District of Kansas

Romulo Hernandez Murillo, 46, an illegal alien from Honduras,  and Lisa Marie Lopez Perdomo, 49, of Syracuse, Kansas, pleaded guilty today to submitting a sponsorship application containing false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of an unaccompanied alien child (UAC).

“This guilty plea demonstrates the success of the Trump administration’s efforts to root out fraud that undermines a government program designed to protect children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Department of Justice and Joint Task Force Alpha will continue to investigate and prosecute those who refuse to abide by laws that protect vulnerable children and who lie to the government officials charged with maintaining the integrity of these programs.”

“Our nation has programs which offer safe haven to refugee children fleeing dangerous conditions in their home counties. With feigned benevolence, the defendants submitted false information during the application process and utilized the system to gain access to a minor they could exploit and abuse,” said U.S Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “These instances are stark reminders that we need oversight to make sure these programs aren’t used for nefarious purposes.”

“Those who submit false statements to obstruct the federal process for protecting unaccompanied children place vulnerable minors at risk and compromise the integrity of a critical safety system,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Miranda L. Bennett of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS‑OIG, working alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and hold accountable individuals who attempt to exploit programs designed to ensure the safety and well‑being of children.”

“This was not a paperwork error or a technical violation. It was an intentional scheme built on false statements, fabricated documentation, and deception to improperly obtain custody of an unaccompanied child,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Rick Sabatini of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Kansas City. “Those who seek to exploit child-protection programs for unlawful purposes should understand that HSI will pursue the full scope of their conduct, identify their co-conspirators, and work with our federal, state, and local partners to bring them before the court. Protecting vulnerable children and defending the integrity of our immigration processes remain a core HSI priority.”

According to court documents, Hernandez Murillo agreed to pay Lopez Perdomo to assist him with applying to sponsor and obtain custody of a then 17-year-old Honduran UAC. Lopez Perdomo filled out and submitted the application, which contained false statements claiming that Hernandez Murillo resided with Lopez Perdomo at her home address, and included a photograph of Hernandez Murillo standing in front of her residence. After submitting the application, Lopez Perdomo spoke to an HHS employee and posed as a household member living with Hernandez Murillo. Hernandez Murillo and Lopez Perdomo have been held in federal custody on these charges since December 2025 and January 2026, respectively. 

Hernandez Murillo pleaded guilty to making a false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement. Lopez Perdomo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and making a false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement. Both face a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. Sentencing is set for Jan. 6, 2027. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

HHS-OIG and HSI are investigating the case with assistance from the Kansas Department of Labor, Special Investigations Unit; IRS Criminal Investigations; and the Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided invaluable assistance along with the U.S. Marshals Service.

Deputy Chief Christian Levesque and Trial Attorney Matthew Thiman of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine J. Andrusak for the District of Kansas are prosecuting the case.

The investigation and indictment leading to the guilty plea announced today was supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations throughout the Americas. A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking networks that impact public safety and border security. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by other Criminal Division components, among others, JTFA has dedicated prosecutors from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the Southwest border, Southern Florida, and Northern New York and Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and Customs and Border Protection/Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies.  To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 483 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 436 U.S. convictions; and more than 371 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.

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

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser of the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) cautions that irresponsible rumors about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations could potentially harm the Kansas agricultural industry.  He urges Kansans to wait for law enforcement agencies to release information rather than speculate or spread false information. 

“Claims suggesting that these efforts were discriminatory ‘sweeps’ based on skin color and race are misguided and irresponsible. Such rhetoric stokes fear and risks unnecessary harm to Kansas industries,” said Kriegshauser. “We encourage everyone discussing this topic, especially on social media, to pause, wait for the facts to be released, and avoid amplifying sensational or unsubstantiated rumors.”

Kriegshauser emphasized, “When people witness ICE agents making an arrest, they do not know why that person is being detained. Because of laws, agency policies, and security safeguards, information about arrests is not always immediately made public. I ask people not to jump to conclusions and to instead wait for the facts to come out.”  

On September 29, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security informed USAO-KS about the results of “Operation Safe Community - Kansas”, a three-day operation that took place between September 22 and September 24, 2026. ICE carried out this initiative designed to apprehend criminal aliens in Kansas.

ICE agents made 104 arrests in Southwestern Kansas. They arrested alien offenders with criminal histories, including assault, domestic battery, aggravated battery, criminal threat, knowingly using a weapon to cause great bodily harm, disfigurement or death; criminal carrying of a weapon or concealed carry of a pistol or firearm; and fleeing or eluding law enforcement officers.

Kriegshauser said, “The operations that took place in Southwest Kansas were not arbitrary but part of a larger effort to apprehend specific criminal aliens, some of whom were convicted of crimes like murder, assault, and rape,” said Kriegshauser. “Operation Safe Community - Kansas was a targeted operation designed to put some of the worst of the worst behind bars. Contrary claims are inaccurate. Instead, ICE officers conducted intelligence driven targeted immigration enforcement actions throughout Southwestern Kansas.”

Among those apprehended were: 

•    Kham Khamchanh — a criminal illegal alien from Laos convicted of homicide who was residing in Hutchinson.
•    Raul Duquenzne-Batista — a criminal illegal alien from Cuba convicted of aggravated assault with weapon, kidnapping, rape of disabled person, aggravated assault with a gun, burglary, and rape with a gun who was residing in Larned.
•    Jose Garcia Villa — a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of kidnapping and sexual assault who was residing in Dodge City.
•    Ky Sayapheth — a criminal illegal alien from Laos convicted of homicide, aggravated assault of public officer with weapon, aggravated assault of police officer with weapon, aggravated assault with weapon, and escape from custody who was residing in Hutchinson.
•    Flora Elvira De La Cruz Bustillos — a criminal illegal alien from Mexico convicted of cruelty toward child and larceny who was residing in Liberal.

“Wanted criminals sometimes go to small towns thinking they can lie low and move undetected by law enforcement. I believe that people living in rural communities like Southwestern Kansas deserve the same protection as residents of any major city by not having to live with violent offenders in their midst,” said Kriegshauser. “Because of these law enforcement agents, more than 100 criminals are no longer freely walking our streets, thereby making our Kansas communities safer places to live and work.”

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Kansas City, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a Nigerian national with falsely claiming to be a United States citizen to illegally vote in elections. 

According to court documents, George Olawunmi Johnson, 67, who was residing in Olathe, Kansas, is charged with one count of false claim to United States citizenship, one count of false claim to United States citizenship in order to vote, one count of fraudulent election conduct, and one count of voting by an alien in a federal election.

Johnson is accused of falsely indicating that he is a U.S. citizen while registering to vote in February 2010 in Johnson County, Kansas. In November 2024, Johnson allegedly cast a ballot in Kansas that included candidates for the offices of U.S. President, Vice President, Senate, and House of Representatives after falsely certifying that he was eligible to vote as a U.S. citizen when he is in fact a permanent resident. 

Johnson made his his initial court appearance September 23, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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WICHITA, KAN. – A registered sex offender pleaded guilty to uploading child sexual exploitation material (CSAM) from the internet.

According to court documents, Peter Ferley, 45, of El Dorado pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of child pornography. 

In June 2025, Ferley gained access to CSAM using his email address. He used his phone and the internet to send himself images of prepubescent children engaged in sex acts. 

Ferley is a registered sex offender based upon a 2012 conviction in Butler County, Kansas.

Ferley is scheduled to be sentenced on December 21, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and El Dorado Police Department are investigating the case.

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

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal jury convicted a Missouri man of forcing and coercing minors to commit sexual acts with adults in exchange for money.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Calvin Johnson, 31, of Kansas City, Missouri, was found guilty on:

•    two counts of sex trafficking accomplished by force, fraud, or coercion;  •    two counts of sex trafficking of a child; and  
•    two counts of transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

Between February 2022 and January 2023, Johnson transported two minors within Kansas as well as other states including Missouri and Nebraska, while using force and coercion to compel the vulnerable victims to engage in commercial sex acts. 

On April 20, 2022, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) spoke to a minor after a traffic stop. Law enforcement learned the victim was a runaway from the juvenile care system and performing commercial sex acts at the behest of Johnson. The victim indicated Johnson booked motel rooms, posted solicitations for clients on websites, rented cars, and transported the victim to hotels for commercial sex acts. 

On January 17, 2023, law enforcement encountered the second minor inside a motel room. The second victim was also a runaway.  

A forensic search of the victims’ cellphones and social media accounts showed communications with Johnson clearly indicating he was selling the victims for sexual services. Johnson directed the victims to have clients send him money on digital payment apps then he kept all payments. Investigators obtained booking information from various hotels across multiple states in the region and found evidence of rooms booked and paid for by Johnson. 

“Human traffickers are known to prey on underage runaways because these minors have multiple vulnerabilities that increase the likelihood they will become targets of exploitation and abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We at the Department of Justice are relentless in advocating for the rights of human trafficking victims and seeking justice on their behalf.”

The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Faiza Alhambra and Audrey McCormick are prosecuting the case.

Project Safe Childhood

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

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Georgia man made his initial appearance before a U.S. magistrate judge after a federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging him with crossing state lines to allegedly have sex with a minor.

According to court documents, Cameron Blount, 24, of Savannah, Georgia, was indicted on one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.

In February 2026, Blount is accused of traveling from Georgia to Kansas intending to take part in sexual conduct with a minor victim.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Chanute Police Department are investigating the case.

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

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with a firearms offense.

According to court documents, Robert Brandon Jackson, Jr., 20, of Kansas City, Kansas, was indicted on one count of possession of a machine gun.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Hines is prosecuting the case. 

OTHER INDICTMENTS

Martin Efrain Monreal-Gallegos, 26, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. 

Aaron Ramses Matuz-Dominguez, 39, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Joshue Eugenio Parrequin-Soriano, 39, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Gregorio Santiago-Gutierrez, 47, an illegal alien from Guatemala, was indicted on one count of reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Robertoni Suchiapa-Gutu, 47, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Topeka returned an indictment charging a former police officer demanding sexual favors from a victim.

According to court documents, Troy Dwayne Watson, 55, of High Point, North Carolina, was indicted on one count of bribery. 

Watson formerly served as a police officer with the Junction City Police Department. Between October 2021 and April 2022, Watson is accused of soliciting sexual favors from a confidential informant under the guise that he would in turn provide the victim with favorable resolutions with the government on then-pending criminal matters. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Walton is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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KANSAS CITY, KANSAS – A Kansas businessman was sentenced to 18 months in prison for violating United States customs laws by selling advanced aviation technology to Russian end users. 

According to court documents, Cyril Gregory Buyanovsky, 63, of Lawrence, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering. 
Buyanovsky is the former president and owner of KanRus Trading Company, a Kansas-based avionics enterprise. As part of his plea agreement, Buyanovsky consented to the forfeiture of over $450,000 worth of avionics equipment and accessories and a $50,000 personal forfeiture judgment.

After Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. government tightened export controls concerning Russia. Buyanovsky and KanRus vice president Douglas Edward Robertson, 59, of Olathe conspired to continue to purchase, sell, and export sophisticated and controlled avionics equipment to customers in Russia without the required licenses from the U.S. Department of Commerce. 

Robertson pleaded guilty to export control and money laundering violations and was sentenced to 32 months in prison. 

“Congress put trade restrictions in place to discourage Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine. The defendants ignored those laws and saw the war not as a humanitarian crisis, but as a business opportunity to boost their profits,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.

“The sentencing of Mr. Buyanovsky marks the final chapter of an investigation that exposed a deliberate conspiracy to circumvent U.S. export-control laws and facilitate the unlawful transfer of advanced aviation technology to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. This case underscores the FBI’s steadfast commitment to protecting the integrity of our nation’s export-control system and holding accountable those who seek to undermine it.  Our message is clear:  The FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement and government partners to identify, investigate, and disrupt any efforts to exploit our laws,” said Chris Ormerod, FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge. 

A third defendant, Oleg Chistyakov, a/k/a Olegs Čitsjakovs, 57, of the Republic of Latvia, acted as a broker for KanRus. He was sentenced to 28 months in prison after pleading guilty to his part in the conspiracy. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement investigated the case. The Latvian authorities assisted in the investigation while U.S. Customs and Border Protection provided substantial assistance.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Rask and Ryan Huschka for the District of Kansas as well as Adam Barry, a former trial attorney of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with offenses related to drug trafficking. 

According to court documents, Kyle Ingels, 39, of Chanute was indicted on one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is investigating the case.

OTHER INDICTMENTS

Luis Licea-Angel, 45, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Candido Martinez-Garcia, 44, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Jose Cesar Palacios-Velasquez, 35, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Juan Perez-Gamas, 36, an illegal alien from Guatemala, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Marco Sanchez-Basilio, 25, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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WICHITA, KAN.– A Kansas inmate was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for his part in conspiring to smuggle methamphetamine into a state prison. 

According to court documents, Tommie Baggett, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. 

In February 2024, while an inmate at Hutchinson Correctional Facility, Baggett took part in a conspiracy to throw a package of methamphetamine over the prison wall. He worked with another inmate to flag a location in the yard to show co-defendant, Jermel Fleming, 33, of Lawrence where to make the drop. While Fleming was outside the prison, Baggett gave him instructions over the phone. Baggett used a prison phone system which recorded the call. Fleming threw the package over the prison wall but at the wrong location, and corrections staff intercepted it. Laboratory results showed the package to contain 247.94 grams of pure methamphetamine.

“Being in prison wasn’t enough to stop Mr. Baggett from committing further crimes," said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The drugs Mr. Baggett wanted tossed into the prison yard didn’t land where he expected. However, his actions will land him in federal prison when he’s done with his state prison sentence.”

Fleming was sentenced to 96 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of a controlled substance.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak prosecuted the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas (USAO-KS) today announced indictments as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).  USAO-KS was a key participant in this surge effort.  

From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million in intended loss to American taxpayers.

“Over the years we have convicted schemers who illegally secured PPP loans then went on shopping sprees on the federal government’s dime, but we’re not done. The Justice Department has a very long memory, and the statute of limitations has been extended for this type of fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “To those who lied on applications and haven’t yet had the law show up at your door, don’t be surprised when we come knocking with an arrest warrant in hand.”

“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” 

In the District of Kansas, U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser announced that four defendants, including a husband and wife, have been charged with PPP-related fraud involving approximately $182,000 in alleged losses. 

According to the indictments:  

•    Greg Wegenka, 74, of Wakarusa, is accused of providing false IRS documents to receive a PPP loan for a small business then allegedly using loan proceeds for impermissible purposes.
           Loss: $29,000       Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison

•    Laurie Wegenka, 66, of Wakarusa, is accused of applying for and receiving PPP loans for a small business using false IRS forms.
            Loss: $115,000     Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison

•    Vanesha Whisonant, 25, of Kansas City, Kansas, is accused of receiving a PPP loan for a home-based business after allegedly filing an application with false information about the number of employees and payroll. 
             Loss: $18,000     Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison

•    Dominic Williams, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, is accused of receiving a PPP by falsely claiming to be a sole proprietor business with $100K in proceeds and allegedly submitting false bank statements to receive loans and to receive loan forgiveness. 
            Loss: $20,832      Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison

These case are being investigated by the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General (SBA- OIG) and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Oakley. 

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

 An indictment, information, or 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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WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 168 months in prison after law enforcement officers found him with a distribution amount of methamphetamine. 

According to court documents, Dakota Dale McDaniel, 38, of Haysville pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. 

In September 2025, as part of an investigation, the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) attempted to stop McDaniel with lights and sirens. He refused to yield and kept driving. Before losing sight of him, a trooper observed that McDaniel was wearing a black backpack. When law enforcement located McDaniel a short time later, the motorcycle and the backpack were on the ground. A trooper searched the backpack and found a bag of methamphetamine, a digital scale, and a firearm among other items. McDaniel was wearing a Kansas Department of Corrections ankle monitor, and the charger for it was also in the backpack.

Laboratory tests determined that the bag contained 240.23 grams of 98.2 percent pure methamphetamine.

“Dakota McDaniel can now add another prison sentence to his long resume as a career criminal,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We’re grateful for the exceptional teamwork among our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to keep methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs off our streets.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), Kansas Highway Patrol, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, and Butler County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kari Burks prosecuted the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita has returned an indictment charging a Peruvian national with multiple criminal offenses arising from allegedly voting in a federal election despite not being a United States citizen.

According to court documents, Mariana Alexandra Dewey, 24, of Wichita is charged with one count of false claim of citizenship, one count of false claim of United States citizenship in order to vote, one count of fraudulent election conduct, and one count of voting by an alien in a federal election.

In November 2024, Dewey allegedly falsely represented herself to be a U.S. citizen in order to register to vote in an election that included federal, state, and local offices. She is further accused of casting a ballot that included candidates for U.S. President, Vice President, Senate, and House of Representatives after falsely certifying that she was a U.S. citizen and eligible to vote. 

“The Department of Justice remains committed to protecting election integrity and is actively investigating and prosecuting these cases,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.  “With another election looming, the Department’s effort serves as a stark reminder to individuals who are not legally authorized to vote not to engage in this conduct. Should individuals be determined by a court of law to have illegally claimed U.S. citizenship and voted or attempted to vote in federal elections, they will face serious criminal consequences.” 

Dewey is scheduled to make her initial court appearance on Monday, September 14, 2026 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. 

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Missouri man pleaded guilty to criminal charges after making plans to engage in sex acts while chatting with an undercover federal agent posing as an underaged girl. 

According to court documents, Jason A. Teeman, 47, of Raymore, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and one count of possession of child pornography. 

In July 2025, Teeman used social media and text messages to chat with a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent purporting to be a 14-year-old girl in Kansas. During the conversations he made comments filled with sexual innuendo including how he only likes to “date young females” and “just keep in mind I’m the one risking going to jail here”.  Teeman then made plans to travel from Missouri to Kansas to engage in sexual acts with the “girl” in the back seat of his car or at the girl’s home. After the agent explicitly claimed to be 14 years old, Teeman continued communicating in a sexual manner.

The FBI arrested Teeman after he arrived at the designated meeting location and confiscated his cellphone. Forensic analysis revealed 14 files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child erotica, including of children under 9 years old. His chat history revealed he sent multiple messages to other online users requesting they facilitate or assist in procuring a child for Teeman to have sexual contact with in exchange for money.

He is scheduled to be sentenced December 8, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.

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

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) provides an update of cases prosecuted under Project Safe Childhood (PSC). PSC is a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), PSC 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. 

As part of the commitment to prosecuting cases related to child sexual abuse and exploitation, USAO-KS staffs with federal prosecutors who specialize in seeking justice in these types of offenses.

In June, July, and August, USAO-KS indicted defendants on child exploitation related offenses while achieving substantial sentences for defendants post-conviction.

Indictment

Jonathan Arnold, 47, of Leavenworth was indicted on three counts of distribution of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.

Stephen Crook, 34, Leavenworth of was indicted on one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of abusive sexual contact with a minor under 12 years of age.

David Reno, 58, of Lenexa was indicted on two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

Tyller White, 24, of Parsons was indicted on one count of sexual exploitation of a child – attempted production of child pornography.

Colton Wiggins, 25, of Wichita was indicted on one count of distribution of child pornography.

Plea

Cody S. Bingham, 24, of Derby pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

William “Bill” Bright, 58, of Hutchinson pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child pornography. 

James D. Fishbaugh, 53, of Blue Springs, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.

Dean Glovier, 28, of Topeka, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.

Bebak Gurung, 26, of Fort Riley, Kansas, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation-production of child pornography.

Tyson Hale, 26, of Mayetta, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse of minor in Indian Country.

Dylan Jamescupp, 34, of Ottawa pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

Zachery Leslie, 25, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

Michael Steven Podrybau, 43, of Alton pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of obscene visual representation of the sexual abuse of children.

Adam T. Umstead, 42, of Independence, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

Michael Eugene Watley, 58, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

Sentencing

Joshua Craig Abel, 44, of Topeka was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by lifetime supervised release, after a jury convicted him of one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.  

Joseph Donald Dube, 40, Topeka was sentenced to 90 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.

Garrett Gayoso, 25, of Baxter Springs was sentenced to 222 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count production of child pornography.

Tommie Earnest Giles, 53, of Kansas City, Missouri, was sentenced to 120 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

Blake Nolan, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, was sentenced to 72 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

Gavin Onuffer, 28, of Haysville was sentenced to 121 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography.

Dennis Lee Hamilton, 45, of Kansas City, Kansas, was sentenced 360 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of production of visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

David Mark Jones, 35, of Shawnee was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

Jeffrey T. Lyons, 33, of Olathe was sentenced to 264 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a child.

Victor Ortiz, 49, of Junction City was sentenced to 360 months in prison followed by lifetime supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – production of child pornography

Adam Charles Pfeiffer, 36, of Wichita was sentenced to 70 months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

Ronald Waltrip, 62, of Haysville was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sexual exploitation of a child – production of child pornography. 

https://www.justice.gov/psc

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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TOPEKA, KAN – Two Venezuelan nationals face possible deportation after completing prison sentences for stealing thousands of dollars from an automated teller machine (ATM) through jackpotting. Jackpotting involves installing malware into an ATM to force it to dispense money.

According to court documents, Luinder Daniel Cordova-Castellano, 20, and Jheison Alexander Lara-Sira, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of bank larceny. 

Each defendant was sentenced to time served, but as part of their plea agreements, they waived their ability to contest should an immigration judge issue a final order of removal in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act.

In December 2025, Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call about suspicious activity at a bank in Manhattan. After driving up to an ATM, a witness reported seeing a man run away from the ATM then flee in a dark colored Toyota Prius. Deputies spotted the vehicle and followed it to a business where they approached the occupants, Cordova-Castellano and Lara-Sira. 

The smell of marijuana gave deputies probable cause search of the vehicle. Inside of a backpack, law enforcement found approximately $15,000 in cash. Deputies located a laptop, keyboard, cables, tools, and a wireless hotspot in the vehicle.

While executing a search warrant on Cordova-Castellano’s cellphone, law enforcement found chat conversations in Spanish about ATMs and photos of ATMs. 

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division doesn’t directly take part in deportation hearings. However, when we are prosecuting non-citizens for federal criminal offenses, we are cognizant of when their conduct merits prompt removal from our country, saving the taxpayer the cost of incarceration,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “By offering plea agreements that include restrictions on appealing removal orders, we are helping to expedite the process of extracting convicted felons from within our borders and minimizing the expense of their prison stay.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag prosecuted the case. 

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

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Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, joined by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas, filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit against Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) to stop the district from facilitating secret “gender transitions” for children at school without their parents’ knowledge or consent.

KCKPS’s conduct violates the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) — laws designed to safeguard parental rights, including the rights to access and oversee information collected and maintained about their children in public schools. The lawsuit follows extensive efforts by the Department of Education to secure KCKPS’s compliance with federal law.

“Parental rights are paramount in the operation of America’s public schools, and Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools does not know children better than their own parents,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department will not tolerate school districts playing fast and loose with federal law in the service of radical gender ideology.”

“For decades, schools operated with little accountability as federal parental rights laws like FERPA and PPRA went unenforced, allowing some districts to cut parents out of deeply personal matters involving their own children,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “That era is over. The Trump Administration is enforcing these laws at an unprecedented scale and making clear that schools cannot hide sensitive information from parents and expect to operate with impunity. We are grateful to the Department of Justice for taking this next step and for its continued partnership with the Department of Education to enforce federal law and protect the fundamental rights of parents.”

“This lawsuit should not come as a surprise,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “Public education functions effectively only when schools and parents engage in a genuine partnership. When schools withhold information from parents, they undermine trust and disrupt the essential balance between families and public educators.”

As detailed in the Department’s complaint, KCKPS’s Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students Internal Guidance Document (Transgender Guideline) directs staff to develop and implement “transitioning” plans for children’s so-called “gender identity” without informing or obtaining consent from their parents. KCKPS implements its Transgender Guideline without the knowledge of many in the KCKPS community, including parents.

FERPA prohibits a school district from maintaining any policy that denies or effectively prevents a parent from exercising the right to inspect and review his or her child’s education records. PPRA separately requires prior written parental consent before a school may require children to submit to any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals sensitive information about the student or the student’s family. Because KCKPS’s policies and practices violate core parental rights secured by FERPA and PPRA, the lawsuit seeks an injunction to halt the Transgender Guideline’s enforcement, among other relief.

Note: Read the Department’s Complaint here.

WICHITA, KAN. – A former Kansas credit union employee was sentenced to 19 months in prison and ordered to pay $207,920 in restitution after embezzling approximately $171,000 by creating fake loans to members. 

According to court documents, Ricky Naovoravong, 39, of Garden City pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement by a credit union employee.

Naovoravong was a loan officer at a credit union in Garden City. In August 2024, a manager noticed a suspicious transfer from a member’s savings account into Naovoravong’s checking account. The manager noted that Naovoravong created documents for a $5,000 loan in the victim’s name then used the victim’s account to make loan payments that would be deposited into his account.

A broader investigation ensued and determined Naovoravong had created other loans and transferred funds into his personal account. When confronted, Naovoravong admitted the loans were fictitious, and the victims knew nothing of them. He said would continue to create new fictitious loans to make payments on previous fictitious loans so that members wouldn’t be notified of the loans.

The investigation showed the defendant embezzled $171,164 between November 2020 and August 2024.

“Banks and credit unions collect people’s personal information because it’s a requirement of doing business,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Kriegshauser. “When employees with access to sensitive information use it to commit fraud, embezzlement, or other types of financial crimes, they will eventually get caught. When they are exposed, they’ll have to face the justice system.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. - U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser announced that the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) collected $13,102,601 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $12,029,108 was collected in criminal actions and $1,073,493 was collected in civil actions.  

Additionally, the USAO-KS worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $30,886 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $17,240 was collected in criminal actions and $13,646 was collected in civil actions. 

U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser said, “From recovering restitution for victims to using forfeiture procedures to eliminate the capacity of criminals to function, the forfeiture and financial litigation functions of our office are central to our mission.  We will use all of the powerful tools available to us to seek justice for victims and recover funds owed to the United States.”   

Here are some of the significant recoveries made during FY 2025 with links to detailed case descriptions: 

•    Shan Hanes – recovered $8,370,553.47. A majority of the $8 million was recovered through a forfeiture of funds traced to a blockchain virtual currency address.  The remaining funds are attributed to turnover of real estate sales proceeds and garnishment of accounts. 
•    Nagy Shehata –  recovered $428,901.45. Prior to Shehata’s criminal conviction, the Asset Forfeiture Division initiated a forfeiture action against various properties, including real property owned by him and his wife in Overland Park that he purchased with crime proceeds.  The property sold in May 2025, with the United States receiving $428,901.45.  These funds were turned over to the District Court Clerk for payment on the restitution owed to the victim.
•    Kirk and Lynn Ritter  – recovered $227,567.49.  The Ritters were sentenced in January 2025 to charges of wire fraud and theft of government funds.  They were ordered to pay $216,067.49 in restitution, $11,000 in fines, and $400 in assessments.  They voluntarily paid the restitution amount in full prior to sentencing and paid the remaining fines and assessments shortly thereafter. 

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs. 

Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in Kansas, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $34,857,365 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes. 

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TOPEKA, KAN. – A Missouri man was sentenced to 240 months in prison for transporting methamphetamine across state lines. 

According to court documents, Jason James Jones, 39, of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. 

In May 2023, a Geary County Sheriff’s deputy stopped Jones while he was driving a rental car through Kansas. During a search, law enforcement found what was later confirmed by a laboratory to be 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine. Jones admitted he was taking the methamphetamine to Missouri with the intention of distributing it. 

“Drug trafficking creates a significant threat to public safety. A recent study by the Midwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area indicates that methamphetamine has upended fentanyl as the number one contributor to violent crime and property crime in the region,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The 2026 HIDTA Threat Assessment also showed most of the methamphetamine coming in is produced in Mexico and brought by people driving privately owned vehicles.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Geary County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham prosecuted the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Two illegal aliens pleaded guilty to having federal immigration documents that were forgeries with information assigned to other people.

According to court documents, Santos Ramirez-Ramirez, 38, of Guatemala pleaded guilty to one count of fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents. 

Yolanda Mendoza-Emiliano, 32, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents.

On May 28, 2026, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed a federal criminal search warrant at a house on South 16th Street in Kansas City, Kansas.  Although agents repeatedly gave lawful orders in Spanish for the occupants to come out of the house, no one exited until agents went in through the back door. 

Agents arrested Ramirez-Ramirez and Mendoza-Emiliano after finding counterfeit Lawful Permanent Resident cards, also known as Green Cards, and falsified Social Security cards. 

They had Green Cards with their names and photos, but with alien file numbers that belong to other people. The falsified Social Security cards had numbers that are invalid. 

“Falsified federal documents often include information that belongs to an actual person,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Victims can have their lives turned upside down with the IRS, creditors, and other entities seeking money they don’t actually owe but are asked to pay because criminals are securing jobs, renting homes, and opening lines of credit using their information.” 

“Counterfeit immigration documents are not harmless pieces of paper. They are tools used to undermine the integrity of our immigration system, conceal identities, and enable individuals to remain in the United States unlawfully,” said Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Rick Sabatini. “HSI will aggressively investigate document fraud and work relentlessly with our federal partners to hold offenders accountable.”

Records show in April 2024, U.S. Border Patrol agents in Arizona arrested Mendoza-Emiliano four separate times in a 10-day period for illegally entering the country. The first time she was detained, she was fingerprinted. In that instance, and each subsequent time she was allowed to voluntarily return to Mexico. 

A third defendant was indicted in connection with this case for allegedly having false documentation, and those charges are still pending.

Agents arrested three other defendants at the house who were indicted for unlawful reentry after deportation. Returning to the U.S. without permission after deportation is a federal criminal offense. 

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the cases.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN.– A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging an illegal alien from Nicaragua for having forged government documents. 

According to court documents, Rolando Gonzalez-Gonzalez, 33, was indicted on one count of fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents.

Gonzalez-Gonzalez is accused of having a counterfeit permanent resident card that allegedly had his name and an invalid alien file number.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

OTHER INDICTMENTS

Alonzo Jerome Boyd Jr, 24, of Topeka was indicted on one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case.

Edwin Josue Franco-Amaya, 30, an illegal immigrant from Honduras, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Jose M. Patricio, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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TOPEKA, KAN. – A former Kansas postmaster pleaded guilty to falsifying money orders in order to embezzle from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

According to court documents, Sierra Werth, 32, of Quinter pleaded guilty to one count of misappropriation of postal funds.

In January 2025, the U.S, Postal Service determined the post office in Quinter, Kansas, had a significant shortfall. The deficit was in missing deposits, deposit short in cash, errors on bank deposits, and money orders issued and voided on the same day but negotiated after being voided.

An investigation revealed Werth issued and voided at least 10 money orders on the same day. She issued seven money orders under her employee ID and included her name and address in the remitter section. There were three money orders issued under a different postal employee’s ID, but they had her name and address in the remitter section.  Also, the name of someone associated with Werth was in the “pay to” section of the all the money orders. The records show the money orders were issued, voided, and cashed without USPS receiving payment, and that Werth had engaged in this activity since approximately October 2024. Law enforcement found an additional invoice the Werth created.

As part of her plea agreement, Werth must pay approximately $26,700 in restitution.

“As postmaster, it was Ms. Werth’s role to display good leadership qualities like sound judgment and moral character to the rest of the staff, but instead she abused her authority for personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. 

“This guilty plea represents the hard work and dedication by USPS OIG Special Agents working alongside our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring charges in this mail theft investigation,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennus Bishop, U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Central Area Field Office. “The OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, remain committed to safeguarding the U.S. Mail and ensuring the accountability and integrity of U.S. Postal Service employees and those external subjects who collude with them.”

The U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham is prosecuting the case.

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TOPEKA, KAN. – An Idaho man was sentenced to 70 months in prison after being caught with packages of fentanyl that he was transporting cross-country. 

According to court documents, Brian Hilario Delgado Mayorga, 24, of Burley, Idaho, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. 

In May 2024, a Geary County Sheriff’s deputy stopped Mayorga on Interstate 70 after observing him make an unsafe driving maneuver. When the deputy asked Mayorga questions about his route, Mayorga said he was coming from Idaho and was on his way to visit his grandparents in Missouri. The deputy became suspicious partly because Mayorga didn’t know his grandparents’ address and because license plate readers placed him in California and Nevada on the previous day, not Idaho. Mayorga refused to allow the deputy to search his vehicle, and a K9 unit was dispatched to the scene. After the K9 detected the odor of narcotics coming from Mayorga’s vehicle, deputies had probable cause to search. Inside the vehicle, officers found several heat-sealed packages of narcotics that laboratory results later determined to be approximately 4,000 grams of fentanyl.

Mayorga was arrested and admitted he picked up the narcotics in the Los Angeles area. The defendant stated it was his second trip and that he was paid $8000.00 on the first trip.   Officers also found a firearm and $1,419 in cash in the vehicle. 

“The Midwest is often used as a corridor for drug traffickers transporting their products from one region of the country to another,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The Department of Justice is grateful to the Geary County Sheriff’s Office for its vigilance and attention to detail.  Local law enforcement agencies are on the front line when it comes to foiling the plans of criminals on these road trips and seizing illegal narcotics.  We are happy to stand beside them and prosecute these cases federally when warranted.”

“At the time of his arrest, Mayorga was traveling across the country with roughly 390,000 deadly doses of fentanyl,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer said. “The sentencing is due in part to the astute work of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office and collaboration of federal and local resources. It’s because of partnerships like this that drug traffickers are dealt blow-after-blow in their attempt to turn profits in the Midwest.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Geary County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough prosecuted the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for attempting to transport illegal narcotics from the West Coast to Wichita. 

According to court documents, Jonathan Umana, 29, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel in aid of racketeering. 

In January 2024, Kansas Highway Patrol stopped Umana on in Ford County for speeding. After Umana gave illogical responses to questions, the trooper asked for permission to search the vehicle. Umana consented. The officer found approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and six pounds of cocaine in a backpack inside the car. Umana was arrested. An investigation revealed Umana had flown from Wichita to California to pick up the drugs then rented a vehicle to drive back to Kansas for intended distribution.  

Text messages show that that Christian Abel Ruiz, 44, of Wichita arranged for Umana to pick up the drugs from a source in California by supplying Umana with an address and phone number and instructions of where to deliver the drugs upon returning to Kansas. 

Ruiz pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel in aid of racketeering and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. 

“The right to freely travel within our nation’s borders is central to the American way of life, but too often criminals exploit this easy access to bring in narcotics, weapons, and other unsavory elements that law abiding citizens don’t want in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We encourage Kansas law enforcement agencies confiscating narcotics they can prove crossed state lines to reach out to the Department of Justice. This is a federal offense, and a conviction may offer stiffer penalties for these offenses than at the state level.”

The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) investigated the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office -District of Kansas held an investiture ceremony at the Robert J. Dole Federal Courthouse in Kansas City, Kansas, for U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.  Chief Judge John W. Broomes administered the oath. 

Kriegshauser serves as the 43rd U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas. He began serving as Interim U.S. Attorney in July 2025 and was eventually confirmed by the U.S. Senate in December 2025. An investiture is a formal, ceremonial event to mark the appointment. Judges, former U.S. Attorneys, law enforcement, and community members attended the event on August 21, 2026. 

Kriegshauser supervises the prosecution of all federal crimes and litigation of all civil matters in which the U.S. has an interest. He leads a staff of attorneys, paralegals, and support professionals working in offices associated with the federal courts in Wichita, Kansas City, and Topeka. 

“Nearly two-thirds of Kansas’ 420 law enforcement agencies have fewer than 10 full-time officers. We have been working with our partners to alleviate some of the strain on agencies feeling overwhelmed,” said Kriegshauser. “My goal is for the federal government to be a force multiplier in support of state and local officers. There are certain cases like transnational drug cartels and cybercrime that the federal government is in a unique position to bring criminals to justice.” 

Through the first 10 months of the fiscal year, USAO-KS projects for 427 indictments, which is fifth among the 25 medium USAO districts (up from 10th last FY) and 29th among all 94 districts in the country (up from 48th last FY). This caseload reflects a projected 39 percent increase for USAO-KS year on year.  In particular, violent crime indictments are projected to be up 50% compared to last fiscal year.  

Here are some noteworthy sentencings, convictions, guilty pleas, and indictments since Kriegshauser took office.

FINANCIAL FRAUD

•    Two former employees of the Wyandotte County District Court received prison sentences for using their positions in the accounting office to steal approximately $980,000 in taxpayer funds. 
•    A federal jury convicted union leaders of racketeering, fraud, and embezzlement in a scheme involving theft of union-member dues through the award of no-show jobs, lavish travel, unearned vacation payouts, and an unauthorized $7 million loan made to a union-related bank. 

VIOLENT CRIME

•    Four defendants in a kidnapping received prison sentences in a crime where the victim was bound and blindfolded for approximately 10 hours. 
•    An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced to 20 years in prison for violently attacking a federal law enforcement agent, the maximum punishment allowed under the statute.  The defendant assaulted and strangled an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deportation officer.  

PROJECT SAFE CHILDHOOD

•    A Kansas man was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release after he directed a foreign national living in another country to create child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and send him the images. 
•    A Kansas man was sentenced to 25 years in prison after he uploaded photographs of women and children he knew into a publicly available Artificial Intelligence platform. He then utilized AI to manipulate and merge their images into hundreds of depictions of child sexual abuse material.     

NATIONAL SECURITY

•    The FBI arrested three men on charges that they conspired to provide support ISIS, a foreign terrorist organization. The defendants allegedly discussed violent attacks on U.S. servicemembers.
•    An Oklahoma man pleaded guilty after lying to U.S. customs officials while attempting to board a flight to China with proprietary information belonging to his employer. 

FENTANYL & OTHER NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING

•    An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced to 20 years in prison as the ringleader of a drug trafficking ring supplied by a Mexican cartel. A Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) investigation led to the convictions of more than a dozen defendants who either worked for or were clients of the operation. 
•    Fifteen defendants were sentenced to prison after the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) dismantled a Kansas City metro-based drug trafficking ring linked to Mexico. The smuggled cocaine was distributed in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Ryan A. Kriegshauser 

Kriegshauser began his legal career at a firm in Kansas City litigating constitutional claims, complex commercial litigation, and regulatory defense. Kriegshauser then led the Kansas Secretary of State's Office as Deputy Secretary of State for  the Office of Legal Counsel and Policy before becoming General Counsel at the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner.  In 2018, Kriegshauser entered private practice where his work included constitutional claims. election law, business litigation as well as other civil and criminal matters. 

Kriegshauser received a bachelor's degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. He continues to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve as a Commander. 

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man pleaded guilty to producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

According to court documents, William “Bill” Bright, 58, of Hutchinson pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child pornography. 

In June 2025, Bright went to a Kansas truck stop for a sexual meetup with a 15-year-old girl with whom he’d been exchanging private messages. The “girl” was actually a law enforcement officer, and Bright was arrested. Officers obtained a search warrant for Bright's cellphone where they discovered CSAM images of two minor victims under 14 years old. Text messages indicate Bright requested the images from the victims and that he was aware the victims were minors.  

Bright is scheduled to be sentenced on November 12, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

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

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TOPEKA, KAN. – A convicted felon was sentenced to 137 months in prison after being repeatedly caught with firearms although he cannot legally possess guns.  

According to court documents, Brandon Paul McFall, 34, of Topeka pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of firearm by a convicted felon.

In 2020, McFall was convicted in Bay County, Florida, for being a felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition. 

In May 2023, a Shawnee County Sheriff's Office deputy stopped McFall for a traffic violation. Inside the vehicle, a deputy found a pistol and ammunition.

In November 2023, a Shawnee County Sheriff's deputy saw McFall racing around a roundabout on a stolen motorcycle. McFall fled from law enforcement before abandoning the motorcycle and running away on foot. Deputies tracked and located McFall using a canine. They also found a firearm within yards of the motorcycle that McFall left behind. 

“Some people learn from their mistakes and don’t repeat the behavior that caused them to run afoul of the law. Mr. McFall is not one of those people. It surprises no one except him that his cycle of crime keeps resulting in the same outcome: him being locked up in a cell,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.  

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough prosecuted the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 121 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to crimes related child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

According to court documents, Gavin Onuffer, 28, of Haysville pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. 

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a cybertip concerning CSAM activity from an IP address connected to Onuffer’s home.  While executing a search warrant on Onuffer’s cellphone, law enforcement found CSAM images depicting prepubescent girls subjected to sexual conduct. 

“People who take pleasure in viewing, creating, or distributing images of little children being sexually exploited are a danger to our society and belong behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We ask the public that if you know someone who engages in this type of behavior to please make a report to law enforcement.”

The Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and Wichita Police Department investigated the case. 

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

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man who led law enforcement on a high-speed chase across state lines was sentenced to 132 months in prison for illegal drug and firearms possession.

According to court documents, Marquis V. Bridgeman, 28, of Mission pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a machine gun and one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. 

In December 2024, Bridgeman committed a drive by shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, involving another driver. The other driver wasn’t injured. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) traced the license plate to an apartment in Mission, Kansas, where they spotted the vehicle used in the shooting. Investigators saw Bridgeman exit the apartment and drive away in another vehicle. When a trooper attempted to stop Bridgeman, he led a high-speed chase across the state line and into Kansas City, Missouri. Eventually, law enforcement used tactical intervention to disable the vehicle and took Bridgeman into custody. 

Inside the vehicle Bridgeman was driving during the chase, officers found keys to the other vehicle and two firearms, one of which was a Glock with a Glock-switch making it function as a machine gun. By comparing the casings recovered from the drive by shooting, investigators determined the Glock to be the weapon fired at the victim. Law enforcement searched the vehicle used in the drive by shooting and found a pistol and a bag with 140 grams in fentanyl. Inside Bridgeman’s apartment troopers found six firearms, approximately 98 grams of cocaine, 1,396 fentanyl pills, and approximately $50,000 in cash.

“While drug dealers with guns always cause grave concern, we are further alarmed seeing more criminals with firearms that are illegally converted into machine guns capable of firing more rounds and causing more destruction within a short time,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Some people apparently think these illegal machine gun conversion devices are fun to collect and use; however, they are likely committing federal crimes without being properly licensed and could end up spending a good amount of time in federal prison.”  

The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel prosecuted the case.

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TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges after leaving behind a bag of fentanyl at a daycare center.

According to court documents, Courtney McGee Cannon, 43, of Topeka pleaded guilty to three counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. 

On February 5, 2026, Cannon walked into the restroom at a childcare center in Topeka. While he used the restroom, Cannon dropped a baggie with a distribution amount of fentanyl on the floor. Cannon left without realizing he no longer had the baggie. An employee went into the restroom, found the fentanyl, and turned it over to security.  Surveillance video showed Cannon as the only person to enter the restroom between the time it was cleaned and the employee found the baggie. 

On February 12, 2026, while executing a search warrant, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office discovered a distribution amount of fentanyl on Cannon’s person. He confessed to law enforcement that he sells fentanyl.

On March 4, 2026, a federal grand jury indicted Cannon and subsequently a warrant was issued for his arrest. When law enforcement arrested Cannon two days later, they again found distribution quantities of a fentanyl on him.

“It’s shocking that someone could be so uncaring and negligent as to take a substance as toxic as fentanyl into a childcare center,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Thank goodness an adult found the baggie instead of innocent children who might have mistaken it for candy, or this could have turned into a horrific tragedy.” 

Cannon is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough is prosecuting the case.

WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging Kansas man with attempting to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

According to court documents, Tyller White, 24, of Parsons was indicted on one count of sexual exploitation of a child – attempted production of child pornography.

In July 2026, White is accused of attempting to surreptitiously create a CSAM depiction of a minor victim. 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating the case.

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

OTHER INDICTMENTS

Jeremy M. Green, 42, of Stockton was indicted on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is investigating the case.

Hugo Orora-Soto, 42, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Jose Luis Rauda-Diaz, 45, an illegal alien from El Salvador, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after felony conviction. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case.

Pedro Antonio Rosales-Gutierrez, 34, an illegal alien from Honduras, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. 

Ildenfonso Sanchez-Estrada, 24, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of distribution of a controlled substance. Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man previously convicted of sexual exploitation of a child was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for charges related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

According to court documents, David Mark Jones, 35, of Shawnee pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. 

In February 2023, Jones was convicted in Johnson County District Court of sexual exploitation of a child. His sentence included lifetime post release supervision and lifetime registration as a sex offender. 

Between February and March 2024, Jones distributed CSAM including images involving a prepubescent minors under 12 years old.

“This case is an example of why the sex offender registry is so needed” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Because there are people monitoring sex offenders and checking to see that they are compliant with the rules once they are released, Mr. Jones’ crimes were detected, and now Mr. Jones is going back to prison.” 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Kansas Highway Patrol investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick prosecuted the case.

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

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WICHITA, KAN. — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas announced filing a denaturalization action against a man born in India who allegedly became a United States citizen under a false identity.

Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a naturalized U.S. citizen’s citizenship may be revoked, and certificate of naturalization canceled, if the naturalization was illegally procured or procured by concealment of a material fact or by willful misrepresentation. 

On August 7, 2026, the United States of America filed a civil action in the District of Kansas against Harinder Singh, a.k.a. Harinder Singh Sanghera a.k.a. Rushpal Singh of Olathe to revoke his naturalized U.S. citizenship. The U.S. government alleges Singh procured his naturalization unlawfully, and that he willfully misrepresented and concealed material facts in applying to naturalize.

When the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) initially encountered the defendant in 1991 at JFK International Airport, he identified himself as Rushpal Singh.  In August 1995, an immigration judge ordered him to be deported, a decision which was subsequently upheld by the Board of Immigration Appeals. The government has no record Singh ever left the U.S. pursuant to his exclusion and deportation order.

In June1996, Singh filed an application with INS for an immigration benefit under the name Harinder Singh. He also changed his date of birth, date of entry into the U.S., and the factual basis for his claim. INS granted the application. In October 2000, the INS approved Singh’s application for adjustment of status to a lawful permanent resident under the identity Harinder Singh. Eight years later he naturalized under the identity and immigration history of Harinder Singh. He did not disclose his prior immigration history under a different name. 

The U.S. government brings this civil action to revoke and set aside the order admitting the defendant’s citizenship and to cancel his certificate of naturalization. Since Jan. 20, 2025, the Justice Department has filed approximately 123 civil denaturalization complaints, the most in recorded history.

The claims made in the complaints are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

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TOPEKA, KAN.– A federal jury convicted a U.S. Army veteran of defrauding the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of over $170,000 in caregiver benefit payments that he was not entitled to receive.

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

According to court documents, James Bradford, 49, of Junction City was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to defraud the government and one count of theft of public money, property, or records.

The VA operates the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). PCAFC provides monthly payments to individuals, typically family members, who care for qualified veterans and service members. The program is intended to compensate caregivers who spend substantial amounts of time providing care since that can limit their ability to work.  

Between August 2014 and July 2023, Bradford and his caregiver knowingly provided false and fraudulent statements concerning the level of care Mr. Bradford required from his caregiver.  Bradford and his caregiver reported he was unable to provide himself basic care such as medication management, organizing financial affairs, and transportation which required his caregiver to do on his behalf.  

However, from May 2016 until approximately 2025, Bradford worked for the federal government. He was employed by U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) as a project manager in Topeka. His work duties included overseeing multi-million-dollar contracts between GSA and vendors.

“Safeguarding benefits for veterans is a priority, and our investigators work diligently to ensure that VA’s programs are not exploited for financial gain by fraudulent actors,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners who remain committed to hold accountable those who would defraud VA’s programs and services.”

“Fraud against a program designed to provide essential care to veterans is unacceptable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jorge Richardson of the U.S. General Services Administration Office of Inspector General Midwest Investigations Division. “We will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to stop fraud and ensure federal programs operate with integrity.”

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) and U.S. General Services Administration – Office of Inspector General (GSA-OIG) are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara Walton and Lindsey Debenham are prosecuting the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced to 151 months in prison for drug trafficking. 

According to court documents, Pedro Moreno-Duenas, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 50 grams or more methamphetamine. 

In January 2025, a Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) undercover agent set up a meeting with Moreno-Duenas in Kansas City, Kansas to purchase methamphetamine.  Moreno-Duenas told the officer he had firearms for sale. He removed a 9mm pistol from his waistband and offered to sell it for $350.  After the undercover agent paid Moreno-Duenas for the firearm, Moreno-Duenas said he could sell him methamphetamine at a later date.  

In February 2025, Moreno-Duenas and the undercover agent exchanged text messages to arrange a methamphetamine purchase. Moreno-Duenas quoted a price of $1,800 for a pound of methamphetamine and $200 for fentanyl pills. He also sent a photograph of a Glock pistol with two magazines for sale.  The undercover agent met up with Moreno-Duenas and his associate.  The associate handed the agent a plastic bag containing a crystal substance, later confirmed to be methamphetamine. 

A KBI lab report showed the baggie contained approximately 452 grams of pure methamphetamine.

Marco Carillo, 55, an illegal alien from Mexico, was also charged in connection with this case. Carillo pleaded guilty to one count of illegal alien in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 37 months in prison.

“People coming into our country and engaging in drug and firearms trafficking should be deeply troubling to all Americans. Our office and our law enforcement partners are committed to arresting and prosecuting dangerous illegal aliens and expelling them from our borders once they have served their sentences,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the cases.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trent Krug and Taylor Hines prosecuted these cases.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man was sentenced to 84 months in prison after law enforcement found drugs and illegal firearms on his person and in his vehicle. 

According to court documents, John Hicks, 39, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

In January 2025, the Wichita Police Department was attempting to locate Hicks because of a felony arrest warrant for aggravated assault. Officers observed Hicks exit from a residence and drive away. They followed him to a second location where he was arrested.

While searching Hicks, officers found a baggie containing approximately 14 grams of pure methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and ammunition. Officers also searched his vehicle where they found two firearms, one of which had an extended 30-round magazine with 12 rounds of ammunition.

Hicks admitted to eating some of the methamphetamine just prior to officers arresting him.

“Drug trafficking and violence are often linked. Armed drug dealers put innocent people living in the community at greater risk of falling victim to gun violence,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The defendant in this case was found in possession of illegal narcotics and firearms, which is a recipe for disaster.”  

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Wichita Police Department investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi prosecuted the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Missouri woman pleaded guilty to using the internet to stalk and terrorize a victim in Kansas with threats of rape and murder.

According to court documents, Julianne Grace Willis, 26, of Independence, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of cyberstalking.

In October 2022, a victim in Ulysses, Kansas, noticed a minor relative had received instant messages on a Roblox account from someone purporting to be a 24-year-old man named Chris. The messages were demeaning, and the victim blocked the account. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) would later trace the phone number and IP address to Julianne Grace Willis. 

After the victim blocked the Roblox account, Willis began harassing the victim through telephone calls, text messages, and social media messages with threats to rape and kill the victim and to murder the victim’s family. 

Willis created a fake dating profile which caused men to show up at the victim’s home expecting romantic encounters. The victim changed jobs because of Willis calling the victim’s employment making derogatory statements. Willis also sent communications to the victim’s relatives with accusations of infidelity. 

“The victim in this case endured a sustained and deliberate campaign of harassment by the defendant, whose repeated actions caused significant disruption to the victim’s daily life and well-being of their family.  This conduct had a profound and lasting impact on the victim’s sense of security and quality of life.  The FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting victims, aggressively investigating those who engage in criminal harassment, and holding offenders accountable under the law,” said Chris Ormerod, FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge.

Willis is scheduled to be sentenced on November 4, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak is prosecuting the case.

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TOPEKA, KAN – A Kansas man pleaded guilty to distributing obscene AI-generated images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. 

According to court documents, Michael Steven Podrybau, 43, of Alton pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of obscene visual representation of the sexual abuse of children.

Between March 2023 and April 2023, Podrybau used the online communication platform Wickr Pro to distribute computer-generated images that were obscene and depicted minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. 

He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Walton is prosecuting the case.

Project Safe Childhood

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

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TOPEKA, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) is again participating in National Night Out events alongside law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities.

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 of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities. The outreach events are held in August in most areas of the country.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office prioritizes participation in National Night Out because these event are opportunities for meaningful interaction with the public that help foster trust and strengthen relationships,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “This year we will be in Derby and Topeka. In previous years, we’ve gone to Gardner, Wichita, Overland Park, and El Dorado where we enjoyed speaking one-on-one with some of our fellow Kansans.”

On Tuesday, August 4, 2026, the USAO-KS staff took part in the Derby Police Department’s National Night Out event at High Park. The Outreach Team set up an information table and passed out brochures to visitors on topics like about how to spot and avoid financial scams, resources for victims of crime, and the dangers of fentanyl use.

USAO-KS will be at the 2026 City of Topeka National Night Out Community Resource Expo on Saturday, August 8, 2026.   

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

Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out brings police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, safety demonstrations, youth events, and more. National Night Out sends a message of unity that says by working together, neighbors can keep their communities and each other safe.

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

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Missouri man pleaded guilty to crossing state lines to have sex with someone he thought to be a 14-year-old girl.

According to court documents, James D. Fishbaugh, 53, of Blue Springs, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. 

In August 2025, Fishbaugh used a social media account to communicate with an undercover agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) posing as a minor. During the online chat, the agent claimed to be 14 years old, to which Fishbaugh responded that he was 49.

Fishbaugh shifted the conversation to be sexual in nature and told the agent he “would love to meet you sometime”.  On August 22, 2025, Fishbaugh drove from his residence in Missouri to a designated meeting place in Kansas, stopping for condoms along the way. Agents arrested him upon arrival. Fishbaugh told officers that he believed the undercover agent was a real 14-year-old girl and that he traveled to the residence to have sex with the minor.

Fishbaugh is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.

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

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A former Kansas emergency responder pleaded guilty to sending and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online.

According to court documents, Dylan Jamescupp, 34, of Ottawa pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography. 

Between July 2021 and September 2022, Jamescupp uploaded and traded CSAM using social media platforms. Whenever a platform suspended or terminated his accounts, Jamescupp would create a new account to continue with his criminal activities. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received multiple cybertips about Jamescupp which were forwarded to the U.S. Secret Service.

In March 2024, federal agents executed a search warrant at Jamescupp’s home where agents seized electronic devices. A forensic analysis found CSAM including 2,306 photos and 369 videos. Jamescupp told investigators he’d viewed sexual exploitation images involving children as young as eight years old. His phone GPS information indicated that Jamescupp was sent CSAM images while at the Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department, where he worked as an emergency medical technician prior to the search of his home. 

Jamescupp is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.

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

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WICHITA, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) continues to spread the word about government imposter scams. In the spirit of Elder Justice Coordinating Council’s (EJCC) Never EVER campaign, USAO-KS wants to raise awareness about a specific imposter scam, the jury duty scam. U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser is sharing information with the public about what they should Never EVER do after receiving calls or other types of solicitations claiming to be from federal or state court staff. 

In recent months, law enforcement agencies in the Sedgwick County/Wichita area have notified USAO-KS about an increase in residents reporting being victims of or targeted by jury duty scams. Residents say individuals contacted them claiming to represent the U.S. District Court of Kansas or the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. These individuals told residents that they had failed to show up for a jury summons and are facing possible arrest. The callers tell people they can avoid going to jail by immediately paying a fine that some victims report to be as high as $1,500. In some cases, references are made to a specific judge or a claim is that a hearing is set but would be cancelled if payment is made immediately. This is a scam!!

“These imposter scammers lie, and their lies are elaborate and try to mix small elements of truth to gain trust. They make up complicated stories designed to frighten you, so you’ll panic and act quickly before taking time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust,” said Kriegshauser. “These scammers pretend to be someone they’re not to trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or get your personal information.”

Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million.  In many cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they’re with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. 

To recognize and avoid a government imposter, you should keep these things in mind:

•    Courts do not demand payment by telephone, text message, email, or mobile payment application to resolve jury-related matters.
•    Courts do not instruct individuals to purchase gift cards, use cryptocurrency, or transmit funds to avoid arrest or penalties for jury service issues.
•    Members of the public who receive suspicious communication should not provide personal or financial information and should independently contact the court at an official phone number listed on the court’s public website.

Visit https://ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

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TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas woman is now a convicted felon after stealing approximately $49,000 that her relative received in veterans benefits to pay her own personal expenses. 

The Department of Justice has created the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

According to court documents, Lucretia Miller, 53, of Topeka pleaded guilty to one count of misappropriation by fiduciary. A federal judge sentenced her to five years of probation. 

From October 2020 through April 2022, Miller served as fiduciary for her father who was unable to manage his financial affairs. Without authorization, Miller took funds her father received from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as part of his disability compensation and misappropriated the money.

“After men and women serve our county, one way our nation serves them is by providing VA benefits in their time of need,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Because Ms. Miller’s relative needed assistance, she was assigned to look after his finances. She lined her own pockets instead of using the funds for their sole intended purpose, which is for the care of her father.”

“VA benefits are earned through service, and anyone who exploits a veteran’s trust or steals those funds will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office. “The VA OIG is committed to protecting benefits intended for veterans.”

The Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Investigation (VA-OIG) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham prosecuted the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A former mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) admitted to stealing letters and parcels instead of delivering them to their rightful owners. 

According to court documents, Amanda Tucker, 48, of Scott City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of mail by a postal employee. 

Tucker delivered mail for the Scott City Post Office. In August 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Tucker’s home. They found USPS letters and parcels in her home and her vehicle that were addressed to residents along her delivery route.

“Customers depend on the U.S. Postal Service for mail and packages which can contain anything from prescription medications to important documents,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The defendant showed little regard for how stealing letters and parcels could affect the people living along her route who rely on these deliveries.”  

Tucker is scheduled to be sentenced on October 20, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The U.S Postal Service – Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kari Burks is prosecuting the case.

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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with robbing a bank.

According to court documents, Daniel J. Young, 41, of Kansas City, Kansas, was indicted on one count of bank robbery and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

In June 2026, Young is accused of brandishing a firearm while robbing a bank on Parallel Parkway in Kansas City, Kansas, and using intimidation to force an employee to give him money.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a man for allegedly having a pistol when he is prohibited from legally possessing guns because of a prior felony conviction.

According to court documents, Jey Lewis, 27, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting the case.

OTHER INDICTMENTS

Juan Carlos Duron, 50, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously deported alien convicted of an aggravated felony. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting the case.

Michell Gonzalez-Diaz, 33, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.

Jose De Jesus Martinez-Chavez, 48, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. 

Robert Moreno-Rodriguez, 46, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man pleaded guilty to illegally selling crops that were collateral for a federal government loan.

According to court documents, Steven W. Porubsky, 49, of Topeka pleaded guilty to one count of conversion of mortgaged collateral.

Porubsky defrauded the Farm Service Agency, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 

Porubsky is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham is prosecuting the case.

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WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release after he directed a foreign national living in another country to create child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and send him the images.

According to court documents, Ronald Waltrip, 62, of Haysville pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sexual exploitation of a child – production of child pornography. 

Waltrip used a social media account to exchange messages with an adult male in Australia. The messages show that Waltrip asked about a six-year-old child who was in the man’s custody and directed him to engage in sexual acts with the child.  The man complied and at Waltrip’s request, created images of the child sexual abuse. The Australian man sent CSAM recordings to Waltrip.

“Waltrip and his co-conspirator may be on different continents, but they share the same evil fantasies. Waltrip’s crime is so egregious that even after he gets out of prison, he will be under the supervision of probationary officers for the rest of his life,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. 

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and Wichita Police Department investigated the case.

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

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