District of Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that Everlight Electronics, a publicly traded Taiwanese company that manufactures light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and Everlight Americas, its Texas-based subsidiary, agreed to pay the United States $5.15 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act, common law, and the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, by knowingly failing to pay duties owed on LEDs imported from the People’s Republic of China.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the settlement with Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan S. Thomas, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Trade.

“Companies that seek to import goods into the United States must comply with customs laws and pay the rightful duties owed,” Hayes said. “As evidenced by this case, we will use all tools available to identify and hold accountable those who commit trade fraud by falsely identifying the country of origin of imported goods to pay lower customs duties than actually owed.”             

“Trade fraud undermines the U.S. Government’s ability to collect the proper revenue, hurts legitimate companies, and puts American consumers at risk,” Thomas said. “Trade fraud isn’t a victimless crime, and we work around the clock with our partners to ensure that bad actors face consequences.”

When entering goods into the United States, an importer must declare, among other things, the country of origin of the goods, the classification of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, and pay the amount of duties owed. CBP collects applicable duties, including Section 301 tariffs imposed by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Section 301 tariffs protect U.S. industry by imposing trade sanctions on foreign countries that violate U.S. trade agreements or engage in other unreasonable acts that burden U.S. commerce. During the relevant time period, Chinese-manufactured LEDs were subject to Section 301 tariffs.

The settlement resolves allegations that, from July 2018, through January 2022, Everlight knowingly misrepresented the country of origin on Chinese-manufactured LEDs.  More specifically, the U.S. alleged that Everlight knew these products were manufactured in China, and then transshipped to Taiwan, before shipping them to the U.S.  Everlight allegedly misrepresented to CBP that the products originated in Taiwan rather than China to avoid paying applicable Section 301 tariffs. The settlement also resolves allegations that, from January 2022, through November 2025, Everlight continued to import LEDs from Taiwan, some of which were manufactured in China based on the country of origin of the dice of the LED, without further segregating the Chinese-made dice from the Taiwanese-made dice during LED manufacturing. 

This civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam, or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Tao Wang, a former employee of Everlight.  Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery.  Relator’s share of the proceeds of the settlement will be $876,146. The qui tam action is captioned United States ex rel. Wang v. Everlight Electronics Co., Ltd., et al., No. TDC-21-cv-1607 (D. Md.).

On Aug. 29, 2025, the Department of Justice launched a cross-agency Trade Fraud Task Force to enhance efforts to combat and prevent trade fraud that deprives the government of vital revenue, threatens critical domestic industries, undermines consumer confidence, and weakens national security. The Task Force augments existing coordination mechanisms within the Department of Justice, leveraging expertise from both the Civil and Criminal Divisions, as well as the Department of Homeland Security, to aggressively pursue enforcement actions against any parties who seek to evade tariffs and other duties, as well as smugglers who seek to import prohibited goods into the American economy. The Justice Department encourages whistleblowers to utilize the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act to alert the government to credible allegations of fraud.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended CBP for its work in the investigation and providing critical support through the Electronic Center of Excellence and Expertise and the Office of Assistant Chief Counsel, Baltimore Northeast Region. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tarra DeShields and DOJ Trial Attorney Jennifer Chorpening who handled this case. 

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man received a sentence of more than eight years in federal prison, today, for drug trafficking and firearm charges in connection with a local drug trafficking investigation. 

 U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox sentenced Davon Taylor, 35, to 97 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Taylor also agreed that this offense violated the conditions of his federal supervised release.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to court documents, on April 9, 2025, law enforcement agents used a surveillance camera to monitor a large Northwest Baltimore parking lot, known as “the panyard.” Agents observed Taylor arrive at the panyard and engage in hand-to-hand drug transactions before removing an object from his waistband. He then placed the object inside of a pizza box on top of a recycling bin.

Law enforcement arrested Taylor and then agents recovered a handgun, loaded with a magazine containing 12 rounds of live ammunition, that was reported stolen in May 2022. Agents also searched the area and found a bag containing additional plastic bags with numerous vials and jugs of fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base, along with a digital scale with white residue on it. Additionally, law enforcement found $1,549 in cash.

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.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Godwin who is prosecuting this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that it filed a two-count indictment against two drug traffickers, a Maryland man and an illegal alien, stemming from a federal drug investigation. 

Jamar Rashard Whitaker, 42, of Waldorf, and Pedro Antonio Guardado Rivera, 33, of El Salvador, made their initial appearances to face the charges.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Charles County Sheriff’s Department (CCSD); and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Department (SMCSD). 

According to the indictment, beginning in July 2025, and continuing into at least October 2025, Whitaker and Guardado Rivera conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.  On July 22, 2025, the co-conspirators sold approximately 594 grams of cocaine to an undercover officer.  They are both charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and distribution and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Whitaker and Guardado Rivera face a minimum mandatory of five years and up to life in prison for conspiring, distributing, and possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

This prosecution is part of the HSTF initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, DEA, MSP, CCSD, and SMCSD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Duvall and Elizabeth Wright who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man received a federal prison term in connection with firearm charges.

U.S. District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Keith Cook, 32, to seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Additionally, Cook is a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to court documents, on January 27, 2023, a BPD officer, monitoring a West Baltimore neighborhood via CitiWatch camera, observed Cook and other individuals in front of a mini mart. During the surveillance, Cook reached into a blue backpack and took out a clear plastic Tupperware container. Then Cook opened the container and took out a clear plastic bag containing suspected marijuana. Cook then took some of the suspected marijuana out of the bag and gave it to an unidentified male.

Minutes later, Cook again took out suspected marijuana and handed it to a second unidentified male. Based on their observations via the Citiwatch camera, officers proceeded to the mini mart. 

Upon arrival, officers located and handcuffed Cook and then searched him. During the search, officers found a firearm, equipped with an extended magazine loaded with 26 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition; 14 Alprazolam pills; 88 Oxycodone pills; a Buprenorphine foil strip; $906 in cash; an iPhone; and a flip phone. 

Additionally, law enforcement recovered the backpack that contained the Tupperware filled with bags of suspected marijuana and a clear bag and gelcaps containing a heroin and fentanyl mixture. Law enforcement also discovered a clear bag with 33 clear gelcaps containing a tan powder that didn’t test positive as a controlled substance; a digital scale; and various drug-packaging materials.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in this investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Tsuei who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Houston man pled guilty in federal court, today, to child sex abuse crimes.  

Dazhon Darien, 34, formerly of Baltimore, Maryland, pled guilty to sexually exploiting a child.  Darien admitted that he sexually exploited eight minor victims. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).

According to his guilty plea, on five occasions, between April 2023, and June 2024, Darien persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced Minor Victim 1, age 15 and 16, respectively, at the time, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child sexual abuse material (CSAM).  Darien then used CashApp to pay Minor Victim 1 for the production and transmission of CSAM videos.  Additionally, Darien admitted to sexually exploiting seven other victims who were between ages 14 and 17. Darien stored the exploitation videos on his cellphones and in internet-based accounts. He lived in Maryland until approximately June 2024, before moving to Texas.

Darien faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a minor. Sentencing is set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 11 a.m.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and BCPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland woman received a federal-prison term, today, for her role in an unemployment insurance (UI) fraud conspiracy. 

District Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced Elizabeth Maria Ceballos, 50, of Silver Spring, to 40 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges in connection with the scheme. Judge Maddox also ordered Ceballos to pay $638,889 in restitution. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Inspector General Anthony P. D’Esposito, U.S. Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General, (DOL-OIG), and Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act — a federal law enacted in March 2020 — provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also authorized increased UI benefits.

According to public documents, beginning in at least May 2020, and continuing through at least September 2021, Ceballos, and co-conspirator Vanessa Valdez, 42, of Burtonsville, Maryland, engaged in a conspiracy and scheme to defraud and obtain money by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, in connection with an UI fraud scheme. Specifically, Ceballos received money in exchange for fabricating false tax documents that were filed in support of fraudulent UI benefits claims submitted to the Maryland Department of Labor (MD-DOL). 

As a part of her guilty plea, Ceballos also admitted assisting Valdez with fraud related to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funds. Established by the CARES Act, the PPP — administered through the Small Business Administration — along with the EIDL, helped businesses meet their financial obligations. An EIDL advance does not have to be repaid, and small businesses can receive an advance, even if they are not approved for an EIDL loan. The maximum advance amount is $10,000.

In December 2025, Valdez also pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. A sentencing date for Valdez is forthcoming. 

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DOL-OIG and HSI Maryland, for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Motsay who prosecuted the case.

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.

For more information about the Department’s response to the pandemic, visit justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a national from Honduras, residing in Halethorpe, Maryland, today, in connection with an illegal immigration crime. 

U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Carlos Amador Lopez, 30, to 10 months in federal prison for illegal re-entry of an alien after a prior conviction and removal. In 2018, authorities convicted Amador Lopez of robbery, an aggravated felony, in Nebraska.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Field Office Director Robert Guadian, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Washington D.C. Field Office.

According to court documents, following his conviction for an aggravated felony, authorities removed Amador Lopez from the United States.  As part of his removal, authorities advised Amador Lopez that, due to his conviction, he is excluded from re-entering the U.S. 

After his initial removal, Amador Lopez voluntarily and unlawfully re-entered the U.S. without inspection or permission on two separate occasions.  Authorities removed Amador Lopez from the U.S. in 2021, and 2024, respectively.  He never sought nor obtained the consent of the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of Homeland Security to apply for readmission. 

On December 31, 2025, law enforcement encountered Amador Lopez and took him into custody. Then on June 1, 2026, Amador Lopez pled guilty to illegal re-entry after prior removal and conviction of an aggravated felony.

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.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended ICE-ERO for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared W. Murphy who prosecuted the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced, today, that 14 Baltimore men face indictment stemming from a federal investigation into a group running an open-air drug market in West Baltimore.

A federal grand jury indicted Walter Epps, 41; Luther Amos, 54; Antoine Benjamin, 34; Wendell Boykins Jr., 37; Davon Brown, 30; Zy’quin Coleman, 24; Xavier Cooper, 20; Antonio Curtis, 41; Keith Fryson, 22; James Keene, 62; Antonio Mason, 33; Miayon Medley, 25; Gregory Alexander Partlow, 38; and Darien Whitaker, 39. The co-conspirators are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances; possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances; and aiding & abetting, in connection with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Operation Tug of War.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, ATF; Ivan J. Bates, State’s Attorney for Baltimore City; and Police Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to the indictment, the co-conspirators operated multiple “street shops” in open-air markets where they sold narcotics, including fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine. They primarily ran shops in the 1800 blocks of North Carey and Woodyear Streets.

Epps served as an overseer of one of the street shops. He worked alongside Amos, Boykins, Brown, Curtis, Keene, Medley, Partlow, and other co-conspirators, who held supervisory roles. Epps and the other supervisors coordinated drug sales; resupplied subordinates with drugs; collected money from subordinates and counted it after sales; and, in some cases, conducted sales themselves. 

The co-conspirators, who typically sold drugs daily, used multiple “stash” locations to store drugs for distribution, including outdoor “ground-stash” locations for immediate resupply. Additionally, the co-conspirators used residences, such as Amos’s, and others nearby, to hold larger quantities of narcotics.

On some occasions, the co-conspirators, and others, unknowingly sold drugs to a confidential informant (CI) or undercover investigator (UI). The CI and UI ordered larger distribution-level quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and/or crack cocaine. 

On July 29, law enforcement executed arrest and search warrants in connection with the operation. During the execution of the warrants, law enforcement seized seven firearms; more than 450 rounds of ammunition; several hundred gel caps of suspected fentanyl; more than one kilo of suspected cocaine; several hundred grams of suspected fentanyl; more than six pounds of marijuana; approximately 1,500 pills containing an unknown, suspected controlled dangerous substance; approximately $15,000 in cash; and 32 phones. 

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, the co-conspirators face up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Additionally, the co-conspirators are facing up to 20 years for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, with some facing a five-year mandatory minimum, and up to 40 years, for knowingly distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City Major Investigations Unit, and BPD for their work in the investigation, along with the U.S. Department of Treasury IRS-Criminal Investigation Maryland Financial Intelligence Crimes Task Force, U.S. Marshals Service, Anne Arundel County Police Department, and Baltimore County Police Department for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys LaRai Everett and Alexander Levin who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Agency Quotes

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland

“This operation and arrests highlight our continued commitment to holding individuals accountable who endanger the welfare of others,” Hayes said. “Illicit drug activity — whether in open-air markets or elsewhere — threatens public safety and has no place in our communities. We’re committed to collaborating with our law-enforcement partners to hold those who traffic drugs accountable and to eradicate criminal activity throughout Maryland.” 

Charles Doerrer, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Baltimore

“I am proud of the work our ATF special agents did with our federal, state, and local partners,” Doerrer said. “ATF agents worked tirelessly in this case to hold those who flood our neighborhoods with dangerous drugs accountable.”

Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore City State’s Attorney

“Open-air drug markets wreak lasting harm on our neighborhoods by fueling violence, driving addiction, and robbing residents of the safe, healthy communities they deserve. These indictments demonstrate what is possible when our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners work together with a shared mission to dismantle criminal enterprises that threaten public safety,” Bates said. “I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes, ATF Baltimore, the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, the Baltimore Police Department, and every agency involved in this investigation for their unwavering commitment to protecting the people of Baltimore. Together, we are sending a clear message that those who profit from poisoning our communities will be identified, investigated, and held fully accountable for the trauma they have inflicted.”

Police Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department

“Today's announcement reflects the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the Baltimore Police Department, who continue to work tirelessly alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to dismantle the drug trafficking organizations that threaten our neighborhoods,” Worley said. “These investigations are about more than making arrests, they’re about improving the quality of life for our residents by disrupting the violence and crime that accompany open-air drug markets. Together, and with the support of our community, we remain committed to making Baltimore safer.”

Baltimore, Maryland – A North Carolina man, who posed as an investment advisor, is headed to prison for running an investment fund theft scam in which he stole from at least 64 investors in the District of Maryland.

Today, U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox sentenced Hunter Haithcock, 25, aka Hunter Elliott, of Matthews, to 42 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for committing wire and investment adviser fraud. Judge Maddox also ordered Haithcock to pay $655,498.93 in restitution and forfeiture. Through Haithcock’s scheme, he stole at least $650,000 in funds from the victims. 

 Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office. 

According to court documents, beginning in September 2019, and continuing through October 2022, Haithcock stole at least $655,498.93 from the victims. The victims entrusted Haithcock with their funds after he deceptively claimed he worked for Company #1 with a registered investment adviser (the “victim investment advisor”). Then Haithcock told the victim investors if they invested with him, he would guarantee their investment principal and provide them significant returns on their investments. 

In connection with the scheme, Haithcock routinely provided investors with fabricated reports that purported to show investors’ portfolio gains. But Haithcock created the fictitious documents to perpetuate and conceal his scheme.  Instead of investing his clients’ investment funds, Haithcock stole them. Haithcock funneled the money to accounts he controlled and used the funds for his own purposes.  Specifically, he used the stolen funds to pay for credit card bills, meals, entertainment, car payments, travel expenses – including hotels and flights, and to trade cryptocurrency for his own benefit.

As described in his plea agreement, Haithcock met his victims in a variety of ways, including through a local church and by word-of-mouth referrals. Haithcock routinely represented himself as Hunter Elliott, a licensed securities broker for Company #1, who could invest their money in securities and provide them with very large, 100-200 percent or larger, returns. But Haithcock was never employed with Company #1 or any other broker-dealer. Haithcock also never had a license to trade securities and does not know the victim investment advisor.   

Additionally, Haithcock promised investors that their investment principal was protected from loss regardless of the risk of the performance of the market and the size of their initial investment. Some victims invested tens of thousands of dollars while others invested $10,000 or less. Haithcock routinely lied about the future projected performance of anticipated investments. 

After victims invested funds with Haithcock, he routinely provided investors with fraudulent “Statement Reports,” often on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. These reports purported to list, among other things, each investor’s portfolio value and purported stock trades Haithcock made on their behalf.  Eventually, when investors began to ask for the return of their funds, Haithcock fabricated reasons why he could not return their money.  Haithcock used a small portion of the client investor funds he received from other investors to pay a few of them back, but most victims received nothing. Eventually, Haithcock stopped returning their calls and text messages. 

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation and praised the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Cecil County Sherriff’s Office, and the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Maryland for their assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Wenner who prosecuted the federal case. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a West Virginia man to more than two decades in prison, today, for child sex abuse crimes.

U.S. District Judge Julie R. Rubin sentenced Donald Robert Wilt Edwards, Sr., 30, to 25 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for sexually exploiting a minor. A federal grand jury indicted Edwards in connection with the charges in April 2025.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD), and Colonel Jack Chambers, Superintendent, West Virginia State Police.

According to court documents, in June 2024, while he still lived in Baltimore, Edwards captured himself sexually abusing and exploiting a three-year-old minor victim. Edwards produced two images and one video of the abuse and distributed the files online using the Kik messaging application.  He also possessed other child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his cell phone and within his social media accounts.

In December 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at Edwards’ Elkins, West Virginia, residence, seizing multiple electronic devices. Throughout the course of the investigation, law enforcement uncovered additional CSAM on Edwards’ devices and in his social media accounts.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.  Click the “Resources” tab on the left side of the page to learn about Internet safety education. 

U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes commended the FBI, BPD, West Virginia State Police, and West Virginia Parole and Probation Office for their work in the investigation.  Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reema Sood and Paul E. Budlow who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man is headed to prison after a federal judge sentenced him, today, in connection with an armed carjacking at a local gas station. 

U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced Ron Wardlow, 27, to 20 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for carjacking, using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person. A jury convicted Wardlow of the charges in April 2026. Additionally, Wardlow was previously convicted of a robbery at the same Baltimore gas station where he was later arrested. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD), and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).

According to evidence presented at trial, on February 27, 2025, Wardlow approached Victim 1 and Victim 2 at a Fells Point gas station. Wardlow, who was wearing a mask and gloves, approached the victims and asked them for a ride.

When Victim 1 refused, Wardlow followed Victim 1 around the car and pulled out a 9mm Glock loaded with an extended magazine that held 31 rounds. Wardlow then pointed the gun at Victim 1 and demanded the car keys. Victim 1 complied and gave Wardlow the keys. Wardlow entered the car and drove off. Then the victims called 911 to report the carjacking.

Some of the victims’ digital devices remained in the car, which enabled them to track the devices. Activity stopped in the Liberty Heights neighborhood, so the victims assumed Wardlow tossed them from the car. 

Later, the victims went to the spot where the devices were. There, they found Victim 1’s car still running, but then the car backed up and drove away. Victim 1 again called the police to alert law enforcement to the car’s location.

Then officers from the Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATT) located the car at a nearby gas station.  When law enforcement arrived at the gas station, Wardlow saw them and fled on foot.  

Officers pursued Wardlow with the assistance of aerial surveillance. Law enforcement eventually found Wardlow hiding in the cellar entryway of a nearby residence. When officers searched Wardlow, they found the mask and gloves he wore during the carjacking. Additionally, officers found a bag in the car that contained the loaded Glock 9mm Wardlow pointed at Victim 1.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, BPD, and BCPD for their work in the investigation and RATT for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Levin and John W. Sippel, Jr., who prosecuted the case. 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man learned his fate in federal court, stemming from a firearms incident in a convenience store.

U.S. District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Tevin Williams, 33, of Halethorpe, to four years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person. Williams, a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition, attempted to conceal a backpack containing the firearm in a convenience store.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to court documents, on July 28, 2025, a BPD officer performed a business check at a convenience store located in Baltimore. While inside, the officer observed an individual in the back corner of the store standing next to a backpack stuffed between an ice-cream cooler and the wall. The officer asked the individual if the backpack belonged to him and the individual responded, “no.” Then the officer picked up the backpack and immediately recognized the shape and weight of a firearm inside. The officer opened the black backpack and recovered a pistol, equipped with a large-capacity magazine loaded with 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition. 

Law enforcement later reviewed the convenience store surveillance footage from that day and confirmed that the individual standing near the backpack did not manipulate or possess the backpack prior to its recovery. Instead, further review of surveillance footage revealed that Williams entered the convenience store after an unidentified individual approached him and they walked to the back of the store to the location of the backpack. He reached into the narrow space between the ice-cream cooler and the wall and pulled out the backpack. 

Williams eventually opened the backpack and handed items to the unidentified individual. THhen Williams closed the backpack and placed it back between the ice cream cooler and the wall. He later admitted that he possessed the recovered firearm and ammunition equipped with a large-capacity magazine. 

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and BPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Tsuei who prosecuted this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – An illegal alien from Guatemala, residing in Beltsville, Maryland, pled guilty in federal court, today, to illegal re-entry after prior removal. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland.

According to federal and state court documents, Bayron Leopoldo Perez Batres, 64, unlawfully re-entered the United States after authorities removed him on three separate occasions.  Authorities removed Perez Batres in January 1996, September 2009, and May 2010. 

Then on Sept. 6, 2024, law enforcement arrested Perez Batres in Maryland on state charges relating to sexual abuse of a minor. Perez Batres pled guilty to the charges on Sept. 2, 2025. At no time did Perez Batres receive consent from the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States, as required for him to legally enter the country.

Perez Batres faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 10 a.m.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Li and Brooke Oki, along with Trial Attorneys Matthew Thiman and Sean F. Mulryne, Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, who are prosecuting the federal case.

The indictment and plea announced today were coordinated and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). JTFA also leads and supports U.S. Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs) in the prosecution of crimes related to unaccompanied alien children (UACs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of 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 CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 464 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 414 U.S. convictions; and more than 360 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 other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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An illegal alien from Guatemala pleaded guilty today to illegal reentry after previously being deported. 

According to federal and state court documents, Bayron Leopoldo Perez Batres, 64, who resided in Beltsville, Maryland, unlawfully reentered the United States after having been previously removed. On Sept. 6, 2024, Perez Batres was arrested in Maryland on state charges relating to sexual abuse of a minor. After his arrest on state charges, it was established that he was illegally present in the United States and that he has been previously removed to Guatemala on three separate occasions – in January 1996, September 2009, and May 2010. He was charged with illegal reentry in the present case on Nov. 13, 2025. He pleaded guilty to state sexual abuse charges on Sept. 2, 2025 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison in October 2025.

Perez Batres is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 20 and faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland; and Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Maryland made the announcement.

HSI is investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Matthew Thiman and Sean F. Mulryne of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Li and Brooke Oki for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.

The indictment and plea announced today were coordinated and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). JTFA also leads and supports U.S. Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs) in the prosecution of crimes related to unaccompanied alien children (UACs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of 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 HSI and CBP/U.S. 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 465 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 424 U.S. convictions; and more than 368 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 other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced, today, that five men face indictment in connection with a cross-country drug trafficking operation, which included a plot to rob a California-based narcotics supplier.

Tyler Michael "Dink" Watson, 28, of Glen Burnie, Maryland; Akop Akop “Jack” Terzian, 30, Chatsworth, California; Nathan Andrew Jackson, 25, of Glen Burnie, Maryland; Dominick Terrell Johnson, 23, of Glen Burnie, Maryland; and Gary Bailey Jr., 28 of Glen Burnie, Maryland, are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Chief Amal E. Awad, Anne Arundel County Police Department (AACOPD).

According to the indictment, from March 2023, and continuing through May 2025, the co-conspirators sought to unlawfully distribute and possess with intent to distribute kilogram quantities of cocaine. On multiple occasions Watson, Jackson, Johnson, and Bailey traveled from Maryland to California to purchase controlled substances through Terzian, who would then ship the narcotics back to Maryland for distribution. 

Additionally, in July 2024, Watson, Jackson, Johnson, and Bailey conspired with Terzian to steal narcotics from a California source of supply. The Maryland co-conspirators purchased drugs from this supplier previously and knew where the controlled substances were stored. The co-conspirators intended to enrich themselves by selling the controlled substances they obtained from the robbery.

The Maryland co-conspirators then traveled to California, where they met with Terzian and obtained a firearm to use in the planned robbery. On July 15, the Maryland co-conspirators met with the California source of supply. While holding him at gunpoint, they robbed him of approximately 11 kilograms of cocaine, several bags of marijuana, and U.S. currency. 

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Watson, Jackson, Johnson, Bailey, and Terzian face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Additionally, the co-conspirators are facing up to 20 years for conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, and AACOPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Levin who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man learned his fate in federal court, today, for his role in multiple carjackings, including one that resulted in a murder.

U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced Antonio Purisima, 25, to 35 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for carjacking resulting in death. Purisima engaged in a carjacking spree with multiple co-conspirators.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to court documents, in June 2022, Purisima conspired with co-conspirators Jerritt Barron, 24, Jeremy Matheny, 27, and Nefertiti Moore, 23, all from Baltimore, to commit several armed carjackings. On June 15, Purisima, Barron, and Matheny followed a victim from Maryland Live! Casino, in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, to her Glen Burnie residence. 

After the victim parked near her home, two co-conspirators approached her, as they brandished handguns, and demanded money and her car keys.  The two masked suspects then drove away in the victim’s car which was recovered less than one hour later in Baltimore. 

Then on June 19, Purisima, Barron, Matheny, and Moore, who rode in a black pick-up truck, attempted to carjack a vehicle near an Interstate 95 ramp in Baltimore.  Moore exited the truck and flagged down the victim. Then the co-conspirators blocked the victims’ vehicle with their car from entering the ramp to I-95. Purisima and Barron then exited their vehicle and approached the victim.  A co-conspirator then shot the victim who later died from the injuries.  The co-conspirators then fled the scene.   

Historical cell site data placed Purisima, Matheny, and Moore at or near the scene of the murder. In May 2026, Judge Bredar sentenced Barron to 40 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and Matheny to 24 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for their roles in the deadly carjacking.

As part of the investigation, law enforcement extracted latent fingerprints from the Glen Burnie victim’s carjacked vehicle that matched Matheny and Purisima. Additionally, historical cell-site data placed Matheny and Purisima at Maryland Live! Casino and at the scene of the carjacking.  Additionally, when law enforcement arrested Matheny on June 22, they confiscated a cellphone in Matheny’s possession.

After searching the phone, law enforcement uncovered photos of Purisima, Barron, and Matheny posing with firearms while at Maryland Live! Casino. The casino’s video surveillance shows the co-conspirators entering a vehicle and then following the victim as she drove her car. 

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.

U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes commended the FBI and BPD, for their work in the investigation, along with the Maryland Transportation Authority Police, for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Sippel, Jr., who is prosecuting this federal case.

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a California man, today, for his involvement in a cross-country money laundering conspiracy involving proceeds from marijuana trafficking.

U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced Nicholas Parks, 54, of Winnetka, California, to three years in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for conspiring to commit money laundering. Judge Maddox also ordered Parks to pay a forfeiture amount of $329,071. Parks, who pled guilty to the charges in April 2026, acknowledged that he and his co-conspirators laundered $329,071, between October 2020 and January 2021, in connection with the scheme.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland.

According to court documents, Parks admitted that from October 2020 through January 2021, he participated in a conspiracy to launder proceeds he and his associates generated through selling marijuana in Maryland. As part of the conspiracy, female co-conspirators transported marijuana from California to Maryland, usually via commercial air travel.  Parks traveled separately from the co-conspirators to Maryland, but he sold the marijuana with local co-conspirators after arrival. 

When the co-conspirators finished distributing the drugs, Co-Conspirator 1 used a couple of methods to launder the funds. Co-Conspirator 1 either drove U.S. currency across the country to California or provided the proceeds to a Maryland laundering contact. The contact then moved the money through financial institutions, resulting in two levels, or layers, of laundering transactions.

HSI agents identified several occasions that the co-conspirators laundered marijuana trafficking proceeds. Law enforcement used evidence obtained through multiple methods, including controlled money pick-ups, text messages between co-conspirators, along with recorded calls and meetings, to link the co-conspirators to the conspiracy.

On October 15, 2020, Texas Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop of Co-Conspirator 1 in Carson County, Texas.  During the stop, officers recovered approximately $109,071 in U.S. currency from Co-Conspirator 1’s vehicle.  Officers also seized Co-Conspirator 1’s cell phone.

Following a search of Co-Conspirator 1’s phone, law enforcement uncovered a lengthy text message exchange between Parks and Co-Conspirator 1. The text-message exchange appeared to show Parks’ involvement in the money laundering and drug trafficking conspiracy.

Messages included detailed ledgers of drug sales Parks and his associates conducted along with the money owed to each of them for their participation.  The most recent messages showed that Parks provided Co-Conspirator 1 with U.S. currency to transport from Maryland back to California. Additionally, the text messages revealed that Co-Conspirator 1 was supposed to drop off a portion of the proceeds to a location in Oklahoma.  Based on the messages, the amount of U.S. currency found in Co-Conspirator 1’s vehicle was consistent with the remaining money bound for California and money he was paid for his services.

Co-Conspirator 1 later confirmed to HSI agents that the money found in his vehicle consisted of proceeds from the marijuana trafficking conspiracy in Maryland.  He also admitted he was driving the money back to California and was supposed to make a drop in Oklahoma.  

Then between December 2020, and January 2021, HSI agents conducted three controlled money pick-ups. Co-Conspirator 1 unknowingly provided the drug proceeds to confidential informants (CIs) to launder funds from Maryland to California. On each occasion, Co-Conspirator 1 provided U.S. currency to one of two CIs, who then provided the funds to HSI agents.  HSI agents then deposited the funds into an HSI Riverside government-controlled bank account.  Then the HSI agents withdrew the cash and utilized undercovers and/or cooperating witnesses to deliver the funds to co-conspirators in California.  Over the course of the three controlled money drops, Co-Conspirator 1 provided the CIs with approximately $220,000.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI for its work in the investigation and Texas Highway Patrol for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Levin who prosecuted the case. 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a prominent appellate attorney, who argued more than 40 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, and co-founded the widely read legal website SCOTUSblog, today, in connection with a tax-evasion and mortgage-fraud scheme.

U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby sentenced Thomas C. Goldstein, 56, of Chevy Chase, Maryland, to six years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for tax evasion; assisting with preparing false tax returns; willfully failing to timely pay taxes; and making false statements to mortgage lenders.  Additionally, Judge Griggsby ordered Goldstein to pay $3,103,427 in restitution, and an indeterminate forfeiture amount. The Court also revoked Goldstein’s bond and remanded him into custody. A federal jury convicted Goldstein of the charges in February 2026.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald, DOJ National Fraud Enforcement Division; Special Agent in Charge Kareem A. Carter, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington, D.C. Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Tyler, FBI Washington Field Office – Criminal Division.

“Thomas Goldstein built a distinguished legal career arguing that the rule of law matters.  Yet, as the evidence at trial showed, he repeatedly chose to violate that very principle for his own financial benefit,” Hayes said. “Every taxpayer is expected to play by the same rules, and this sentence shows that those who deliberately cheat the system and lie for financial gain will be held accountable.  We thank our law enforcement partners for their work on this case, and their unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of our tax and financial systems.”

“This sentence holds Thomas Goldstein accountable for cheating the tax system and lying to mortgage lenders,” McDonald said. “Mr. Goldstein concealed millions of dollars in income, disguised income with foreign bank accounts, and manipulated his law firm’s books– all to fund his gambling and lifestyle. He then repeatedly chose not to pay taxes the taxes owed. There is no tax case too big, no scheme too complex, and no hiding place too remote for the Fraud Division.” 

“Today’s sentencing is a significant step towards holding the defendant accountable for his role in abusing our tax system,” Carter said. “IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents and our law enforcement partners will vigorously pursue those who attempt to defraud our tax system and financial institutions."

“Public prominence doesn't entitle anyone to break financial rules or secure an unfair advantage over those who follow them,” Tyler said. “The mortgage industry exists to serve hardworking, honest Americans, and the FBI will bring anyone who tries to exploit the system for personal gain to justice regardless of their social status.”

According to evidence presented at trial, between 2016 and 2023, Goldstein served as sole owner of Goldstein & Russell, P.C., a boutique law firm specializing in appellate litigation, including litigation before the United States Supreme Court. Goldstein was also a high-stakes poker player, frequently playing in games involving tens of millions of dollars.

During that timeframe, Goldstein stopped paying taxes on time, as required by law, and engaged in a scheme to evade paying his taxes for 2016. Goldstein took various steps to carry out the scheme, including concealing millions of dollars in poker wins and losses from the government. He also diverted legal fees, payable to his law firm, to his personal bank account to satisfy poker-related debts; directed people to pay his creditors instead of sending payments directly to him; and used the law firm’s assets to satisfy his poker debts. Then he caused those payments to be falsely classified as “legal-fee” expenses on the firm’s books and records. As a result, Goldstein underreported his income and did not pay all the taxes that he owed. Instead of paying his taxes, he spent millions on personal expenses such as poker, travel, and luxury goods. 

In 2021, Goldstein submitted false mortgage applications to two separate mortgage lending companies, seeking financing to purchase a $2.6-million home in Washington, D.C. On those mortgage applications — which required Goldstein to list all his liabilities and debts — he omitted millions of dollars of liabilities, including more than $14 million he owed at the time on two promissory notes, as well as taxes he owed the IRS. His false statements to one of the mortgage lenders enabled him to obtain a $1.98-million loan.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the IRS-CI and FBI for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Adeyemi Adenrele, along with Senior Litigation Counsel Sean Beaty and Trial Attorneys Emerson Gordon-Marvin and Hayter L. Whitman, DOJ Criminal Division Tax Section, who are prosecuting this federal case.

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. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – A Maryland man learned his fate in federal court, today, in connection with a drug-trafficking conspiracy. 

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis sentenced Norville Clarke, 56, of Clarksburg, Maryland, to 40 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Clarke’s co-conspirator, Daniel Cruz, 39, of Los Angeles, California, is still awaiting sentencing. In March 2026, both men pled guilty to drug-trafficking charges in connection with the conspiracy.  

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Postal Inspector in Charge Damon E. Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) – Washington Division; Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Secretary of State Police, Maryland State Police (MSP); Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD); and Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD).

According to court documents, in 2023, multiple federal agencies partnered to investigate a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) transporting and distributing large quantities of cocaine from California to Maryland.  The investigation began in March 2023, when MSP seized a parcel that contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine. The parcel was mailed from the Los Angeles area and was destined for Clarke’s auto-repair shop in District Heights, Maryland. Through investigating the source of the parcel, postal inspectors and other law enforcement investigators linked Cruz to the narcotics contained within the parcel. 

In January 2024, postal inspectors and other investigators identified a freight-shipment container shipped from Los Angeles, destined for Clarke’s auto-repair shop in District Heights, Maryland. Law enforcement identified Cruz on surveillance footage dropping off the freight shipment at the shipping company in California. The authorities further observed Cruz traveling to Maryland to follow the shipment for delivery. 

Postal inspectors and other law enforcement investigators observed Cruz and Clarke meeting at Clarke’s auto-repair shop several days after the freight shipment was sent from California.  Investigators then located the freight shipment in Dulles, Viriginia, where a law enforcement K-9 officer scanned it.  After the K-9 officer indicated the presence of narcotics in the shipment, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the freight container.  Then postal inspectors and law-enforcement investigators located two automobile transmissions inside.  Law enforcement found 20, one-kilogram bricks secreted in the oil pans of both transmissions that laboratory forensic tests later confirmed were more than 16 kilograms of cocaine. 

Postal inspectors, DEA agents, MSP officers and other members of law enforcement then executed search warrants at Clarke’s District Heights auto-repair shop, Clarke’s Clarksburg residence, and Cruz’s hotel room in Capitol Heights, Maryland. At the auto-repair shop, law enforcement located an additional 502.4 grams of cocaine and then found two-kilogram bricks of cocaine and $45,730 in U.S. Currency at Clarke’s residence. Investigators later identified an additional nine historical freight shipments that mirrored the original shipment that contained cocaine that Cruz sent to Clarke’s auto-repair shop utilizing the same freight shipping company. In their plea agreements, Clarke and Cruz both agreed that they were involved in possessing almost 22 kilograms of cocaine in furtherance of this drug trafficking conspiracy. 

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.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the USPIS, DEA, MSP, MCPD, and PGPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Rigney and Michael Jaskiw who prosecuted this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Greenbelt, Maryland –  A Honduran illegal alien will spend more than a decade in federal prison for crimes including an attempted murder for hire.

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis sentenced Frelin Hernandez Guardado, 30, to 12 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and murder for hire. Authorities previously removed Hernandez Guardado from the United States twice. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; and Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD).

According to court documents, in October 2021, on two occasions, Hernandez Guardado sold firearms to confidential sources.  Federal law prohibits illegal aliens from possessing firearms.  Then, in December 2021, law enforcement executed search warrants and arrests targeting a local drug trafficking network.  After the arrests, Hernandez Guardado told two confidential sources that he intended to kill an individual that he believed cooperated with law enforcement which spurred the arrests. Hernandez Guardado offered to sell one of the confidential sources discounted cocaine in exchange for help committing the murder.

On January 12, 2022, Hernandez Guardado and a confidential source departed from his Virginia residence. Hernandez Guardado brought more than 900 grams of cocaine that he intended to sell, at a discount, to another confidential source to secure assistance with carrying out the murder. But before that plan could progress further, law enforcement stopped and arrested Hernandez Guardado in Maryland. 

This prosecution is  part of the HSTF initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, ATF, and DEA for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Jaskiw and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth S. Clark who prosecuted the case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced, today, a federal grand jury indicted a Maryland man in connection with child sexual exploitation charges. 

Jurel Daquone Leo Bowman, 32, of Lusby, is charged with producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity, receipt of CSAM, and possession of CSAM. Bowman previously served as a Harford County emergency medical technician. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Chief Andrew Parsons, Upper Allen Police Department (UAPD); Director Greg Mashburn, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI); and Alison M. Healey, Harford County State’s Attorney.

According to the indictment, between August 2022 and April 2026, Bowman sexually exploited minors using his cellphone and an online social media application. Bowman paid hundreds of dollars for sexually explicit images and videos of the minors. Additionally, Bowman repeatedly attempted to coerce minors to meet in person with him to engage in sex acts in exchange for money.

Investigators believe there may be other potential victims. If you have information related to this individual or victims, contact the FBI Baltimore Field Office at 410-265-8080.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, MSP, UAPD, and OSBI for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Victoria Liu who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a Baltimore County man for bribing a Baltimore City official.

U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced James Carroll Erny, Jr., 55, of Glen Arm, Maryland, to 13 months in prison, followed by eight months of home confinement, for bribery. Erny admitted to paying at least $25,000 in bribes to Joseph Gillespie, a former Baltimore City Department of Finance employee. In exchange, Gillespie extinguished various financial obligations Erny owed to the City of Baltimore.  As a result of the criminal conduct, the City of Baltimore suffered financial losses of more than $145,000.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Acting Special Agent in Charge Lee Bacon, Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), Eastern Region; and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).

According to court documents, beginning in December 2019, and continuing until August 2023, Erny engaged in a bribery scheme in which Gillespie abused his position of trust as a public official for his own personal gain. During this period, Erny — who owned at least eight properties in Baltimore City — routinely paid bribes in exchange for Gillespie delaying, removing, or extinguishing financial obligations owed to the City. This included unpaid citations, tax obligations, and water obligations, thereby causing losses to the City.

Erny primarily paid these bribes by cash, providing Gillespie with envelopes containing as much as $1,000 each, while the former City employee worked at the Abel Wolman Municipal Building. Sometimes, Erny met Gillespie in a men's bathroom in the City-owned building to give him envelopes containing cash bribes.  Erny also routinely provided Gillespie bribe payments via Cash App and Zelle.

Additionally, Erny admitted to engaging in a separate scheme to obtain fraudulent COVID-19 relief loans under both the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Ultimately, Erny fraudulently obtained $996,240 in fraudulent PPP funds as part of the scheme, and he attempted to obtain more than a $100,000 worth of EIDL funds.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, SBA-OIG, and BCPD for their work in the investigation. U.S. Attorney Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean R. Delaney and Joseph Wenner who prosecuted the case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man pled guilty in federal court, today, to charges connected to purchasing livestreams of Filipino children engaging in sexual activity.  

Philip Andrew Turner, 47, of Linthicum Heights, pled guilty to coercion and enticement. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); and Anne Colt Leitess, State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County.

According to his guilty plea, from November 2017, through March 2018, Turner used Skype to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce minor victims, living in the Philippines, to engage in sexual activity. Turner communicated with a known Filipino trafficker who sold the minors, and directed them, as they live-streamed their sexual activity in exchange for monetary payment. 

Law enforcement later recovered Turner’s chats with the Filipino trafficker from the platform’s server. Turner facilitated approximately 110 Skype calls and exchanged approximately 40 media files with the trafficker. The files included images of Filipino children for Turner to select who he wanted to engage in live-stream sexual activity along with several child sexual abuse material (CSAM) images of Filipino children.

Turner used online electronic financial transactions to pay for the live-streamed child sexual abuse shows. Records show between 2017 and 2025, Turner completed 437 successful payments, totaling more than $29,000 to traffickers in the Philippines.

On October 28, 2025, law enforcement executed a federal warrant at Turner’s Anne Arundel County residence. During the search, law enforcement recovered a laptop, which was opened to Turner’s Skype account. A forensic analysis revealed that Turner had just downloaded a trove of CSAM using the Tor network between October 11 and October 21. The CSAM collection included more than 600 images.

Turner faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in federal prison for coercion and enticement. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

Know2Protect is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. Know2Protect’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent, combat and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit Know2Protect’s YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on DHS’ main channel. Additional resources are available at Know2Protect.gov, Instagram, Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, the MSP, and Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Elizabeth McGuinn, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joyce King, who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a Baltimore County man to prison, today, in connection with drug-and-firearm charges related to a federal drug investigation.

U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Jacque “Hammer” Brown, 50, of Randallstown, Maryland, to 135 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, after law enforcement recovered 500 grams of fentanyl and two firearms from his home. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD); Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs, Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS).

According to court documents, in March 2025, the DEA began investigating Brown after learning that he was dealing fentanyl in the Baltimore region. After investigators identified Brown’s vehicles and Randallstown residence, the court authorized law enforcement to conduct electronic surveillance over his vehicles and cellular phone.

In April 2025, investigators observed a meeting between Brown and his drug supplier. It appeared that Brown engaged in a re-up with his supplier. A few days after the meeting, investigators saw Brown meet with multiple suspected drug customers throughout the day.  Later that evening, law enforcement observed Brown leave his residence with a plastic bag of suspected drugs. When Brown left in his vehicle, investigators initiated a traffic stop. 

During the traffic stop, a K-9 officer responded to the scene, scanned the vehicle, and positively detected the presence of narcotics.  After the positive alert, Brown, who was standing with a patrol officer, ran away from the traffic stop.  As he fled, Brown threw a clear plastic bag.  Then investigators quickly apprehended Brown, placing him under arrest. 

After apprehending Brown, investigators retraced his steps and discovered a clear plastic bag that contained 15 grams of fentanyl on the ground. Officers also recovered a cellphone from Brown and three additional cellphones from his vehicle. 

Following Brown’s arrest, law enforcement executed a search warrant on his Randallstown residence. Investigators searched Brown’s room, recovering 500 grams of fentanyl in multiple plastic bags; multiple digital scales; a hydraulic press; and sifters with drug residue.  Law enforcement also found two firearms, a loaded 9mm Ruger, and a Mossberg Maverick 12-gauge shotgun. Brown, who is a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Additionally, investigators searched one of Brown’s phones and discovered messages between Brown and his fentanyl supplier.  The messages revealed that Brown and his fentanyl supplier discussed the high potency of the fentanyl, and that Brown infused cutting agents in the narcotic to reduce the risk of overdosing. 

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA, BCPD, BPD, and DPSCS for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Calvin Miner and Ari D. Evans who prosecuted this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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A former supervisory official with the U.S. Census Bureau was sentenced today to two years in prison followed by a year of supervised release for conspiring with a subcontractor to receive $790,000 in kickbacks. She was also ordered to forfeit the proceeds of the scheme.

On April 2, Camille T. Jones, 47, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging her with conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud in connection with a procurement fraud scheme.

According to court documents, as part of her guilty plea, Camille Jones admitted that she steered a large employee assistant program contract to a prime contractor and a subcontracting company, YMJ Consulting, which is owned by Camille Jones’s relative, Yolanda M. Jones.  The contract was worth millions of dollars. In exchange for steering the contract and modifications, Jones received kickbacks from YMJ Consulting and Yolanda Jones.

Additionally, Camille Jones attempted to obstruct the investigation by drafting a service agreement between YMJ Consulting and a mental health company that she owned to make the kickbacks appear like legitimate consulting payments between the two companies. Both Camille Jones and Yolanda Jones signed the agreement in 2024 but backdated it to 2020. Yolanda Jones then provided the document to law enforcement during the investigation.

Camille Jones further admitted that she used her official position to share the Census Bureau’s confidential procurement information with another government contractor. While receiving preferential treatment, the contractor hired another one of Camille Jones’s relatives for a minimal-work job. Camille Jones largely performed the work but the relative received $83,000.

On Aug. 14, 2025, Yolanda Jones pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud. She is awaiting sentencing. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland; and Eric Maddox, Assistant Inspector General for Investigations of U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Inspector General, made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General. 

Acting Chief Edward P. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case. 

Greenbelt, Maryland – A former supervisory official with the U.S. Census Bureau received a federal-prison term, today, for conspiring with a subcontractor to receive $790,000 in kickbacks. 

U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby sentenced Camille Jones, 47, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, to two years in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit bribery and honest-services fraud in connection with a procurement fraud scheme. Judge Griggsby also ordered her to forfeit the proceeds of the scheme.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, Department of Justice Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Eric Arcand, U.S. Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General (DOC-OIG).

According to court documents, as part of her guilty plea, Camille Jones admitted that she steered a large employee assistant program contract to a prime contractor and a subcontracting company, YMJ Consulting, which is owned by Camille Jones’s relative, Yolanda M. Jones. The contract was worth millions of dollars. In exchange for steering the contract and modifications, Jones received kickbacks from YMJ Consulting and Yolanda Jones.

Additionally, Camille Jones attempted to obstruct the investigation by drafting a service agreement between YMJ Consulting and a mental health company that she owned to make the kickbacks appear like legitimate consulting payments between the two companies.  Both Camille Jones and Yolanda Jones signed the agreement in 2024 but backdated it to 2020. Yolanda Jones then provided the document to law enforcement during the investigation. 

Camille Jones further admitted that she used her official position to share the Census Bureau’s confidential procurement information with another government contractor.  While receiving preferential treatment, the contractor hired another one of Camille Jones’s relatives for a minimal-work job.  Camille Jones largely performed the work but the relative received $83,000.

On Aug. 14, 2025, Yolanda Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud. She is awaiting sentencing.  A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DOC-OIG for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy and Acting Chief Edward P. Sullivan, DOJ Criminal Division Public Integrity Section, who are prosecuting the case.  

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – A Maryland woman is headed to federal prison for more than 12 years in connection with a drug-trafficking transaction that left a victim dead.

U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis sentenced Sarah Katherine Magid, 36, of Burtonsville, to 151 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute fentanyl. Judge Xinis also ordered Magid to pay a restitution amount of $25,090, for costs associated with the victim’s burial.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division, and Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD).

According to court documents, in March 2024, Magid distributed fentanyl that resulted in the death of a victim.  During the investigation, law enforcement discovered text messages between Magid and the victim pertaining to distributing fentanyl. Specifically, a forensic analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed a text conversation and subsequent meeting between Magid and the victim.

The messages uncovered a drug transaction involving pills that were pressed to appear like oxycodone hydrochloride pills, but they actually contained fentanyl.  After the meeting and transaction, the victim was found deceased. The Office of Chief Medical Examiner of the District of Columbia determined the victim died from fentanyl toxicity.

Additionally, in July 2024, a complainant reported to law enforcement that Magid, a Montgomery County first-grade schoolteacher, exited her classroom to sell drugs to people outside of the school.  Law enforcement subsequently identified text messages from Magid’s phone indicating that she dealt drugs during work hours.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA and MCPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan S. McKoy and Elizabeth Wright who prosecuted this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, a former U.S. Department of Education employee agreed to pay a settlement in connection with federal False Claims Act violation allegations.

Natayah Adams, 44, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, agreed to pay the United States $161,248.30 to resolve allegations that she submitted false claims to obtain three Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. 

U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes announced the settlement with Special Agent in Charge Jamila Davis, U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General Eastern Regional Office (ED-OIG).

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act — a federal law enacted in March 2020 — provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It gives financial assistance including forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses. Established by the CARES Act, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) — administered through the Small Business Administration (SBA) — along with the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), helped businesses meet their financial obligations.

In 2021, Adams submitted applications for three PPP loans in less than three months, each with a different lender. In total, Adams received $62,499.32 in PPP loans. The United States contends that in her loan applications, Adams knowingly made material misrepresentations. Among other things, Adams falsely claimed that her business — in which Adams resold jewelry purchased from another company on Etsy — brought in a gross income of $100,000.00. But Adams knew, the gross income of the business was less than $100,000.00.  Additionally, Adams did not use the loans for the approved purposes listed on her applications. Instead, she diverted the money for personal use and to put toward a separate business.   

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended ED-OIG for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Shea who handled this case.

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that a Maryland man faces indictment in connection with domestic terrorism charges. 

Daniel Amos, 51, of Aberdeen, is charged with three counts of repeatedly making harassing telephone calls and one count of influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Chief Henry Trabert, Aberdeen Police Department (APD).

According to the indictment, between April 15, 2024, and April 16, 2026, Amos repeatedly made telephone calls, and initiated communication with a telecommunications device, solely to harass Individuals 1, 2, and 3. 

Additionally, Amos threatened to assault Individual 3, a federal law enforcement officer working for the Supreme Court of the United States Police Department. Through Amos’s threats, he intended to impede, intimidate, and interfere with Individual 3’s ability to perform his official job duties.  Amos also intended to retaliate against Individual 3 for performing his official duties. 

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Amos faces a maximum of two years in prison for each count of repeatedly making harassing telephone calls and 10 years for influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, Supreme Court of the United States Police Department – Protective Intelligence Unit, HSI, and APD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia McLane, who is prosecuting the federal case, along with Investigator William Nickoles, for his valuable assistance.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – An illegal alien, who is a citizen of Romania, received a federal-prison term, today, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

U.S. District Judge Julie R. Rubin sentenced Florin Serdaru, 29, to 39 months in prison for his role in a Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits fraud conspiracy. Judge Rubin also ordered Serdaru to pay $343,756 in restitution, and a money judgment of $91,873.52.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker, U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) Northeast Region; Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD); and Chief Gregory Der, Howard County Police Department (HCPD).

SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, was a federally funded, national program established by the United States to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among lower income families.  Each SNAP recipient receives an EBT authorization card that acts as a debit card and which electronically stores personal identifying information and other data concerning the applicant. 

According to his plea agreement, Serdaru participated in a conspiracy to defraud the United States and multiple recipients of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits. In 2022, Serdaru and his co-conspirators obtained EBT information from victims throughout the U.S., including in Maryland, California, Kentucky, Tennessee, New York, and other states. They used skimming devices and other means to carry out the conspiracy.

The co-conspirators played various roles in skimming operations, including acquiring skimming equipment, shipping equipment to co-conspirators, and installing or removing the equipment at the point-of-sale terminals at various commercial establishments. They also monitored the activity at the terminals where skimming equipment was installed and duplicated victims’ EBT cards using the information collected from the skimming devices. Co-conspirators then fraudulently purchased large bulk items using cloned EBT cards containing numerous victims’ personal identifying information. 

On November 15, 2022, Serdaru, used a debit card, issued under the alias “Florin Florea” to upgrade a Sam’s Club membership plus account in Canton, Ohio. A review of the account revealed that approximately 168 unique EBT cards were used to make purchases using the account from July 2022, until at least June 2023, in Maryland and six other states. The co-conspirators made approximately $175,612.76 in SNAP purchases through the Sam’s Club account. Approximately $12,484.78 of the purchases were made in Maryland, using 14 separate victims’ EBT cards. 

Law enforcement learned that an additional Sam’s Club account, in the name of “Alex Stan,” also used the phone number attributed to Serdaru in its account creation. After reviewing the “Alex Stan” Sam’s Club account, law enforcement found that the co-conspirators used approximately 29 unique EBT cards to make purchases from June 2022, until at least July 2022, in Maryland and four other states. The co-conspirators used the account to make approximately $46,439.84 in SNAP purchases. Approximately $43,449.60 of the purchases were made in Maryland, using 28 separate victims’ EBT cards. 

Authorities also discovered that in June 2022, Serdaru created a BJ’s Wholesale account in the name of “Alex Stan,” using Serdaru’s home address. After reviewing the “Alex Stan” BJ’s account, authorities found that from June 2022, until at least October 7, 2022, the co-conspirators used approximately 179 unique EBT cards to make purchases on the account in Maryland and seven other states. The co-conspirators used the “Alex Stan” BJ’s account to make approximately $107,541.92 in SNAP purchases, using the EBT cards of 57 separate victims. 

Additionally, on multiple occasions, Serdaru personally purchased items in bulk using cloned EBT cards containing the personal identifying information of victims. 

Due to the loss of their SNAP benefits, at least 15 victims were unable to obtain food items until after the replenishment of their funds the following month. The total loss attributed to the conspiracy in Maryland is approximately $343,756. 

Judge Rubin previously sentenced co-conspirator Fabritio Sardaru, 22, an illegal alien who is a citizen of Romania and Ireland, to two years in prison, and Maria Roza Tomescu, 22, to 28 months in prison, for their roles in the conspiracy.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the USDA-OIG, MCPD, and HCPD for their work in the investigation, along with the Maryland Department of Human Services, Office of Inspector General, for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Higgins who prosecuted the case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud. 

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland woman received a federal-prison term in connection with her role in a multi-million-dollar money laundering scheme.

Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced Fatoumata Boiro, 32, of Largo, to two years in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for conspiring to engage in a large, multi-member, money laundering conspiracy.  Additionally, Judge Maddox ordered Boiro to pay $6,838,558.31 in restitution. Boiro, who pled guilty to participating in the money laundering conspiracy, admitted that at least $3 million in money laundering occurred pursuant to her direct participation in the conspiracy.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Kareem A. Carter, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) – Washington, D.C. Field Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge George Golliday, Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General (EPA-OIG). This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud along with the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF).

According to court documents, beginning in 2021, and continuing until February 2024, Boiro conspired with multiple individuals to launder proceeds of a large-scale wire fraud. The co-conspirators engaged in various financial transactions to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the wire-fraud proceeds, while carrying out the conspiracy.

The victims included government agencies, organizations, and companies, including an environmental trust, urban redevelopment program, medical center, transportation and logistics company, school district, college, and county government, among others. 

Boiro and her co-conspirators worked with each other to create limited liability companies to serve as shell entities; open bank accounts and/or cause bank accounts to be opened in the name of shell entities; and receive and launder fraud proceeds. 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland previously charged 14 defendants in two different cases in connection with the money laundering conspiracy – 13 already pled guilty.  Faizou Gnora, 28, previously of Alexandria, Virginia, remains a fugitive from justice. The Office also charged other co-conspirators in additional cases.

The District Court previously sentenced: 

• Yahya Sowe, 42, of College Park, to 114 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, restitution of $13,050,827.03, and forfeiture of $1 million; 
   
• Bright Boateng, 45, of Bladensburg, Maryland, to 108 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, restitution of $1,247,950, and a forfeiture of $431,750; 
   
• Victor Killen, 33, of Hyattsville, Maryland, to 63 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, restitution of $7,070,656.46, and a $3-million forfeiture order; 
   
• Gedeon Agbeyome, 31, of Montgomery County, Maryland, to 72 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, along with restitution of $2,938,424.65, and a $2.8 million preliminary order of forfeiture;
    
• Lawrence Ogunsanwo, 33, to 40 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and restitution of $5,648,816.23;
   
• Lakeisha Parker, 33, of Baltimore, to 36 months in federal prison, followed by three years supervised release, and restitution of $8,306,930.95; 
   
• Martin Ogisi, 37, of Severn, Maryland, to 33 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, restitution of $11,077,044.17; and a $500,000 forfeiture order;
   
• Kevin Colon, 34, of Curtis Bay, Maryland, to 27 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, restitution of $2,515,159.63, and a $214,518.42 forfeiture order;
   
• Areal Harris, 27, of Hanover, Maryland, to 24 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and restitution of $3,159,482.83;
   
•  Emily Gil Arias, 29, of Silver Spring, Maryland to 24 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and restitution of 2,102,919.27;
   
• Lorena Perez Herrera, 29, of Washington, DC, to 24 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and restitution of $1,473,125.58; and
   
• Blondel Ndjouandjouaka, 31, of Silver Spring, Maryland, to 24 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, restitution of $733,941.48, and a $757,562.63 forfeiture order.

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.

This prosecution is also part of the HSTF initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the HSI-led Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, and thanked IRS-CI and EPA-OIG for their work in the investigation, and praised the Anne Arundel County, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County Police Departments for their assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Gruber and Bijon A. Mostoufi, who prosecuted the federal case, and Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber, for her assistance.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

# # #

Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a former Anne Arundel County police officer for his role in an auto-insurance fraud scheme. 

Judge Lydia Griggsby sentenced Jaron Earl Taylor, 32, of Ft. Washington, Maryland, to three years of probation, with the first five months served on home detention, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Judge Griggsby also ordered Taylor to pay $38,670 in restitution to the United States Automobile Association.  Co-conspirator Michael Anthony Owen, Jr., 38, of Accokeek, Maryland, previously pled guilty to falsifying records, in connection with the conspiracy.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI – Baltimore Field Office, and Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD).

According to court documents, between August 2018 and February 2020, Taylor and Owen, who were Anne Arundel County Police Department and PGPD officers, respectively, at the time, conspired with fellow police officers to engage in mail and wire fraud. Taylor and Owen, along with officers Candace Tyler, 39, of Bowie, Maryland, who pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud; Conrad D’Haiti, 56, of La Plata, Maryland, who pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud; and Davion Percy, 41, of Suitland, Maryland, who a jury convicted at trial in June 2026, of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and others, devised a scheme for insurance companies to pay out the remaining financing costs of unwanted vehicles.  

Members of the conspiracy reported fictitious losses to insurers to obtain money or avoid paying off vehicles that were now worth less than the amount owed on them. The co-conspirators used their statuses as police officers to assist each other’s claims by writing false police reports. Then co-conspirators submitted fictitious police reports to insurers to validate the claim. The false police reports were intended to impede, obstruct, or influence subsequent investigations of the false insurance claims. 

In August 2018, Taylor and Owen staged the theft of Taylor’s Chevrolet Tahoe. After Taylor filed a fraudulent police report, Taylor and Owen stripped the vehicle and drove it deep into the woods of a Maryland State Highway property near Largo, Maryland. Taylor then made a false claim to the United Services Automobile Association (USAA) for the loss, for which USAA paid out a total of $38,670.

Then in January 2020, Owen assisted D’Haiti in avoiding payment on the loan balance of a Jaguar XKR. In cooperation with D’Haiti and Percy, Owen devised a scheme to fake the vehicle’s theft. On January 4, D’Haiti parked his Jaguar behind Marlow Heights Shopping Center where Percy worked as police chief.

D’Haiti then paid Percy $350 to arrange for another co-conspirator to tow the vehicle and extensively vandalize it for the purpose of creating a total insurance loss. Tyler subsequently filed the fictitious police report which D’Haiti used to substantiate his claim against Liberty Mutual Insurance. In February 2020, Liberty Mutual paid the Jaguar’s lienholder, Navy Federal Credit Union, $17,585, on the false claim.

Additionally, in January 2020, Taylor and Owen assisted with disposing of an Infiniti sedan to help a co-conspirator avoid making further payments on the vehicle while on extended overseas duty.  The co-conspirator gave Taylor $1,000 via CashApp to stage the theft. Taylor then forwarded the money to Owen who filed a false police report with PGPD, stating the vehicle was stolen. 

But Taylor, Owen, and others moved the car to the top floor of a Camp Springs, Maryland, apartment-complex parking garage.  The co-conspirators attempted to conceal the car’s identity by removing the vehicle’s license plates and replacing them with different ones registered to another vehicle. Then the owner and co-conspirator filed a claim with GEICO that was eventually denied on grounds of fraud.

Owen’s sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, at 2:30 p.m.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and PGPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Baldwin, Adeyemi Adenrele, and Caroline Schechinger who are prosecuting the case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md. 

# # #

A Maryland man was sentenced today in connection with charges stemming from his attempt to join and fight for ISIS. 

U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Michael Sam Teekaye Jr., 22, to 15 years in prison followed by lifetime supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Teekaye revealed his plan to join and fight for ISIS to an undercover officer (UCO).

“Mr. Teekaye sought to support a foreign terrorist organization that has committed unspeakable acts of violence and took real-world steps to carry out a terrorist attack in Maryland,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O’Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Today’s sentence underscores that those who seek to aid terrorist organizations will be identified, prosecuted, and held fully accountable. I commend the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and our law-enforcement partners for their exceptional work in disrupting this threat and protecting our communities before any harm could occur. There is no margin for error when it comes to terrorism.”

“This sentencing reinforces the gravity of Michael Teekaye’s crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “Undoubtedly, lives were saved because law enforcement thwarted Teekaye’s plan to join ISIS and murder Americans. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force works around the clock to protect our country by identifying threats like this and preventing them from being carried out and harming our citizens.”

According to court documents, between March and April 2023, Teekaye engaged in multiple conversations with the UCO. During these conversations, Teekaye told the UCO he wanted to travel to Africa to join ISIS as a “mujahid,” or fighter. Teekaye also told the UCO that his “plan B” was to carry out an attack in the United States against Jews and people who support Israel. He said that he researched buildings close to him that support Israel and thought about how to “gun down key members or anyone involved.” 

On three occasions in May and June of 2024, Teekaye purchased ammunition and range time at a shooting range in Severn, Maryland, which he later told the UCO was part of his “training.” Then in July 2024, Teekaye attempted to purchase a Kalashnikov K-9 9mm assault rifle, but since Teekaye was on probation in a state criminal case, the purchase was denied. 

Between August and October 2024, Teekaye told the UCO that he engaged with a Somali ISIS fighter regarding his plans to travel to Somalia to join ISIS. Teekaye explained that he would first fly to Turkey, then travel to Ethiopia, and then cross the border into Somalia. He sent the UCO screenshots of an Ethiopian e-Visa he obtained from the ISIS fighter. On Oct. 4, Teekaye told the UCO that he received airline tickets from the ISIS fighter. He also sent the UCO screenshots of his travel itinerary showing that he planned to depart from Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) on Oct. 14, and fly to Istanbul, Turkey, with a layover in London.

Then on Oct. 10, Teekaye sent the UCO a photo of himself wearing a black mask and holding a large machete, and he added, “Victory or shahada [i.e., martyrdom] … either you do it here or over there or both.” On Oct. 11, the UCO asked whether Teekaye was “sure” he wanted to join ISIS. Teekaye responded that he was “sure” because he had done “a lot of research” and “they are the only group that has the most true and sincere intentions.” 

On Oct. 14, FBI agents arrested Teekaye at BWI after he checked in for his flight and proceeded through security. After his arrest, Teekaye made the following unprovoked statements, among others: “I’m just gonna get out in 20 years and I’m just gonna do it here. Okay?  Okay?  It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll just do it here then, when I get out.”  He then made reference to a recent attack in which ISIS prison inmates killed four Russian penal colony guards, and threatened to kill a guard while in prison. He continued: “You think 20 years is something? I’ll be like 40 when I get out, then I’ll just do it. I don’t care. It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll come and I’ll kill your soldiers. I’ll kill you, and I’ll kill . . . .”  While making these statements, Teekaye kicked and spat on one of the arresting agents.

Following Teekaye’s arrest, the FBI searched his cell phone pursuant to a search warrant. The cell phone showed that he conducted multiple searches for specific Jewish and Israeli individuals and organizations in Howard County. Additionally, law enforcement discovered that Teekaye conducted searches about “how to break into a home” and “how to escape murder.” One of these individuals, a rabbi, submitted a victim-impact statement. The rabbi also spoke at the sentencing, detailing how Teekaye’s crime impacted him and the Jewish community.

On Oct. 24, 2024, a federal grand jury in the District of Maryland returned an indictment charging Teekaye with one count of attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization (i.e., ISIS), and one count of assaulting a federal officer. Teekaye pled guilty to the first count on January 30, 2026.

After Teekaye entered his guilty plea, and before he was sentenced, guards discovered two homemade weapons in Teekaye’s jail cell, including a large knife, as pictured below:

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI Baltimore Field Office for its work in the investigation and praised the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, along with the FBI’s Newark and Richmond Field Offices and New York Police Department, for their valuable assistance. 

The case was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Christina Hoffman for the District of Maryland with the assistance of Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat of the Justice Department’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man learned his fate in federal court, today, in connection with charges stemming from his attempt to join and fight for ISIS.

U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Michael Sam Teekaye, Jr., 22, to 15 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Teekaye, who pled guilty to the charges in January 2026, unknowingly revealed his plan to join and fight for ISIS to an undercover officer (UCO).

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office. 

“Mr. Teekaye sought to support a foreign terrorist organization that has committed unspeakable acts of violence and took real-world steps to carry out a terrorist attack in Maryland,” Hayes said.  “Today’s sentence underscores that those who seek to aid terrorist organizations will be identified, prosecuted, and held fully accountable.  I commend the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and our law-enforcement partners for their exceptional work in disrupting this threat and protecting our communities before any harm could occur. There is no margin for error when it comes to terrorism.”

“This sentencing reinforces the gravity of Michael Teekaye’s crimes.  Undoubtedly, lives were saved because law enforcement thwarted Teekaye’s plan to join ISIS and murder Americans,” Paul said. “The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force works around the clock to protect our country by identifying threats like this and preventing them from being carried out and harming our citizens.”

According to court documents, between March and April 2023, Teekaye engaged in multiple conversations with the UCO. During these conversations, Teekaye told the UCO he wanted to travel to Africa to join ISIS as a “mujahid,” or fighter.  Teekaye also told the UCO that his “plan B” was to carry out an attack in the United States against Jews and people who support Israel.  He said that he researched buildings close to him that support Israel and thought about how to “gun down key members or anyone involved.” 

On three occasions, in May and June 2024, Teekaye purchased ammunition and range time at a shooting range in Severn, Maryland, which he later told the UCO was part of his “training.”  Then in July 2024, Teekaye attempted to purchase a Kalashnikov K-9 9mm assault rifle, but since Teekaye was on probation in a state criminal case, the purchase was denied. 

During conversations with the UCO, between August and October 2024, Teekaye told the UCO that he engaged with a Somali ISIS fighter regarding his plans to travel to Somalia to join ISIS.  Teekaye explained that he would first fly to Turkey, then travel to Ethiopia, and then cross the border into Somalia.  He sent the UCO screenshots of an Ethiopian e-Visa he obtained from the ISIS fighter. On Oct. 4, Teekaye told the UCO that he received airline tickets from the ISIS fighter.  He also sent the UCO screenshots of his travel itinerary showing that he planned to depart from Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) on Oct. 14, and fly to Istanbul, Turkey, with a layover in London.

Then on Oct. 10, Teekaye sent the UCO a photo of himself wearing a black mask and holding a large machete, and he added, “Victory or shahada [i.e., martyrdom] … either you do it here or over there or both.”  On Oct.11, the UCO asked whether Teekaye was “sure” he wanted to join ISIS.  Teekaye responded that he was “sure” because he had done “a lot of research” and “they are the only group that has the most true and sincere intentions.” Then on Oct. 14, FBI agents arrested Teekaye at BWI after he checked in for his flight and proceeded through security. 

After his arrest, Teekaye made the following unprovoked statements, among others: “I’m just gonna get out in 20 years and I’m just gonna do it here. Okay?  Okay? It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll just do it here then, when I get out.”  He then referenced to a recent attack in which ISIS prison inmates killed four Russian penal colony guards, and he threatened to kill a guard while in prison. He continued, “You think 20 years is something?  I’ll be like 40 when I get out, then I’ll just do it. I don’t care. It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll come and I’ll kill your soldiers. I’ll kill you, and I’ll kill . . . .”  While making these statements, Teekaye kicked and spat on one of the arresting agents.

Following Teekaye’s arrest, the FBI searched his cell phone pursuant to a search warrant. The cell phone showed that he conducted multiple searches for specific Jewish and Israeli individuals and organizations in Howard County. Additionally, law enforcement discovered that Teekaye conducted searches about “how to break into a home” and “how to escape murder.” One of these individuals, a rabbi, submitted a victim-impact statement. The rabbi also spoke at the sentencing, detailing how Teekaye’s crime impacted him and the Jewish community.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI Baltimore Field Office for its work in the investigation and praised the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, along with the FBI’s Newark and Richmond Field Offices and New York Police Department, for their valuable assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina Hoffman, who is prosecuting this case, with the assistance of Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat, DOJ’s National Security Division Counterterrorism Section.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

# # #

Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man pled guilty in federal court to child sex abuse crimes.

Luis Esteban Borunda, 67, of Essex, is charged with sexual exploitation of a child, coercion and enticement of a minor, and distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Special Agent in Charge Jacob Cameron, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID) – Washington Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Hanna Porterfield, Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) – Washington, D.C. Field Office.  

According to his guilty plea, Borunda engaged in sex acts, which he recorded, with a 15-year-old minor. Beginning in at least July 2023 through August 2023, Borunda used Snapchat and text messages to communicate with Minor Victim 1, who he ultimately met during a trip to California. While on the trip, Borunda engaged in sex acts with the victim. Borunda used his cell phone to cause the production of a sexually explicit video of Minor Victim 1.

Additionally, in August 2023, Borunda messaged a law enforcement officer posing as a minor female. Borunda continued communicating with law enforcement until August 30, 2023, when authorities arrested him after he followed through with plans to meet with who he thought was an underage female for sex. Law enforcement also discovered that Borunda owned devices on which he stored CSAM.

Borunda faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a minor. 

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.  For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. 

Know2Protect is a Department of Homeland Security national public awareness campaign to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent and combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse; explain how to report online enticement and victimization; and offer resources for victims and survivors and their supporters. Learn more about Know2Protect at www.dhs.gov/know2protect.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, MSP, Army CID, and NCIS for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Maryam Zhuravitsky who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

# # #

Baltimore, Maryland – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced a federal grand jury indicted a Maryland man in connection with child sexual exploitation charges. 

Timothy William Fish, 38, of McDaniel, is charged with producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), distribution of CSAM, and possession of CSAM. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; State’s Attorney Joseph Coale, Talbot County State’s Attorney’s Office; and Sheriff Joseph J. Gamble, Talbot County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).

According to the indictment, between December 2024 and October 2025, Fish sexually exploited a minor by recording her during video calls and recording himself with her while the two engaged in sexual acts.  Fish then distributed some of the image and video files over Snapchat. During a search, law enforcement found multiple images of the minor, along with other CSAM, on Fish’s two cell phones.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc.  For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, Talbot County State’s Attorney’s Office, and TCSO for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Elizabeth McGuinn who is prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

# # #

Greenbelt, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that a grand jury issued a 13-count indictment against a Lexington Park drug trafficker, stemming from a federal drug-and-firearms investigation.  

Paul Dewayne Dorsey, 46, is charged with distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. These charges are in connection with the sale of firearms and fentanyl across multiple counties in Maryland. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); and Sheriff Steven A. Hall, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the indictment, beginning in November 2025, and continuing into May 2026, Dorsey distributed 40 grams or more of fentanyl to an undercover officer on eight separate occasions.  On three of these occasions, Dorsey sold one or more firearms, in addition to the controlled substance.  Dorsey is prohibited from possessing any firearms due to at least one prior felony conviction.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Dorsey faces a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of up to 40 years in prison for distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl; a mandatory minimum of five years, consecutive to all other charges, and a maximum of up to life for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and a maximum of 15 years for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, MSP, and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Brosh and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Duvall who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

# # #

Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland oncology practice and its owner agreed to pay more than $1.4 million to settle fraudulent billing allegations. 

Progressive Oncology & Hematology, LLC (Progressive), an oncology practice offering chemotherapy services in Frederick, Maryland, and its owner and sole provider, Mouhamad Bazzi, MD, agreed to pay the United States $1.45 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the settlement with Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and Special Agent in Charge Nate Landkammer, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA OIG).

According to the United States, Progressive and Bazzi knowingly submitted claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for reimbursement for chemotherapy drugs that the defendants did not pay for.  Specifically, the government alleges Progressive and Bazzi submitted claims for reimbursement for drugs that came from charitable organizations or through grant programs for specific patients at no expense to the defendants. 

Additionally, the government further alleges Progressive and Bazzi directed that wastage (small amounts of extra medication) from single-use vials of drugs intended for one patient be split across two or more patients. The defendants then submitted claims as if each patient received their own single-use vial.  It is also alleged that Progressive and Bazzi billed federal and state health insurance programs for chemotherapy drugs Bazzi prescribed but never administered to patients at the practice.

“Seeking reimbursement for chemotherapy drugs that were not paid for or not administered by the practice or this doctor is simply intolerable,” Hayes said.  “This settlement reflects this office’s commitment to holding wrongdoers accountable who attempt to profit at the expense of the public fisc.” 

“It is incumbent upon all health care providers who participate in the Medicare program to correctly bill for services provided to beneficiaries,” Dixon said. “HHS-OIG makes it a priority to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, VA OIG and other law enforcement partners to evaluate and pursue alleged inaccurate billings submitted to federal health care programs.”

“This settlement demonstrates the VA OIG’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the integrity of claims submitted to VA healthcare programs,” Landkammer said. “The VA OIG thanks the US Attorney’s Office and the Department of Health and Human Services OIG for their efforts in this investigation.”   

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the HHS-OIG and VA OIG for its work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly S. Phillips and Roann Nichols who handled this case.

The United States’ settlement in this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud.  One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act.  Tips and complaints for all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

# # #

Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced, today, multiple immigration-related prosecutions, including charges against several members of a Baltimore-area drug trafficking organization (DTO). These prosecutions are in connection with the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the prosecutions with Field Office Director Robert Guadian, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Baltimore Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division. 

On June 24, the Office announced the indictment of six aliens unlawfully in the United States, stemming from a local drug investigation. The illegal aliens, along with a seventh defendant, are charged with several crimes in connection with a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in the Baltimore metropolitan area. According to the indictment, beginning in March 2025, and continuing into October 2025, the DTO members conspired to distribute five kilograms or more of a cocaine mixture along with 280 grams or more of a cocaine-base mixture. 

Additionally, on June 29, U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Vanessa Yalixa Munoz-Baque, 31, of Ecuador, to six months in federal prison for illegally re-entering the United States after her prior removal. Authorities previously removed Munoz-Baque from the U.S. in August 2023. On November 3, 2023, Munoz-Baque illegally re-entered the U.S. again, and began residing in Frederick, Maryland. Law enforcement discovered her illegally present in the U.S. upon her arrest for attempted murder.

On June 25, Desiderio Eliceo Perez Gonzalez, 37, of Guatemala, pled guilty to illegal entry charges. In 2016, Perez Gonzalez illegally entered the U.S. through Texas. Then on March 23, 2026, law enforcement found and apprehended Perez Gonzalez in Maryland. 

In addition, on June 17, Roberto Lopez-Perez, 37, of Honduras, was indicted on illegal re-entry charges. According to court documents, on March 3, 2026, law enforcement encountered Lopez-Perez in Talbot County, Maryland, after a prior removal. Lopez-Perez knowingly and intentionally re-entered the U.S. without examination or inspection by an immigration official.

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

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended ICE-ERO and the DEA for their work in these investigations. Ms. Hayes also thanked the Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys who are prosecuting these federal cases.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – An Ecuadorian alien received a federal-prison term, today, for illegally re-entering the United States after her prior removal.

U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Vanessa Yalixa Munoz-Baque, 31, to six months in federal prison in connection with the re-entry charges after she was previously removed from the U.S. in August 2023. On November 3, 2023, Munoz-Baque illegally re-entered the U.S. again, and began residing in Frederick, Maryland. Law enforcement discovered her illegally present in the U.S. upon her arrest for attempted murder.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Acting Field Office Director Vernon Liggins, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Baltimore Field Office.

According to court documents, on September 11, 2024, local law enforcement apprehended Munoz-Baque in Frederick. Authorities charged her with attempted murder and assault after she placed a knife to her victim’s neck and stabbed him in the leg. Then in March 2025, Munoz-Baque pled guilty to first-degree assault and received a 25-year sentence, with all but three years suspended.

Munoz-Baque was originally deported after law enforcement apprehended her at the border in Eagle Pass, Texas, in June 2023. Authorities subsequently charged Munoz-Baque with unlawfully attempting to enter the U.S. without inspection. 

Law enforcement placed her in expedited removal proceedings, and an immigration judge ordered Munoz-Baque’s removal to Ecuador. After her removal, Munoz-Baque never obtained consent from the Attorney General of the United States, or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, for readmission into the country.

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.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ICE-ERO for its work in this investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason D. Medinger and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Shea who prosecuted this case. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man learned his fate in federal court, today, for making online threats. 

U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Raymond Pumphrey, 47, of Brooklyn, to 15 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for making threats transmitted by interstate communication in connection with the cybercrime.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division; Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Brian McDonough, U.S. Secret Service (USSS) – Baltimore Field Office.

According to the guilty plea, Pumphrey made a series of threatening posts on the social media platform YouTube, and other social media sites, to spread hateful rhetoric – particularly toward Black and Muslim communities. Commenting primarily on news stories, he advocated for and threatened to participate in the killing of black people in multiple large cities throughout the country. He further threatened to kill multiple politicians and members of their families.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and USSS for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Maryam Zhuravitsky who prosecuted the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Greenbelt, Maryland – A former National Security Advisor to the President of the United States entered a guilty plea in federal court, today, in connection with charges stemming from the transmission and retention of national defense information.

John Robert Bolton, II, 77, of Bethesda, Maryland, pled guilty to retention of national defense information, as alleged in Count 12 of the indictment. The plea agreement resolves all 18 counts charged in the indictment.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Hayden O’Byrne, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General, National Security Division (NSD), Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky, FBI Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office.

“Mr. Bolton knew the damage mishandling confidential material could cause to national security, and yet he still committed this misconduct and put American lives at risk,” Hayes said. “Keeping Americans safe has always been, and will always be, the top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. No one is above the law, and so anyone who endangers our national security will be brought to justice.”

“John Bolton held a position of extraordinary public trust as the country’s top National Security Advisor, and he betrayed that trust, jeopardizing our nation’s security,” O’Byrne said. “Today’s resolution ought to send a message to other public officials whom the public has entrusted with classified, national defense information. If you willfully mishandle these state secrets, the Department of Justice, led by the National Security Division, will investigate and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.” 

“By his own admission, John Bolton willfully and carelessly copied top secret information into his personal notes and then transmitted those secrets to unauthorized family members,” Rozhavsky said. “When guardians of our nation’s secrets play fast and loose with classified information, it opens the door for foreign adversaries to get their hands on it, which is exactly what happened. This plea stands as a reminder: the FBI will remain steadfast in our pursuit of anyone who puts the security of America’s secrets at risk.”

“Americans’ safety and security were needlessly put at risk by Bolton’s reckless and illegal actions. In this case, the worst happened -- our most sensitive government secrets were stolen by an adversary," Paul said. “Today’s guilty plea is a testament to the diligent work by investigators and prosecutors to ensure anyone jeopardizing our national security is held accountable.”

Bolton served as National Security Advisor between April 2018 and September 2019. According to court documents, during this time, Bolton incorporated highly sensitive classified information that he learned from his official duties into personal “diary” entries that he wrote about his daily activities. 

These diaries contained information classified up to the TOP SECRET level, as well as Sensitive Compartmented Information. This included foreign adversaries’ military operation plans, covert U.S. government actions in foreign countries, and intelligence about adversary foreign leaders obtained from clandestine human sources and intercepted communications. 

Bolton sent these documents to two family members who were not authorized to access, receive, or possess classified information. He sent the documents via non-governmental email accounts and a non-governmental messaging application which are not approved for processing classified information. Bolton also retained copies of these documents at his Bethesda home where they were not permitted to be stored.   

According to court documents, after Bolton left office in September 2019, a cyber actor, believed to be associated with the Islamic Republic of Iran, hacked Bolton’s personal email account. He reported the hack to law enforcement but did not tell the agents, or anyone else in the U.S. government, that the account contained national defense information.

Bolton is facing a maximum penalty of 60 months in prison. He also agrees to pay a $2.25-million fine. Further, under federal law, as noted in the plea agreement, Bolton’s conviction prohibits him, or his survivors, from collecting an annuity or federal retirement pay. The Honorable Theodore D. Chuang, U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Maryland, set Bolton’s sentencing date for Wednesday, October 28, at 9:30 a.m.         

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI Baltimore Field Office for its work in the investigation, along with the FBI Counterintelligence and Espionage Division and FBI New York Field Office, for their valuable assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan, along with Acting Chief Tanner Kroeger and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle, NSD’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, who are prosecuting the case. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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John R. Bolton, II, 77, of Bethesda, Maryland, pleaded guilty today in federal court to willfully retaining national defense information. Bolton used personal accounts to send classified information to family members who were unauthorized to access such information, including a personal email account that was later hacked by a cyber actor allegedly linked to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

“John Bolton held a position of extraordinary public trust as the country’s top National Security Advisor, and he betrayed that trust, jeopardizing our nation’s security,” said Hayden O’Byrne, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division. “Today’s resolution ought to send a message to other public officials whom the public has entrusted with classified, national defense information. If you willfully mishandle these state secrets, the Department of Justice, led by the National Security Division, will investigate and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”         

“Mr. Bolton knew the damage mishandling confidential material could cause to national security, and yet he still committed this misconduct and put American lives at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O’Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Keeping Americans safe has always been, and will always be, the top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. No one is above the law, and so anyone who endangers our national security will be brought to justice.”

“By his own admission — and with full knowledge it was a violation of his oath as a former security clearance holder — John Bolton willfully copied top secret information into his personal notes and then transmitted those secrets to unauthorized family members,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “As a former national security advisor, Bolton knew such careless disregard for the law could open the door for foreign adversaries to get their hands on incredibly sensitive and classified information, and that’s exactly what happened in this case. His plea stands as a critical reminder: The FBI will remain steadfast in our pursuit of all who place the security of America’s secrets and its citizens at risk.”

“Americans’ safety and security were needlessly put at risk by Bolton's reckless and illegal actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “In this case, the worst happened — our most sensitive government secrets were stolen by an adversary. Today's guilty plea is a testament to the diligent work by investigators and prosecutors to ensure anyone jeopardizing our national security is held accountable.”

Bolton served as the National Security Advisor to the President of the United States between April 2018 and September 2019. According to court documents, during this time, Bolton incorporated highly sensitive classified information that he had learned in the course of his official duties into documents that he wrote about his daily activities, which he referred to as “diary” entries. The documents contained information classified up to the TOP SECRET level, as well as Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), including foreign adversaries’ military operation plans, covert U.S. government actions in foreign countries, and intelligence about adversary foreign leaders obtained from clandestine human sources and intercepted communications. 

Bolton sent these documents to two family members who were not authorized to access, receive, or possess classified information. He sent the documents via non-governmental email accounts and a non-governmental messaging application which were not approved for processing classified information, and he retained copies at his home in Bethesda where they were not permitted to be stored.   

According to court documents, Bolton’s personal email account was hacked by a cyber actor believed to be associated with the Islamic Republic of Iran after Bolton left office in September 2019. Bolton reported that hack to law enforcement but did not tell the agents or anyone else in the U.S. government that the account contained national defense information.

In October 2025, a federal grand jury in the District of Maryland indicted Bolton on 18 counts of willfully transmitting and retaining national defense information. 

The plea agreement filed today resolves all 18 counts. According to the plea agreement, Bolton will face a maximum penalty of 60 months in prison. The defendant also agreed to pay a $2.25 million fine. Further, under federal law as noted in the plea agreement, Bolton’s conviction prohibits Bolton or his survivors from collecting an annuity or federal retirement pay. The Hon. Theodore D. Chuang, U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Maryland, set Bolton’s sentencing date for Oct. 28.

The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the case with key support from FBI’s Counterintelligence & Espionage Division, FBI New York Office, and FBI’s Operational Technology Division.

Acting Deputy Chief Tanner Kroeger and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case. Multiple former prosecutors in both offices made significant contributions to the yearslong investigation.

This release includes an updated quote from the FBI.

Baltimore, Maryland – A recidivist sex offender faces indictment, today, for committing sex-trafficking crimes against two minor victims.

Lorenzo Turner, 43, of Washington D.C., is charged with two counts of sex trafficking a minor; two counts of transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity; and commission of a felony crime involving a minor by a registered sex offender.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

According to the indictment, beginning in May 2024, and continuing through July 2024, Turner recruited, enticed, harbored, and transported Minor Victim 1, who was under the age of 18 years, to engage in commercial sex acts. The indictment further alleges that beginning in July 2024, and continuing through August 2024, Turner sex trafficked Minor Victim 2, who was also under the age of 18 years. 

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Turner faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison for each count of sex trafficking a minor through force, fraud, or coercion; a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life for each count of transporting a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity; and a mandatory 10 years consecutive to any other sentence for the commission of a felony crime involving a minor by a registered sex offender.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc.  For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI and BPD for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maryam Zhuravitsky and Reema Sood who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today, that six aliens unlawfully in the United States face indictment, stemming from a local drug investigation. The illegal aliens, along with a seventh defendant, are charged with several crimes in connection with a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in the Baltimore metropolitan area.

Pablo Aberlardo Molina, 35, of Honduras; German Dario Aguilar Mencias, 20, of Honduras; Santos Ayala Serrano, 27, of Honduras; Hamilton Estuardo Cha Pacay, 23, of Guatemala; Brayan Juarez Cruz, 30, of Honduras; Benjamin Rivas Lopez, 39, of Honduras; and Gerson Alex Tabora-Chinchilla, 31, of Honduras; made their initial appearances to face the charges.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division, and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD). 

According to the indictment, beginning in March 2025, and continuing into October 2025, the DTO members conspired to distribute five kilograms or more of a cocaine mixture along with 280 grams or more of a cocaine-base mixture. They are all charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.

Additionally, Molina, Serrano, Cruz, and Rivas Lopez are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, while Aguilar Mencias, Cha Pacay, andChinchilla are charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Aguilar Mencias and Cha Pacay are also charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person; and Aguilar Mencias, Cha Pacay, andChinchilla are charged with conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, the co-conspirators face a minimum mandatory of 10 years imprisonment to life imprisonment for conspiring and possessing with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine or 280 grams or more of cocaine base (counts one and two), and a maximum of 20 years for possession with intent to distribute cocaine (counts three and four); a maximum of 15 years for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (count five); and a  maximum of 20 years for conspiracy to possess firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (count six).

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA and BCPD for their work in the investigation, along with the Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office and Baltimore County State's Attorney's Office, for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney LaRai Everett and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Godwin who are prosecuting the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man is headed to federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy.

U.S. Chief District Judge George L. Russell sentenced Nathaniel Lightford, 47, to nine years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute and possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative.

According to court documents, in fall 2022, the DEA and FBI began investigating a drug trafficking conspiracy involving several individuals connected to a drug trafficking organization who were distributing cocaine in the Baltimore area. During the investigation, law enforcement obtained court-authorized wiretaps for several cell phones.  Investigators intercepted calls in which Lightford and co-conspirators used coded language to discuss distributing cocaine, arrange meetings to distribute cocaine, and obtain the cash proceeds.  Additionally, investigators conducted surveillance connected to intercepted communications in which they observed Lightford engaging in suspected drug transactions.

Then in June 2024, investigators executed federal search warrants on several residences associated with suspected DTO members. This included two residences associated with Lightford.  Lightford was present while law enforcement searched his Randallstown, Maryland, residence. During the search, investigators recovered a cell phone, driver’s license, and five brick-shaped objects hidden under a comforter on a bed. The brick-shaped objects contained white powder substances that lab analysis later confirmed was positive for cocaine.  Investigators also found approximately $12,232 in cash.

While searching Lightford’s primary residence in Randallstown, investigators also searched a second residence associated with him located in Baltimore City. The Baltimore residence was used as the DTO’s stash location. In the Baltimore residence, investigators found a gas mask, pill press, pill-press parts, empty glassine wrappers, Narcan, cutting agents, digital scales, powdered quinine, and ammunition. 

The Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA and FBI for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Simpkins who prosecuted this federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man is headed to federal prison for orchestrating a real-estate scheme.

U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced Jacob Rappaport, 41, to 15 months in prison, today, for conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Rappaport, an attorney, represented Alexander Schultz, 31, formerly of Pikesville, Maryland, and Schultz’s company, Limitless Management — a company that bought, sold, and managed real estate in Maryland — on various real estate transactions. 

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Edwin Bonano, Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG), Southeast Region; and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Pittano, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), Mid-Atlantic Region. 

According to court documents, in January 2020, Coventry Realty, LLC, an organization controlled by Schultz and others, purchased Coventry Manor, a Baltimore apartment complex, for $5.5 million. Then in March 2021, Coventry Realty, LLC obtained a new loan from Bank B for approximately $6.2 million for Coventry Manor. 

In December 2021, Schultz and others agreed to sell Coventry Manor to Buyer #1. According to the agreement, Buyer #1 would assume the Bank B loan instead of seeking new financing. Rappaport, acting on behalf of Limitless Management, prepared two separate contracts for sale. 

The first contract given to Bank B reflected that Buyer #1 was purchasing Coventry Manor from Coventry Realty for $7.8 million. Rappaport also drafted a side agreement that he did not disclose to Bank B. 

In this side agreement, which Schultz and Buyer #1’s representative signed, it listed Coventry Manor’s true purchasing price as approximately $6.9 million. It also stated that Coventry Realty would provide approximately $847,619.05 in “seller credits” to account for the difference between the fake purchase price of $7.8 million and the actual purchase price of $6.9 million. Rappaport prepared both the $7.8 million contract of sale and the separate $6.9 million agreement.   

Rappaport participated in conversations with Schultz, and others to plan the scheme. Additionally, when the attorney who initially represented Buyer #1 indicated that he would not participate in the scheme, Rappaport assisted in identifying a different lawyer who would participate in the fraud scheme. 

Prior to settlement, Rappaport and his co-conspirators determined that only $512,251.12 of the agreed upon seller credits should appear on the HUD-1 Settlement Statement as concessions from the seller to the buyer. The co-conspirators agreed to reflect a fictitious “Reno Credit,” for $85,000 on the HUD-1 Settlement Statement to lower the amount owed by Buyer #1 at closing. Bank B was unaware that Rappaport agreed to hold $335,367.93 in his attorney trust account for the purpose of concealing from the bank where the funds would eventually go, namely back to Buyer #1.   

On April 14, 2022, Coventry Realty completed the settlement to execute the sale. As agreed upon, the HUD-1 Settlement Statement reflected a fraudulent sale price of $7.8 million, fraudulent a “Reno Credit” of $85,000, and a $335,367.93 “seller fee” that was paid to the law firm where Rappaport was employed. 

Settlement Company A initiated a wire transfer to Rappaport’s attorney trust account for $351,617.93. Then on April 19, Rappaport’s attorney trust account initiated a $335,367.93 wire transfer to Buyer #1’s company, which the lender thought was the “seller fee,” payable to Rappaport’s law firm. As a result of this transaction, Rappaport received a $16,250 payment.

Additionally, Rapport negotiated contracts for Shultz and other co-conspirators in connection with a residential homes wholesaling scheme. Through the scheme, Schultz and his co-conspirators identified homes for sale under market value and then placed contracts on these residences.  Schultz and others only owned the homes for a short period of time, sometimes for less than a day, and then sold the properties to a third-party buyer at or near market value.

In September 2021, Schultz and other co-conspirators identified 42 residential homes in Baltimore. Rappaport assisted Schultz and the other co-conspirators by negotiating a contract sales price of $87,500 per home or $3,675,000 collectively. As part of the scheme, the homes were sold to Buyer #2 for $112,500 per home or $4,725,000 collectively. Then the co-conspirators agreed to fraudulently inflate the purchase price to $165,000 per home or $6,930,000 collectively. Lender A did not know the true purchase price was $112,500 per home. 

On December 9, 2021, the 42 residential homes were purchased for $3,675,000 and then sold to Buyer #2 on the same day for $6,930,000. The HUD-1 Settlement Statement reflected that Buyer #2 provided $1,931,545.96 as a down payment that came from a third-party not affiliated with the transaction, but Lender A believed the funds came from Buyer #2.  The co-conspirators, including Schultz, received $2,921,604.09 from the sale that went to Rappaport’s attorney trust account in order to conceal from Lender A the true sales price and the source of the down payment. After settlement, approximately $2 million was wired by Rappaport from his attorney trust account back to the unaffiliated third party. As a result of this transaction, Rappaport received $5,500.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, FHFA-OIG, and FDIC-OIG for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean R. Delaney who prosecuted the federal case.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.

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Baltimore, Maryland – A New York man received a federal-prison term for mimicking popular crypto influencers as he carried out a wire-fraud scheme.

U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow sentenced Noman Saleem, 39, of Queens and Levittown, to 15 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, in connection with the scam. Saleem conspired to steal victims’ money — including a victim in Maryland — under the guise of a crypto staking or crypto investment opportunity with guaranteed returns.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office.

According to court documents, beginning in December 2020, and continuing through at least March 2021, Saleem engaged in the investment scheme by promoting himself as popular online crypto influencers, convincing several victims to send crypto to virtual wallets that he owned and controlled. The victims invested with Saleem under the guise of a crypto staking or crypto investment opportunity with guaranteed returns.  After Saleem took control of the victims’ crypto, he ceased communicating with them and disappeared with their crypto. 

Cryptocurrencies are not tied to any nation’s fiat currency. The owner of cryptocurrency is assigned a mathematical encryption key pair consisting of a public key and a private key. A public key, also known as an address, is visible to the public. The public key allows the public to verify the owner of virtual currency and to send and receive cryptocurrencies. A private key, also known as a secret key, utilizes a password to complete cryptocurrency transactions. Secret keys are typically only shared with the owner of the public key. A wallet can hold multiple public keys for a user and an account can hold multiple wallets for a user. 

Crypto staking involves holding cryptocurrency holdings for a period of time to earn interest or rewards. Crypto staking is often accomplished through groups of people or pools, with participants earning passive income on their holdings, ranging from 5 to 20 percent. 

In 2020, Saleem began using Telegram as a messaging application.  Saleem created a handle on Telegram used by a popular crypto influencer. Thousands of people joined Saleem’s public channel, and he also created a VIP sub channel by subscription in exchange for approximately $500 to $600 of crypto. Saleem led members to believe that he was the influencer, as VIP channel members could direct message him. He also created a second handle using another popular crypto influencer’s handle and offered channel members the option to join his VIP channel by subscription.

Saleem advertised staking rewards through his Telegram channels, with terms of 30 to 90 days.  He then enticed potential investors with promises that the more crypto that they invested, the greater the returns.  Saleem never actually staked any crypto.

While conducting the crypto influencing and staking scheme, Saleem obtained at least $1,415,067.14 in the equivalent of U.S. currency and crypto. The Government seized much of these losses back in the form of crypto and U.S. currency, as identified in the plea agreement. 

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean R. Delaney, who prosecuted this federal case, and recognized Paralegal Specialist Shelbe Mascaro for her valuable assistance. 

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – Planning to fly your drone in Baltimore during SAIL250 Maryland? 

The government is issuing temporary flight restrictions (TFR) around the Baltimore Inner Harbor, Fells Point, North Locust Point, Under Armour Pier, Baltimore Peninsula, and Martin State Airport during SAIL250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore, from June 24 through June 30. It is prohibited to fly a drone or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in and around SAIL250 events.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the TFR with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Lt. Cmdr. Kate Newkirk, deputy incident commander, U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Maryland – National Capital Region. 

TFRs define a certain area of airspace where air travel, including drones and other UAS, is limited for a specific period of time. Restriction details include size, altitude, date, time, and the types of operations that are restricted or permitted. All pilots are required to adhere to the restrictions. Flying a drone in a restricted zone is a federal crime and can result in criminal fines up to $100,000, prison time, and drone confiscation.

“Operating a drone in restricted airspace is dangerous and against the law. An Unmanned Aircraft System operator could lose control of the drone, threatening the safety and lives of those below,” Hayes said. “Anyone who operates an Unmanned Aircraft System in the No-Drone Zone during Sail250 Maryland should expect to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The FBI will use its full suite of investigative and intelligence capabilities to ensure SAIL250 Maryland is safe for everyone,”  Paul said. “We will identify drone operators who are violating temporary flight restrictions, seize their drones, and support prosecution to the fullest extent possible.”

“The Coast Guard remains focused on ensuring the public can safely enjoy this historic maritime celebration with confidence,” Newkirk said. “A part of accomplishing that mission includes coordinating closely with our partner agencies to implement integrated safety and security plans which addresses unmanned aircraft systems.”

Unsafe or improper use of a drone during this time frame poses a physical hazard to other aircraft and to individuals on the ground. TFRs are intended to protect ship crew, cadets and midshipmen, aviators, visitors, and critical infrastructure, such as power lines and cell phone towers, from accidents and security threats. 

Before every flight, drone operators should check for active flight restrictions using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider. A list of approved providers offering free airspace awareness tools for desktop and mobile devices is available at faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly. These tools provide real-time information on temporary flight restrictions, restricted airspace, and other advisories based on the operator’s location. We encourage you to review www.tfr.faa.gov for a full list of TFRs in place.

Members of the public are encouraged to report all suspicious activity. Law enforcement will actively monitor the airways for illegal UAS/drones and is committed to identifying, investigating, disrupting, and prosecuting the careless or criminal use of drones in the area.

If you spot unsafe drone activity, report it immediately by calling 911. Together, let’s keep the skies—and SAIL250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore— safe for everyone.

Learn more about all federal UAS/drone regulations on the FAA website.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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Baltimore, Maryland – Today, the United States and Motor Vessel Dali Chief Engineer, Karthikeyan Deenadayalan, entered into a Deferred Prosecution Agreement in which he admitted to conduct that constitutes a criminal violation of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act.  This case is related to the indictment unsealed last month that charged three defendants in connection with the vessel crash that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge. 

The agreement defers prosecution of the charge in a criminal information recently filed against the chief engineer provided he abides by the agreement’s conditions.  Deenadayalan, an Indian national, served as the chief engineer aboard the Dali when it crashed into the Key Bridge.  He also previously served as the chief engineer on the Dali’s sister vessels, the Motor Vessel Maersk Saltoro and the Motor Vessel Cezanne.   

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the deferred prosecution agreement with Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson, Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD); Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Acting Director Zinnia James, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS); and Assistant Administrator Jeffrey A. Hall, Environmental Protection Agency – Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID). 

As part of the agreement, Deenadayalan admitted to facts that constitute a criminal violation of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act for failing to report a hazardous condition to the U.S. Coast Guard. According to the statement of facts, Deenadayalan admitted he was aware that the Dali, Maersk Saltoro, and Cezanne used an unsafe fuel supply pump. Deenadayalan acknowledged that the unsafe pump, known as a flushing pump, lacked redundancy, which compromised the vessels’ safe navigation and ability to recover from the loss of power. He admitted that he knew that the inability to recover from a loss of power could adversely affect the safety of the vessel itself, as well as any bridge, structure, or shore area. 

The statement of facts also detailed the chief engineer’s conversations and correspondence with Synergy personnel, including Radhakrishnan Karthik Nair, who was separately charged in a criminal indictment, about the use of the unsafe flushing pump on the vessels.  Deenadayalan further admitted that Nair directed him to send a “convincing” email to the charterer of the Dali so that the charterer would not ask additional questions about fuel consumption on the Dali to prevent revealing the use of the flushing pump. 

The charges contained in an information are allegations.  A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, CGIS, and EPA-CID for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Phelps, Bijon A. Mostoufi, and Kimberly S. Phillips, along with ENRD Trial Attorney Leigh Rendé, who are prosecuting this matter and the related criminal case against Synergy Maritime Pvt Ltd., Synergy Marine Pvt Ltd., and Radhakrishnan Karthik Nair.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.

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