrific abuse of the most vulnerable victims,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Those who gather online to revel in the exploitation of children will be identified and prosecuted. I am grateful to the FBI and the Evansville Police Department for their work to ensure that this defendant will serve a significant prison sentence, where our children will be out of his reach.”

“The exploitation of children is among the most heinous crimes we investigate. Every file this defendant shared represented the ongoing abuse of a real child,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “He chose to traffic in the sexual abuse of children, and now he will spend years behind bars, unable to harm our communities. Let this serve as a warning: if you exploit children in any way, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will find you and ensure you face the full consequences of your actions.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc

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INDIANAPOLIS- Three men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a COVID-19 fraud scheme that resulted in the theft of $520,910 in unemployment benefits from various state and federal unemployment programs.

Each defendant was also ordered to pay $520,910 in restitution. At the time Stephen Olamigoke entered his guilty plea, he acknowledged that upon completion of his sentence, he will be subject to removal from the United States

According to court documents, between August and October 2020, the defendants stole 168 Unemployment Insurance (UI) debit cards and associated PIN numbers. These cards, issued by the states of California, Arizona, and Nevada, were being periodically loaded with benefits. None of the cards belonged to the members of the conspiracy—they were all in the names of other real individuals. To obtain the cards, other members of the conspiracy located outside the United States had used stolen personally identifiable information to file numerous false unemployment claims with various state workforce agencies.

Unemployment Insurance is a joint state and federal program that provides temporary financial assistance to workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own.

The trio used 98 of the cards to withdraw cash from various ATMs in and around Indianapolis, often making multiple withdrawals within the span of just a few minutes. In total, they completed 529 withdrawals, stealing $520,910 in benefits.

These funds were intended to support individuals unemployed during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, several federal programs expanded UI eligibility and benefits, including the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program, Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, and the Lost Wages Assistance Program.

“Stealing unemployment benefits meant to help people survive during one of the worst crises in modern history is both heartless and criminal,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These defendants exploited a system designed to support those in genuine need, and now they are being held accountable for their greed thanks to the diligent work of our federal partners and prosecutor.”

“As the primary federal law enforcement agency charged with investigating fraud against the unemployment insurance program, the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General is committed to relentlessly protecting the integrity of this vital benefit program from those seeking to unlawfully enrich themselves at the expense of American workers. We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for their strong partnership and collaboration. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate these types of allegations,” said Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

“Investigating and bringing to justice those who commit fraud against essential government programs is one of the many things we do as postal inspectors,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Felicia George, of the United States Postal Inspection Service - Detroit Division. “Crimes like this not only deprive real people of critical aid, but also threaten the integrity of the U.S. Mail, which so many Americans rely on for secure and timely delivery of vital benefits. This case is an outstanding example of collaborative efforts between federal agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, working side by side to protect public resources and ensure assistance reaches the individuals and families who truly need it.”

“These defendants shamelessly exploited a national crisis for personal gain, stealing money intended to keep struggling families afloat - families counting on those funds to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table during desperate times,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain unwavering in our commitment to hold accountable anyone who exploits government relief programs and to safeguard public funds from fraud.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon.    

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.

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EVANSVILLE- Three convicted felons residing in Evansville have been sentenced to federal prison for illegally possessing firearms. All three cases are unrelated.

On October 19, 2023, Evansville Police officers spotted Codey Ritchison in the driver’s seat of a vehicle in the drive-through line at an ice cream shop. At the time, Ritchison had an active felony parole violation warrant. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, he fled on foot with a pistol in his hand. As he ran across Diamond Avenue—a busy, divided, multi-lane street—he dropped the firearm while crossing the median. The pistol was loaded with an extended 25-round magazine.

On August 20, 2024, Evansville Police responded to a report of a suspicious person with a gun on North Wabash Avenue. Officers located Ricketts nearby. A search of the area uncovered a 9mm handgun under a vehicle with one round in the chamber and a missing magazine. The serial number had been obliterated and was no longer legible. Ricketts was found with a loaded magazine matching the firearm in his front pants pocket. 

On May 10, 2024, Evansville Police located a stolen vehicle on the Lloyd Expressway and initiated a traffic stop. The driver, Destin Svestka, ignored the police and fled the scene. Two hours later, Svestka led Warrick County law enforcement on a high-speed chase in the same stolen vehicle, eventually abandoning it in the Bally’s Casino parking lot and fleeing on foot. During the chase, Svestka threw a black bag into the river. After his arrest, the bag was recovered and found to contain a loaded Springfield Armory XDM .45 caliber pistol.

“These are not victimless crimes. These are dangerous individuals with violent criminal histories, caught once again with guns they are prohibited from having,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “When violent offenders have access to firearms, every encounter becomes a potential tragedy. These weapons drastically increase the chance that a situation turns deadly for victims, bystanders, and even law enforcement. Thanks to the work of the ATF and Evansville Police Department, these men are no longer in a position to threaten the safety of our neighborhoods.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Evansville Police Department investigated these cases, as well as valuable assistance provided by the Evansville-Vanderburgh Crime Gun Intelligence Center. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judges Richard L. Young and Matthew P. Brookman.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd S. Shellenbarger and Jeremy S. Kemper, who prosecuted these cases.

These cases are 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.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Two Indianapolis men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in the armed robbery of a Speedway CVS in April 2024.

John Rice, 29, has been sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

Robert Larue, 45, has been sentenced to eight years and one month in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to interference with commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, on April 13, 2024, Larue and Rice robbed a CVS pharmacy located on Cunningham Road in Speedway, Indiana. Armed with guns, the pair entered the store and passed a note to an employee that read, “Open the register and nobody has to get hurt.” They fled the scene in a blue Chevrolet Captiva, stealing an undisclosed amount of cash that, unbeknownst to them, included a GPS tracker.

The Speedway Police Department was alerted immediately and, within thirty minutes, located the suspects driving the Captiva. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the pair fled and eventually abandoned the vehicle to run on foot. After a short pursuit, officers arrested both Larue and Rice. During a search, officers located a black Ruger semiautomatic pistol in Larue’s pants pocket and a teal Taurus semiautomatic pistol in a small backpack belonging to Rice. Officers also recovered $1,576 in cash and the GPS tracker.

Larue has multiple prior felony convictions, including armed robbery in 2011, armed robbery in 2006, and auto theft in 2000. These prior felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again.

"The ATF is proud of the successful outcome of this investigation and prosecution. Removing violent, armed offenders like Rice and Larue from our streets ensures they can no longer harm innocent people. These results are made possible by the strong, collaborative relationship we share with our local law enforcement partners," said ATF Special Agent in Charge, Thomas Greco. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Speedway Police Department investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon.    

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Barloh, who prosecuted this case.

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

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INDIANAPOLIS- Two Indianapolis men have been sentenced for their roles in the distribution of fentanyl. The following cases are unrelated.

On July 31, Richard Garner III, 38, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by eight years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

According to court documents, on August 8, 2024, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department 
(IMPD) Officers initiated a traffic stop on Garner after he ran a red light at Keystone Avenue and English Avenue in Indianapolis. Garner ignored the police and fled at a high rate of speed through a neighborhood, throwing a loaded Glock .40 handgun out of the car, and eventually stopping in a traffic jam on Hoyt Avenue.

Officers searched Garner’s vehicle and located 55 fentanyl pills, powder cocaine, and over $9,000 in cash. The same day, investigators searched Garner’s home and found over 1,000 M30 fentanyl pills, powder fentanyl, powder cocaine, various pills, digital scales, pill presses, as well as a loaded Ruger handgun, an AR-15-style rifle, ammunition, a machine gun conversion device, and $11,550.00 in cash. In total, Garner was in possession of 244 grams of fentanyl and 470 grams of cocaine.

On August 5, Andres Hernandez-Alamar, 29, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.

According to court documents, on May 20, 2022, IMPD detectives were alerted to a U.S. Postal Service package containing 1,165 grams of fentanyl addressed to a residence in Indianapolis. Hernandez-Alamar was found at the residence and denied knowledge of the package. However, during a search of his phone, investigators located the parcel’s tracking number and text messages between Hernandez-Alamar and a Mexican phone number in which he ordered and discussed the drugs.

“The fentanyl epidemic continues to claim lives across our country, and those who profit from its distribution will be held accountable,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the outstanding work of our law enforcement partners, two dangerous individuals are now off the streets of Indianapolis and no longer able to threaten the safety of our community.”

“Every dose of fentanyl distributed has the potential to destroy a life and leave a family shattered. Those who traffic it are fueling a deadly epidemic with zero regard for the lives they ruin,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “These sentences represent justice for the countless victims - many of them young people - who will never have the chance to recover. The FBI stands with those families and, along with our law enforcement partners, remains unwavering in our mission to stop the flow of this deadly drug into our communities.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation and IMPD investigated these cases. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson and Chief U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Gibson and Jayson McGrath, who prosecuted these cases.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Joshua W. Stearman, 42, of Anderson, Indiana, has been sentenced to 65 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In April of 2025, a federal jury found Stearman guilty of unlawfully possessing incendiary bomb sand falsely impersonating an officer or employee of the United States.

According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on December 12, 2023, around 1:47 a.m., Ingalls Police responded to a suspicious person report near a home previously targeted by vandalism and arson. A witness saw Stearman approach the house carrying something before fleeing to a red Toyota RAV4 when security lights activated. Officers quickly located the vehicle and pulled it over. Stearman presented both his driver’s license and a fake government ID, claiming to be a Homeland Security Officer returning from a mission. He was wearing black gloves with duct tape wrapped around his wrists. Officers took him into custody and discovered four bottles filled with gasoline, each containing cloth wicks and wood pieces, along with a lighter in the car.

At trial, experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed the bottles were each incendiary bombs. A forensic chemist testified the liquid inside each bottle was gasoline, and a destructive device examiner explained their intended design was to start and spread fire upon impact. Possessing such devices is a federal crime under laws regulating destructive devices.

“This defendant not only endangered lives by bringing homemade firebombs into a residential neighborhood but also sought to evade detection by impersonating a Homeland Security officer,” said Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the swift actions of local law enforcement and the expert analysis of our federal partners, this dangerous individual was stopped before he could carry out a potentially deadly attack.”

The ATF and Ingalls (Indiana) Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by Lapel (Indiana) Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Walter, who prosecuted this case.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana will join law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities in National Night Out events in the Greater Indianapolis area and Evansville.

“National Night Out is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when communities and law enforcement come together,” said Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This marks our third year participating in events across Indianapolis, and we’re proud to expand that presence to Evansville for the first time. These events reflect our deep commitment to building trust, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the people we serve across the Southern District of Indiana.”

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.

National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.

Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.

For more information, visit https://natw.org/.

Scheduled Events:

1. Indianapolis Kickoff Ceremony and Crime Fighters of the Year Awards
2. National Night Out Community Celebrations

WHEN: Tuesday, August 5th, 5-9pm

WHERE: Greater Indianapolis Area

1. National Night Out Community Celebration

WHEN: Tuesday, August 5th, 6-8:30pm CT

WHERE: CK Newsome 

INDIANAPOLIS- Krystal Scott, 24, of Kokomo, has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to violating conditions of her previous supervised release.

In November of 2021, Scott pled guilty to Animal Crushing, a violation of the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act under Title 18, United States Code, Section 48(a). In that case, Scott, using an alias, acquired dogs and cats online on the false premise that she intended to adopt and care for them, when she actually intended to torture and kill them. After Scott acquired the animals, she posted videos online depicting her engaged in animal crushing, namely, purposely crushing, suffocating, impaling, or otherwise subjecting the animals to serious bodily injury and death. Scott was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.

In June of 2023, Scott was released from federal prison and began serving her five-year term of supervised release.

According to court documents and evidence introduced at a revocation hearing on July 29, 2025, Scott admitted under oath to violating several conditions of her supervised release, including a prohibition against non-incidental contact with animals. 

On June 20, 2025, Indianapolis Animal Care Services responded to complaints by concerned citizens that Scott was using the alias “Teal Serain” to respond to Facebook ads for reuniting lost and found pets with their owners. Using that alias, Scott responded to one such ad and acquired a dog through false pretenses. Namely, Scott falsely claimed that the missing dog belonged to her or her family, when it did not. Scott had used a similar ruse to acquire the animals she tortured, which led to her original conviction in 2021. The individuals who posted the ad became suspicious and reached out to law enforcement. 

The dog Scott acquired via the online ad was not located. Citizens also recorded the accounts of witnesses who reported discovering a deceased dog at the homeless encampment where Scott was residing. The dog had been found in a trash bag with its stomach protruding from its body cavity.

The Indianapolis Animal Care Services investigated the complaints and later discovered that Scott was residing in a U-Haul van with 12 dogs and cats, all of which were dehydrated, malnourished, and living in excessive fecal matter. The officers also noticed the smell of a decomposing animal in the van, but no deceased animals were found.

Searches of Scott’s cellular device and Facebook account showed that she was a member of at least 12 pet adoption groups online, and had been selling or attempting to sell pelts that she claimed were from exotic animals.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.

To report animal neglect or abuse in Indianapolis, residents should submit a complaint online at RequestIndy or through the Request Indy phone app. All complaints are automatically entered into a system for Animal Care Officers (ACO) to investigate. Reporting a complaint via social media, email, or phone call will result in a delayed response.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Javonte Smith, 34, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, between November 21 and December 2, 2023, Smith went on an armed robbery spree in Indianapolis, Indiana, during which he robbed six businesses- often while armed with a handgun- and stole a total of $14,797 in cash.

Following the final robbery on December 2nd, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officers followed Smith to a Motel 6 and arrested him. He was found wearing distinct shoes, black pants, and a blue dress- clothing he had been seen wearing on surveillance footage during several of the robberies. During a search of his vehicle, officers found additional disguises used in the crimes, including a black coat and black wig, medical mask, sunglasses, black gloves, a black puffer jacket, a brown coat, and a blue hooded sweatshirt. Officers also recovered a black Taurus handgun and the keys to a recently stolen GMC Terrain.

At the time of his arrest, Smith had previously been convicted of multiple felonies; including resisting law enforcement, fraud on a financial institution, robbery, and two counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. These prior felony convictions prohibit Smith from ever legally possessing a firearm.

“This defendant terrorized hard-working people just trying to do their jobs and earn a living,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the swift work of our law enforcement partners, his violent crime spree was brought to an end, and he will now face serious federal prison time. This office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of repeat offenders who use firearms to commit violence in our communities.”

“This sentence reflects the serious consequences awaiting those who choose violence and intimidation to commit their crimes. His action put lives at risk and threatened the safety of our community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable and get them - and the illegal weapons they carry - off our streets.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Walter, who prosecuted this case. SAUSA Walter is prosecuting violent crime cases as a part of the partnership with the City of Indianapolis to identify, investigate, and federally prosecute violent crimes taking place in Marion County.

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.

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INDIANAPOLIS- Cory Todd Cox, 38, of Noblesville, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to two counts of receipt and distribution of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, on November 28, 2023, Cox sent and received multiple images of child sexual abuse material via text message. The images contained graphic depictions of prepubescent minors.

On December 6, 2023, Noblesville Police Officers executed search warrants for Cox’s residence. During the search, officers recovered three cellular devices he used to transmit, view, and store child sexual abuse material. Cox further admitted he possessed a Dropbox account, which is a cloud-based storage website, that contained approximately 5 videos and 31 images of child sexual abuse material.

At the time of this arrest, Cox was on probation for a 2017 offense and was a registered sex offender. He had been previously convicted of multiple sexual abuse crimes, including sexual misconduct with a minor in 2007, sexual battery in 2008, and child solicitation in 2017, in which he was caught soliciting sex from a thirteen-year-old via Facebook Messenger.

“The U.S. Secret Service is dedicated to protecting children from sexual predators and will vigorously pursue repeat offenders. This defendant’s lengthy criminal history and propensity to reoffend is beyond disturbing,” said Special Agent in Charge Ike Barnes, of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “I commend the work of the Noblesville Police Department, our partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for bringing this man to justice.”

The U.S. Secret Service and Noblesville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn Haney and MaryAnn T. Mindrum, who prosecuted this case. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood.

INDIANAPOLIS- Demarcus McCloud, 46, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to eight years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to two counts of malicious damage to property receiving federal funds and one count of malicious damage to federal property. McCloud has also been ordered to pay $1,790,685.23 in restitution.

According to court documents, on April 24, 2024, around 7 am, Indianapolis Fire Department and IMPD officers responded to a report of a fire at the IndyGo bus stop at 38th and North Meridian Streets. When first responders arrived, the inside of the bus and front half of the exterior were completely engulfed in flames.

Bus cameras captured McCloud boarding Bus #1993 at the Julia Carson Transit Center with a jug of liquid and two butane lighters. The bus was actively operating and transporting passengers along the Red Line at the time. After boarding, he sat in the back, lit a cigarette while hiding under a blanket, discarded it on the floor, then lit and extinguished a piece of paper before relocating to another seat. As the bus neared Meridian and 38th Streets, he poured liquid down the center aisle, left the jug on its side, and began to exit the bus as the liquid continued to flow out. As he approached the bus door, he lit another piece of paper and threw it on the floor. The puddle ignited immediately, and McCloud ran from the bus.

IMPD officers located McCloud in a nearby McDonald’s parking lot holding two butane lighters in his hand.

During this incident, a passenger who had been on the bus exited to help direct traffic. While assisting, the wind direction suddenly changed, causing a large plume of smoke to envelope the victim. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.

During the investigation, officers learned that four days earlier, on April 20, 2024, McCloud walked onto the IndyGo Red Line Virginia Avenue and New Jersey Street bus depot and set a fire inside the trash can. He watched it burn for nearly a minute before walking away. The fire grew inside of the trash can until IFD arrived.

IndyGo operates their public transportation buses under the Federal Transit Administration. The bus depot and trash can were funded in part by federal financial assistance, specifically federal grant monies. The bus was destroyed by the fire and the depot was damaged, causing approximately $1,790,685 in damages.

McCloud has a 25-year history of violent crime, including multiple felony convictions for crimes including battery causing serious injury, firearm possession by a violent felon, burglary, attempted auto theft, drug offenses, trespassing offenses, and intimidation. He has threatened to kill police and their families, assaulted officers, attacked a woman with a broken pavement piece after she refused him money at a stop light, threatened to rob, rape, and murder another woman, and even violently assaulted his own mother.

“As the lead investigative agency in this tragic arson incident, the ATF was proud to work alongside our state and local partners to bring justice to the victims and the community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge John Smerglia. “This successful collaboration ensured that McCloud was held accountable and received the sentence his actions warranted.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted this case.

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SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF INDIANA- Three convicted felons have been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry and other criminal offenses in the Southern District of Indiana:

*The following investigations were unrelated, and each defendant represents a different, individual case.

On February 3, 2025, at approximately 12:50 in the morning, Evansville Police Officers responded to reports of shots fired near Sunset Skate Park. Officers observed five males dressed in all black and wearing ski masks exiting and entering a minivan in the parking lot past closing time. As officers initiated a vehicle stop, one male fled on foot while Gerson Cisneros, the driver, remained in the vehicle with a loaded semi-automatic 9mm pistol hidden beneath his seat. The pistol contained 18 rounds in an extended magazine.

At the time of arrest, Cisneros had an active warrant out of Posey County, Indiana for reckless driving and had never possessed a valid driver’s license. Further, Cisneros is an illegal alien and was unlawfully present in the United States. Persons unlawfully in the United States may not possess firearms under federal law.

Josue Miguel Perez-Perez was removed to Mexico from Wisconsin in 2007 and prohibited from reentering the United States after sustaining a felony conviction for second-degree assault of a child. He was located on February 10, 2025, in Clark County, Indiana, after being arrested and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and intimidation.

Valencia-Ambrosio was removed to Mexico from Texas and prohibited from reentering the United States after sustaining a conviction for conspiracy with intent to distribute cocaine. Valencia-Ambrosio has been convicted of additional crimes while in the United States, including two counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and conversion. He was located on January 4, 2025, in Madison County, Indiana after being arrested and charged with domestic battery and intimidation. 

At the time the defendants entered their guilty pleas, they acknowledged that upon completion of their sentence, they will be subject to removal from the United States.

“Criminal aliens that habitually cross into our country illegally and endanger our communities must face consequences,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will continue to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to enforce our Nation’s immigration laws and hold these repeat offenders fully accountable for their actions.”

“These three violent criminal aliens – each with prior offenses – posed a serious threat to public safety and our neighborhoods,” said Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to protect the interests of our great nation.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Immigration Customs and Enforcement and Evansville Police Department investigated these cases. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judges Tanya Walton Pratt and Matthew P. Brookman.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd S. Shellenbarger, Adam Eakman, and Carolyn Haney, who prosecuted these cases. 

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)

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NEW ALBANY- A federal jury has found Juan D. Perez-Gonzalez, 51, of Florida, guilty of conspiracy, possession of goods stolen from interstate commerce, and interstate transportation of stolen property for his role in a year-long conspiracy to steal millions of dollars in high-end electronics and other products from shipping facilities and cargo trucks in southern Indiana and other states.

Five co-conspirators in this case have entered guilty pleas for their roles in the operation and will be sentenced at later dates:

According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, between December 2021 and May 2023, Perez-Gonzalez and his co-conspirators conspired to steal tractor-trailers containing commercially available, high-end electronics and other items, which they later resold at a discount for profit.

The co-conspirators traveled from various locations, including Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio to target various distribution facilities used by national companies such as Meta, Microsoft, and L Brands. The group surveilled these facilities and followed semi-tractor trailers as they departed. When a driver stopped to rest, refuel, or park, the conspirators stole the entire tractor-trailer. 

In many instances, the group abandoned the stolen tractor nearby and reattached the trailer to a different semi-tractor they operated. To evade law enforcement, they painted over logos and identifying numbers and use different license plates on the solen trailers.

They transported the stolen cargo to Miami, Florida, where it was sold to buyers, including co-defendant Richard Alameda, for a fraction of its retail value. The group carried out at least 14 separate cargo thefts, resulting in the theft of over $2 million in Oculus virtual reality headsets from a Meta facility, $940,000 in Microsoft products, $1 million in Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret merchandise, $669,000 in Harmon-JBL audio products, $180,000 in Logitech products, and $480,000 worth of Bose audio speakers, among other stolen items.

This is Perez-Gonzalez’s third federal conviction for cargo theft. First, in 2009, he stole two semi-trailers loaded with $500,000 worth of liquor from a distribution facility in Jeffersonville, Indiana.  He was convicted in the Western District of Kentucky and sentenced to 23 months in prison. Then, in 2014, while on supervised release for the 2009 offense, Perez-Gonzalez again engaged in a scheme to steal cargo from tractor-trailers, using nearly identical methods as the most recent offense. He was convicted in the Southern District of Indiana and sentenced to 105 months in prison. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indiana State Police, and Kentucky State Police investigated this case. U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial and will sentence Perez-Gonzalez at a later date.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Rinka and Matthew Barloh, who prosecuted this case.

This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Indiana Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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INDIANAPOLIS- Reina Isom, 47, of Gainesville, Florida, has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to wire fraud and two counts of Federal financial aid fraud. Isom has also been ordered to pay $348,148 in restitution.

According to court documents, for nearly a decade, Isom devised and carried out an elaborate scheme to defraud the Department of Education out of nearly one million dollars in federal financial aid. At the time of these offenses, Isom was living in Muncie, Indiana.

To carry out her scheme, Isom first enrolled accomplices in low-cost, online colleges using their dates of birth, social security numbers, and other personal information. Isom then submitted Free Application for Federal Student Aid (“FAFSA”) forms online to apply for loans and grants for the “student.” In completing and submitting these forms, Isom lied by leaving blank portions requesting information about the student’s income, their spouse’s income, and their parents’ income. Her purpose in providing false financial information was to increase the amount of financial aid awarded by the Office of Federal Student Aid (“FSA).

To profit from these efforts, she directed that the excess financial aid be refunded to bank accounts or reloadable debit cards controlled by her or others with whom she conspired.

To ensure the financial aid kept flowing, Isom did far more than submit fraudulent forms. She also ensured that these “students” stayed enrolled by completing coursework, including writing papers and recording video speeches. To pull this off, Isom submitted assignments that had been copied and pasted from other purported students who had taken the courses in previous terms. Most of the time, this meant merely submitting the same assignment repeatedly, only changing the name of the student.

In total, Isom submitted more than 50 fraudulent FAFSA applications for more than a dozen different individuals, causing over $930,000 in federal financial aid to be fraudulently dispersed. Of these funds, more than $340,000 were deposited into her personal bank accounts or loaded onto debit cards she controlled.

Isom has been convicted of fraud on two prior occasions. In 2004, Isom paid an individual $3,000 to start a fire in an apartment she had recently insured against fire damage. She was convicted of arson with intent to defraud. In 2011, Isom was found guilty of fraud for enrolling fake students in the University of Phoenix online school and completing fraudulent FAFSA forms, as well as applying for credit cards using stolen identities. 

“Federal financial aid programs play a critical role in opening the doors to higher education for individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “When someone abuses these programs, they don’t just break the law—they potentially steal a life-changing opportunity from a first-generation student or someone from an underserved community. We will not hesitate to pursue and prosecute those who shamelessly exploit public resources for personal profit.”

“I’m proud of the work of OIG special agents and our law enforcement colleagues for shutting down yet another student aid fraud ring and holding Ms. Isom accountable for her criminal actions,” said Scott Wingle, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Central Regional Office. “The Office of Inspector General is committed to stopping student aid fraud rings, and we will continue to aggressively pursue anyone who participates in them.”

The Department of Education-Office of Inspector General investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson.   

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Eakman and Meredith Wood, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS- The following 22 individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in an extensive methamphetamine and money laundering conspiracy responsible for trafficking hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine. The 23rd defendant, Edeer Avila, remains a fugitive. 

Edeer Avila, 34

Mexico

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

25 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

24 years, 4 months’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances

Illegal Alien Found in the United States

27 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Abel Ayala-Garcia, 34

Columbus, IN

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

24.5 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Juliann Magallanez, 36

Terre Haute, IN

Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine

Unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime

15 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

John Whiffing, 50

Terre Haute, IN

14 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Victor Vazquez-Hernandez, 42

Seymour, IN

10 years, 7 months’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Eduardo Rodriguez, 29

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

14 years, 8 months’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

11 years, 3 months’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Julio Vicente-Guox, 36

Indianapolis, IN

11 years, 3 months’ imprisonment

2 years of supervised release

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

9 years’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Jendry Medina, 23

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

9 years, 2 months of imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Abner Rodas-Abelardez, 39

Indianapolis, IN

5 years, 10 months’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Kenia Acosta, 41

Indianapolis, IN

9 years’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Jeami Waleska Sevilla Luna, 30

Indianapolis, IN

8 years, 10 months’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Dillon Smith, 34

Terre Haute, IN

17 years, 6 months’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Allison Perdue, 27

Seymour, IN

Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine

9 years’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Eulalia Murillo-Resura, 34

Indianapolis, IN

7 years, 3 months’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Nathan Lee, 31

Columbus, IN

10 years’ imprisonment

5 years of supervised release

Emilio Landa-Lagunes, 27

Seymour, IN

6 years’ imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

Claudio Garcia-Morales, 38

Columbus, IN

3 years, 10 months’ imprisonment

2 years of supervised release

Candy Medina-Corcoles, 27

California

4 years, 8 months’ imprisonment

2 years of supervised release

According to court documents, Isaias Gonzalez-Torres was the primary Indianapolis ringleader of a drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl into Indianapolis and surrounding areas, including Seymour, Columbus, and Terre Haute. The investigation resulted in the seizure of 82 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,750 fentanyl pills, a kilogram of cocaine, and nine firearms. The conspiracy would operate as follows:

Isaias Gonzalez-Torres and Erlin Lucero-Asencio worked in unison to coordinate large shipments of methamphetamine and other illegal narcotics from Edeer Avila in Mexico, Martin Felix-Garcia in Arizona, and others. The Indianapolis-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) utilized an elaborate system of drug couriers and clandestine mail parcels to transport the methamphetamine and other drugs across the country for redistribution in rural communities throughout the Southern District of Indiana. Once the shipments of methamphetamine arrived in Indianapolis, the DTO utilized multiple stash houses to break down and store the drugs for further distribution.

The DTO employed multiple drug couriers, including Luis Daniel Hernandez, Andrew Calix-Maldonado, Julio Vicente-Guox, and Eduardo Rodriguez, to deliver the methamphetamine to local distributors in Seymour, Columbus, and Terre Haute. These local distributors then broke down the narcotics for further redistribution in their respective communities.

Additionally, between October 2021 and March 2022 the defendants and other conspirators engaged in money laundering by depositing approximately $3,586,092 in United States currency into Candy Medina-Corcoles’ Bank of America account. Deposits occurred in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. From there, a conspirator would remove the funds from the account and transfer those drug proceeds to bank accounts based in Mexico.

Between January 2020 and April 2022, the defendants also engaged in money laundering by sending at least 324 wire transfers totaling $291,116.08 from Indiana to Phoenix, Arizona and Mexico utilizing nominees to conceal their involvement in the wire transfers.

“This case exemplifies the mission of Operation Take Back America- to dismantle transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the devastating effects of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cartel-driven crime,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the dedication of our law enforcement partners and AUSA, we have severed a key pipeline of deadly drugs and illicit funds flowing into Indiana.”

“This case was a success thanks to the partnership between the Department of Justice, the DEA, and local law enforcement Task Force Officers,” said Greg O’Brien, Chief of the Seymour Police Department. “Without these TFOs, small rural towns wouldn’t have the resources to carry out operations like this. We value and appreciate our ongoing collaboration with the Department of Justice.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Seymour Police Department, and Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (JNET) investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II.  

U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Gibson, who prosecuted this case.

This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Indiana Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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INDIANAPOLIS- This week, Thomas (Tom) E. Wheeler II was sworn-in as Interim United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana by United States District Court Judge James R. Sweeney. U.S. Attorney Wheeler was appointed by United States Attorney General Pam Bondi as Interim U.S. Attorney, effective July 14th.  

President Donald J. Trump has nominated the former Department of Education Acting General Counsel to serve as the Interim U.S. Attorney pending confirmation by the United States Senate.

A Pike High School graduate, U.S. Attorney (USA) Wheeler earned his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Bloomington and his Juris Doctor from IU’s Maurer School of Law. Throughout his 36-year career as a practicing attorney, Mr. Wheeler has been a partner at several Indianapolis-based law firms including Bose McKinney & Evans LLP and Frost Brown Todd (formerly Locke Reynolds).

Most recently, USA Wheeler served as the Acting General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Education. This appointment marks a return to the Department of Justice, where he previously held the role of Acting Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, overseeing a broad portfolio of divisions, including Appellate, Criminal, Disability Rights, Education, Immigrant and Employee Rights, Housing, Voting, and others.

His federal service also includes Senior Adviser to the White House Federal Commission on School Safety, formed in response to high-profile school shootings, and serving as Senior Counsel to the Secretary of Education during the COVID-19 pandemic. In that role, he worked with the Center for Disease Control and the White House Coronavirus Task Force.

In 2019, USA Wheeler served as General Counsel for the National Sheriffs’ Association, providing legal counsel to over 3,300 elected sheriffs nationwide. He has served on numerous boards and commissions, including as Chair of the Hate Crimes Subcommittee for the Federal Violent Crime Reduction Task Force, a member of the DOJ’s Regulatory Reform Task Force, and as a consultant to the CDC on the Federal COVID-19 response for jails and prisons.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler is a former Chair of both the Indiana Recount and Election Commissions and played a key role in the creation of Indiana’s voter ID law, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in Crawford v. Marion County Election Board (2008).

He is a two-time recipient of the Indiana State Bar Association’s Benjamin Harrison Writing Award and a Burton Award for Legal Achievement winner for his work on cyberbullying and hate crimes. He has been recognized for many years in The Best Lawyers in America® and Indiana Super Lawyers® and was named Municipal Lawyer of the Year in 2016.

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EVANSVILLE- Michael Jerome Wright, 45, and Cortney Lashea Young, 36, of Princeton, Indiana, have been sentenced to 12 and 2 years in federal prison, respectively, for their roles in a mail theft scheme.

Wright pleaded guilty to mail theft, unlawful possession of a mail key, access device fraud, aggravated identity theft, possession of ammunition by a felon, and possession of a machinegun. Young pleaded guilty to mail theft and possession of a firearm by a felon. Both will serve three years of supervised release following their prison sentence.

According to court documents, in 2023, law enforcement officials began receiving numerous complaints about mail theft and check forgery.

In March and April of 2024, Evansville Police Department officers surveilled local United States Postal Service (USPS) collection boxes. On six different occasions, investigators saw Wright open collection boxes with an arrow key around 4:30 in the morning, sort through the mail, then drive off with stolen mail. On at least two of those occasions, investigators saw Young behind the wheel of the getaway car.

The USPS uses a unique type of lock known as an “arrow lock” to secure collection boxes, lockers, and apartment mailbox panels. These locks can only be opened with an arrow key. It is a crime for anyone not authorized by the Postal Service to knowingly have or use arrow keys.

On April 3, 2023, law enforcement officers stopped the pair just as they drove away from another mail theft. Officers searched the vehicle and uncovered an arrow key and stolen mail on the passenger floorboard.

Investigators conducted a court-authorized search of Wright and Young’s apartment in Princeton and located hundreds of checks and their corresponding envelopes, many of which had been previously reported as stolen.  The stolen checks had a total face value of $1,857,460.91.

Investigators also found two handguns under the mattress in Wright and Young’s bedroom. On Wright’s side of the bed was a partially 3D printed, privately made firearm with no serial number. This type of weapon is commonly referred to as a “ghost gun” because it has no records related to its manufacture or sale. Investigators also recovered two, 30-round extended magazines. The ghost gun had a machinegun conversion device, also called a “Glock switch,” installed, allowing it to fire as a fully automatic weapon. Glock switches are themselves considered machine guns under federal law, whether they are installed in a firearm or not. On Young’s side of the bed was a Ruger pistol.

Wright has sustained multiple felony convictions including murder, dealing in a synthetic drug, operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Young has sustained a felony conviction for fraud. These prior felony convictions prohibit Wright and Young from ever legally possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Also in the bedroom of the apartment, law enforcement found two backpacks. In Wright’s backpack, investigators found 30 debit and credit cards bearing the names of other individuals, as well as a piece of notebook paper that had the names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers for three other individuals written on it.

“Americans rely on the U.S. Postal Service to securely deliver everything from birthday cards to critical financial documents,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This couple exploited that trust through a widespread mail theft and identity fraud scheme that caused two million dollars in losses, while arming themselves with very dangerous illegal weapons. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who target the public and abuse systems we all depend on.”

“This case highlights the distinguished partnership between the Indianapolis Field Office, the Evansville Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The United States Secret Service has a duty to safeguard the nation’s financial infrastructure, but we protect far more than just the economic interest of the communities we serve,” said Special Agent in Charge of the Indianapolis Field Office, Ike Barnes. “This case is a prime example of how those who look to victimize our communities will do so in numerous ways. Michael Wright and Cortney Young not only exploited our community of roughly $1.8 million in illicit funds but also brought dangerous weapons into our neighborhoods to carry out their depraved scheme.”   

“Protecting the U.S. mail and its customers is at the core of our mission as postal inspectors,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Sean McStravick of USPIS - Detroit Division.  “Thanks to incredible collaborative efforts with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we were able to do just that by putting these individuals behind bars. This sentencing should be considered a warning to anyone else looking to prey on the Postal Service or its customers – we will bring you to justice.”

The U.S. Secret Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman.  

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew B. Miller and Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS— The following seven individuals have been sentenced for their roles in a firearms theft and trafficking conspiracy:

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

2.5 years imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

1.5 years imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
• Possession of Stolen Firearms

4.5 years imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
• Possession or Sale of Stolen Firearms

3.5 years imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms

1.5 years imprisonment

1 year of supervised release

• Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

9 years imprisonment

3 years of supervised release

According to court documents, Bruce Williams and Ryan Hurt—then employees at an Indianapolis shipping facility—masterminded a scheme to steal firearms and sell them for profit, utilizing accomplices Malyk Mendez and convicted felon Antonio Grant, among others.  Firearms were ultimately sold to individuals including Kevin Jones, Jr., and convicted felons Dominique Ellison and Zackary Doss.  Jones and Doss, in turn, then sold the firearms to numerous other individuals.

Between January and March 2022, the group made off with 240 firearms from four separate shipments headed for different states. The conspiracy began to unravel when ATF agents noticed a disturbing pattern: firearms sent through the Indianapolis terminal were missing key inventory.

A breakdown of stolen firearms, varying in make and models, is as follows:

• 9 mm semi-automatic handguns (174)
• .38 caliber revolvers (13)
• .22 caliber revolvers (2)
• .45 caliber semi-automatic handguns (38)
• semi-automatic rifles (5)
• 10mm semi-automatic handguns (8)

Williams and Hurt kept some firearms from the thefts for themselves but recruited others, including codefendants, to assist in locating buyers for the stolen guns. Williams also personally sold a substantial number of the stolen firearms.

Of the 240 firearms that were stolen, only 61 firearms have been recovered as of May 5, 2025; over three years since the thefts occurred. Five of those firearms were recovered from Williams and Hurt upon their arrests.

The other firearms recovered have been found in a wide array of criminal activity and locations; Indianapolis, Lafayette, Gary, Chicago, Florida, and Oklahoma, to name a few. The criminal activity has included felons possessing firearms, drug trafficking, domestic violence incidents, vehicle pursuits, shootings, carjackings, and homicides.

“Stolen firearms are a major source of crime guns for violent offenders and pose a serious threat to public safety,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we’re committed to stopping gun traffickers, recovering stolen weapons, and keeping them out of the hands of dangerous individuals.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Pamela S. Domash and Bradley P. Shepard, who prosecuted this case.

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

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EVANSVILLE— Two men have been sentenced to a combined 16 years in federal prison for their roles in a drug trafficking operation responsible for pumping thousands of counterfeit fentanyl pills from Arizona into Evansville.

Deriontai Mathis, 31, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.

Ernest Gilbert, 38, of Arizona, was sentenced in July of 2024 to five years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

According to court documents, between September and November of 2022, Mathis and Gilbert conspired together to buy and sell thousands of fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills. Gilbert, who resided in Arizona, would obtain the pills, ship or otherwise transport them to Indiana, and then fly to Indiana and drive the pills to Mathis in Evansville.

On November 10, 2022, during a search of Mathis’s residence, investigators recovered nine plastic bags containing ten thousand counterfeit M-30 fentanyl pills hidden inside of a child’s toy car, a camouflaged backpack that contained $56,800.00 in cash, a body armor vest and nine firearms. During a search of another residence Mathis used to store his contraband, officers recovered three additional handguns and a 12-gauge shotgun.

In 2015, Mathis was convicted for being a drug abuser in possession of a firearm, thereby prohibiting from ever legally possessing a firearm again.

This investigation also led to the discovery that Jeremial Leach was a customer of Mathis, purchasing counterfeit fentanyl pills for $10 per pill. In May of 2024, Leach was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for dealing fentanyl resulting in at least three overdoses and a teen’s death. See: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/pr/evansville-snapchat-fentanyl-dealer-responsible-least-three-overdoses-and-teens-death

“The sentences imposed here should serve as a warning: these poisons kill—and selling them will earn you decades in federal prison,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office remains committed to working hand in hand with our state, local and federal partners in order to keep our communities safe, hold drug traffickers accountable, and stop the flow of deadly substances into our neighborhoods.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force and Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS— Stacy Lamont Griffin, 33, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

According to court documents, between September 22, 2023, and April 18, 2024, Griffin sold a total of 298 grams of fentanyl to individuals on at least six different occasions.

Specifically of concern, the fentanyl sold on September 22, 2023, contained xylazine. Xylazine is a veterinary tranquilizer that is added to other drugs and reduces heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It is especially dangerous because its effects are not reversed by overdose reversal medications such as Narcan.

Griffin was selling fentanyl while serving a probation and community corrections sentence for a felony domestic battery conviction. Griffin has amassed a lengthy criminal history, with prior convictions for attempted robbery and domestic battery, in which he strangled and punched a pregnant woman.

The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Gibson, who prosecuted this case.

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EVANSVILLE— James Charleston Jr., 36, of Evansville, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.  

According to court documents, on August 3, 2024, Evansville Police Department officers were dispatched to Garvin Street in Evansville, on reports of a distressed man waiving a silver gun in the air and pointing it at people. The man was also shouting and cussing.  

Upon arrival, officers found the man, James Charleston, and ordered him to get on the ground. Charleston refused to comply and told the officers to shoot him multiple times, adding, “I’m willing to die right now!” He also said, “You better get me before I get you.”

Charleston was eventually detained and placed in handcuffs. During a search of his person, officers located a silver 9mm pistol in his waistband, loaded with nine rounds.   

At the time of this arrest, Charleston had been previously convicted of multiple felony offenses, including two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, carrying a handgun without a license, domestic battery, strangulation, aggravated robbery, two counts of identity theft, two counts of theft, and failure to return to lawful detention. These prior felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again.

“Illegally armed, repeat violent criminals are responsible for a disproportionate share of the gun violence suffered in Evansville and all our communities. These offenses will not be tolerated,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Let it be clear that if you choose to illegally carry a firearm, you risk serving a serious sentence in federal prison.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

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TERRE HAUTE— Otha Don Watkins III, 43, of Cairo, Illinois has been sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter and possessing contraband in prison.

According to court documents, in April of 2023, Otha Watkins was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, serving a 23-year sentence for aiding and abetting armed bank robbery, possession of a stolen firearm, and conspiracy to commit robbery. While in prison, Watkins obtained a piece of metal, sharpened to a point on one end and wrapped with white cloth on the other. This object, commonly known as a “prison shank” is classified as prohibited because it is a weapon or designed or intended to be used as a weapon.

On April 14, 2023, Watkins was assigned to Unit D-2 of the USP. Inmate Carlos Shelton (“Shelton”) was assigned to the same unit. That day, Watkins and Shelton met on a tier in the unit and began fighting, both armed with improvised shanks. During the course of the fight, Watkins fatally stabbed Shelton in the chest, damaging arteries associated with the heart and lungs. The stab wound led to a massive hemothorax. Shelton died on April 14, 2023.

“Given Otha Watkins’ history of violent offenses, culminating in the brutal attack he carried out in the Terre Haute prison, it’s evident that he should never be allowed to live outside federal custody again,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the FBI and our federal prosecutor for their tireless efforts to ensure this defendant faces justice. I hope that the conclusion of this case provides some sense of closure and peace to Mr. Shelton’s family.”

"Today's sentencing marks the conclusion of a senseless act of violence that took place within the walls of our correctional institution,” said a Bureau of Prisons Spokesperson. “Otha Watkins demonstrated an utter disregard for human life and the rule of law. The court's decision affirms that such actions carry severe consequences, and it sends a clear and resounding message: acts of violence in federal prison will be met with the full weight of the law."

“This brutal killing is a reminder that violence can occur anywhere, even within the confines of the most secure environments,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our partners are committed to protecting all individuals, regardless of their incarceration status, and we will continue to work to ensure those who commit violent acts while incarcerated, are held fully accountable.”

The FBI and Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Jayson W. McGrath, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS— Q’Tez Laquan Ginn, 19, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 61 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a machine gun.

Machine gun conversion devices, sometimes called “Glock switches” or “auto-sears,” are devices that convert ordinary semiautomatic firearms into fully automatic machine guns. Machine gun conversion devices are themselves considered machine guns under federal law, even when not installed, and are illegal for individuals to possess or sell.

According to court documents, in August of 2024, Ginn was seen carrying an AR style pistol in a parking lot where suspected narcotics trafficking was taking place.  Later that day, IMPD officers found Ginn in a vehicle with marijuana and a pistol. Ginn was charged with felony dealing marijuana and taken into custody. At the time of this arrest, Ginn was out on bond for a felony Resisting Law Enforcement charge in Marion County.

While in custody, Ginn made phone calls to family members, directing them to move and store his firearms and controlled substances at a home known to the family. Ginn continued to exert control over the items while he was incarcerated.

In September of 2024, law enforcement officers conducted a judicially authorized search at the home and located a black duffel bag that contained a Glock handgun, two AR-style pistols, and multiple magazines, including two loaded high-capacity drum-style magazines.  The Glock handgun and one of the AR-style pistols were found with machine gun conversion devices installed on them.

“Machine gun conversion devices only exacerbate the already dire situation of individuals using firearms for violent purposes. In a city already overwhelmed by gun violence, these devices contribute to further instability for community members and law enforcement,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the IMPD and ATF for their steadfast dedication to addressing gun violence in our community."

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela Domash, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS— Darren Ringenberg, 30, of Louisville, Kentucky, a registered sex offender, was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison, followed by ten years of supervised release, after being convicted of two counts of sexual exploitation of a child while required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, in 2019, Ringenberg was previously convicted in Kentucky of twenty counts of Possession of Matter Portraying a Sexual Performance by a Minor and was required to register as a sex offender for life.

Then, after his release from the Kentucky offense, in June 2023, Ringenberg, using the Snapchat username “devil_hell6969,” communicated with a nine-year old girl living in Monroe County, Indiana and coerced her to send sexually explicit images and videos, threatening to hack into her social media accounts and remove all her friends if she did not comply. Ringenberg directed her as to what images to send, how to take the photos and told her that they could meet in person in the future. He also falsely claimed to be sixteen years old and would screen-record and save many of the images and conversations without the child’s knowledge.

After receiving a tip about his illicit behavior online, law enforcement conducted judicially authorized searches of both Ringenberg’s Snapchat account and his residence in Louisville. Investigators found text messages, many of which were sexual in nature, between Ringenberg and various other unidentified minors, including the nine-year-old girl. Also located on his cell phone camera roll were many Snapchat screen recordings of minor victims engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

“Sex offenders often use manipulation and threats to sexually exploit children with utter disregard for the lasting trauma they inflict. I urge parents and guardians to talk to the children in their lives about what they’re doing online and make sure they have trusted adults they can turn to for help,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the FBI and the Bloomington Police Department for their work to seek justice for this victim and protect other children from this online predator.”

“This case is a tragic reminder that with today’s technology, predators can reach across state lines with a few clicks. While the distance didn’t help protect this child from harm, it did not stop the offender from being brought to justice,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting children and holding offenders accountable – no matter where they are.”

The FBI and Bloomington Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney MaryAnn T. Mindrum, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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EVANSVILLE— Javier Moreno-Garibaldi, 38, of Mexico has been sentenced to five and a half years in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distribution of over 400 grams of fentanyl.

According to court documents, in May of 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in Mexicali, Mexico, trafficking large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine through California. During the investigation, law enforcement officers intercepted thousands of fentanyl pills shipped or transported by the drug traffickers into Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky.

As part of the investigation, undercover law enforcement officers arranged to purchase 60,000 fentanyl pills from an unknown supplier based in Mexicali, Mexico. The source of supply sent a series of text messages discussing the arrival of the courier at an Evansville hotel, how to handle the money and counting of pills, and requiring $120,000 and a $2,500 delivery fee.

On September 4, 2023, Javier Moreno-Garibaldi arrived at a Holiday Inn in Evansville, Indiana, driving a Honda SUV with California plates. The undercover officer met with Moreno-Garibaldi and agreed to go to a safehouse to count the pills and the $120,000 owed for the drugs. Moreno-Garibaldi put a dog kennel box full of pills into the undercover officer’s car and was arrested without incident. A search of the box revealed five separate bags containing a large amount of counterfeit “M-30” pills containing fentanyl. The field weight of the seized pills was 15.7 pounds (7.064 kilograms), or approximately 70,000 pills.

At the time of his arrest, Moreno-Garibaldi was in the United States unlawfully.

“Every overdose, addiction, and life lost to fentanyl is a tragedy that devastates our families, friends, and communities,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These dangerous drugs are pouring into our neighborhoods in staggering amounts, driven by Mexican cartels and enabled by traffickers and dealers across the country. Our office remains committed to working alongside the DEA, Evansville Police Department, Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, and Owensboro Police Department to aggressively investigate and prosecute those involved in these deadly networks.”

“Without a doubt, lives were saved by this seizure of 70,000 fentanyl-laced M30 pills.  Every day we see the destruction and death caused by this illicit drug.  DEA is committed to targeting and destroying drug trafficking organizations who continue to attack our communities and distribute fentanyl in our streets,” said Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Daniel J. Schmidt.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Evansville Police Department, Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, and Owensboro Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren M. Wheatley, who prosecuted this case. 

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.

One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.

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INDIANAPOLIS- John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney, announced a federal indictment charging 21 individuals from Indianapolis to Phoenix, Arizona for their alleged roles in an Indianapolis-based drug trafficking organization led by Eric Robinson.

On Friday, June 13, 2025, a multiple-agency operation consisting of 19 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies served search and arrest warrants at 21 locations in Indianapolis and Phoenix, Arizona, ultimately leading to the arrest of 19 individuals. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized approximately 56 firearms, $12,000 in currency, 75 pounds of methamphetamine, eight kilograms of cocaine, two pounds of fentanyl, 100 suspected fentanyl pills, one-half pound of heroin, 2 ounces of crack cocaine, and one-half pound of hallucinogenic mushrooms.

The following individuals were apprehended and charged on Friday:

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

According to the indictment, Eric Robinson was the alleged leader of a drug trafficking organization that operated in Indianapolis.  Robinson received methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, and Xanax from primary sources of supply in Texas and Arizona and alternative sources of supply in Indianapolis.  Robinson then delivered the controlled substances to numerous other individuals in the Indianapolis area for redistribution.

The following investigative agencies collaborated to make this investigation and recent warrant execution possible:

• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Internal Revenue Service
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Drug Task Force
• Hamilton Boone Drug Task Force
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
• Department of Homeland Security
• U.S. Marshal Service
• Indiana State Police
• Beech Grove Police
• Lawrence Police
• Brownsburg Police
• Fishers Police
• Carmel Police
• Greenfield Police
• Plainfield Police
• Whitestown Police
• Zionsville Police
• Morgan County Sheriff’s Office

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley A. Blackington and Matt Barloh, who are prosecuting this case.

This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This operation is part of the Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program.

An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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INDIANAPOLIS— Manuel Vasquez-Mongia (a/k/a Manuel Vasquez-Mungia), 32, of Mexico, has been sentenced to 13 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien.  

According to court documents, between 2011 and 2015, Vasquez-Mongia was found to be illegally in the United States on seven separate occasions. Each time, he was ordered removed to Mexico by an immigration judge and prohibited from entering the United States for a period of five to twenty years.

On October 15, 2015, after illegally reentering the United States a seventh time, Vasquez-Mongia was found guilty of Transportation of Illegal Aliens and sentenced to six months in federal prison. Following release, he was again deported to Mexico and prohibited from entering the United States at any time.

Nearly a decade later, on September 11, 2024, Vasquez-Mongia was located and arrested in Indianapolis after entering the country illegally for the eighth time. This is his fifth federal conviction for immigration offenses.

“Vasquez-Mongia has repeatedly shown blatant disregard for the law,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Despite multiple deportations and warnings not to return, he reentered almost immediately—even bringing others with him. He clearly thought he could evade justice, but today’s sentence proves otherwise. We will continue working with ICE and our partners to locate and remove individuals who illegally enter our country.”

Immigration Customs and Enforcement and U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Wood prosecuted this case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.  Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)

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INDIANAPOLIS— Kyle Vincent Rogers, 32, of Whitestown, Indiana, has been sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distribution of child sexual abuse material. Rogers has also been ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution.

According to court documents, between March 2023 and October 2023, Rogers knowingly distributed and received child sexual abuse material using uTorrent, a peer-to-peer file-sharing software that he had downloaded to his laptop.

On November 9, 2023, investigators located at least 600 images and videos of child sexual abuse on Rogers’ laptop. The images involved sadistic or masochistic conduct and sexual abuse of prepubescent minors, including toddlers and infants. Rogers’ collection included not only images of children being sexually abused, but graphic videos of very young children forced to engage in sex acts with adults, including intercourse, bondage and bestiality.

“The children in these images and videos will be revictimized for years to come because the defendant possessed and recirculated the material, allowing an unknown number of additional predators to gain unrestricted access,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office is committed to leveraging law enforcement partnerships and tools to secure justice for the most vulnerable. Today’s sentence should send a clear message that there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

“This sentence sends a clear message that those who trade in the exploitation of children will face serious consequences. Behind every image and video is a real child who has endured unimaginable harm that will haunt them the rest of their lives,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “The FBI will continue to relentlessly work to identify and track down those who commit such heinous crimes and ensure they can never victimize another innocent child.”

The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon. Rogers must also register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn Haney and Meredith Wood, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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EVANSVILLE – Arcinial Montreal Watt, 36, and Jazmynn Alaina Brown, 27, both of Evansville, have been sentenced for their roles in a fentanyl dealing operation that resulted in the death of a three-year-old girl.

Watt has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. Watt has also been ordered to pay $6,007 in restitution.

Brown has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents and evidence presented during Brown’s sentencing hearing, between August and October of 2021, Watt obtained at least 400 grams of fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and stored them in a bedroom he shared with his girlfriend, Jazmynn Brown. Brown sub-leased the room in a shared residence on East Sycamore Street in Evansville, where she lived with two other women and their four children—ages 4, 3, 18 months, and 2 months. Pills were sold and divided for sale by Brown inside the residence.

On October 26, 2021, the three older children accessed the bedroom where the pills were stored and removed a plastic bag containing fentanyl pills prepared for sale. The pills spilled, exposing the children to direct contact. Although Brown recovered some of the pills, several remained unaccounted for.

The three-year-old girl who came into contact with the pills was pronounced dead the following morning as a result of fentanyl poising. The 18-month-old girl was taken to the hospital, where she was placed on a NARCAN drip and survived her fentanyl poisoning.

During the investigation, agents seized over 5,750 fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills marked M30, more than $25,000 in cash, and a firearm. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage. One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people.

“This heartbreaking case underscores the devastating consequences of fentanyl trafficking—not just for those who use these drugs, but for innocent children caught in the crossfire,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The loss of a young life is a tragedy that no family should endure, and those who recklessly endanger others by distributing these deadly substances must be held fully accountable. We remain unwavering in our commitment to protecting our communities and pursuing justice for the most vulnerable among us.”

“The sentencings of Mr. Watt and Ms. Brown are righteous. This case is a heartbreaking example of individuals who recklessly stored Thousands of illicit fentanyl pills in their residence, leading to the tragic poisoning death of one child and the overdose of another. The victims in this case were innocent children. The DEA, alongside our law enforcement partners, remains committed to keeping our communities safe and holding drug traffickers fully accountable,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge J. Michael Gannon.

The Evansville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case. The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crime Task Force also provided invaluable assistance. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy Kemper, Lauren Wheatley, and Todd S. Shellenbarger, as well as former Assistant U.S. Attorney, Kristian R. Mukoski, who prosecuted this case.

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INDIANAPOLIS— Bryant Hoskins, 20, and Samuel Fancher, Jr., 19, of Indianapolis, have each been sentenced to 17 years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

According to court documents, in late May of 2024, Fancher Jr. and Hoskins committed two violent carjackings in less than one week, targeting Uber drivers during the late-night hours.

On May 24, 2024, at 4:30 in the morning, the duo called an Uber to pick them up near East 21st street in Indianapolis. Once they reached their drop off location, they held the driver at gunpoint and ordered him to get out of the car. When the driver did not immediately comply, one of the defendants dragged the driver out of the car and punched him in the head. They took the driver’s wallet and then drove away in his Toyota Rav 4. After fleeing the scene, they took videos of themselves driving the stolen vehicle and bragging, “I told you we was gone get one… we got one.”

Just five days later on May 29, the duo called another Uber to pick them up near Franklin Road, this time targeting a luxury vehicle so they could sell the stolen vehicle for profit. Once they reached their drop off location, they held the female driver at gunpoint and ordered her to get out of her Mercedes GLA. She did not immediately comply, and during the ensuing struggle Hoskins fired his weapon. The victim suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder and received treatment at a local hospital.

“Uber drivers frequently work alone during late hours, putting their safety at risk just to earn a living. The defendants exploited this vulnerability, leaving both victims deeply traumatized and showing no signs of remorse. Instead, they became emboldened—committing additional crimes and boasting about their actions," said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Gig workers have the right to feel safe, especially as they provide vital transportation services. Our office remains committed to working with federal and local partners to ensure that violent offenders are held accountable for their reckless actions.”

“No one should fear becoming a victim of violence simply while driving their car in an effort to support themselves,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O'Malley. “This sentence sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will pursue violent offenders relentlessly and work tirelessly to restore a sense of safety and justice to our neighborhoods."

FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey L. Massa and Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.

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

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INDIANAPOLIS— A federal jury has found Kristopher McDonald, 37, of Indianapolis, guilty of the following eight counts related to his operation of a violent human and drug trafficking enterprise, “The Kristopher McDonald Organization.”

Count 1: Murder in aid of racketeering activity.

Count 2: Brandishing and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

Count 3: Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Counts 4 & 5: Sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion.

Count 6: Enticing an individual to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution.

Counts 7 & 8: Travel act; a federal crime to engage in interstate or international travel, for the purpose of furthering certain "unlawful activities.”

According to court documents and trial evidence, Kristopher McDonald orchestrated and led a human trafficking operation in Indianapolis. During this time, he recruited and exploited women, some from out of state, for commercial sex, maintaining strict control over the operation. McDonald managed all aspects of the criminal enterprise, including collecting proceeds from sex acts and using violence to intimidate and punish both clients and the women he exploited.

To manipulate and maintain control over the women, McDonald supplied them with crack cocaine, fostering addiction and dependency. He also used physical violence—including pistol-whipping—and threats of death to punish those who didn’t earn enough money or to force them into performing sex acts, often up to nine or ten times a day.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, IRS, and IMPD, investigated this case. U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial and will sentence McDonald at a later date.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley Blackington and Michelle P. Brady, who are prosecuting this case. 

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INDIANAPOLIS- On May 16, 2025, The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana recognized more than 90 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies at its Law Enforcement Awards ceremony at the Indiana War Memorial & Museum in downtown Indianapolis. The ceremony, held during National Police Week, honored law enforcement professionals who have gone above and beyond their duties to safeguard Indiana communities in cases that concluded in 2024.

“This event is a small token of our appreciation for the time, dedication, and teamwork it takes to investigate a case and bring the worst offenders to justice. The pace, complexity, and scope of the investigations brought in the Southern District of Indiana are a true testament to the quality of our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “It is especially meaningful to spend time during National Police Week to recognize the talents and sacrifice of those who have dedicated themselves to serving the public—often at risk to themselves. Every day these outstanding law enforcement officers, analysts, victim specialists, prosecutors, and other professionals work to make our communities safer, and I am happy to recognize many of them with these awards.”

The honorees are members of the following agencies:

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Federal Bureau of Investigation- Indianapolis
• Homeland Security Investigations
• IRS-Criminal Investigation
• U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern Dist. of Ind.
• U.S. Postal Inspection Service
• U.S. Postal Service- Office of Inspector General
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
• Carmel Police Department
• Fishers Police Department
• Anderson Police Department
• Muncie Police Department
• Clarksville Police Department
• Brownsburg Police Department
• Beech Grove Police Department
• Evansville Police Department
• Lawrence Police Department
• Montgomery County Probation Office

The teams who led the following cases received awards at the ceremony: 

Outstanding Collaborative Investigation: Cases receiving this recognition are limited to those that have demonstrated outstanding efforts or overcome significant challenges in collaboration with multiple agencies.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Keith Jones, et al and U.S. v. Romero, et al.

Project Safe Childhood Shield of Innocence: This award honors those who have provided extraordinary assistance to victims of a federal child exploitation crime. Extraordinary assistance is that which involves direct and ongoing emotional support and encouragement which required extra hours, on and off duty; commitment to making a victim whole, leading to restitution on behalf of a victim; thoughtful analysis of restitution owed to victims in a large-scale victim case; or other complex issues involving victim cases.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Stan Hayes. 

L.E.A.T.H Heroism Award: This award is presented to a L.E.A.T.H. case that demonstrates extraordinary commitment and fortitude in the pursuit of justice. The Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence (LEATH) Initiative is named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. The LEATH Initiative began in October of 2020 and recognizes the inherent danger posed by firearms in the hands of domestic abusers.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Cody Steele.

Investigative Excellence Award: Cases receiving this award are limited to those that have substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice by conducting complex, thorough and proactive analysis of evidence.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Tuong Quoc Ho, U.S. v. Adediran, et al, and Enas Said v. United States: After being permanently disqualified from the SNAP program for food stamp trafficking in another state, Mahmoud Said tried to circumvent the ban by registering his Indiana grocery stores under his wife’s name. When Enas Said submitted the false applications, the Food and Nutrition Service charged her with knowingly providing false information, resulting in her own permanent disqualification. Enas sued the agency but refused to participate in discovery, leading the court to dismiss the case.

Despite her appeal, the litigation team remained persistent, filing a comprehensive brief only to discover that Said’s attorney had lost his law license. Shortly after, Said withdrew the appeal. The team’s unwavering pursuit of sanctions and accountability was crucial to upholding the integrity of the SNAP program and ensuring that benefits remain accessible to those who truly need them.

Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice; Presented to a case in which local, state, and federal officials achieved extraordinary results in their work to prevent crime, enhance community safety, and seek justice.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Cortez Venable, et al.

Community Impact: Presented to a case that had widespread, positive impact on constituents, law enforcement relations, and the legacy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Indiana.

Awarded to:  U.S. v. Jamarr Hill, et al. and U.S. v. Hendricks County.

Outstanding Agency Service: Presented to a case that substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Marquel Payne

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INDIANAPOLIS— Melvin Anderson, 23, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 17.5 years in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to advertising child sexual abuse material and distribution of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.   

According to court documents, between December 2022 and March 2023, Melvin Anderson used the social media platform Twitter, now known as X, to advertise and sell child sexual abuse material.

Anderson ran multiple, publicly accessible accounts that advertised links to cloud-based storage folders containing over 600 videos and images of minors, including individuals under 12 years of age, being sexually abused and molested. Many of his advertisements themselves contained thumbnails of sexually explicit images, and he often provided his own CashApp and Apple Pay account names so that his customers could send him money. Most links were priced between $10 to $25 per link.

Anderson advertised as if he was running a legitimate retail business. He organized the files based on various characteristics, such as the age of the minor victims, and he based the price on what he was offering. Material with younger victims garnered a higher price. He also created videos showing himself scrolling through the folders containing child sexual abuse materials in order to give his customers a preview.

“This predator not only revictimized children by exploiting the worst days of their lives over and over again to further demand, but did so just to make a quick buck,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “If not for the work of the Secret Service and our AUSAs, this dangerous man would still be profiting from such horrific abuse and incentivizing others to exploit and harm children.”

“Child sexual predators will be held accountable for their vile actions and the sentencing in this case demonstrates that. The U.S. Secret Service is committed to devoting its expertise and resources to protecting children from online predators and to pursuing those who try to profit from sexual abuse,” said Ike Barnes, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office. “I am proud of the work our Secret Service personnel did in bringing this defendant to justice. I am thankful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Indiana and all those who worked on prosecuting this case for their diligent efforts.”

U.S. Secret Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith Wood and Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood

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INDIANAPOLIS— Curtis Doughty, 28, of Muncie, has been sentenced to two years probation after pleading guilty to deprivation of rights under color of law.  

According to court documents, Doughty was employed as a corrections officer in the Henry County Jail, as well as a member of the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT). On February 13, 2024, Doughty participated in a scheduled search of an inmate housing pod in the jail. During the search, inmates were moved into a holding area in the recreation yard and ordered to sit on the floor facing the wall while officers searched the cells for contraband.

Doughty was one of two officers responsible for directing inmates to face the wall and remain seated. When inmate M.F. turned his head away from the wall, Doughty, without warning, shot his pepper ball gun at point blank range into the inmate’s spine. The pepper ball shot caused bodily injury to the inmate. Doughty then yelled to the other inmates in the holding area, “congratulations, you all inhale that now,” in reference to the pepper ball gas.

Shortly after the incident, other members of the SERT team reported it to a commander. The commander pulled Doughty from duty and sent him home, recognizing the egregious use of force. Prior to the incident, Doughty had received training on defensive tactics, physical tactics, Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT) training, jail physical and defensive tactics, and new jail officer training. Doughty had been trained on the “response to resistance ladder,” which states that inmates need to be “actively resistant” to justify use of the pepper ball gun. However, M.F. was not resisting and no force was necessary under this scenario.

“Corrections officers are empowered by the government to care for inmates. When a corrections officer takes the law into their own hands and uses excessive force to punish inmates, they endanger not only that inmate, but they create a greater incentive to resist rather than cooperate, and thereby endanger their colleagues as well,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Today’s sentencing underscores our unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for all individuals, regardless of their occupation or authority.”

“Everyone, regardless of their status or circumstance, is entitled to dignity and no one should fear for their safety at the hands of those tasked with their care,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Dominique Evans. “When correctional officers act with such disregard for those in their care, it is a betrayal of the oath they took to protect, not harm. The FBI will continue to work to ensure civil rights are protected inside every facility.”

The FBI investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter A. Blackett and Carolyn A. Haney, who prosecuted this case.

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