District of New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE – First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, and Police Chief Jeremy Story of the Las Cruces Police Department announced today that federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies concluded a months-long joint investigation targeting violent gang activity in the Las Cruces area, resulting in federal and state criminal charges, the seizure of firearms and narcotics, and the clearance of multiple violent crimes.

The investigation was led by the Las Cruces Police Department's Street Crimes Unit in partnership with the Las Cruces/Doña Ana Metro Narcotics Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Safe Streets Task Force and the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office.

During the investigation, law enforcement officers executed approximately 58 legal processes, including search warrants, arrest warrants, and court orders totaling more than 800 pages. The investigation resulted in the seizure of 19 firearms, three machine gun conversion devices, two sets of body armor, approximately 265 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 200 grams of fentanyl.

As a result of the investigation, the United States Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico has charged six defendants with federal offenses as part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. By surging resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, the FBI seeks to aggressively restore safety in communities across the country. These cases include:

• Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone
• Discharging a Firearm in a School Zone
• Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number
• Receiving a Firearm While Under Indictment
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
• Possession of Body Armor by a Violent Felon
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

In addition, multiple defendants were charged in state court for the following offenses:

• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
• Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon
• Shooting At or From a Motor Vehicle (multiple counts)
• Unlawful Possession of a Handgun by a Person Under Age 19 (multiple counts)
• Possession of Cocaine

Information developed during the investigation also led investigators to solve 11 drive-by shootings in the Las Cruces area.

Because the investigation remains ongoing and additional enforcement actions are anticipated, the identities of the charged individuals are not being released at this time.

ALBUQUERQUE – A federal judge sentenced Zebadiah Romero, 38, a non-Indian, to life in prison plus 120 months following his convictions for multiple felonies in relation to the cold-blooded murder of a Taos Pueblo man in 2023. 

Because there is no parole in the federal system, Romero will spend the rest of his life in prison. 

According to evidence presented at trial, on October 30, 2023, Romero, who had been previously evicted and banned from the Taos Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe inside John Doe’s residence on the Taos Pueblo before stealing Doe’s property and concealing evidence. Doe was an enrolled member of the Taos Pueblo. After the killing, Romero removed Doe’s body from the residence and barricaded it within a separate structure on Doe’s property. Romero then stole Doe’s pickup truck and dog before disposing of evidence related to the offense. On November 4, 2023, Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety officers discovered a blood trail leading from the victim’s bedroom, which ultimately led investigators to Doe’s body inside an adjacent abandoned structure. The victim had been wrapped in bedding material, covered with a tarp, and hidden beneath other miscellaneous items. 

The Office of the Medical Investigator determined that Doe died from a single gunshot wound to the back of the head.

At trial, the United States presented extensive evidence placing Romero with Doe on the morning of the murder and eyewitness testimony identifying Romero driving Doe’s truck with Doe’s dog shortly after Doe had been slain. Witnesses recounted Romero’s motive prior to the killing as revenge for his belief that Doe had reported Romero’s criminal activities to law enforcement. Prior to the murder, Romero stated his intent to kill Doe and steal his truck, adding that he would “sleep like a baby and get away with it.”

Among other pieces of evidence, jurors heard Romero’s recorded interviews with the FBI following his arrest. In those interviews, Romero gave shifting accounts of the events inside the home before ultimately acknowledging that he shot Doe and removed evidence, including the spent casing and the murder weapon. Trial evidence also showed that Romero, a previously convicted felon, unlawfully possessed the firearm used in the killing and later disposed of it. 

The jury found Romero guilty of first-degree murder, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and larceny of the victim’s truck.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jesse E. Pecoraro and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Deming man was sentenced to 101 months in prison after admitting he possessed a machinegun in furtherance of cocaine trafficking and fled a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint, leading agents on a pursuit that reached approximately 140 mph on Interstate 10.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents and Lopez's plea agreement, on February 11, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from Gerald Anthony Lopez, 20. During the transaction, Lopez displayed a Glock handgun equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device (MCD), commonly known as a "switch." Lopez offered to sell the firearm for $1,300 with the switch installed or $1,000 without it and stated he could supply additional firearms, conversion devices, and narcotics.

On February 20, Lopez met with an undercover law enforcement officer and sold cocaine and the Glock handgun equipped with the MCD for $1,300. During the sale, Lopez demonstrated how the switch converted the firearm from semiautomatic to fully automatic fire and confirmed the extended magazine was loaded with 30 rounds. In his plea agreement, Lopez admitted that he knowingly possessed and carried the machinegun in furtherance of his cocaine trafficking, that he understood the switch converted the firearm into a machinegun, and that he had personally modified the firearm with the device.

In a separate incident on May 6, 2025, Lopez fled from a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint in Luna County after agents referred him to secondary inspection. According to court documents and Lopez's plea agreement, he led agents on a high-speed pursuit, reaching speeds of approximately 140 mph on Interstate 10, where the posted speed limit was 75 mph.

Lopez pleaded guilty to high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, illegal possession of a machinegun, and possession of a firearm not registered with the national firearms registration and transfer record. Upon his release from prison, Lopez will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the firearms offense in partnership with the New Mexico State Police. The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector is investigating the immigration-related offense. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.

The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower.

This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering.

Law enforcement agencies are working to seize these illegal devices racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately:

Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477)

Email: ATFTips@atf.gov

Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips

Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community falls victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee woman pleaded guilty in federal court to using a rifle to seriously injure one individual and threaten another during an August 2022 incident.

According to court documents, on August 20, 2022, Leticia Washburn, 42, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, retrieved a rifle during an argument and threatened two individuals with the weapon. During the confrontation, she discharged the rifle, striking one victim in the abdomen and causing serious bodily injury.

Washburn pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. At sentencing, she faces no less than seven years and up to life in prison followed by up to five years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the deaths of three individuals on July 4, 2025.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on July 4, 2025, Willis Kylestewa, 42, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, drove while intoxicated with four passengers in a vehicle without working headlights. When law enforcement attempted a traffic stop, Kylestewa fled, speeding and swerving through traffic before losing control of the vehicle, which flipped and crashed. Kylestewa and three passengers were ejected from the vehicle and two died after being ejected. Another passenger died inside the vehicle. At the hospital, Kylestewa’s blood alcohol level was .317, and THC was also detected in his system.

Kylestewa pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree murder. Upon his release from prison, Kylestewa will be subject to five years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department and Zuni Open Space. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Marshall and Amy Mondragon are prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged in federal court in connection with the stabbing of two individuals.

According to court documents, on July 24, 2026, Roger Pino, 44, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, allegedly confronted two individuals outside a residence in Zuni, New Mexico, while armed with a knife and demanding the return of his property. During the confrontation, Pino allegedly cut one victim before stabbing a second victim in the chest and slashing his face. Witnesses reported that Pino continued waving the knife and making threats as he left the scene before fleeing to another residence, where he was later arrested by officers with the Zuni Police Department. Investigators recovered a knife believed to have been used in the assault.

Medical personnel determined that the male victim suffered a stab wound to the chest and a facial laceration. The female victim sustained multiple superficial stab wounds, including injuries to her chest, arm, and leg.

Pino is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Pino faces up to 10 years in prison on each count. Defendant will remain in custody pending trial. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man with a prior felony conviction has been charged in federal court with unlawfully possessing a firearm after allegedly firing multiple rounds at a Catholic church.

According to court documents, on May 4, 2026, Las Cruces Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at St. Genevieve’s Catholic Church in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Officers found five bullet holes in the church’s front glass entrance and recovered five .380 caliber shell casings. Surveillance footage showed a black sedan arriving at the church, after which a man exited the driver’s side and fired multiple rounds at the entrance before leaving the scene.

On May 11, 2026, officers encountered the same vehicle while responding to an attempted burglary call at a Las Cruces business. The driver was identified as Matthew Albain Alarcon, 40 years old. A search warrant executed on the vehicle led to the recovery of a handgun.

During a May 14 interview, Alarcon allegedly admitted to shooting at the church, stating he did so because of his religious beliefs and because he believed he was “the chosen one” to carry out the act. He also admitted that the recovered firearm belonged to him. Alarcon is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to a prior New Mexico felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance. 

Alarcon is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Alarcon faces up to 15 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Belen man is facing federal charges following an investigation into two online accounts that contained suspected child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, in June 2026, Google submitted two CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children after identifying suspected Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) associated with two Google accounts linked to the same phone number. The reports identified a combined 25 files containing suspected CSAM uploaded to the accounts.

Investigators identified David Candido Gomez, 51, as the suspected user of the accounts after obtaining subscriber information associated with the phone number and identifying a device connected to the accounts. Location information placed the device near a residence in Belen, New Mexico, where agents executed a search warrant on July 30, 2026.

During the search, agents seized a cellphone associated with the Google accounts. According to court documents, a forensic review of the device revealed multiple images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as evidence that the device had accessed both Google accounts and contained additional CSAM.

The investigation, including efforts to identify victims depicted in the material, remains ongoing.

Gomez is charged with possession of child pornography. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Gomez faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The New Mexico Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force initiated this investigation, which was later turned over to the FBI Albuquerque Field Office Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RCFL) and Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force assisted with the investigation. This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 33 months in prison after admitting he assaulted a woman at her residence.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on September 16, 2024, Kendrick Harvey, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, went to the home of Jane Doe while he was intoxicated. There, Harvey assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury to Doe.

Harvey pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Harvey will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this month. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies. 

In the four-week period ending July 31, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 112 individuals were charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 24 individuals were charged with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 189 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 49 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico. 

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for narcotics trafficking, alien smuggling, theft, resisting arrest, grand theft, forgery, weapons trafficking, transportation of stolen property, narcotics trafficking, child molestation, shoplifting, DUI, and prior immigration offenses.

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.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children. 

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly striking a victim with a metal pipe during an altercation.

According to court documents, on July 28, 2026, law enforcement responded to a reported assault at a residence after a victim was transported to the hospital with serious head injuries. Witnesses reported that during an altercation that followed an argument among several individuals who had been drinking alcohol, Desirae Smith, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly struck the victim multiple times with a metal pipe, including blows to the head and arm, attempted to drop a rock on the victim's head after she fell to the ground, and slammed the victim's head against a truck. One witness told investigators he observed the victim bleeding from a large head wound after hearing another individual ask Smith why she was hitting the victim with a pole. Responding officers recovered a metal pipe at the scene that appeared to have blood on it.

Medical records showed the victim suffered two large lacerations to the top of her head that required approximately nine staples.

During a post arrest interview, Smith denied striking the victim with a pipe and claimed the victim's injuries resulted from falling and hitting a truck during the altercation.

Smith is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Smith faces up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 25 years in prison for abusing a minor over a four-year period.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, Brian Begay, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse against Jane Doe between 2015 and 2019, beginning when the victim was 12 and continuing until she was 16. In carrying out his abuse, Begay’s conduct involved grooming, threats of harm to Jane Doe and her family, and the use of force against Jane Doe.

Begay pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor and abusive sexual contact. Upon his release from prison, Begay will be subject to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges for allegedly carjacking an SUV at gunpoint and forcing two occupants from the vehicle before fleeing the scene.

According to court documents, on September 28, 2022, Cordalle Landon White, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint in Shiprock, New Mexico. White is accused of approaching two occupants of a parked SUV, pointing a handgun at one victim, threatening to shoot her, and ordering both victims out of the vehicle before driving away in the stolen SUV.

Navajo Police Department officers later recovered the vehicle in Cudei, New Mexico and found a loaded handgun inside. During the investigation, one victim identified White in a photo lineup, and DNA evidence recovered from the firearm was later linked to White.

White is charged with carjacking and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, White faces up to 15 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Pena Blanca man is facing federal child abuse charges for allegedly punching and strangling a minor.

According to court documents, on April 9, 2026, Jonathan Lovato, 41, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Santo Domingo, held down and punched a minor with a closed fist several times before strangling them and causing them to pass out. Following the incident, the minor escaped the residence and went to the home of a family member, who immediately called law enforcement. Officers arrested Lovato at his residence. The minor was treated at a local hospital before being transferred to Albuquerque due to brain bleeding.

Lovato is charged with child abuse and will remain on conditions of release pending trial which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Lovato faces three years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Hatch woman and a Texas man have been charged in federal court for allegedly conspiring to produce and distribute fraudulent immigration, identification, and employment authorization documents.

According to court documents, in November 2025, Customs and Border Protection officers at the Columbus Port of Entry in New Mexico seized a fraudulent Lawful Permanent Resident card and Social Security card from an individual attempting to enter the United States. During a subsequent interview, the individual stated the documents had been obtained through Teodora Moreno Reyes, 46, of Hatch, New Mexico and a naturalized citizen, who allegedly charged $350 to produce fraudulent immigration and identification documents using customers' personal information.

On April 29, 2026, Moreno Reyes was encountered at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry in El Paso, Texas, where a border search of her cellphone allegedly revealed numerous images of fraudulent Social Security cards, Lawful Permanent Resident cards, and identification documents, along with messages from individuals seeking fraudulent documents. Investigators also found communications showing Moreno Reyes allegedly forwarded customers' photographs and biographical information to a supplier, who then returned images of completed fraudulent documents and U.S. Postal Service tracking information.

A court-authorized forensic examination of the phone allegedly identified the supplier as Fernando Galvan, 39, of Fort Worth, Texas. Investigators allege that between January 2024 and April 2026, Moreno Reyes and Galvan coordinated the production and distribution of approximately 14 fraudulent Texas identification cards, 76 fraudulent Social Security cards, and 66 fraudulent Lawful Permanent Resident cards. 

Moreno Reyes and Galvan are charged with conspiracy and document fraud offenses related to the production and distribution of fraudulent immigration, identification, and employment authorization documents. If convicted of the current charge, they face up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan G. McRae of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, made the announcement today.

HSI Las Cruces investigated this case with assistance from the United States Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Saltman is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for carrying out a series of violent assaults and a kidnapping that resulted in serious injuries to the victim.

According to court documents, on or about June 30, 2025, Darrin Begay, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted the victim by punching, kicking, and strangling them, causing visible injuries to the victim’s face, neck, and arms. Then, on July 2, 2025, Begay went to the victim’s home, threatened to harm the victim’s family members, and forced the victim into a vehicle. Begay then drove the victim away from their residence. He reportedly assaulted the victim again before pushing them out of the vehicle and leaving them on the roadside.

Begay pleaded guilty to assault by strangulation and kidnapping. On July 28, 2026, he was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Nicholas Marshall are prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man is accused of recruiting drivers and using his residence as a stash house to facilitate the movement of undocumented noncitizens through New Mexico, including an unaccompanied 17-year-old juvenile.

According to court documents, on May 7, 2026, Border Patrol agents responded to a sensor activation near the Interstate 25 checkpoint north of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and encountered two Mexican nationals, including an unaccompanied 17-year-old juvenile, attempting to circumvent the checkpoint. The individuals told agents they were waiting for a man in a red truck who was supposed to transport them to Albuquerque.

Agents located the driver nearby in a red truck. After waiving his Miranda rights, the driver admitted he had picked up the aliens in El Paso, Texas, dropped them off south of the checkpoint, instructed them to walk around the checkpoint to avoid detection, and planned to pick them up afterward and continue transporting them to Albuquerque. The driver further identified Brian Ramirez, 25, as a coordinator of the smuggling operation and identified stash houses in Albuquerque and the El Paso area used to harbor undocumented noncitizens.

Through subsequent enforcement actions, cellular telephone evidence, and WhatsApp communications showing Ramirez coordinating smuggling loads, directing pickup locations, and communicating with the driver shortly before his arrest, agents confirmed the use of an apartment in southwest Albuquerque as a stash house connected to alien-smuggling activity.

On July 9, 2026, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at the Albuquerque residence and located Ramirez. After waiving his Miranda rights, Ramirez admitted he worked for an alien-smuggling organization by recruiting drivers and using his residence to harbor undocumented noncitizens for payment. Ramirez further acknowledged housing approximately 20 undocumented noncitizens at the residence and stated he had been expecting to receive one or two aliens on May 7, 2026, the same day the driver was apprehended while attempting to transport two undocumented noncitizens, including a juvenile, to Albuquerque.

Ramirez is charged with conspiracy to violate 8 U.S.C. § 1324, bringing in and harboring certain aliens, and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Ramirez faces up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz of the U.S. Border Patrol's El Paso Sector made the announcement today.

The U.S. Border Patrol's El Paso Sector investigated this case with assistance from HSI Las Cruces, ICE ERO, USBP Las Cruces Station Disrupt Unit, El Paso Sector Targeting Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha V. Henson is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A mother and son from Zuni have been charged in federal court for their alleged roles in an assault in which two victims were stabbed and one suffered life-threatening injuries.

According to court documents, on June 14, 2026, at a residence on the Zuni Pueblo, Zachary Booqua, 18, and his mother, Kayla Marie Concho, 36, both enrolled members of the Zuni Pueblo Indian Tribe, allegedly assaulted Jane Doe and John Doe while the group was drinking alcohol. Following an argument, Booqua knocked John Doe unconscious and began punching him in the face. When Jane Doe attempted to pull Booqua off, both Booqua and Concho began punching Jane Doe in the face as well. Booqua then stabbed John Doe. 

Booqua and Concho are both charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the current charges, Booqua and Concho eachface up to 20 years in prison.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A former U.S. Navy SEAL who intended to use explosives against law enforcement officers at California protests and whose actions prosecutors argued were motivated by extremist, antisemitic beliefs was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on June 12, 2025, Gregory Vandenberg, 49, was traveling from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego, California, to attend the “No Kings Day” protests scheduled for June 14, 2025. While in New Mexico, Vandenberg visited a travel center off Interstate 10 near Lordsburg and purchased six large mortar fireworks, which are designed to shoot high into the air and explode, and 72 M-150 firecrackers, which are designed to sound like gunfire. During this visit, he told the store clerk that he intended to throw fireworks at police officers at the upcoming protests. He asked detailed questions about the amount of gunpowder in the fireworks, their explosive impact, and their ability to harm others. He also discussed taping multiple fireworks together to increase their explosive force. Vandenberg emphasized that he was not interested in the color or display of the fireworks, only in their ability to create explosions and injure law enforcement officers. He also encouraged the clerk to join him at the protests and discussed distributing fireworks to others at the event.

Employees, alarmed by Vandenberg’s statements and his repeated expressions of intent to throw explosives at law enforcement officers, recorded his license plate and contacted law enforcement. Authorities later alleged that Vandenberg intended to use the fireworks against law enforcement personnel during the protests, conduct that prosecutors described as posing a serious risk of injury or death to officers and bystanders alike.

Federal agents tracked Vandenberg to Tucson, Arizona, and arrested him the following morning while he was sleeping in his car at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Vandenberg initially claimed to be traveling for work (despite being unemployed at the time) and later falsely stated he was visiting friends in Phoenix that weekend.

A search of his vehicle revealed the purchased fireworks, along with clothing displaying antisemitic, anti-Israel, and extremist imagery, including a shirt bearing the Al-Qaeda flag and another calling for the destruction of Judea. Agents also discovered that the home screen on Vandenberg’s phone displayed the Taliban flag. Investigators further determined that Vandenberg had worn a custom-made shirt bearing the word “AMALEK” during his visit to the travel center, which he stated meant “destroyer of Jews.”

A review of Vandenberg’s phone revealed antisemitic, anti-Israel, anti-U.S., and extremist content, including internet searches and messages expressing hostility toward Jews and Israel. According to court records, investigators found messages indicating that Vandenberg viewed the United States government as being controlled by Israel and Jewish people and that those beliefs motivated his desire to target law enforcement officers at the protests. Prosecutors argued that his conduct was driven by extremist, antisemitic views and posed a grave threat to public safety.

On January 12, 2026, following a five-day jury trial, a federal jury convicted Vandenberg of transportation of explosives with intent to kill, injure or intimidate and attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks into California. Upon his release from prison, Vandenberg will be subject to one year of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Tucson Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office, Tucson Police Department, U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Yatahey man pleaded guilty to federal firearms offenses after assaulting and disfiguring a victim.

According to court documents, on March 28, 2025, and March 29, 2025, Fernando Brown, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in temporary but substantial disfigurement. 

Brown pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury and faces up to five years in prison at sentencing.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Ramah-Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jordan is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Vanderwagen man pleaded guilty to an assault that left the victim with serious injuries.

According to court documents, on March 10, 2025, Larry Begay, 66, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John Doe with an exercise bar and the assault caused serious bodily injury.

Begay pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury and faces up to ten years in prison at sentencing.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – Ten individuals have been charged in a federal indictment alleging they participated in a Grant County drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout southwest New Mexico between 2023 and 2026.

According to court documents, Margarita Encarnacion Dominguez, 43, is alleged to have led a Grant County drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl between August 2023 and June 2026. The indictment alleges Dominguez obtained narcotics from Arizona-based supplier Marco Elias Martinez, 32, coordinated couriers to transport drugs and cash between Arizona and New Mexico, collected payments through wire transfers and electronic payment applications, and redistributed methamphetamine and fentanyl through a network of family members and associates.

The indictment alleges Martinez supplied Dominguez with multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine and hundreds of grams of fentanyl for redistribution throughout southwest New Mexico. Investigators allege the two regularly communicated about drug shipments, payments, couriers, inventory levels, and customer demand. On multiple occasions, Dominguez allegedly sent couriers carrying thousands of dollars in cash to Arizona to purchase narcotics, while Martinez coordinated the delivery of methamphetamine and fentanyl to New Mexico.

The indictment further alleges that Dominguez relied on several co-conspirators to distribute narcotics and transport drug proceeds. Her son, Danny Joe Muñoz, 26, is alleged to have possessed and distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl obtained through the conspiracy. Her nephew, Joshua Jake Padilla, 33, allegedly sought methamphetamine and fentanyl for redistribution and used cellular phones to coordinate drug transactions. Angelica R’Shae Salas, 32, and Michael Joseph Alirez, 41, allegedly purchased methamphetamine from Dominguez, pooled money to finance narcotics purchases, and made trips to Arizona to retrieve drug shipments on behalf of the organization.

According to the indictment, Patrick Flores, 40, acted as a courier and distributor for the organization and, on August 2, 2024, allegedly delivered approximately 3.1 kilograms of methamphetamine and approximately 200 grams of fentanyl to Dominguez. Cynthia Jimenez, 42, allegedly received distribution quantities of methamphetamine from Dominguez and participated in financing additional narcotics purchases. Tania Diaz, 33, a Mexican national illegally present in the United States, is alleged to have assisted with financial transactions and communications related to drug trafficking activities.

The indictment also alleges members of the conspiracy discussed buying, selling, and exchanging firearms in connection with narcotics trafficking. In addition, Martinez and Flores are charged with conspiring to obstruct justice after allegedly arranging for the seizure and destruction of Dominguez’s cellphone to prevent investigators from accessing communications related to the conspiracy. Martinez is separately charged with transmitting interstate threats after allegedly threatening to kill a courier and the courier’s brother following the loss of a narcotics shipment in April 2025.

The indictment charges Dominguez with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Martinez is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple counts of using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and transmitting interstate threats. If convicted on the most serious drug trafficking charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Muñoz is charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Padilla is charged with conspiracy, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.

Salas is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.

Alirez is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.

Jimenez is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Flores is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and related drug trafficking offenses. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Diaz is charged with conspiracy and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.

In separate but related cases, Joseph De La Torre, 35, is charged with federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses. According to court documents, agents executing a search warrant at his residence on July 16, 2026, recovered methamphetamine, a substance that tested presumptively positive for cocaine and fentanyl, packaging materials commonly associated with narcotics distribution, and a loaded handgun.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today on behalf of the Homeland Security Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Devon Aragon Martinez, Renee Camacho and Judith Crews are prosecuting these cases.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), United States Department of the Interior – Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), El Paso Police Department (EPPD), New Mexico State Police (NMSP), West Texas / New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico Sixth Judicial District, Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of Western Texas and New Mexico.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Sheep Spring man has been charged in federal court with assault after allegedly stabbing another individual.

According to court documents, on July 12, 2026, Justin Brown, 50, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attended a gathering in Sheep Springs, New Mexico. After arriving, Brown allegedly became aggressive and, during an ensuing confrontation, stabbed another individual in the left forearm and inflicted cuts on the victim's abdomen and back. The victim fled the scene in a vehicle with another adult and four minor children while Brown allegedly attempted to gain access to the vehicle and pursued it as it drove away.

Medical records showed the victim suffered a stab wound to the left forearm requiring 16 staples, as well as superficial cuts to the abdomen and back.

The investigation further revealed that, earlier in the evening, Brown allegedly threatened another attendee with a box cutter-style knife and sent threatening text messages before the assault. Witnesses reported that a second victim also suffered a cut during the incident.

During a post-arrest interview with investigators, Brown allegedly admitted to using a box cutter to stab the male victim and cut a female victim. Brown claimed he acted because he believed the victims were attempting to harm him.

Brown is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Brown faces up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – Two Mexican nationals were sentenced to federal prison for their roles as foot guides in a human smuggling operation that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old woman who was left behind in the New Mexico desert.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on August 7, 2024, United States Border Patrol agents in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, discovered 13 undocumented noncitizens hiding in the desert near New Mexico State Road 9 after they illegally entered the United States from Mexico. Agents later learned that another individual traveling with the group had been left behind and needed medical attention. When agents responded to the area, agents located 26-year-old Evelyn Esmeralda Villalta-Marquez deceased in the desert. The Office of the Medical Investigator determined Villalta-Marquez’s cause of death was hyperthermia due to environmental heat exposure.

During the investigation, agents determined Gustavo Joachin-Hernandez, 37, a Mexican national who had previously been deported, and Israel Gonzalez-Cruz, 36, a Mexican national illegally present in the United States, acted as foot guides for the group and were responsible for leading 12 undocumented noncitizens for approximately five and a half hours through desert terrain in temperatures reaching approximately 97 degrees. Joachin-Hernandez admitted that Villalta-Marquez struggled to keep up with the group due to the heat, that he assisted her to the pickup location, and that she was still alive but in bad shape when he left her behind to continue with the smuggling operation. Joachin-Hernandez further admitted he had worked as a foot guide for a human smuggling organization since November 2023 and expected to be paid $2,000 Mexican pesos for each illegal alien that he assisted in being successfully smuggled to a stash house.

Joachin-Hernandez and Gonzalez-Cruz pled guilty to conspiracy to transport an illegal alien and were sentenced to 46 months in prison. Upon their release from prison, they will be subject to deportation.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan G. McRae of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, made the announcement today.

HSI Las Cruces investigated this case with assistance from the United States Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Castellano prosecuted the case.

A New Mexico woman pleaded guilty today to working with a non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) company to submit millions of dollars in false and fraudulent claims to New Mexico Medicaid for ineligible and non-existent trips to medical appointments. 

According to court documents, Dorothea Irving, 47, of Farmington, New Mexico, worked as a driver between 2020 and 2026 for a company that provided non-emergency medical transportation. The New Mexico Medicaid program covers the cost of transportation for non-emergency medical services, such as routine doctors’ appointments, for Medicaid recipients who lack access to transportation by personal vehicle or public transportation. Instead of driving Medicaid beneficiaries who lacked transportation to their medical appointments, Irving and the company engaged in a multi-year scheme to submit fraudulent claims for purported transportation provided to Irving and her children. Together with the company, its owner, and other employees and drivers, Irving submitted false trip records claiming that she or her children were the Medicaid beneficiaries without transportation, claiming trips that had not occurred, and claiming to have been an attendant for her children on their own trips. Irving and other drivers also signed trip forms falsely representing to have driven each other to appointments to disguise the fact that they were driving themselves. In many instances, the fraudulent trips involved Irving, another driver, or minor children purportedly traveling to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings across New Mexico at great distances.

The NEMT company used the false trip records to submit millions of dollars in fraudulent claims to New Mexico Medicaid, including false claims that each passenger in the vehicle had taken a separate trip. For the trips taken by Irving and her children as the supposed Medicaid recipient without transportation, the company submitted fraudulent claims of approximately $3,957,788 and received approximately $4,142,942 from Medicaid. Irving herself received approximately $980,901 from the company over four years of the scheme.

Irving pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. A sentencing date has not been set and she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of the IRS Criminal Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office (IRS-CI); and Director Jessica Randall of the New Mexico Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau made the announcement. 

FBI, HHS-OIG, IRS-CI, and the New Mexico Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau are investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Lauren Randell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Lewis for the District of New Mexico are prosecuting the case.

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

The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man has been charged in federal court with assault arising from an alleged February 2026 incident and prior assaults.

According to court documents, on February 25, 2026, Bradley Isaiah Davis, 36, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, allegedly assaulted the victim during an argument. Davis allegedly struck the victim multiple times in the face with a closed fist, and strangled the victim. The victim sought medical treatment.

Medical records showed the victim suffered a fractured nasal bone, a head contusion, facial swelling, bruising, and nosebleeds.

During a post-arrest interview with investigators, Davis allegedly admitted to striking the victim in the face and admitted to choking the victim. 

Davis is charged with assault causing serious bodily injury, assault by strangling and/or suffocating and child abuse and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Davis faces up to 13 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man was sentenced to 24 months in prison after admitting he repeatedly assaulted a woman, causing substantial injuries, while subject to a tribal court order prohibiting contact with the victim.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on July 23, 2025, Shelton Atole, 35, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, physically attacked the victim, hitting her repeatedly in the face and head. The victim attempted to flee and Atole chased her, but the victim was eventually able to get away and called a friend who picked her up.

At the time of the assault, Atole was under a tribal court order prohibiting him from contact the victim following a separate incident of assault in June 2025. 

Atole pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate or dating partner.Upon his release from prison, Atole will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Santa Fe woman was sentenced to more than nine years in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution for embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from a Santa Fe electrical company.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court records, from approximately May 2017 through April 2020, Charity Felch, 48, embezzled at least $385,930 from her employer, Rodeo Electrical Services, by fraudulently paying herself and her husband, using company funds for personal expenses, and concealing the theft through fraudulent financial transactions. Felch also engaged in bank fraud by tendering fraudulent checks and committed aggravated identity theft and access device fraud by using another person's identifying information and financial accounts without authorization.

Felch exploited a position of trust granted by the owner of Rodeo Electrical Services, who had provided her employment and housing. The scheme nearly drove the company into financial ruin, delayed the victim's retirement plans, and caused significant financial, emotional, and physical hardship.

After pleading guilty to five counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, and one count of access device fraud, Felch continued to engage in deceptive conduct while on pretrial release. Court records show she repeatedly provided false information about her employment to Pretrial Services, the U.S. Probation Office, and the Court. A federal judge found her testimony regarding her employment history not credible and concluded that she had provided false information to supervising officers over an extended period.

Felch was sentenced to 111 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $385,930.19 in restitution to the victim. In imposing the 111-month sentence, which was at the top of the advisory guideline range, the Court cited the seriousness of Felch's conduct and the need to deter others from committing similar fraud offenses.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Santa Fe Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Office Fred J. Federici prosecuted the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office brought a separate civil forfeiture action on April 15, 2022, seeking to forfeit assets seized in November 2021. Litigation in the civil proceedings is ongoing. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has been charged with threatening an FBI special agent during a phone call in which he allegedly demanded the return of firearms seized during a prior federal search warrant.

According to court documents, on July 14, 2026, Alejandro Moya, 36, contacted the FBI Albuquerque Field Office seeking the return of firearms that had been seized during a 2020 federal search warrant. During the call, Moya allegedly stated that he was “tired of playing games” and wanted his firearms returned.

Later that day, an FBI special agent contacted Moya by telephone regarding the request. During the call, Moya allegedly threatened the agent, stating, “Give me my fucking shit or I’m gonna kill you,” and “I will fucking cut your head off.” Moya allegedly continued making threats, telling the agent, “You’re fucking dead,” and challenging the agent to meet him at a residence in Albuquerque for a confrontation.

Court documents allege that Moya knew he was speaking with an FBI agent when he made the threats. 

Moya is charged with interstate threatening communications. Post initial appearance, Moya was released on his own recognizance and is expected to appear in court on July 20, 2026, for a combined preliminary and detention hearing. If convicted of the current charges, Moya faces up to five years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – An Española man was sentenced to 40 years in prison for a 2022 crime spree that left one person dead.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on August 9, 2022, Ricky Eddie Martinez, Jr., 35, entered the Dandy Burger restaurant in Española, brandished a revolver, and robbed an employee of approximately $160. The following day, Martinez robbed a Shell gas station in Española after displaying a firearm and demanding money from the cashier, taking $352.

On August 11, 2022, Martinez robbed a Walgreens in Española. After the cashier was unable to open the register, Martinez became increasingly aggressive, firing a round into a liquor display and wall near the employee before forcibly removing a cash register drawer and fleeing. The employee suffered burns from the close-range gunshot.

On August 16, 2022, Martinez entered a Blake's Lotaburger in Española and demanded money from employees. He then jumped over the counter, shot and killed John Doe 2, and assaulted John Doe 3, the victim's brother and coworker, striking him with the firearm and firing at him. John Doe 3 survived but suffered serious injuries. Martinez fled the scene but was arrested the following day.

Evidence linked Martinez to additional robberies committed during the week-long crime spree, including incidents at a Chevron gas station in Santa Fe, 420 Emporia Smoke Shop in Española, Chalupp's Pizza in Taos, Family Dollar, and Dollar General. During several of those robberies, Martinez discharged his firearm. 

At the time of the offenses, Martinez was on federal supervised release following a conviction for assault resulting in serious bodily injury and had absconded from supervision weeks before beginning the robbery spree.

Martinez pleaded guilty to three counts of interference with commerce by robbery, one count of attempted interference with commerce by robbery, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. As part of global plea negotiations with the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, a result of extensive state and federal coordination throughout the investigation, Martinez also agreed to plead guilty in state court to offenses related to the murder of John Doe 2 and other crimes against John Doe 3.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Española Police Department, Taos Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Trembley and Brittany DuChaussee prosecuted the case.

Surveillance video from Dandy Burger

Surveillance video from Dollar General

Surveillance video from Shell Gas Station

Surveillance video from Walgreens

ALBUQUERQUE – A Silver City man has been charged with threatening a U.S. Forest Service officer after allegedly confronting the officer and making threatening remarks following a sentencing hearing.

According to court documents, on June 11, 2026, Fred Andrew Berry, 55, appeared in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico, for a sentencing hearing on matters related to prior violations occurring on U.S. Forest Service land. Following the hearing, a U.S. Forest Service officer, who was attending court in an official capacity and wearing a badge of office, approached Berry to issue two additional citations for maintaining a campfire during fire restrictions and failing to properly dispose of garbage.

After receiving the citations, Berry allegedly became confrontational and threatened the officer. Court documents allege that Berry leaned toward the officer and stated, “just know that if I see you in the streets,” before pointing at the officer and saying, “you’re a dead terrorist bitch.” The officer observed Berry clenching his teeth and tensing his body, causing the officer to fear an imminent physical attack and take a defensive position.

Witnesses, including a Bureau of Land Management ranger and a courtroom security officer, observed the confrontation. The courtroom security officer later heard Berry respond, “I said what I said,” when asked whether the statement was intended as a threat.

Berry is charged with making threats to a federal law enforcement officer. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Berry faces up to two years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Forest Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Aguirre-Rivera is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for assaulting and strangling the victim, leaving them with serious injuries.

According to court documents, on March 13, 2025, Philman Sam Pike, 25, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted the victim by punching, strangling and suffocating them, causing them to lose consciousness and causing them extreme physical pain.

Pike pleaded guilty to assault by strangling. Upon his release from prison, Pike will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Casamero Lake woman was sentenced to 37 months in prison for striking and killing a pedestrian on a dirt road while driving drunk.

According to court documents, on or about August 6, 2024, Debbie Rojack, 46, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, hit and killed John Doe on a dirt road in the Borrego Pass area after drinking a six-pack of beer that day. John Doe was last seen leaving work on August 5, 2024, and his body was discovered four days later. An autopsy determined that John Doe died from blunt force injuries consistent with vehicular trauma, including multiple fractures and a severed spinal cord. Investigators recovered vehicle debris near the body, and several parts were traced to a gray 2018-2022 Ford SUV. Additional investigation linked the parts to a gray 2019 Ford SUV owned by Rojack, which had significant damage to the driver's side and deployed airbags. A federal search warrant executed on the vehicle recovered additional evidence.

On October 4, 2024, special agents interviewed Rojack, who stated that she had been involved in an accident in a canyon while driving home from Crownpoint to Casamero Lake late at night. Rojack claimed she believed she struck a deer and did not stop to investigate because she was alone and it was late at night. She admitted drinking a six-pack of Bud Light on the day of the crash and stated that she was approximately a "5 out of 10" in terms of intoxication. Rojack further stated that she later learned a person had been found dead in the same canyon where the collision occurred and acknowledged she was concerned that she may have struck a person. She also confirmed that she was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Rojack pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. Upon her release from prison, Rojack will be subject to two years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee and Jack Burkehad are prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 78 months in prison for the shooting death of an individual in the heat of passion.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents on December 1, 2024, Glendon Laate, 49, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe with a homemade shotgun in the heat of passion.

Laate pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. Upon his release from prison, Laate will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man is facing federal charges for allegedly attacking two victims with a hammer, causing serious injuries that required hospitalization.

According to court documents, on July 5, 2026, Errick Waikaniwa, 39, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, allegedly assaulted two victims with a hammer at a residence in Zuni, New Mexico. The victims suffered severe injuries and were transported for medical treatment. One victim was later transferred to a regional hospital due to the extent of their injuries, which included significant facial trauma, while the second victim sustained head injuries, including a skull fracture.

The investigation determined that multiple people witnessed the assault and contacted law enforcement. Zuni Police Department officers responded to the scene, arrested Waikaniwa, and recovered a hammer believed to have been used in the attack. During a subsequent interview with FBI agents, Waikaniwa allegedly admitted to striking both victims with the hammer.

Waikaniwa is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Waikaniwa faces up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces woman pleaded guilty in federal court to anonymously sending threatening messages to co-workers through a health clinic’s online scheduling platform.

According to court documents, between September 11 and September 23, 2025, Jovanni Celeste Ortega, 33, anonymously sent multiple harassing and threatening messages to co-workers at Millennium Health and Wellness through the clinic’s online scheduling platform, an interstate electronic communication service. The messages threatened physical harm to employees and their family members and included references to victims’ children, vehicles, home addresses, and other personal information. Among the messages were threats of fatal car crashes, shootings, and other acts of violence, causing substantial emotional distress to the victims.

After the clinic reported receiving numerous threatening messages, the FBI traced the communications to an IP address associated with Ortega’s residence. During a subsequent interview, Ortega admitted sending the messages. 

Ortega pleaded guilty to cyberstalking and faces up to five years in prison at sentencing.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney James A. Dickens is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – Two brothers from Cuba, New Mexico have been indicted on federal charges stemming from a violent assault that allegedly left a man seriously injured.

According to court documents, on March 3, 2026, Troy Barbone Jr., 43, and his brother Tyren Barbone, 40, enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John Doe with a metal bar and shovel and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

The defendants are charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, they face up to 10 years in prison.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man has been charged with federal child exploitation offenses after investigators allegedly discovered evidence on his cellular telephone during the execution of a search warrant related to a separate federal investigation.

According to court documents, on May 12, 2026, federal agents executed a search warrant at a Las Cruces residence as part of an ongoing investigation connected to Robert Jay Hernandez. During the search, the FBI seized multiple electronic devices, including a cellphone belonging to Hernandez’s adult son, Matthew Esai Hernandez, 37.

A forensic extraction of the phone, conducted pursuant to additional warrants, revealed evidence that Hernandez engaged in sexually explicit communications with individuals who represented themselves as minors and possessed Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

Hernandez allegedly used messaging applications, including Telegram and Kik Messenger, to solicit sexually explicit images. In one Telegram conversation, he confirmed the age of a minor and requested explicit photos. In multiple Kik conversations, he engaged in sexual messaging with individuals who stated they were minors and received CSAM images.

In a separate prolonged Telegram conversation spanning approximately 21 months, Hernandez allegedly received numerous CSAM images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of young children, and he continued to receive and possess such material throughout the communication.

Hernandez is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of minors, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Hernandez faces a minimum of 25 years in prison and up to life in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Armijo and Grant Gardner are prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces teenager was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for shooting an 18-year-old victim during a robbery, leaving the victim permanently paralyzed.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 25, 2022, Matthew James Aguilar, who was 16 years old at the time, and two other individuals arranged to meet with the victim to purchase marijuana. During the transaction, Aguilar and the other individuals decided to rob the victim instead of paying for the marijuana. As the victim attempted to drive away, Aguilar fired multiple rounds from a firearm into the passenger side of the victim’s vehicle. One of the bullets struck the victim in the back, causing a collapsed lung and permanent paralysis. The victim, who was 18 years old at the time, suffered injuries that left him a quadriplegic.

After the shooting, Aguilar initially denied involvement when interviewed by law enforcement. Investigators later obtained social media messages in which Aguilar admitted he had shot and paralyzed someone while attempting to rob him. In subsequent jail calls, Aguilar again described shooting a drug dealer in the back and causing the victim’s paralysis.

“Protecting the public requires a criminal justice system that can respond appropriately to serious acts of violence, regardless of the offender’s age,” said F.A. United States Attorney Ryan Ellison. “Our office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice and use every available tool to address violent crime in New Mexico.”

"Violence in our communities is never justified, and we will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable and keep our communities safe-regardless of the offender's age; said Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. "This sentence reflects the unwavering commitment of law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue justice for victims and remove dangerous criminals from our neighborhoods.  Together, we will continue using every available resource to protect the public and ensure those who resort to violence face the consequences of their actions."

“Today’s sentencing is the result of outstanding collaboration between the Las Cruces Police Department, the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office,” said Jeremy Story, Chief of the Las Cruces Police Department. “This offender committed serious acts of violence that endangered our community and devastated the lives of his victims. Today’s outcome demonstrates what can be accomplished when local and federal law enforcement work together with a shared commitment to justice.”

Aguilar was initially charged as a juvenile under the Federal Juvenile Delinquency Act. He later agreed to be prosecuted and sentenced as an adult and pled guilty to Interference with Commerce by threats and violence. Upon his release from prison, Aguilar will be subject to three years of supervised release.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces Police Department and Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Devon Aragon Martinez prosecuted the case.

Instagram highlights from sentencing

ALBUQUERQUE – The U.S. Attorney's Office announced today that Carolyn Luna-Anderson has agreed to pay $735,000 to resolve allegations that she improperly obtained federal housing assistance funds by concealing conflicts of interest and submitting claims for ineligible rental assistance payments through a HUD-funded program serving individuals experiencing homelessness.

According to the settlement agreement, Luna-Anderson founded and served as Executive Director of The Life Link, a Santa Fe nonprofit that received HUD Continuum of Care grants to provide housing assistance at La Luz Special Needs Apartments. The government alleged that Luna-Anderson simultaneously controlled the nonprofit administering the federal grants and the entity that owned the apartment complex, yet repeatedly certified that no conflicts of interest existed in grant applications and disclosure forms submitted to HUD between 2015 and 2018.

The government further alleged that Luna-Anderson sought HUD reimbursement for rental assistance payments that were not permitted under program rules, including payments for vacant units and amounts exceeding allowable rental assistance limits.

To resolve these allegations, Luna-Anderson agreed to pay $735,000.00 to the United States. The settlement resolves civil claims under the False Claims Act, the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act, and common law theories including breach of contract, payment by mistake, unjust enrichment, and fraud. As part of the settlement, Luna-Anderson admitted and acknowledged that the conduct underlying the government's allegations involved misrepresentations, fraudulent omissions, and deceptive conduct that caused financial harm to the United States.

“Federal dollars come with accountability. Those entrusted with public funds must meet the obligations that come with that responsibility and ensure those resources serve the purposes for which they were provided,” said F.A. United States Attorney Ryan Ellison. “My office will continue working with our agency partners to protect taxpayer dollars, promote accountability, and ensure that those entrusted with federal resources meet their obligations.”

“Carolyn Luna Anderson exploited her position and insider knowledge to personally benefit from federal funds intended to provide supportive services to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron McCullough. “HUD OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue and hold accountable those who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs.”

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

F.A. United States Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico and Aaron McCullough, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, made the announcement today.

The matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico. The settlement was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ruth F. Keegan and Auditor Philip Stella.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies. 

In the five-week period ending July 2, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 508 individuals were charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 27 individuals were charged with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 184 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 110 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico. 

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. § 1326 had prior criminal convictions for narcotics trafficking, domestic violence, assault, criminal trespass, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, prior immigration offenses, second degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon, possession of child pornography, drug possession, child neglect, resisting arrest, assault on a federal officer, aggravated battery by strangulation, aggravated domestic violence, aggravated assault, battery resulting in great bodily injury, forgery of a public record, attempted murder, sexual assault, carjacking, fraud, motor vehicle theft, forgery, DUI, and engaging in organized criminal activity.

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.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children. 

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – As part of Freedom250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico will host an Hometown Heroes ceremony on July 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Las Cruces City Council Chambers to honor Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story for his leadership in advancing public safety. F.A. United States Attorney Ryan Ellison, Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez, and New Mexico State Senator Crystal Brantley will deliver remarks recognizing Chief Story's service to the community and the state.

As part of the Freedom250 initiative, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico is also conducting a community shoe and sock drive benefiting local organizations that serve human trafficking victims.

Freedom250 is a national initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and encouraging communities across the country to celebrate service, sacrifice, and civic engagement at the local level. Hometown Heroes is a Department of Justice recognition program honoring local individuals for exceptional service and contributions to their communities as part of the celebrations. Chief Story is being recognized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico through this initiativefor his leadership in advancing public safety in New Mexico.

The ceremony is open to the public and media. The event will also be livestreamed on the City of Las Cruces YouTube channel.

ALBUQUERQUE – The U.S. Attorney's Office announced today that a federal court has entered a $320,000.00 judgment against a former Albuquerque dentist to resolve allegations that he violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by unlawfully issuing prescriptions after his professional licenses were revoked or expired.

William C. Gardner, DDS, was licensed to practice dentistry in New Mexico and held a state-controlled substances registration. Between July 17, 2020, and February 1, 2021, he allegedly continued to write prescriptions for patients despite the fact that his state dental license had been officially revoked and his state-controlled substances registration had expired. Because a valid state license is a mandatory prerequisite for federal prescribing authority, Dr. Gardner ceased to legally qualify as a practitioner under federal law.

The government's investigation revealed that Dr. Gardner allegedly used his unique DEA registration number and his office’s electronic medical records system to issue 94 unauthorized prescriptions, the vast majority of which were for Schedule II narcotics with a high potential for abuse. He reportedly misled federal authorities during a DEA site visit on January 29, 2021, claiming his licensing was "fine" even though he had unsuccessfully petitioned a federal court for an emergency temporary restraining order to block the state's revocation just three weeks prior.

Following an evaluation of the evidence, the court found Dr. Gardner responsible for 80 of the unlawful prescriptions and ordered him to pay a civil penalty of $4,000.00 per violation under the Controlled Substances Act, resulting in the $320,000.00 total judgment. 

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Mark Putnam, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division, made the announcement today. 

The matter was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s investigation and litigation were led by Assistant United States Attorney Sean M. Cunniff and Auditors Julie Chappell and Phillip Stella.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Crownpoint couple is facing federal charges after allegedly driving intoxicated with three children, causing a crash that killed one child and injured two others.

According to court records, on February 24, 2026, Urias Koll Pablo, 22, and Jamie Jaye Cook, 21, both enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, drove through Crownpoint, New Mexico, with three children after consuming alcohol throughout the day. The two allegedly purchased liquor, continued drinking while traveling, alternated as drivers, and ultimately crashed a borrowed pickup truck while none of the children were restrained. As a result of the crash, one child died from blunt head trauma, a second suffered critical injuries, and the third was also injured.

Investigators found multiple empty alcohol containers at the scene. At the hospital, Cook’s blood alcohol level was 0.20. Pablo’s was 0.25. Both defendants were previously arrested in connection with a 2025 DUI-related incident. Cook was charged with child endangerment, while Pablo was charged with DUI and child endangerment.

Pablo and Cook are federally charged with child abuse resulting in death, child abuse resulting in great bodily harm and child abuse. They will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, they face no less than 12 and up to 18 years in prison.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allysa Gambarella is prosecuting the case. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – A Blanco teenager is facing federal charges for allegedly shooting and killing a man during a dispute.

According to court documents, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, Navajo Nation Police Department officers responded to a report of a violent altercation involving a firearm at a residence in Nageezi, New Mexico, within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Upon arrival, officers located John Doe suffering from a gunshot wound to his groin. Despite immediate aid, John Doe lost consciousness and later died from blood loss caused by the wound.

Investigators determined the dispute began earlier that evening when multiple people had a physical confrontation with the victim’s father, after which one of them telephoned Alfred Josiah Castro, 18, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, to come to the area. Castro drove from Farmington to Nageezi, joined the altercation, and ultimately shot John Doe.

According to witnesses, Castro and two other males fled the scene on foot while laughing. Before losing consciousness, John Doe identified Castro as the person who shot him. Investigators later determined Castro switched the license plate on his truck after the shooting.

License-plate reader data from the City of Bloomfield placed Castro’s vehicle traveling to and from the area during the timeframe of the shooting. Castro was later interviewed by the FBI; though he acknowledged being in the area, he denied any involvement in the killing.

Castro is charged with two felony crimes: Second-degree murder and Using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He will remain in a halfway house pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Castro faces between 10 years and life in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man is facing federal charges for sexually abusing a minor over an eight-year period.

According to court documents, between July 2018 and August 2025, Earlson Yazzie, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in and caused sexual contact with Jane Doe, a minor.

Yazzie is charged with nine counts of abusive sexual contact of minor and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Yazzie faces up to life in prison.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC. 

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

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty to assaulting federal task force officers with a firearm and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon after fleeing from deputies during a traffic stop in Albuquerque.

According to court documents, on November 12, 2025, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office deputies conducted a traffic stop in Albuquerque for an invalid registration and discovered that the driver's license was revoked and that passenger Jason Paul Baca, 36, had an outstanding felony warrant. During the arrest attempt, deputies, including two federally deputized U.S. Marshals Service task force officers participating in Operation Triple Beam, observed a handgun concealed on Baca's person.

Baca resisted arrest, fled on foot, and pulled the loaded pistol from his waistband. He brandished and pointed the firearm at two U.S. Marshals Service task force officers, prompting deputies to discharge their weapons. Baca was struck, taken into custody, and transported for medical treatment. The loaded pistol, containing 13 rounds of ammunition, was recovered near him.

As a previously convicted felon with prior convictions for drug trafficking, burglary, and possession of a controlled substance, Baca was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a backpack containing fentanyl pills and approximately 25 grams of fentanyl powder. 

Baca pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, two counts of assault upon a federal officer using a deadly and dangerous weapon and using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and faces not less than seven years and up to life in prison at sentencing.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Clovis man was arrested on federal charges after allegedly posting threatening comments on Facebook in response to a Lubbock Pride Fest 2026 event post, according to court documents.

On June 27, 2026, Michael Kenneth Thompson, 44, allegedly posted threatening comments on Facebook in response to a Lubbock Pride Fest 2026 event post made by the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal Facebook page, including statements referencing the Pride event as “hunting season” and “target practice.” Thompson also commented that he did not need help, “just more ammo!” Following receipt of an anonymous tip, the FBI National Threat Operations Center identified the Facebook account and traced the activity to Thompson in Clovis, New Mexico. 

Local law enforcement contacted Thompson, who admitted making the comments and later deleting them. Thompson was subsequently arrested by the FBI on June 28, 2026, at his residence in Clovis.

Thompson is charged with interstate threatening communications and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for July 1, 2026. If convicted of the current charge, Thompson faces up to five years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Roswell Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Clovis Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

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

ALBUQUERQUE – An Artesia man has pleaded guilty to kidnapping a woman from an Artesia motel and murdering her at a remote site in Eddy County in 2021. 

According to court documents, on February 26, 2021, at approximately 4:30 a.m., Jerrold Albert Chavarria, 37, and Jerry Romero, 47, kidnapped Jane Doe from the Budget Inn motel in Artesia, New Mexico. Video footage from the Budget Inn motel showed Romero escorting a sobbing Jane Doe into the back seat of a red SUV driven by Chavarria. Approximately one hour later, at 5:35 a.m., the video footage showed Romero and Chavarria returning to the Budget Inn motel without Jane Doe. At 10:21 a.m., Jane Doe’s lifeless body was discovered at a remote location on an oil lease approximately 11 miles from the Budget Inn motel. Jane Doe had been shot twenty-one times at close range with two different calibers of ammunition. 

Chavarria pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and faces up to life in prison at sentencing.

Romero remains in custody pending trial, which is not currently scheduled. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Roswell Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo are prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged in federal court after allegedly assaulting a victim with a sharp-edged weapon during a violent incident at a residence in Zuni, New Mexico.

According to court documents, on June 2, 2024, D’ante Kekoa Pooacha-Thomas, 30, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, allegedly assaulted an older male inside their shared residence in Zuni. During the assault, Pooacha-Thomas allegedly attacked the older male with a knife or box cutter, inflicting a severe wound to the male’s neck and additional cuts to his face, hands, forearms, and legs. When two other residents of the home intervened, Pooacha-Thomas allegedly struck one of them with a baseball bat. As the injured victim was being transported to a medical facility by one of the residents, Pooacha-Thomas allegedly stole one of their cars and followed them, attempting to run them off the road.

Pooacha-Thomas is charged with two felony crimes: Assault resulting in serious bodily injury and Assault with a dangerous weapon. He was released to La Pasada halfway house, where he will remain on strict conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Pooacha-Thomas faces up to 10 years in prison. 

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case. 

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