Western District of Missouri

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Clever, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally possessing seven firearms.

Dakota Mitchell, 21, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to one count of conspiracy to traffick firearms, one count of trafficking firearms, and one count of unlawful possession of firearms.

Mitchell admitted to conspiring with a straw purchaser to obtain four firearms, knowing that he was prohibited from possessing firearms as an unlawful user of controlled substances. Mitchell unlawfully possessed six Glock pistols and a Micro Draco pistol between April 28, 2023, and July 9, 2024.

On May 11, 2023, a detective with the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a road rage incident at the intersection of Farm Roads 137 and 182. In a post-Miranda interview Mitchell admitted to yelling and shooting at a vehicle that had stopped short at the intersection. GCSO officers seized a Glock 9mm pistol with a high-capacity magazine and a Glock .40 caliber pistol with a high-capacity magazine from the BMW SUV Mitchell was driving.

Officers with the Springfield, Mo., Police Department responded to the scene of a car accident on Jan. 30, 2024, where Mitchell displayed a firearm. The victim of the accident identified Mitchell as the driver and brandisher of the firearm. SPD officers seized a loaded Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol with a high-capacity magazine from Mitchell.

On April 11, 2024, Ozark School Resource officers recovered a Glock 9mm pistol from a vehicle in the parking lot at Ozark High School. That firearm was ultimately traced back to Mitchell.

On July 9, 2024, when GCSO officers arrested Mitchell in relation to a vandalism incident, he was in possession of a Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. In a post-Miranda interview Mitchell told officers that he had someone else buy guns for him because he was too young. Mitchell stated that his straw purchaser had purchased the Glock pistol seized on Jan. 30, the Glock seized on April 11, an additional Glock pistol that was not recovered, and an additional Micro Draco pistol for him. He also told officers that he had been using marijuana daily since he was 11 or 12 years old and that he occasionally used narcotics and psychedelic drugs.

Mitchell admitted to being a member of an area gang known as “FTO,” who have who have been linked to a number of violent crimes and firearm offenses. Many of the members of FTO are unable to purchase firearms due to their youth, history of drug use, or other prohibited status and use straw purchasers to obtain them.

Under federal statutes, Mitchell is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole on each conviction. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Flossmoor, Ill., Police Department, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An Oklahoma City, Ok., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri.

Edward Uribe, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 300 months in federal prison without parole. Uribe was also ordered to forfeit $210,000 in drug trafficking proceeds to the government.

On Nov. 25, 2024, Uribe pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Uribe admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Barry, Stone, Polk, Lawrence, Green, Jasper, and Newton counties which lasted from Nov. 1, 2020, to April 28, 2022. According to court documents, Uribe served as a main source of methamphetamine supply for the drug trafficking organization from Feb. 1, 2022, to April 28, 2022. During that time, Uribe facilitated the distribution of more than 460 pounds of methamphetamine from Oklahoma into southwest Missouri.

Uribe, who was incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for a previous methamphetamine trafficking conviction, used a contraband cell phone to communicate with his co-conspirators. He used a messaging app on the phone to schedule transportation and delivery of the methamphetamine and provide instructions on how to prepare the drug for sale. Uribe also used the app and proceeds from his drug trafficking to arrange the purchase of a drone with the intent to smuggle drugs and other contraband into prison.

Uribe is among 20 defendants in this case who have pleaded guilty. Uribe is the eighteenth defendant to be sentenced.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team, the Barry County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Stone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Combined Ozark Multi-Jurisdictional Enforcement Team (COMET), the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Polk County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Ottawa County, Okla., Sheriff’s Department, the Bolivar, Mo., Police Department, the Cassville, Mo., Police Department, the Kimberling City, Mo., Police Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two women were charged yesterday in federal court for possession with intent to distribute approximately 13 pounds of methamphetamine.

Brittney N. Stanley, 32, and Christina L. M. Davis, 32, were charged by complaint with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.  Stanley was also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On Aug. 6, 2025, following a car stop, Stanley and Davis were found in possession of approximately 13 pounds of suspected methamphetamine.  Stanley was also found in possession of a loaded, Ruger 9mm handgun that was inside a backpack that was on Stanley’s lap when she was approached by law enforcement. The backpack also contained Stanley’s driver’s license.  Inside the rear cargo-area of the SUV Stanley was driving, officers discovered two more handguns.

The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Under federal statutes, Stanley and Davis are subject to a sentence of up to up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court yesterday for distributing fentanyl, which resulted in three overdose deaths in Belton and Raymore, Mo., as part of a drug-trafficking conspiracy.

Tiger Dean Draggoo, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 40 years in federal prison without parole.

On Oct. 16, 2024, Draggoo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and three counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death.

Draggoo admitted that during his fentanyl distribution conspiracy, on three separate occasions the fentanyl he sold caused the death of the purchaser, one of which was a juvenile.

“This case is a sad reminder of the horrific damage and destruction that fentanyl can have in our community.  It is also a stern reminder to those who seek to make a profit off dealing fentanyl will be vigorously investigated, prosecuted, and incarcerated,” R. Matthew Price United States Attorney.  “I want to express my condolences to the family members of the victims and thank our law enforcement partners and United States Attorney’s Office staff who worked on this case.  I know that the sentence does not bring back their loved ones but hope that the lengthy sentence brings some measure of peace that justice was served for the individual responsible for providing the drug that killed their loved one.”

"Armed, violent criminals who traffic deadly fentanyl into our communities and prey on the most vulnerable pose an immediate threat to everyone’s safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office, whose collaborative work not only delivered justice, but has put an end to this devastating path."

“This case further highlights the terrible effect fentanyl continues to have on public safety. The FBI is dedicated to work with all our local, state and federal partners to crush those that supply and sell fentanyl and other drugs within our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.

Draggoo also admitted that the investigation established that he was responsible for distributing or possessing at least 22,364 pills that contained a total of 2,460 grams of fentanyl.  As part of the investigation, during a search of Tiger Draggoo’s apartment, law enforcement found 17 firearms, including two machine guns, ammunition of various calibers, $246,769 in cash, a ballistic vest with plates, a money counter, numerous pills that contained fentanyl, eight suspected LSD tabs, and marijuana. The 17 firearms included a Del-Ton 5.56-caliber rifle (converted into a machine gun), a Glock switch (used to convert a Glock pistol into a machine gun), three Marlin .22-caliber rifles, a Norinco 7.62-caliber rifle, a Mosin-Nagant rifle, an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber rifle, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, an Armscorp USA .308-caliber rifle, a Century Arms 7.62-caliber rifle, a Herbert Schmidt .22-caliber revolver, a New England Firearms .22-caliber revolver, a Kimber 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and a Metro Arms .45-caliber pistol.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Belton, Mo., Police Department, the Raymore, Mo., Police Department, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegal firearms and drug trafficking.

Nathan Caldwell, Sr., a/k/a “Prince Bossalinie”, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to twenty-one years and eight months in federal prison without parole.

On April 3, 2025, Caldwell, Sr. pleaded guilty to engaging in firearm sales without a license, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking crimes, distribution of cocaine, and trafficking a firearm.

Between Dec. 20, 2023, and Apr. 17, 2024, a Confidential Informant purchased 19 firearms, one bulletproof vest, approximately 606.29 grams of methamphetamine, 3.4 grams of powder cocaine, 3.3 grams of crack cocaine, and 9.4 grams of marijuana from Caldwell, Sr.  Each of the transactions occurred at Caldwell Sr.’s residence.  On May 8, 2024, Caldwell, Sr. sold the Confidential Informant a Glock, Model 19x, 9mm pistol equipped with a machine gun conversion device, commonly known as a “switch”, on the slide of the pistol. The Confidential Informant also purchased three extra firearm magazines from Caldwell, Sr.  The Confidential Informant left the residence, and investigators executed a search warrant on the residence.  During the execution of the search warrant, investigators recovered the firearm and magazines the Confidential Informant purchased, along with approximately 14.2 grams of crack cocaine and 15.3 grams of cocaine from Caldwell Sr.’s dining room table.

Caldwell, Sr. has two prior felony convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm and prior felony convictions for aiding a felon, attempted aggravated assault, attempted possession of cocaine, conspiracy to commit robbery, and possessing cocaine.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced to four years of imprisonment in federal court today for conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and illegally trafficking firearms.

Antonio Manning, Sr., 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 48 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. The court also ordered the defendant to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $11,260.

On April 14, 2025, Antonio Manning admitted that he knowingly and willfully joined in an agreement to sell firearms to individuals who were prohibited from possessing them under federal law.  According to the plea agreement, the defendants trafficked at least 22 firearms to persons who were known felons or they sold firearms that were converted into unregistered machineguns in violation of federal law.  Pursuant to the plea agreement, Antonio Manning admitted that he was personally involved in illegally selling at least nine firearms and one of those firearms was an unregistered machinegun.

On Jan. 22, 2025, co-defendant Sheron Manning, the brother of Antonio Manning, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun.  On May 21, 2025, Sheron Manning, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 57 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.

On April 07, 2025, co-defendant Michael Dewayne Hardy, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons, to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun, and one count of knowingly being a felon in possession of firearms.  On June 26, 2024, Michael Dewayne Hardy, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 70 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Operation Take Back America

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

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A federal grand jury sitting in Jefferson City returned indictments against three individuals charging a range of federal offenses.

Arizona Woman Charged with Two Counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine

Joanna Fabian Rivera, 33, Arizona, was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.   The indictment alleges that during a traffic stop on May 3, 2025, packages of cocaine and heroin were found within Rivera’s vehicle.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Lynn. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Iowa Man Charged with Child Exploitation Offenses

Alex Mills Zoll, 42, Cedar Rapids, Ia., was charged with three counts related to child exploitation offenses. The indictment alleges that between May 11, 2025 and June 1, 2025, Zoll enticed a minor to engage in sexual activity, attempted to produce child pornography, and transferred obscene material in interstate commerce.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Turner. It was investigated by Boone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, Callaway County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Columbia Man Indicted for Illegally Possessing Firearms

Aaron James Kipper, 34, Columbia, Mo. was charged with unlawfully possessing two firearms.  The indictment alleges that on June 27, 2025, Kipper, knowing he had previously been sentenced for a term exceeding one year on a felony, possessed a Taurus .357 revolver and a Jennings .22 caliber semi-automatic firearm. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Boone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

The charges contained in these indictments are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Operation Take Back America

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

Project Safe Childhood

The Zoll 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 Attorneys' 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 www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national has been sentenced for illegally reentering the United States.

Jaime Flores-Ortega, 31, pleaded guilty to unlawful reentry after deportation for an aggravated felony and was sentenced to 26 months’ imprisonment by Senior U.S. District Judge Howard Sachs on Aug. 5, 2025.

According to court documents, on Oct. 26, 2024, Flores-Ortega was arrested by the Kansas City police for leaving the scene of an accident in Kansas City, Mo. Flores-Ortega was subsequently identified as an alien unlawfully present in the U.S. who had been previously removed twice to Mexico.  In Oct. 2016, Flores-Ortega was convicted in the Western District of Missouri for being an alien in possession of a firearm.  He was subsequently deported from the United States in 2017.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rudolph R. Rhodes IV. It was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Chicago Field Office, Kansas City Sub-Office.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – On August 1st, Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced the appointment of R. Matthew Price as United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri.

Price served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Jefferson County Missouri and later as an Assistant Circuit Attorney in the St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office.  In 2008, Price joined the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee as a Criminal AUSA.  After several years with DOJ, Price left to become a Senior Attorney for a Fortune 100 Company, later serving as the Lead Counsel for Compliance, Investigations & Government Litigation, overseeing internal investigations and managing global compliance projects.

In 2014, Price joined the City of Germantown, Tennessee as the Chief Prosecuting Attorney.  Later, he worked at another Fortune 100 Company as a Senior Counsel, later promoted to Managing Counsel, where he directed complex investigations and led workstreams related to government inquiries.  Most recently, Price has served as the Chief Legal Officer for a large Missouri corporation.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing firearms.

Jerrell D. Coppage, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to nine years and seven months in federal prison without parole.

On March 6, 2025, Coppage pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms.  Coppage admitted he was in possession of a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol, an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, .223 caliber pistol, and a Ruger, Model LCP, .380 caliber pistol, on Jan. 3, 2024.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Coppage, who was on parole in a state case at the time of this federal offense, has four prior felony convictions for burglary, three prior felony convictions for theft, two prior felony convictions for stealing a motor vehicle, and prior felony convictions for sale of a controlled substance, tampering, and forgery.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for unlawful reentry after deportation and possession of a firearm as an illegal alien.

Omar Avila-Ramirez, 38, was sentenced by United States District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 15 months in federal prison without parole followed by three years of supervised release.

On Jan. 23, 2025, Avila-Ramirez pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation and possession of a firearm as an illegal alien.  According to government filings, Avila-Ramirez was arrested by Lee’s Summit, Mo., police officers on Sept. 26, 2024, for driving a van with license plates belonging to a stolen truck.  Avila-Ramirez gave police the wrong name and claimed to not have any identification. Police recovered from Avila-Ramirez’s possession a Phoenix Arms HP, .22 caliber pistol loaded with six rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, with one in the chamber.  Avila-Ramirez has twice been removed from the country. Avila-Ramirez admitted he was in the country illegally and that he was not legally allowed to possess a firearm.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Mahoney. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Lee’s Summit, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Sedalia, Mo., man has been charged in federal court with unlawfully possessing a firearm following an investigation into a shooting in downtown Springfield on July 20, 2025.

Kenkori Lenell Grant Jr., 23, was charged in a criminal complaint that was filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., on July 20, 2025. The complaint was unsealed and made public today following Grant Jr.’s arrest and initial court appearance. Grant Jr. remains in federal custody pending a preliminary hearing on Aug. 1, 2025.

The federal criminal complaint alleges that Grant Jr. possessed a Fort Barnes Armory pistol equipped with a high-capacity magazine. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Grant Jr. has prior felony convictions for harassment, assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Springfield Police Department officers heard shots fired near the intersection of S. Patton Ave. and W. Walnut St. near midnight on July 20, 2025. When officers arrived on scene they located a Fort Barnes Armory pistol under a nearby car. Officers located surveillance footage of the area depicting who appeared to be Grant Jr. placing the firearm under the vehicle following the shooting.

The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to his role in a racketeering conspiracy to transport aliens, harbor aliens, encourage and induce aliens to reside in the United States, and falsify Form I-9 documentation.

Lorenzo Castro-Manzanarez, 43, a Mexican National living in Springfield, Mo., admitted that he was part of a RICO (racketeer influenced and corrupt organizations) conspiracy from Jan. 1, 2018, to Aug. 10, 2021, that, amongst other things, transported and harbored aliens not authorized to live or work in the United States. Castro-Manzanarez admitted that as part of the conspiracy he also encouraged and induced aliens to reside in the United States in violation of the law by providing them with employment and allowing them to work under fraudulent identification documentation. Castro-Manzanarez took these actions in furtherance of keeping multiple Mexican restaurants across the Midwest staffed and profitable, thereby gaining an illegal competitive business advantage. Castro-Manzanarez also admitted that as part of the conspiracy he falsely claimed and attested to be a United States citizen on a Form I-9 and utilized a counterfeit Social Security card as part of the Form I-9 process.

Castro-Manzanarez also admitted that after being indicted in this case—and while on bond—he continued to break federal law by employing aliens, providing aliens with housing at residences in his name, and allowing aliens to work at his restaurants utilizing fraudulent identification documentation, including counterfeit Social Security cards. Castro-Manzanarez further admitted that he took these illegal actions to ensure his restaurants in Springfield, Mo., Columbia, Mo., and Jefferson City, Mo., remained staffed and profitable.

Castro-Manzanarez was taken into custody at the conclusion of his plea hearing and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Under federal statutes, Castro-Manzanarez is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of Castro-Manzanarez will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rudolph R. Rhodes IV, Nicholas P. Heberle, David Wagner, and Leigh Farmakidis. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service; Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; Kansas Bureau of Investigation; Kansas Department of Labor; Missouri State Highway Patrol; Kansas Highway Patrol; and Butler Police Department. 

Operation Take Back America

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

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia Mo., man employed by the TSA appeared in Federal Court today after being charged by complaint with attempted production of child pornography.

Daniel P. Meenehan, 64, was charged by complaint with attempted production of child pornography on July 24, 2025.

The investigation began on Oct. 29, 2024, when HSI agents in St. Louis, Missouri received information from the Miller County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office regarding a report of a minor victim sending nude photographs to an adult male in exchange for money.  The investigation shows the defendant made over 41 transactions to the minor victims in exchange for nude images for a period of one year.

The charges contained in the complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt.  Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Under federal statutes, if convicted, Meenehan faces a federal prison sentence of up to 30 years to be served without parole.  The maximum statutory sentence is provided by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Turner. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, and the Miller County Sheriff’s Office.

Project Safe Childhood

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 Attorneys' 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 www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Nine individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their alleged involvement in an illegal gambling conspiracy occurring at six locations in southwest Missouri. Each of the defendants face multiple charges in the 72-count indictment.

Rahulkumar D. Patel, 40, a citizen of India residing in the state of Washington, Manishkumar M. Patel, 44, a citizen of India residing in the state of Georgia, Mitulkumar M. Barot, 40, of Georgia, Sunilkumar N. Patel, 52, a citizen of India residing in the state of New York, Tushar R. Patel, 39, of Georgia, Azghar Ali, 51, of New York, Harshadkumar S. Chaudhari, 38, a citizen of India, residing in Colorado, Vipul A. Patel, 40, of Arkansas, and Mohammed Iphtekar Ali Ajgar, 50, of Georgia were each charged in a 72-count superseding indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield on May 14, 2025. The superseding indictment replaces an indictment returned against Rahulkumar D. Patel, on Dec. 10, 2024, and includes additional charges and defendants. The superseding indictment was unsealed and made public following the arrest of several defendants and in advance of certain defendants’ arraignments on July 23 and 24, 2025.

“Illegal gambling operations affect the citizens of the neighborhoods and communities where they are located as well as the local economy. We worked closely with our law enforcement partners to shut down this criminal conspiracy and bring those responsible to justice. This case is an example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies work together to tackle organized criminal activity,” said Acting United States Attorney Jeff Ray.

“What began as a local investigation quickly expanded into a large, multi-jurisdictional case resulting in numerous indictments and a significant positive impact across our community,” Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams said. “We’re grateful for the strong partnerships we have with federal agencies that made it possible to build a case of this scale.”

“This wasn’t some low-level gambling scheme. It was an organized, multi-million-dollar criminal network that operated brazenly and believed it could stay one step ahead of law enforcement,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “They were mistaken. Through precise coordination, relentless investigation, and cross-agency teamwork, we dismantled their operation piece by piece-locally and overseas. To those still involved in this kind of crime: we’re watching, we’re tracking, and we will shut you down.”

“Today’s charges reflect the dedication of law enforcement – especially in Springfield, Joplin, and across Southwest Missouri - to hold those who violate the law accountable. We especially thank and commend our law enforcement partners for their persistent and unwavering commitment to this case,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.

The federal indictment charges all nine defendants with one count each of participating in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, and operating illegal gambling businesses from July 1, 2022, to May 13, 2025. In addition to the conspiracy counts, all nine defendants were charged with at least one count of wire fraud, and eight defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering.

The State of Missouri has established regulations controlling the operation of electronic gaming devices. Certain gambling devices and slot machines are prohibited by Missouri and Federal law.

According to the indictment, the defendants ran illegal gambling businesses under the guise of internet amusement arcade games, skill game arcades, and adult arcades.

Between April 24, 2023, and Aug. 28, 2023, Barot registered six businesses online with the Missouri Secretary of State: Big Win Arcade, LLC; Big Win Arcade 2023, LLC; Spin Hitters 1, LLC; Spin Hitters, LLC; Vegas City Arcade, LLC; and Vegas Arcade, LLC. The indictment alleges that the defendants then used these businesses to fraudulently apply for business license applications filed with the cities of Springfield, Joplin, and Branson West, and to obtain utilities contracts, lease agreements, and business incorporation documents filed with the State of Missouri.

The defendants hired local employees to work in their businesses, which operated contests of chance, gambling devices, and slot machines in violation of Missouri and Federal law. There were four locations that operated in Springfield: Big Win Arcade #1 at 1928 S. Glenstone Ave., Big Win Arcade #2 at 1135 E. Commercial St., Spin Hitters at 838-840 S. Glenstone Ave., and Vegas Arcade at 615 S. Scenic. They also opened Spin Zone at 2331 E. 7th St. in Joplin, Mo., and Vegas City Arcade at 16585 Missouri Highway 13, Branson West.

Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Vipul A. Patel, and Ajgar participated in WhatsApp group chats where they communicated about the operation of the illegal gambling arcades from May 31, 2023, to March 11, 2024.

The indictment alleges that the defendants transported the proceeds from the illegal gambling locations to several states to promote the ongoing illegal activity. The defendants hid the proceeds of their gambling ring by depositing them in various personal bank accounts within the United States and the Republic of India. Over $9.5 million in US currency was laundered by this organization in a little over three years.

Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Sunilkumar N. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Barot, Ali, Chaudhari, and Ajgar are all charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and at least one count of interstate travel in aid of racketeering. Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, Sunilkumar N. Patel, Tushar R. Patel, Barot, Ali, and Ajgar are all charged with money laundering. Rahulkumar D. Patel, Manishkumar M. Patel, and Ali are also charged with depositing or transferring more than $10,000 of funds derived from illegal gambling and wire fraud in a single transaction.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is the result of a lengthy investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) involving the transnational organized crime group with ties to India. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark who was significantly assisted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Oliver prior to his retirement in June of this year. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Missouri National Guard Counter Drug Unit, the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center, the Greene County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney, the Jasper County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney, and the Johnson County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney.

Operation Take Back America

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

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – On July 16, 2025, Staci-Christopher Zjacku Cannon, 26, was charged with four counts of bank robbery and two counts of attempted bank robbery in a now-unsealed federal indictment filed in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Missouri.

The indictment alleges that between Feb. 6, 2024, and May 15, 2024, Cannon robbed, or attempted to rob, six different banks and credit unions across Kansas City, acquiring over $30,000 in the process.

Under federal statutes, each count of bank robbery, or attempted bank robbery, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment in federal prison without parole.  The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther.  It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally possessing firearms and drug trafficking.

Victor Roseberry, 60, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a three-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on June 27, 2025.

The indictment was unsealed and made public today following Roseberry’s arrest.

The indictment charges Roseberry with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

The indictment alleges Roseberry possessed firearms on June 9, 2023, and July 4, 2024.  The indictment also alleges that on July 4, 2024, Roseberry possessed 5 or more grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.  The indictment alleges Roseberry is an armed career criminal due to his prior felony convictions.

Roseberry has prior felony convictions for robbery, domestic assault, aggravated assault, tampering, and possession of a firearm by a person with three prior convictions for crimes of violence.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Under federal statutes, Roseberry is subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two men pleaded guilty today in federal court in separate, unrelated cases to illegally re-entering the United States after having been previously removed.

Selvin Mejia-Ramos, 32, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Willie Epps, Jr. to one count of unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being removed. According to court records, Mejia-Ramos had previously been removed from the country in 2020.

Rubin Pinot-Banegas, 38, a Honduran national, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Willie Epps, Jr. to one count of unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being removed. According to court records, Pinot-Banegas had previously been removed from the country four times – on Dec. 20, 2007, June 4, 2009, Oct. 22, 2015, and April 19, 2017.

Under federal law it is illegal for an alien to knowingly re-enter the United States without permission after being removed.

Under federal statutes, Mejia-Ramos is subject to a sentence of up to 2 years in federal prison without parole. Pinot-Banegas is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. Both men are subject to a maximum fine of $250,000. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

These cases are both being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. They were investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations.

Operation Take Back America

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man with ties to a local gang was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm and making a false statement during a firearm purchase.

Darius R. Thomas, 28, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 3 years in federal prison without parole, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

On Jan. 3, 2025, Thomas pleaded guilty to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm and to making a false statement during a firearm purchase.

Thomas is a close associate of an area gang known as “FTO,” who have been linked to several area violent crimes and firearms offenses.

On June 1, 2023, officers with the Springfield Police Department (SPD) responded to a 911 call reporting a verbal altercation where two males were yelling at an unarmed man and waving guns around in the parking lot of the Kum & Go gas station located at 2930 South National Ave. The victim told the 911 operator, “I pulled up, they were making a fuss, and I said, ‘do not ask me questions when you got a gun pulled,’ that is all.” Officers were able to identify Thomas from the surveillance footage recording of the incident.

On June 21, 2023, SPD officers were dispatched to the parking lot of an apartment complex on East Elm St. in response to a 911 call reporting that people were exhibiting firearms within two cars parked in the lot. When officers questioned the occupants of the vehicles, Thomas told officers that they lived in the complex and were just smoking “weed.” During questioning, Thomas rolled a marijuana cigarette and smoked it in front of the officer. When the officer asked Thomas about the reported gun, he told them that he couldn’t buy firearms because he “smoked weed.” Thomas gave officers permission to search the car, and they located a backpack with ammunition and magazines that appeared to fit a Glock pistol.

When officers arrested Thomas, on Aug. 1, 2023, for a warrant issued for the June 1, 2023, incident, he was carrying the loaded Glock 29 that he brandished during the altercation at the Kum N’ Go.

Just two days after he was interviewed regarding the June 1, 2023, incident, Thomas went to a local federal firearm licensee (FFL) and attempted to purchase a firearm. On the ATF Firearm Transaction Form, Thomas falsely claimed he was not an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance including marijuana. By pleading guilty Thomas admitted that he lied on the ATF Firearm Transaction Form in violation of federal law and, at the time he filled out the form in connection with the purchase of a firearm, he was a regular user of a marijuana. The FFL did not transfer the weapon to Thomas.   

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – On July 17, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office obtained a temporary restraining order against the unidentified foreign operators of a fraudulent online cryptocurrency investment platform called “Triangular.” The order resulted in the suspension of online access to two websites used to access the platform.

The United States also filed a civil forfeiture complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri against more than $325,000 in cryptocurrency seized from two addresses linked to the scam. According to the complaint, the FBI used blockchain analysis and other investigative techniques to determine that the cryptocurrency is connected to the theft and laundering of funds from victims of the Triangular investment fraud scheme.

The complaint alleges that between July and October 2024, the two cryptocurrency addresses were used to launder millions of dollars in suspected scam proceeds. The complaint further alleges that a victim located in the Western District of Missouri lost more than $16 million to the fake Triangular investment platform.

The scammers involved in this scheme lured victims through unsolicited messages on social media sites like LinkedIn. Once a relationship formed, the scammers introduced the victims to the fraudulent Triangular platform and made promises of immense investment gain with little to no risk of loss. After the victims made an initial investment through the sophisticated-looking platform, the scammers manipulated the victims’ account to appear to show exponential investment returns and encouraged victims to transfer more cryptocurrency. But when victims tried to withdraw their profit, they were told they needed to pay more in false withdrawal fees or “taxes.” The victims never recovered their money.

Commonly referred to as a cryptocurrency confidence scam, fake investment schemes like Triangular cost Americans billions of dollars every year, according to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center’s 2024 Internet Crime Report.

If you believe you are a victim of a cryptocurrency investment fraud or other cyber-enabled crime, report the fraud to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov, your local law enforcement agency, and the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.

The claims in the United States’ civil complaints are only allegations. The preliminary injunction hearing is scheduled for August 6, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes. The case is United States v. John Doe, No. 4:25-cv-00529-BCW.

This investigation is being handled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kansas City Field Office. The civil cases are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Constance. The Department of Justice would like to acknowledge Tether for its assistance in effectuating the transfer of these assets

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm.

Joseph Archer III, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 96 months in federal prison without parole.

On Oct. 29, 2024, Archer pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On June 29, 2023, officers with the Springfield Police Department attempted to stop a Toyota Camry that was being driven by Archer. Archer fled from officers, leading them on a vehicle pursuit. During the pursuit Archer crashed into an officer’s vehicle, disabling the police vehicle, and causing the officer to suffer minor injuries. As a result of that crash, Archer briefly lost control of his car before continuing to flee. The pursuit ended when Archer crashed the Camry into an outbuilding. Archer fled the scene of the crash on foot before the officers arrived. When officers searched the Camry, they located a stolen Taurus PT handgun. They also located a box of ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, mail addressed to Archer, and his Missouri Department of Corrections ID in the glove box.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Archer has prior felony convictions for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Blue Springs, Mo., man pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud for stealing his mother’s Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits since 2019.

Afshin Setoodeh, 62, became the representative payee for his mother’s SSDI benefits in 2018. In this role, Setoodeh was responsible for appropriately using these benefits for the care of his mother. After she returned to her home country of Iran in 2019, Setoodeh did not notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) that she had left the country as required, nor did he notify SSA when his mother passed away in 2022. Even after her death, Setoodeh continued to assert to SSA that his mother was alive and that he was spending the benefits appropriately. Setoodeh withdrew the benefits from his mother’s checking account which totaled approximately $55,000 from 2019 through 2024. Setoodeh also used his mother’s identity to open several credit cards both prior to and after her death.

Setoodeh committed this crime while employed as a civil engineer with the Federal Aviation Administration in Kansas City.

Under federal statutes, Setoodeh is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda K. Hanson. It was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in Greene County, Mo., and possessing firearms.

Russell Lee Deck, Jr., 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Brian C. Wimes to a total sentence of 25 years in federal prison without parole, followed by three years of supervised release.

On Nov. 8, 2024, Deck pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Deck admitted he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene County from June 1 to Aug. 25, 2022, and to possessing firearms.

The drug trafficking conspiracy ended when a Springfield police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Deck on Aug. 18, 2022. When the officer pulled behind Deck’s vehicle in a hotel parking lot and activated his lights, Deck put the car in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle. The officer got out of his vehicle, pulled his duty weapon, and ordered the vehicle’s occupants to stop. Instead, Deck drove forward, then put his vehicle in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle again before fleeing the parking lot.

A police pursuit ensued, with Deck driving at a high rate of speed in a residential neighborhood, while Deck’s passenger shot at the officer’s vehicle. The pursuit ended when Deck crashed into a Jeep SUV at an intersection. While the Jeep suffered significant damage, the innocent driver appeared to be unharmed. Deck’s passenger fled the crash on foot and was arrested after Greene County deputies found the passenger hiding under a car. Shell casings and damage from gunfire were located throughout the neighborhood.

Officers removed Deck from the wrecked vehicle and found two bags containing a total of 46.2 grams of methamphetamine in Deck’s pockets. Inside Deck’s vehicle, officers found two handguns on the front passenger side floorboard.

Deck’s passenger who fired the shots during the pursuit, Blake Basten, was sentenced in federal court to a total sentence of 10 years for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm on Feb. 27, 2024.

Deck’s co-defendant in the drug trafficking conspiracy, Justin Hollingsworth, was sentenced to a total sentence of 18 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 24, 2024.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting a postal worker.

Courtney J. Ellis, 45, was charged today in a one count indictment with assaulting an employee of the U.S. Postal Service while they were performing their official duties. Today’s indictment replaces a felony criminal complaint filed June 23, 2025.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, on June 18, 2025, Ellis struck the victim on the head with a wooden board while he was delivering mail to Ellis’s address. The victim, who was delivering mail along that route for the first time, was wearing a USPS uniform and driving a marked USPS delivery vehicle. After striking the victim, Ellis yelled that he didn’t belong in the neighborhood and followed him back to his vehicle where he continued to yell at and threaten the victim until he drove away.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert. It was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with his possession of a firearm recovered following a shooting in Joplin, Mo.

Andrew M. Reed, 22, was charged in a single count indictment with being a felon possession of a firearm. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint filed on July 2, 2025.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, police officers responded to the area of 5th and Joplin Avenue in Joplin, Mo., on Feb. 15, 2025, in reference to gunshots, and recovered several spent cartridge casings in the area. Officers recovered a firearm with a thirty-round extended magazine loaded with ammunition consistent with the spent shell casings. Surveillance footage from a nearby business showed a male, later identified as Reed, hiding the firearm.

Reed has prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony M. Brown It was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Joplin, Mo., Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National has been charged in federal court for unlawful reentry after deportation.

Juan Sebastian Celedon-Cardenas, 38, was charged in a one-count complaint with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.  The complaint charges that Celedon-Cardenas had previously been removed from the United States four times - on March 29, 2010, March 15, 2016, August 19, 2016, and July 26, 2017.

The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations.

Operation Take Back America

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mt. Vernon, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today for her role in a wire fraud conspiracy that targeted the Missouri Lottery Commission and an area gas station.

Amy Young, 42, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.

According to the plea agreement, Young conspired with others to employ a scheme to purchase Missouri lottery tickets using stolen and fraudulent credit cards and credit card numbers at a Joplin, Mo., Phillips 66 Fuel Station.

Young and her co-conspirators made $62,082.50 in fraudulent transactions at the gas station in July and August of 2022. These transactions included the purchase of Missouri Lottery tickets. The perpetrators would send other individuals to collect any cash prizes associated with the tickets. The group fraudulently claimed $54,248 in cash prizes from the Missouri Lottery Commission. The fraudulent cash prizes and credit card transactions totaled $116,330.50.

Young’s co-defendant, Larry Duane Green, 56, of Mt. Vernon, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud on April 15, 2024, and is pending sentencing.

Under federal statutes, Young and Green are subject to sentences of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole and a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man has been charged with illegally possessing a stolen firearm.

Daryl O.D. Beck, 37, was charged by a federal grand jury on July 15, 2025, with being a felon in possession of a firearm and for possession of a stolen firearm Beck has prior felony convictions including for possession and intent to manufacture a controlled substance, as well as for aggravated assault. The secret indictment was unsealed today following Beck’s initial appearance.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the Independence, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – On July 16, 2025, Makih A. Hall, 21, and Lazaro Medina-Lopez, 29, were charged with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, Hobbs Act robbery, and two counts of bank robbery, in a now-unsealed federal indictment filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Missouri.  Hall is also charged individually in a separate count for attempted Hobbs Act robbery, with Medina-Lopez also charged individually in a separate count for attempted bank robbery.

The indictment alleges that between June 1, 2024, and June 14, 2024, Hall and Medina-Lopez jointly robbed, or attempted to rob, various banks, credit unions, and businesses across the Kansas City area.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Under federal statutes, if convicted, each count of conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, bank robbery, or attempted bank robbery, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment in federal prison without parole.  The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther.  It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, and the Independence, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tracy Parker, 37, was indicted by a federal grand jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The indictment alleges that on Oct. 23, 2024, Parker—who had previously been convicted of multiple felonies—possessed a firearm in violation of federal law.  The charge stems from an arrest of Parker in Jackson County on Oct. 13, 2024.  In the process of being apprehended, Parker dropped a 9mm handgun on the ground, which officers later recovered. 

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt.  Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick.  It was investigated by the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Darell Farmer, 30, was indicted by a federal grand jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm, possessing of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense, and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

The indictment alleges that on May 5, 2025, Farmer possessed two firearms as a felon and in furtherance of the distribution of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.  The charges stem from an arrest following an apparent shooting in Kansas City, Missouri.  Before detaining Farmer, police observed a handgun in Farmer’s car.  Searches incident to Farmer’s arrest uncovered significant quantities of controlled substances and another handgun in the trunk of the car. 

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt.  Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick.  It was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and Midwest Fugitive Task Force.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fourteen defendants, all residents of the Kansas City, Mo., area, have been indicted for their roles in a drug-trafficking conspiracy.  Several of the defendants face multiple charges in the eighty-count indictment.

Antwan L. Fayne, also known as “Twelve,” 43, Aaron T. James, 37, Timothy E. Murphy, 59, James E. Barton, 46, Allison R. Shea, 30, Rodney Vaughn, 60, Charles E. Hall, 40, Brad Akins, 38, Joshua A. Kisner, 38, Devion R. McDonald, 31, Ida M. Gates, 41, Cora E. Fayne, 69, Walter L. Brown, 61, and Marcus L. Whitley, 54, were charged in an eighty-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, July 16.

The indictment was unsealed on Thursday, July 17, after the arrest of several defendants.  This indictment replaces three criminal complaints that were filed against six of the defendants earlier this month.

In addition to the conspiracy, there are six defendants charged with maintaining drug involved premises.  There are sixteen counts related to distributing controlled substances within 1,000 feet of public playgrounds within Kansas City. Additionally, there are firearms offenses charged, to include felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm while under an order of protection, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.    

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh Ragner and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick.  It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Kansas City, Missouri Police Department; IRS-Criminal Investigation; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); with support from Missouri State Highway Patrol.   

Operation Take Back America

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Hollister, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for sharing child pornography over the internet.

Cameron Allen Ryan, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Ryan to 10 years of supervised release following incarceration. The court ordered Ryan to pay $51,000 in restitution to his victims and a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.

Ryan will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

Ryan pleaded guilty on Dec. 17, 2024, to one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography. According to court documents, Ryan, who was a volunteer with the Taney County Volunteer Fire Department, admitted to receiving and trading files of child pornography with the undercover FBI agent and other individuals on the internet.

Law enforcement was alerted by a CyberTip made to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. On Nov. 28, 2023, an undercover FBI agent downloaded numerous images of minor children which had been posted to an image hosting website by the suspect user profile and began communicating with suspect via email. The undercover officer made contact with the suspect, and the suspect sent a video to the agent that depicted a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

The FBI identified Ryan as the suspect user. When officers searched Ryan’s cell phones, one of the phones was logged in to the email account that had been messaging the undercover FBI agent. A forensic analysis of the two phones found over 1800 files containing child pornography.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, and the Taney County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office.

Project Safe Childhood

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 Attorneys' 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 www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Sedalia, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for unlawful reentry after deportation.

Jesus Mendoza Cortes, 35, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 14 months in federal prison without parole followed by one year of supervised release.

On Feb. 20, 2025, Mendoza Cortes pleaded guilty to unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being removed. Mendoza Cortes was previously deported from the United States and had unlawfully re-entered the United States without obtaining the consent of the Attorney General and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. Under federal law it is illegal for an alien to knowingly re-enter the United States without permission after being removed.

According to government filings, Mendoza Cortes had previously been removed from the country on eleven different occasions dating back to 2006. He unlawfully returned sometime in 2018 and was found in the Western District of Missouri after being arrested on June 1, 2024 by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office for unlawful use of a weapon, assault in the second degree and armed criminal action. He was subsequently charged in Pettis County, Missouri for those acts and the charges remain pending.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.

Operation Take Back America

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

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm after officers found a firearm when they investigated him for driving while intoxicated.

Bryan A. Bay, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 12 years in federal prison without parole.  Bay’s sentence was ordered to run consecutive to a state sentence for endangering the welfare of a child.

On Feb. 27, 2025, Bay pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On July 7, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to investigate a report that the occupants of a Chevrolet Silverado were passed out.  The officers contacted the occupants and identified Bay as the driver of the vehicle. Bay appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.  A computer check of Bay showed that he is a registered sex offender and on supervision through Missouri Probation and Parole for endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree and domestic assault in the second degree.  Officers located a Smith and Wesson, Model SD9, semi-automatic pistol.  The firearm was loaded with a 12-round magazine with one round in the chamber.

On Oct. 4, 2023, Independence, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to a residence for an aggravated assault.  The victim reported that Bay, her ex-boyfriend, refused to leave her residence and threatened her.  She ran into the street to get away from Bay.  Her cousin saw her and got into his vehicle to get away from Bay, and Bay’s ex-girlfriend got into the passenger seat.  The victim reported that Bay opened the door where she was seated and pointed his 300 blackout AR-15 in the middle of her forehead. Investigators did not locate Bay and issued a pickup order for Bay.

On Nov. 10, 2023, Kansas City, Mo. Police Department officers conducted a car check on a Kia, which was bearing a license plate that belonged to a Saturn.  Officers contacted Bay, who was standing between the Kia and his Chevrolet Silverado. Officers arrested Bay on a parole violation warrant and the stop order previously issued by the Independence, Mo. Police Department.

Officers searched Bay’s Chevrolet Silverado and found approximately 5.49 grams of a crystal substance and 7.67 grams of a powder substance. Both substances tested positive for methamphetamine.  Officers also found an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, multi-caliber pistol.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Bay has two prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance and prior felony convictions for domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child.  Bay’s conviction for endangering the welfare of a child requires him to register as a sex offender.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Independence, Missouri Police Department and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three men were indicted in separate, unrelated cases by a federal grand jury today for illegally re-entering the United States after being previously removed.

Elmer Abel Flores-Alvarez, 27, was charged in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry by a previously removed alien. The indictment charges that Flores-Alvarez had previously been removed from the United States twice – on April 6, 2018, and on October 9, 2019.

Juan Jose Esparza-Gallardo, 33, was charged in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry by a previously removed alien. The indictment charges that Esparza-Gallardo had previously been removed from the United States twice – on April 19, 2017, and on July 14, 2017.

Gilberto Javana-Zuniga, 41, was charged in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry by a previously removed alien. The indictment charges that Javana-Zuniga had previously been removed from the United States three times – on November 3, 2011, February 25, 2013, and March 8, 2013.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

All three cases were investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations.

Operation Take Back America

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for unlawfully possessing a firearm.

Michael G. Caldwell, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Stephen R. Bough to 95 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

Caldwell pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon on Aug. 29, 2024.

On April 2, 2024, officers with the Springfield Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge Charger driven by Caldwell. As the Charger slowed to pull over, officers observed Caldwell making furtive movements and reaching near the center console.

The officers removed Caldwell from the vehicle and Caldwell physically resisted arrested. After a brief struggle, the officers were ultimately able to detain him. When detectives searched the Charger, they found a Ruger pistol between the center console and front passenger seat. Officers also seized $1,610 in cash from Caldwell.

The Ruger pistol linked Caldwell to a shooting that occurred in the Springfield, Missouri area, on March 21, 2024, in that the shell casings from that shooting were a presumptive match to the shell casings from the Ruger seized from Caldwell. In addition, cell site data from a cell phone seized from Caldwell on April 2, 2024, confirmed that Caldwell’s cell phone was at the shooting.   

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Caldwell has prior felony convictions for robbery, possession of a controlled substance, and delivery of a controlled substance.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Bolivar, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for unlawfully possessing a firearm.

Timothy E. Parker, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Stephen R. Bough to 48 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

On Sept. 25, 2024, Parker pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On Sept. 23, 2023, deputies with the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a U-Haul that Parker was driving. Instead of stopping, Parker initially fled the area.  Eventually, Parker pulled the vehicle over and when contacted and searched, the deputies located a loaded Taurus G3C pistol concealed in a chest sling holster. Deputies also seized a backpack belonging to Parker that contained a 50-round box of ammunition, a Kydex style gun holster, a lock picking set, and 2.42 grams of methamphetamine during the stop. Police records indicated that the pistol and holster had been reported as stolen earlier that month.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Parker has prior felony convictions for property damage, forgery, burglary, driving stolen motor vehicles, and resisting arrest.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jacob Davis, 53, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and fentanyl.

Today’s indictment alleges that on March 12, 2025, Davis possessed cocaine and cocaine base with intent to distribute, and on July 8, 2025, Davis possessed over 400 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute. All three charges stem from search warrants conducted on Davis’s residence in Kansas City, Missouri.  On July 8, 2025, law enforcement served an arrest warrant for the March offenses. While arresting Davis, they observed additional indications of drug trafficking and obtained a subsequent search warrant. Investigators located approximately 3 kilograms of powder fentanyl along with two pill presses, scales, and a money counter.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Siegele. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from Kansas City Missouri Police Department, Independence Police Department, and Belton Police Department.

Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Ramon Arambula, 44, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

Today’s indictment alleges that on July 9, 2025, Arambula possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute. This charge stems from a vehicle stop conducted on a vehicle being operated by Arambula on July 9. After a drug detection K-9 gave a positive alert on the vehicle, officers recovered 5 brick-shaped packages that contained cocaine. The total amount of cocaine seized was approximately 5,892 grams.

The charge contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan A. Baker. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kansas City Missouri Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Jackson County Drug Task Force and Cass County Sheriff’s Office.

KC Metro Strike Force

This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man illegally possessed ammunition has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Brian H. Brown, 49, was charged today in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo.  Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Brown on July 7, 2025.

The federal indictment charges Brown with being a felon in possession of ammunition on July 3, 2025.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, Kansas City, Mo. Police Department officers were dispatched to 97th Terrace and Holmes Avenue at approximately 6:30 p.m. for an accident involving a disturbance with an armed party.  An officer contacted the suspect, who was identified as Brown.  Brown began to tell the officer about the accident and the officer believed Brown was driving while intoxicated.  The officer ordered Brown to place his hands behind his back and Brown refused the officer’s commands.  A struggle ensued between Brown and the officer, and the officer observed a handgun in Brown’s shorts pocket.  Brown was eventually arrested, and the handgun was removed from his pocket.

The firearm was identified as a Polymer 80, “P-80”, camouflage in color.  It was loaded with eleven rounds of ammunition.  The firearm did not have a visible serial number.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Brown has felony convictions for trafficking in drugs, distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man who stole a firearm from a vehicle earlier this month has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Irvin M. Swim, 35, was charged today in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo.  Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Swim on July 7, 2025.

The federal indictment charges Swim with being a felon in possession of a firearm on July 5, 2025.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, a male citizen reported that a male entered the citizen’s vehicle, which was located on the east side of 400 West Southside Boulevard of South Spring Street and stole a 9mm handgun.  A female citizen traveling with the male who reported the stealing stated that she observed the suspect in the vehicle and the suspect pointed a gun at her.

Independence, Mo. Police Department officers later observed Swim, who matched the description of the suspect, opening the rear driver door of a vehicle in a gas station parking lot.  Officers attempted to contact Swim and Swim fled the officers on foot. Officers pursued Swim and observed him holding a firearm in his right hand.  Officers eventually arrested Swim.

Officers recovered a Taurus, Model PT111 Millenium G2, 9mm pistol that Swim threw in a grassy area near 1114 South Fuller Street.  The firearm contained 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition in the magazine and one round in the chamber.

The male citizen identified the Taurus as belonging to him.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Swim has four prior felony convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm, two prior felony convictions for theft of property, and prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance and burglary.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Independence, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man who shot a firearm at another man earlier this month has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Clifford E. Porter, 39, was charged today in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo.  Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Porter on July 2, 2025.

The federal indictment charges Porter with being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing methamphetamine on July 1, 2025.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, a detective observed a male riding a bicycle in the roadway on Spruce Avenue in Kansas City, Mo.  The detective observed the male arguing with a group of approximately five people. Porter was included in the group of people arguing with the male.  The male rode away on his bicycle.  The detective observed Porter run after the male, remove a firearm from his waistband, and fire a single round in the direction of the male on the bicycle.

The detective immediately notified uniformed officers of the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, who contacted Porter within seconds of the shooting.  Porter refused verbal commands by the officers to raise his hands in the air and lie on the ground.  Officers eventually arrested Porter and searched him incident to arrest.

Porter had a small bag containing approximately 2.73 grams of methamphetamine in his pocket.  Officers located a Hi-Point, Model C9, 9mm semi-automatic pistol on the sidewalk, just to the south of where Porter was arrested.  The firearm was loaded with a live round of ammunition in the chamber and additional live ammunition in the magazine.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Porter has two prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance and prior felony convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm, burglary in the first degree, and robbery in the second degree.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Blue Springs, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 15, 2025, for illegally possessing ammunition.

William Anthony Chaney, 38, was charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition after previously being convicted in federal court in the Western District of Missouri for conspiracy to distribute PCP and conspiracy to commit money laundering in 2016.  The indictment specifically alleges that, on or about May 24, 2025, Chaney illegally possessed ammunition that had previously travelled in interstate commerce, knowing that he was a prior felon.  Chaney was on federal supervised release for his prior conviction at the time he was discovered in possession of the ammunition.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth W. Borgnino. It was investigated by the Blue Springs Missouri Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF).

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., attorney has been sentenced to federal prison for evading payment of $794,540 in income taxes, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jeffrey P. Ray today.

John C. Carnes, 70, pleaded guilty to tax evasion on Nov. 25, 2024, and was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs.  Carnes was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $794,540.

According to court documents, Carnes admitted that he willfully attempted to evade paying his personal income taxes for tax years 2012 through 2018. Carnes kept his income in his attorney trust accounts, then withdrew cash from his attorney trust accounts to pay for personal and business expenses. An attorney trust account is a bank account in which a lawyer has a fiduciary duty to hold property of clients or third persons, including prospective clients. It is for funds that are in a lawyer’s possession in connection with representation, separate from the lawyer’s own property.

Carnes had two trust fund accounts. He withdrew $444,527 in cash from one account from 2016 through 2019, and he withdrew $144,364 from the second account from 2013 through 2015. Carnes used the cash to gamble and pay personal expenses.

Carnes deposited $232,000 in fees received for services provided in the sale of the former Rockwood Golf Course property in November 2017 and the Missouri City Power Plant project, and other income, into his attorney trust accounts.

The total tax loss to the IRS for tax years 2012 through 2018, because of Carnes’s tax evasion, totaled $618,949. In addition, relevant conduct consists of unpaid federal income tax for the tax years 1990-1993, 1996-2003, and 2005, totaling $175,590. The total relevant conduct is $238,513, resulting in a total tax loss of $794,540.

From 2009 to 2020, the IRS continuously engaged in various forms of investigative and enforcement activity regarding Carnes’s outstanding tax liabilities.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rudolph R. Rhodes IV and Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for fentanyl trafficking and illegally possessing a firearm.

Lawrence A. Andrews, 51, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 10 years in federal prison without parole.

On March 4, 2025, Andrews pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Andrews admitted he possessed fentanyl pills weighing a total of approximately 19 grams with the intent to distribute and a SCCY, Model CPX-2, 9mm pistol on Aug. 8, 2023.

On Aug. 8, 2023, officers with the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Andrews.  Andrews was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.  Officers searched Andrews’ vehicle and located the firearm and fentanyl, along with approximately 10 grams of PCP, 22 grams of cocaine in the base form, 3 grams of cocaine in the salt form, and 3 grams of methamphetamine.

Andrews has prior felony convictions, including two convictions for stealing, eight convictions for possession of a controlled substance, trafficking in drugs in the second degree, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national has pleaded guilty in federal court to illegally reentering the United States after having been previously removed.

Florencio Aburto-Feliciano, 46, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to one count of unlawfully returning to the United States after removal.

On May 8, 2025, Aburto-Feliciano was arrested on warrants for outstanding traffic violations by Greenwood, Missouri, Police Officers.  On May 10, 2025, he was taken into custody by immigration officers at the Jackson County, Missouri detention center.

Aburto-Feliciano faces up to two years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. Chief U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips will impose sentencing on November 13, 2025.

He has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing. 

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Venneman. It was investigated by Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.

Operation Take Back America

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Leavenworth, Kansas man was sentenced in federal court today for enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and production child pornography, involving a 15-year-old minor victim.

Antoine Askari Richardson, 27, was sentenced to 300 months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge D. Gregory Kays for one count of use of interstate facility to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and one count of production of child pornography.

Richardson, a former graduate student and employee of a private University, in Leavenworth, Kansas, previously pled guilty to enticement of a minor and production of child pornography on February 27, 2025. According to the written plea agreement, Richardson met the minor victim on a social media application.  Richardson communicated online with the minor victim and travelled to Grain Valley, Missouri to engage in sexual acts with the minor victim four times between November 2022 and January 2023.  Richardson recorded the sexual acts with his cellular phone and sent the videos to the minor victim.  Richardson admitted to also communicating with a second minor on a social media application and engaging in sexually explicit conversations with the second minor. Richardson admitted to travelling across state lines in attempt to meet the second minor but was unsuccessful in contacting the second minor.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett.  It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Grain Valley, Missouri Police Department, Leavenworth, Kansas Police Department, and the Jackson County, Missouri Prosecutor’s Office.

Richardson will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

Project Safe Childhood

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 Attorneys' 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 www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Strafford, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for using a company credit card for over $295,000 of fraudulent charges.

Kayellen Faye Inskip, 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 36 months in federal prison without parole and 3 additional years of supervised release. At sentencing the court found that Inskip’s crimes resulted in a loss of $295,771.91 and issued an order of restitution in the same amount.

On Oct. 10, 2024, Inskip pleaded guilty to one count of access device fraud. According to court documents, Inskip admitted to using the credit card issued by her employer, Mears Floral, to make unauthorized personal purchases. The criminal offense pled guilty to by the defendant involved the unlawful use of a credit card between August 31, 2021, through August 25, 2022.  However, Inskip was sentenced under facts that were presented to the Court in which her true scope of her embezzlement occurred beginning in 2014 and continuing into 2022, only stopping after her fraud was discovered by company officials.

Inskip used the company card to pay for travel including airplane tickets, vacations that included cruises with Carnival Cruise Line, and vacations to Disney World, as well as entertainment, restaurants, clothing, utilities, medical bills, and she even paid college tuition and fees for her own daughter. Inskip used her position as a bookkeeper and Operations Manager with the business to authorize payments for her fraudulent purchases.  Inskip would then provide false financial reports to officers in the company that allowed her to both hide her embezzlement from more than 7 years and ultimately steal nearly $300,000.

Mears Floral was a Springfield, Missouri, business that started in 1949, serving retail florists in Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. This hometown business was in operation for over 70 years and based on statements made to the Court, Inskip’s massive embezzlement resulted in Mears Floral going out of business, closing its doors, and the firing of its employees. When Mears Floral closed its doors, it had to layoff nearly 33 employees, who had an average of nearly 11 years of employment with Mears Floral, as well as other employees who had worked for over 50 years with this well-known local business.  The loss of Mears Floral, at the hands of Inskip, caused an unknown amount of true losses to the company, its employees, and ultimately the local community who benefitted from the operations of this successful business.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the United States Secret Service.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Missouri woman was arrested today following an indictment by a federal grand jury charging her with defrauding the United States government by fraudulently obtaining pandemic benefits.

Tiffanie Foster, 48, was charged with two counts of wire fraud for fraudulently receiving pandemic funds in the form of a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and unemployment benefits. The indictment alleges that Foster submitted altered tax and bank documents and made fraudulent statements to obtain both the PPP loan and the unemployment benefits. At the time of the fraud, Foster was employed full-time as a customer service representative with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee identified a list of SSA employees whose personal identifying information had been used to apply for loans or benefits. Foster was identified on that list as obtaining several pandemic assistance loans and unemployment benefits. In July of 2020, Foster applied for unemployment benefits through the state of Michigan even though she was a resident of Missouri and fully employed by SSA. In total, she received over $30,000 in unemployment benefits during 2020 and 2021. In early 2021, Foster applied for a PPP loan for her business. As part of her application, she also provided an altered tax form 1040 Schedule C and an altered bank statement for her business showing an inflated balance amount. This $20,833 loan was ultimately forgiven by the Small Business Administration.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Under federal statutes, if convicted, Foster is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole and three years of supervised release on each count. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda K. Hanson. It was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Labor’s Office of the Inspector General.