Southern District of Texas

HOUSTON – Nearly 200 new cases have been filed in the last week related to immigration and border security, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. 

Of those, almost 100 are charged with illegally re-entering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, violent crimes and prior immigration offenses. Over 80 face charges of illegally entering the country, 12 cases involve various instances of human smuggling, and the remainder relate to other immigration crimes. 

Relevant cases also featured this week include a new indictment charging a dozen illegal aliens with assaulting officers. All 12 men allegedly aided and abetted the assault of two corrections officers at the East Hidalgo Detention Center in La Villa. If convicted, they face up to eight years in federal prison. 

Also charged this week are two South Texas bakery owners who were indicted for harboring illegal aliens. At the time of a consensual worksite enforcement action Feb. 12 at Abby’s Bakery and Dulce’s Café, law enforcement allegedly identified several employees and others who were in the United States illegally or in the country under B1/B2 visas without having the right to work. The bakery owners were alleged to have housed these illegal alien workers in an adjacent room with six mattresses on the floor.

Several individuals have also been sentenced for various border-related crimes against the United States, such as a leader of an organization who smuggled aliens through Corpus Christi and was ordered to forfeit $1 million.

Marvin Reyes led the organization which was based out of Houston. The investigation revealed he and others were coordinating the movement of illegal aliens through the Border Patrol checkpoints located near Sarita and Falfurrias as well as by airplane. Reyes also arranged private flights for illegal aliens from Weslaco to Houston. He was ordered to serve 108 months in prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including how the conspiracy had stretched over three years with over 200 aliens transported.

Another criminal will serve 69 months in prison after illegally smuggling dozens of people into the United States on two separate occasions. Joe Adam Escobedo drove a tractor trailer to the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint on two occasions in 2024 with a total of 49 illegal aliens from the countries of El Salvador, Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala and Honduras.

A 27-year-old Los Fresnos man was also sentenced for attempting to smuggle an illegal alien further into the country after feeling from authorities. Carlos Del Angel Bocanegra approached the Border Patrol checkpoint near Kingsville driving a Chevy Tahoe with an adult passenger and four juveniles visibly present. When authorities discovered an illegal alien concealed under a passenger row seat, Bocanegra then immediately fled and led law enforcement on a chase down the highway. He will now serve 24 months in prison.

Jesus Alberto Castro-Garza has prior felony convictions for injury to a child, assault family violence impeding breath, evading with a vehicle and human smuggling. He was first removed from the country in 2019 and has illegally returned three times. He was last removed Nov. 21, 2023. Caastro-Garza must now serve 106 months in federal prison for again illegally re-entering the United States.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). 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 SDTX remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes. 

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

HOUSTON – A 28-year-old former Iraqi refugee and legal permanent resident of Richmond has entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Abdulrahman Mohammed Hafedh Alqaysi admitted to providing material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS).

From 2015 to 2020, Alqaysi provided his computer expertise to develop and post logos for a media arm of the ISIS group known as the Kalachnikov team. He further sent hacking videos and instructions to ISIS members in addition to stolen credit card information and fraudulently created identity documents.

“The Department of Justice and the Southern District of Texas are committed to rooting out terror elements in our communities, wherever they may be,” said Ganjei. “If you’re working to subvert the United States through violence, you will be found and you will be punished.”

U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett accepted the plea and has set sentencing for June 5. At that time, Alqaysi faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

The FBI Houston Joint Terrorism Task Force conducted the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Winter is prosecuting the case along with NSD Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe.

A former Iraqi refugee and legal permanent resident of Richmond, Texas, has entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Abdulrahman Mohammed Hafedh Alqaysi, 28, admitted to providing material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS).

From 2015 to 2020, Alqaysi provided his computer expertise to develop and post logos for a media arm of the ISIS group known as the Kalachnikov team. He further sent hacking videos and instructions to ISIS members in addition to stolen credit card information and fraudulently created identity documents.

U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett accepted the plea and has set sentencing for June 5. Alqaysi faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine. Alqaysi has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

The FBI Houston Joint Terrorism Task Force investigated the case with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Winter for the Southern District of Texas is prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 26-year-old citizen of Mexico has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Ezequiel Vallejo-Hernandez pleaded guilty Feb. 12, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered him to serve 78 months in federal prison. Vallejo-Hernandez was further ordered to pay $57,500 in restitution to various victims and will serve 10 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the Internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. 

On Sept. 16, 2023, Vallejo-Hernandez attempted to enter the United States through the Gateway International Port of Entry, at which time authorities referred him to secondary inspection. At that time, they noticed that Vallejo-Hernandez had a “lookout” placed on him based on a Cybertip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Law enforcement conducted a basic search of his cell phone which led to the discovery of child sexual assault material (CSAM) on the device.

“Since its founding, the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood (PSC) has allowed prosecutors and law enforcement to uncover and prosecute those that prey on children online. This case is a textbook example on how PSC is making the internet safer for children,” said Ganjei.

A forensic analysis resulted in the discovery of a total of 557 CSAM files within his MEGA application - a cloud-based storage application – on his phone. 

Vallejo-Hernandez admitted to downloading the CSAM files to his cell phone and acknowledged it was a crime to be in possession of that material.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of PSC, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old man has been sent to prison for coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

James Christopher Ruiz pleaded guilty Sept. 10, 2024. 

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Ruiz to serve 300 months in prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including testimony from the victim’s mother detailing significant trauma the victim is dealing with and how this crime has negatively impacted not just the her, but everyone in her family. After handing down the sentence, the court addressed the victim and informed her there was nothing wrong with or bad about her and she did not bring this upon herself. The court explained that all the blame lies with the Ruiz who will also serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. 

In August 2023, law enforcement learned Ruiz had been communicating with a 12-year-old minor online. The investigation revealed he had been chatting with the victim from June to July 2022 via Discord.

“People like the defendant can make the internet a dangerous place for children,” said Ganjei. “Fortunately, law enforcement was able to discover and arrest Mr. Ruiz, bringing an end to his predatory online behavior.”

Ruiz knew the minor victim was only 12 years of age. During their conversations, Ruiz sent sexually explicit photos and videos to the minor and enticed the victim to send nude images of her breasts and genitals on multiple occasions. He also explained what masturbating was and persuaded her to send videos of her doing so. 

Ruiz admitted to communicating with other minors via Discord and virtual reality. He said he would tell the minor females to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves and instructed them on what to do.

Ruiz has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the New Castle County Police Department. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old Honduran national who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to prison following his conviction for transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Marvin Reyes pleaded guilty May 30, 2024.

U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered him to serve 108 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including how the conspiracy had stretched over three years with over 200 aliens transported. In handing down the prison term, the court commented that over 200 people could have been hurt or killed because of the Reyes’ actions, and that he was responsible as the leader. The court also took note of the funds received as a result of the criminal activity and imposed a $1 million money judgement.

“Thanks to the teamwork of our office’s Corpus Christi prosecutors and their law enforcement partners, the leader of an alien smuggling ring has been put out of action,” said Ganjei. “Successful interdiction of illegal alien smuggling at the border or at interior checkpoints benefits the nation as a whole. The Southern District of Texas is proud to do its part to support a secure border.”

In July 2021, law enforcement discovered a human smuggling organization based out of Houston that Reyes led. Numerous individuals had been attempting to smuggle illegal aliens further into the United States. 

The investigation revealed Reyes and others were coordinating the movement of illegal aliens through the Border Patrol checkpoints located near Sarita and Falfurrias as well as by airplane. Reyes also arranged private flights for illegal aliens from Weslaco to Houston. 

Bank records showed Reyes received at least $1 million in proceeds from the human smuggling activities.

Reyes will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Overman and Tyler Foster prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging 12 illegal aliens for assaulting two federal correctional officers in January 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

All are expected to make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Juan F. Alanis at 9 a.m.

Those charged include Mexican nationals Bryan Hernandez-Ruiz, 25, Francisco Antonio Hernandez-Mora, 27, Ivan Ramirez-Zapata, 40, Adrian David Guzman-Salas, 28, David Ramirez-Bautista, 21, Roberto Fabian Garza-Castaneda, 49, Jose Alberto Resendez-Hernandez, 27, Jose Ramos-Lerma, 45, Ruben Gonzalez-Balderas, 29, and Oscar Ambrocio Hernandez, 25, as well as Osman Joel Hernandez-Pavon, 22, and Roger Emmanuel Lemus, 42, both of Guatemala.

The charges allege that all 12 men aided and abetted the assault of two federal corrections officers at the East Hidalgo Detention Center in La Villa.

“The Department of Justice has zero tolerance for violence against law enforcement officers,” said Ganjei. “The grand jury has returned an indictment that alleges a serious attack on two corrections officers, and, rest assured, the Southern District of Texas will hold accountable all those found guilty.”

If convicted, each face up to eight years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

All have been and will remain in custody.

FBI and U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Garcia and Avery Benitez prosecuted the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

LAREDO, Texas – A 19-year-old Laredoan has been indicted for possession of a machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Justin Landen Ruiz was originally charged by criminal complaint and is expected to appear in Laredo federal court before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.

On Feb. 6, authorities responded to a road rage incident on the northbound lane of Bob Bullock near the entrance to Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, according to the charges. The driver and sole occupant of a black Jeep, later identified as Ruiz, allegedly displayed a firearm during the incident.

The charges allege authorities had pulled over the vehicle and conducted a search which resulted in the discovery of two firearms and three loaded magazines in the center console.

One of the firearms was a tan Glock 19x, 9mm pistol and had an attached machinegun conversion device, according to the charges. These devices convert firearms to be fully automatic.

If convicted, Ruiz faces up to 10 years imprisonment and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch prosecuted the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

McALLEN, Texas – A 19-year-old Alamo resident has been sentenced for utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Emiliano Cabriales pleaded guilty Dec. 5, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now handed Cabriales a 60-month term of imprisonment immediately followed by three years of supervised release.

On May 29, 2024, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Cabriales was a passenger. During a routine search, they discovered a firearm concealed beneath the seat where Cabriales had been sitting.

Further investigation revealed 14 grams of cocaine, packaged in individual baggies, hidden inside his pants. Cabriales admitted to possessing the cocaine and that he had the firearm in case he had to protect himself and the drugs.

Cabriales has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Alamo Police Department conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

LAREDO, Texas – A driver has been charged with conspiracy and importation of controlled substances, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Mauricio Sebastian Valdez Rivas, 67, is in custody and expected to make his initial appearances before a U.S. magistrate judge in Laredo in the near future.

A federal grand jury returned the two-count indictment related to an alleged  failed smuggling attempt of 16.95 kilograms of cocaine from Mexico into the United States.

On Feb. 7, Rivas allegedly drove into the port of entry at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge seeking entry into the United States. At that time. authorities performed an x-ray scan of the vehicle and noticed an anomaly near the front of the vehicle, according to the charges.

At secondary inspection, law enforcement allegedly found a trap door behind the front license plate which had a hidden compartment containing 15 bundles of cocaine.

The drugs have an estimated street value of $10,000.

If convicted, Rivas faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as well as up to $10 million in fines.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch prosecuted the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The two owners of a Los Fresnos establishment have been charged with harboring illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Leonardo Baez, 55, and Alicia Avila-Guel, 46, both legal permanent residents of the United States, were originally charged by criminal complaint following a lawful enforcement action Feb. 12. A federal grand jury has now returned a three-count indictment against them. They are expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ignacio Torteya III March 13.

Baez and Avila-Guel have owned and operated Abby’s Bakery and Dulce’s Café in Los Fresnos since 2012, according to the charges.

The investigation began after authorities allegedly discovered the pair were potentially employing and housing illegal aliens within their restaurant.

The charges allege that law enforcement conducted a consensual worksite enforcement action at Abby’s Bakery and Dulce’s Café. There, they allegedly identified several employees and others who were in the United States illegally or in the country under B1/B2 visas without having the right to work.

The charges allege both Baez and Avila-Guel illegally hired these individuals to work in their restaurant while harboring them.

According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement identified a room provided for employees in the same shopping plaza as the restaurant. According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement identified a room provided for employees in the same shopping plaza as the restaurant. It was allegedly housing two employees at the time of inspection who were unauthorized to work in the United States. It was a rectangular room with six mattresses on the floor, according to the charges.

The worksite enforcement action allegedly resulted in the discovery of two illegal aliens unlawfully present in the United States and six B1/B2 Visa holders who did not have the right to work in the United States. Another individual was allegedly taken into custody on an outstanding warrant unrelated to the current enforcement action.

Authorities executed arrest warrants Feb. 19 for Baez and Avila-Guel. At that time, no one else was taken into custody or detained.

If convicted, both face up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a fine up to $250,000. 

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

LAREDO, Texas –A 25-year-old Laredo resident has entered a guilty plea to receiving and possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Eduardo Rosas admitted to receiving and possessing numerous images and video files depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his iPhone.

The investigation began after authorities learned someone had uploaded CSAM onto a Kik account. Rosas was the owner of that account. 

Law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence, at which time they seized several electronic devices including an Apple iPhone 11. Rosas admitted to owning the Kik account and the phone. 

Forensic analysis revealed 43 images, 99 videos files and 85 thumbnail files, all depicting CSAM. Some of the material depicted bondage, infants, bestiality and sadistic material.

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Rosas faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. 

He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa A. Lopez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

McALLEN, Texas – A 55-year-old Mexican citizen has been sentenced for exporting firearm parts from the United States into Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Oscar Daniel Ramirez Gonzalez pleaded guilty Dec. 12, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has how sentenced Ramirez Gonzalez to serve 24 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.

On Nov. 9, 2024, Ramirez Gonzalez attempted to exit the United States and enter Mexico through the Pharr Port of Entry.

Authorities referred him to secondary inspection where they conducted a search of the vehicle and found a firearm upper receiver, lower receiver, four bottles of gun powder and several thousand rounds of ammunition cartridges in various calibers.

Ramirez Gonzalez did not possess a license to export the items from the United States. 

He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A 30-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally entering the county without authorization for the fourth time, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Jesus Alberto Castro-Garza pleaded guilty Dec. 19, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now imposed a 106-month-term of imprisonment for Castro-Garza. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to again face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

Castro-Garza has prior felony convictions for injury to a child, assault family violence impeding breath, evading with a vehicle and human smuggling. He was removed from the country first in 2019 and illegally returned three times. He was last removed Nov. 21, 2023.

Then on Dec. 24, 2023, authorities discovered him again in the United States in custody at a local jail.

Castro-Garza will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigrations and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan prosecuted the cases.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old Los Fresnos man has been ordered to prison for attempting to smuggle an illegal alien further into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Carlos Del Angel Bocanegra pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2024.

U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered him to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard evidence describing how Bocanegra had fled from law enforcement with four children in his vehicle. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the potential danger Bocanegra’s conduct posed the public and his passengers.

“Alien smuggling is an incredibly dangerous practice, both for the people smuggled and for innocent bystanders,” said Ganjei. “Fortunately, nobody was killed by Bocanegra’s actions, but the facts of this case could have easily turned tragic. I commend law enforcement for their excellent work in this case.”

On Aug. 27, 2024, Bocanegra approached the Border Patrol checkpoint near Kingsville driving a Chevy Tahoe with an adult passenger and four juveniles visibly present. Upon initial inspection, he denied having any contraband or unlawful people in his vehicle. However, authorities soon discovered an illegal alien concealed under a passenger row seat.

Bocanegra then immediately fled the checkpoint and led law enforcement on a chase down the highway. Authorities were able to end the pursuit quickly and took him into custody.

He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Border Patrol conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lamont prosecuted the case.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old South Texan has been ordered to federal prison for illegally smuggling dozens of people into the United States on two separate occasions, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Joe Adam Escobedo pleaded guilty Sept. 26, 2024.

U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered him to serve 57 months in each case to run concurrently. He was also ordered to serve an additional 12 months to run consecutively for a total of 69 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the fact that Escobedo committed the second offense with 42 aliens and it was the very thing for which he had been on bond and imposed the consecutive sentence. 

“The Southern District of Texas will vigorously pursue alien smuggling cases, given the risk they pose both to the persons smuggled as well as the public at large,” said Ganjei. “Tractor trailer smuggling can be especially hazardous, given the confined space and the unpredictable Texas weather. All it would have taken is a refrigeration malfunction for this smuggling scheme to have turned deadly.”

On April 12, 2024, Escobedo approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint driving a tractor-trailer. He claimed he was heading to Michigan and was hauling pineapples in the trailer. Authorities referred him to secondary inspection after a K-9 alerted to the tractor where they ultimately found seven illegal aliens from El Salvador and Mexico hidden in the sleeper area of the tractor.

He was charged with alien smuggling but permitted release upon posting bond.

Then again, on June 11, 2024, Escobedo drive a refrigerated tractor trailer to the came checkpoint. During primary inspection, law enforcement noticed Escobedo gripping the steering wheel firmly and displaying signs of nervousness and referred him again to secondary inspection. Agents scanned the trailer and observed several anomalies in the trailer.

They then discovered a total of 42 additional people from the countries of Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico. All were found to be illegally in the United States.

Escobedo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine K. Tucker prosecuted the case. 

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two former high-ranking members of Cartel del Gulfo have been transferred into U.S. custody and are charged in separate indictments with significant drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Evaristo Cruz-Sanchez aka Vaquero, 40, and Jose Alberto Garcia-Vilano aka La Kena, 33, are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Bennett in Houston at 2 p.m.

A federal grand jury in Brownsville returned separate and unrelated indictments against Cruz-Sanchez and Garcia-Vilano Nov. 10, 2021, and Feb. 28, 2024, respectively.

Cruz-Sanchez is charged in nine-count indictment for his involvement in drug trafficking between 2015 through 2021. The allegations include conspiracy to possesses with intent to distribute and conspiracy to unlawfully import more than 50 grams of meth, more than five kilograms of cocaine and more than 400 grams of fentanyl.

The three-count indictment against Garcia-Vilano alleges conspiracy to possesses with intent to distribute and conspiracy to unlawfully import more than five kilograms of cocaine. He is also charged with conspiracy to commit international money laundering. His alleged crimes occurred between 2019 and 2024.

“We are pleased that these two defendants have been extradited to the Southern District to face criminal charges in American courts,” said Ganjei. “This case demonstrates that criminals, be they cartel members or otherwise, cannot escape justice simply by residing abroad. Wherever you may be, if you committed a crime against the United States, know that we are looking for you.”

Both men face a maximum penalty of up to life in prison if convicted.

Authorities had previously arrested Cruz-Sanchez and Garcia-Vilano in Mexico. They were transferred into U.S. custody Feb. 27.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations are conducting both Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt is prosecuting both cases.

HOUSTON – A grand jury in the Southern District of Texas has returned a superseding indictment charging 13 Texas men for their roles in a robbery crew that engaged in robbery, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice and murder, including the killing of two individuals in July 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei, Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI.

The following 13 men, all of Houston, have been charged in the superseding indictment with one count of robbery conspiracy and one count of drug distribution conspiracy:

• Derrick Dewayne Butler aka Kutt or Kutt Throat, 28
• Travon Maxwel aka Goonie, 29
• Emmanuel Winnfield aka Pimp, 36
• Herman Mitchell aka Boobie, 37
• Tyrone Raymond Bolton aka Honeybee, 32
• Joe Devon Champion aka Champ, 35
• Jonta Allen Glover, 32
• Dewayne Donnell Champion aka Wayne, 37
• Cedric Lynn Andrews aka as Ced, 50
• Jermar Ballard Jones aka Mar, 37
• Christian Xavier Rucker aka Gucci, 30
• Samuel Lamonte Draper, 25
• Jeremy James Jenkins, 21.

If convicted, each faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on the robbery conspiracy and a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life for the drug distribution conspiracy. In addition, all are charged with one or more counts of attempt to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Jones is also charged with obstruction. 

Butler, Rucker and Jones are also charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, using a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of causing death through the use of a firearm relating to the killing of two men July 19, 2023. If convicted of murder in aid of racketeering, Butler, Rucker and Jones each face a mandatory minimum of life in prison or possibly the death penalty.

Bolton, Joe Champion, Glover, Winnfield, Dewayne Champion, Mitchell, Andrews, Jones, Butler, Maxwell, Draper and Jenkins, each face an additional mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison for possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, upon conviction.

“There is no place in our community for groups that terrorize their fellow citizens,” said Ganjei. “This superseding indictment alleges violent criminal acts and the tragic loss of two lives. The Southern District of Texas will continue to pursue justice for these victims as well as for the people of Houston.”

The FBI and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Department of Public Safety. This case is part of both the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Houston and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorneys Justin G. Bish, Ralph Paradiso, Ben Tonkin and Jodi Anton of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

The Houston VCI is conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas and local, state and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and associates in Houston. As part of the initiative, the Criminal Division has dedicated attorneys and other resources to prosecuting violent offenders and assisting intervention, prevention and reentry efforts to address the root causes of violent crime.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Justice Department’s OCDETF webpage.

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

Three Crew Members Charged With Murder

A grand jury in the Southern District of Texas returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging 13 Texas men for their roles in a robbery crew that engaged in robbery, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and murder, including the killing of two individuals in July 2023.

The following 13 defendants, all of Houston, have been charged in the superseding indictment with one count of robbery conspiracy and one count of drug distribution conspiracy:

• Derrick Dewayne Butler, also known as Kutt and Kutt Throat, 28;
• Travon Maxwell, also known as Goonie, 29;
• Emmanuel Winnfield, also known as Pimp, 36;
• Herman Mitchell, also known as Boobie, 37;
• Tyrone Raymond Bolton, also known as Honeybee, 32;
• Joe Devon Champion, also known as Champ, 35;
• Jonta Allen Glover, 32;
• Dewayne Donnell Champion, also known as Wayne, 37;
• Cedric Lynn Andrews, also known as Ced, 50;
• Jermar Ballard Jones, also known as Mar, 37;
• Christian Xavier Rucker, also known as Gucci, 30;
• Samuel Lamonte Draper, 25; and
• Jeremy James Jenkins, 21.

If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the robbery conspiracy count and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison on the drug distribution conspiracy count. In addition, the defendants are each charged with one or more counts of attempt to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and Jones is charged with obstruction.

Three of the defendants, Butler, Rucker, and Jones, were also charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of causing death through the use of a firearm relating to the killing of two men on July 19, 2023. If convicted of murder in aid of racketeering, Butler, Rucker, and Jones each face a mandatory minimum of life in prison or a maximum of the death penalty.

Twelve of the defendants, Bolton, J. Champion, Glover, Winnfield, D. Champion, Mitchell, Andrews, Jones, Butler, Maxwell, Draper, and Jenkins, each face, if convicted, an additional mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison for possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas, and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI Houston Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI Houston Field Office and Houston Police Department investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Department of Public Safety. This case is part of both the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Houston and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.

Trial Attorneys Justin G. Bish, Ralph Paradiso, Ben Tonkin, and Jodi Anton of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

The Houston VCI is conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and associates in Houston. As part of the initiative, the Criminal Division has dedicated attorneys and other resources to prosecuting violent offenders and assisting intervention, prevention, and reentry efforts to address the root causes of violent crime.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Justice Department’s OCDETF webpage.

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

LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Dallas resident has been charged with conspiring to transport, attempting to transport and transporting two undocumented minors illegally in the United States for financial gain, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Jovanna Netzay Diaz is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Harris Toliver in Dallas at 10 a.m. She will then be expected in Laredo federal court shortly thereafter. 

A federal grand jury returned the three-count indictment Feb. 19 which was unsealed upon her arrest Feb. 27. 

The charges allege that on Oct. 26, 2024, Diaz arrived at the Border Patrol checkpoint in Laredo. Upon initial inspection, authorities allegedly observed a blanket moving between the second and third row of the vehicle.  

Law enforcement soon found one minor underneath the blanket and another concealed on the floorboard of the vehicle’s front passenger seat, according to the charges. The minors were allegedly determined to be nine-year-old twins, who were nationals and citizens of Mexico with no familial connection to Diaz. 

If convicted, Diaz faces up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a $250,000 maximum possible fine. 

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa A. Lopez is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

LAREDO, Texas – A 41-year-old Donna resident has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Rafael Leal pleaded guilty April 11, 2023.

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana has now ordered Leal to serve 135 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.

In October 2020, law enforcement conducted an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that was attempting to distribute a significant amount of liquid meth from the Rio Grande Valley area to Dallas. During that time, authorities conducted a traffic stop and apprehended Leal as he attempted to transport the narcotics.

Leal will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs Border and Protection and Texas Department of Public Saftery. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

Assistant U.S. Attorney James Sturgis prosecuted the case.

HOUSTON – A 47-year-old Houston man has entered a guilty plea to wire fraud and conspiracy for a romance scheme targeting citizens nationwide, many of whom were elderly, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Darlington Akporugo admitted to being a central figure in a long-running romance scheme based in Houston that victimized citizens from Chicago to Kentucky. Akporugo worked with others to lure victims through online romances and then induce them to send money to various bank accounts he controlled.   

To further the fraud, Akporugo and his co-conspirators used fake names to contact victims on social media, gain their confidence and then persuade them to invest in non-existent businesses or provide funds for invented personal circumstances.

As part of his plea, Akporugo admitted to approaching potential victims, primarily on social media sites such as Facebook, and then directing them to send money to either his or his associates’ bank accounts. That money was often then directed overseas.

In addition to collecting cash and wire transfers, Akpourgo also admitted to having victims open lines of credit in his name and, in one case, purchasing a luxury vehicle for his personal use.

During the multi-year investigation, authorities were able to identify over 25 victims of the scheme, the majority either retired or of advanced age.     

Losses from the fraud ring’s operation total more than $3 million.   

“As we unfortunately have seen, victims of romance scams suffer tremendous financial loss, sometimes amounting to their entire life savings,” said Ganjei. “Those have fallen prey to such fraudsters are often too embarrassed to come forward and report the incident to law enforcement. Although this is an understandable reaction, we encourage victims to nonetheless come forward, as their story may help the future victimization of others.”

U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge will impose sentencing June 6. At that time, Akporugo faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A 33-year-old former member of the Mexican National Guard has entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to defraud the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Luis Enrique Guzman Pablo was assigned to work at customs in Matamoros, Mexico. As part of his official duties, he would inspect and observe vehicles departing the United States to Mexico. 

From May to July of 2024, Pablo facilitated the entry of stolen vehicles into Mexico in exchange for compensation.

As part of the scheme, co-conspirators would provide Pablo a description of the vehicle to be exported. He would then ensure the stolen vehicle would pass through the inspection process without being denied entry into Mexico.

In one instance in May 2024, Pablo assisted co-conspirators with the exportation of a stolen Chevrolet Trailblazer that was exported via the Veteran’s International Bridge in Brownsville to Matamoros in exchange for payment.

“No matter what side of the border or what country they represent, we expect all authorities to do their duties and respect the law,” said Ganjei. “Pablo abused his position in order to enrich himself, and The Southern District of Texas will continue to ensure those like him face the appropriate consequences.”

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing May 13. At that time, Pablo up to five years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Pablo has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Homeland Security Investigations and FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection and the Fiscalia General de la Republica in Mexico.

This case is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr. and Sarina D. DiPiazza are prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Cuban national who was on a flight bound for Houston has been charged with destruction of aircraft or aircraft facilities, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Raul Ramos Tamayo is currently in custody on unrelated charges and is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho at 2 p.m. March 3. 

On Feb. 4, Tamayo was aboard Frontier Airlines flight 4856 from Denver, Colorado, according to the charges. Approximately 30 minutes after departure, Tamayo allegedly began punching the seat in front of him. 

The charges allege that when flight crew members approached him, Tamayo then began striking the window in his row with his fists, causing damage to the window. 

The flight crew allegedly asked for assistance from any law enforcement officers or able-bodied passengers. Several responded, according to the criminal complaint originally filed in the case. They then allegedly placed him in flex cuffs the airline had on board.   

“When the public flies, they need to feel confident that they are doing so under safe conditions,” said Ganjei. “Given the fact that greater Houston has two major international airports, with tens of millions of travelers a year, the Southern District of Texas is always ready to prosecute those that endanger the safety of passengers.”

If convicted, Tamayo faces up to 20 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. 

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Schammel is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

LAREDO, Texas – A 44-year-old resident of Madison, Kansas, has been sentenced for distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Terry Lee Trower pleaded guilty Sept. 10, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now sentenced Trower to serve 146 months in federal prison. In handing down the prison terms, the court the content of what Trower shared merited a significant sentence. Trower will also serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Trower will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

“In order to completely eliminate this terrible industry of exploitation, authorities need to target not just the supply side of the equation, but also the demand side,” said Ganjei. “As the defendant learned, if you committed a federal offense in the Southern District, we’re going to find you, wherever you are, even if it’s out of state.”

On Dec. 13, 2023, law enforcement had identified an online user, later identified as Trower, sharing multiple files containing child sexual assault material (CSAM) in a public Kik chat room. The videos and images depicted children under the age of 12 engaged in various sexual acts with adults and animals.

Trower was in Laredo at the time of the distribution. He was eventually arrested at his residence in Kansas, at which time he admitted he had shared child pornography he found on Kik.

Trower will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

HOUSTON – A 27-year-old woman has been sentenced for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Khalia Douglas pleaded guilty June 13, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett has now ordered Douglas to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. She must also pay $318,361.11 in restitution. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described her criminal history and how her fraudulent scheme lasted 15 months. The court also heard how Douglas submitted applications for approximately 100 different individuals, and that without her, they would not have been possible. In handing down the sentence, the court noted her fraudulent scheme took advantage of programs that were designed to help those in need during a troubling time for the entire country.

From March 2020 until June 2021, Douglas conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent applications to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Small Business Administration (SBA), the U.S. government and a bank for financial assistance.

At the time of her plea, Douglas admitting to using her Instagram account “GoGettaKaee” to post multiple stories advertising her involvement in filing fraudulent SBA COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications. Such posts include “SBA is back open. $350 for method. Yes im doing applications $100 upfront & $2k when your money hit. You’ll need a real bank account.”

Douglas accepted payment for her services via CashApp where her clients would make payments to her and send a screenshot of the completed payment as proof.

She also submitted false EIDL applications for herself and false Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) applications for another.

Further investigation revealed Douglas filed eight FEMA disaster assistance applications related to Hurricane Laura.

Additionally, Douglas committed several other fraudulent acts like filing false unemployment benefits in Kansas, using another person’s name to rent her apartment and using another person’s bank account to deposit counterfeit checks.

Authorities discovered her phone and computer contained a multitude of various documents and discussions of fraud in text messages, emails relating to fraudulent applications, false tax documents, images of counterfeit government identification documents and more.

Due to her actions, the EIDL, PPP and the bank lost a total of $318,361.11 with an attempted loss amount of $514,415.

Douglas received approximately $23,775 for her services.

She was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Department of Homeland Security-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rodolfo Ramirez and Elizabeth Wyman prosecuted the case.

HOUSTON – A 33-year-old man has been ordered to prison after leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through the streets of Houston, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Evan Jones pleaded guilty July 3, 2024, to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal has now ordered Jones to serve 108 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. The court noted a substantial sentence was warranted based on the facts of the case and Jones’ criminal history which includes two convictions for possession with intent to distribute heroin and one for reckless operation of a motor vehicle.

Authorities had tracked Jones to Houston where they attempted to arrest him on an outstanding warrant. As they approached him in a restaurant parking lot, Jones escaped and led the them on a high-speed chase through the streets of Houston. In the process, Jones drove on the wrong side of the road, ran a red light and collided with two vehicles.

His airbags deployed, and Jones then fled on foot. A local law enforcement officer tackled him, at which time Jones pulled out a Glock pistol he was carrying in his waistband.

The investigation revealed the gun was equipped with a machinegun conversion device. These are illegal and enable guns to be converted from semi-automatic to fully-automatic fire.

Jones has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The U.S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S.  Attorney John Ganz prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 36-year-old woman has been ordered to federal prison for attempting to smuggle two Mexican children from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Sandra Perez pleaded guilty Nov. 19, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now ordered Perez to serve three years in federal prison.

“Smuggling children is absolutely reprehensible,” said Ganjei. “Who knows what awaited these children had the defendant managed to slip past authorities. Fortunately, law enforcement was able to unravel Perez’s false story and stop her smuggling scheme dead in its tracks.”

On Aug. 8, 2024, Perez applied for admission into the United States driving an SUV. She had her three minor U.S. citizen children with her along with two minor Mexican children.

Perez falsely claimed the two Mexican children were also hers and attempted to present Texas birth certificates and Social Security cards that belonged to her two other children as proof.

After the Mexican children failed to answer authorities’ questions, Perez admitted to attempting to bring the Mexican children into the United States to the children’s mother in Fort Worth, knowing that they did not have legal authority to enter the country.

She also admitted she expected to receive $5,000 per child after delivery.

Perez was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose Homero Ramirez prosecuted the case. 

HOUSTON –A former deportation officer has entered a guilty plea to charges of laundering money while working for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Christopher Washington Toral, 49, Spring, began working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in 2008 and was assigned to a processing center in Conroe.

Over a two-month period in 2023, Toral agreed to transport $700,000 in drug proceeds under the protective cover of his position as a federal law enforcement officer.

As part of an undercover operation, Toral agreed to transport a black bag containing $200,000 in cash from Dallas to Houston in February 2023. He believed this money was revenue from the sale of illegal narcotics. Later that same month, Toral repeated the trip, delivering an additional $200,000.

In March 2023, Toral agreed to transport $300,000 from Newark, New Jersey, to Houston on a commercial flight. The money was represented to be the proceeds of drug trafficking. While carrying the illicit gains, Toral bypassed airport security and Transportation Security Administration checkpoints by exploiting his law enforcement position.

Toral did all this in exchange for cash payments.

“Christopher Toral swore to protect America from the cross-border crime and illegal immigration that threatens our national security….but he betrayed that oath,” said Ganjei. “Today’s guilty plea reflects our commitment to hold accountable those who would choose corruption and deception over faithful service to their country, their community, and their brothers and sisters in law enforcement.”

“In choosing greed over duty, former ICE officer Christopher Toral disgraced the badge he vowed to uphold,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “His crimes – frequently conducted under the guise of a righteous law enforcement officer – betrayed all the men and women who tirelessly protect and serve their communities with integrity every day. FBI Houston proudly partnered with DHS-Office of Inspector General (OIG) to ensure Toral’s corrupt and deceitful activities were exposed and brought to justice.”

“Today’s plea sends a clear message that federal employees who violate the trust of the public and break the law will be prosecuted,” said DHS-OIG Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari PhD. “DHS-OIG is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we continue fighting corruption.”

U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison accepted the plea and set sentencing for May 15. At that time, Toral faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.

FBI and DHS-OIG conducted the investigation. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carolyn Ferko and John Marck are prosecuting the case.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 40-year-old Harlingen resident and former claims specialist with the Social Security Administration (SSA) has been ordered to federal prison for theft of government property and for failure to appear for sentencing, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Lee Marvin Nichols pleaded guilty to the theft charge Oct. 3, 2023. He was originally set for sentencing Feb. 14, 2024, but failed to appear and fled to Mexico. He returned to the United States in September 2024 and later pleaded guilty to the subsequent charge Dec. 2, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Nichols to serve 18 months in federal prison for the underlying theft charge as well as another six months for his failure to appear. The sentences will run consecutively for a total of 24 months in prison. He must also serve three years of supervised release following completion of his sentence.

At the hearing, the court heard evidence describing how Nichols intentionally misused the identities of vulnerable individuals—including a man who originally applied for benefits after being diagnosed with a terminal illness. Nichols waited until this man died before creating the fraudulent application and then withdrew the benefits using a debit card at drive-thru ATMs where he concealed his identity using masks and other coverings. The court also heard how Nichols’ flight from justice wasted government and court resources and how, by taking his luxury pickup truck to Mexico, Nichols prevented the truck from being sold for restitution.

“The defendant not only stole from the American taxpayer, but he also abused the trust given him as a public servant,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas will continue to safeguard the public fisc by rooting out fraudsters like Mr. Nichols.”

Nichols originally admitted to creating fictitious profiles for two children that did not exist. He linked the profiles to a recently deceased man and disabled woman living in Mexico in an attempt to create a survivor benefits application.

Nichols also ensured that the debit cards for the children’s benefits were sent to the address of someone with whom he was associated. He would then use the debit cards to make regular withdrawals at ATMs. When making those withdrawals, he attempted to disguise himself by using hats pulled down over his face, sunglasses, balaclavas and other clothing to conceal his appearance.

In addition, the IRS issued economic stimulus payments of $1,400 to each fictitious child pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

As part of his plea, Nichols took responsibility for over $75,000 in loss to the federal government. He also agreed to pay $82,516 in restitution to the SSA and $2,800 in restitution to the IRS.

Nichols will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The SSA-Office of Inspection General, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad Gray, Andrew Swartz and Jose Esquivel prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 41-year-old resident of Monterrey, Mexico, has been sentenced for his role in conspiring to import 300 pounds of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Allan Alberto Moreno Trevino pleaded guilty March 5, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now ordered Trevino to serve 87 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Trevino had worked with drug traffickers in the past including removing a fuel tank containing drugs from another vehicle for which he was paid $1,000. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that although this was Trevino’s first offense, a significant sentence would be appropriate under the circumstances and the degree of his involvement.

On Nov. 22, 2o23, Trevino drove an older model Ford F-250 from Mexico across the Laredo Colombia Solidarity International Bridge. Law enforcement subsequently referred him to secondary inspection where an x-ray revealed anomalies within the vehicle’s fuel tank. 

While inspecting the vehicle, authorities noticed Trevino pacing and appearing nervous, eventually asking them if they had found something. 

They discovered the fuel tank was filled with liquid meth mixed with gasoline. Law enforcement extracted nine buckets of the mixture with an approximate gross weight of 137.2 kilograms and an estimated street value of $340,000.  

As part of his plea, Trevino stated he expected to be paid between $1,500 and $2,000 for transporting the drugs from Mexico. 

He also admitted knowing the fuel tank contained a controlled substance which he was to deliver to others in San Antonio where the liquid meth would then be extracted.

Trevino will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez is prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 30-year-old Laredo man has been ordered to prison for sexual exploitation of a pregnant 16-year-old while in custody for other crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Luis Andres Serna pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a minor Sept. 23, 2024, and to the human transportation and drug conspiracies June 23, 2023. 

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now ordered Serna to serve a total of 15 years in federal prison. Serna must also register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. At the hearing, the court heard additional information that the minor victim had had given birth to a child which she claimed Serna fathered. Serna disputed that claim. 

“The defendant’s conduct in this case was absolutely reprehensible, and that the fact that it continued even while he was in custody underscores just how dangerous he is,” said Ganjei. “From alien smuggling, to drug trafficking, to sexual exploitation of a minor, the defendant took every opportunity to harm his community. Fortunately for the people of Laredo, he is now behind bars for a long while.”

“Today’s sentencing should serve as a deterrent to those involved in sexual exploitation, alien smuggling and drug trafficking,” said Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “ICE-HSI remains committed to investigating and bringing to justice criminals which harm individuals and communities. Through our dedicated efforts and strong partnerships with law enforcement, we will continue to hold perpetrators accountable and protect vulnerable victims from exploitation and abuse.”

On April 5, 2022, law enforcement encountered Serna after he picked up an illegal alien from downtown Laredo and transported him to an apartment building. At that time, a 16-year-old pregnant minor was his passenger.

Later that day, authorities discovered 37 illegal aliens and approximately 1,032 kilograms of marijuana within several apartments linked to Serna and others and eventually arrested him for drug trafficking and conspiracy to transport and harbor illegal aliens.  

While in federal custody for the pending charges, he gained access to a tablet video system and contacted the same pregnant girl. The investigation revealed Serna provided the minor’s name and a phone number to initiate video calls but did not disclose she was a minor.

The facility’s communication system automatically records the displays of both parties during every video call. Law enforcement reviewed several hundred telephone calls and tablet video visits Serna initiated while detained.

The investigation revealed he was in regular video communication with the minor victim. 

On June 24, 2022, he had her perform sexual acts while he watched. The minor victim used her personal cellphone to record herself performing the acts and played the video for Serna over the course of several days.

Serna will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, Border Patrol and other private companies.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSA) Homero Ramirez prosecuted the case along with the assistance of former Special AUSA Terence A. Check Jr. and former AUSA April Ayers-Perez, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

LAREDO, Texas – A federal grand jury has returned a 14-count indictment against three people on various federal firearms, drug trafficking and immigration offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Fernando Patinio, 31, Laredo, and Albert Garcia-Guajardo, 32, and Jose Hernandez-Garza, 25, both illegal aliens unlawfully residing in the country, were previously in custody on charges originally filed in a criminal complaint. They are expected to make an appearance on the allegations in the indictment before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.

The charges allege Patinio and Garcia-Guarjardo had allegedly sold cocaine and a large number of weapons, to include several machine guns, over the course of an approximately month-long undercover investigation.   

During the initial transaction involving a pistol, Garcia-Guajardo had also indicated he and Patinio could also offer drugs for sale, according to the charges.

On Jan. 2, Patinio and Garcia Guajardo allegedly sold the first of two machine guns - a model 22 Glock equipped with a machine gun conversion device. The charges further allege that in the following weeks, Patinio and Garcia-Guajardo arranged to sell cocaine and another machine guns.

On Jan. 31, authorities executed a search warrant on the 3000 block of Monterrey Street in Laredo where they found Garcia-Guajardo and Hernandez-Garza, according to the charges. Law enforcement also allegedly discovered several more firearms, various narcotics, a scale and many more rounds of ammunition.

The charges allege Garcia-Guajardo and Hernandez-Garza were both determined to be illegally present in the United States. Garcia-Guajardo was allegedly ordered removed from the country two times, most recently in July 2024. According to the allegations, Hernandez-Garza originally had a B1/B2 visa issued to him, but it had expired. Both not lawfully in the United States, they are not permitted to possess any firearms per the charges.

Over the course of the undercover investigation, law enforcement has allegedly seized two machine guns, eight pistols - one of which had a filed-off serial number – drum-style magazines, cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana and several rounds of .40 S&W caliber and 9 mm caliber rounds.

If convicted, Garcia-Guajardo and Patino face a mandatory minimum of 30 years and up to life in federal prison for conspiracy to traffic machines guns in the course of drug trafficking offenses and use of a machine gun in drug trafficking, while Hernandez-Garza faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. All could also be ordered to pay up to a $250,000 fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tory R. Sailer and Brandon Scott Bowling are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

McALLEN, Texas – A 43-year-old Baytown resident has been sentenced for possession with intent to distribute kilogram quantities of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

David Lee Garza pleaded guilty May 31, 2024.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Garza to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court considered Garza’s extensive criminal history including a prior conviction for aggravated assault with the use of a firearm and a prior federal conviction for possession with intent to distribute kilogram quantities of cocaine.

“Methamphetamine has devastated cities and towns across the country, and drug dealers that seek to profit off that destruction deserve to be held accountable,” said Ganjei. “Those that traffic this drug in our communities can expect a significant sentence, particularly those who are repeat offenders.” 

In January 2024, law enforcement discovered Garza was coordinating the transportation of kilogram quantities of meth from the Rio Grande Valley to the Houston area.

On Jan. 25, 2024, Garza drove from the Houston area to a storage unit in McAllen where he retrieved multiple items. As he left the area, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on his vehicle and found him in possession of six kilograms of meth. The drugs had a purity level of 99%.

The investigation revealed he had been storing drugs in the local storage unit until they were ready for transport.

Garza will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Garcia prosecuted the case.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 40-year-old female residing in the Houston area has been sentenced following her conviction for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Alyssa Marie Maldonado pleaded guilty Oct. 16, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez has now ordered her to serve 36 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional testimony that detailed Maldonado’s culpability in the crime. In handing down the sentence, the court noted her connection to the smuggling through her actions to conceal the drugs within the vehicle.

On March 24, 2024, Maldonado applied for entry into the United States at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Port of Entry. At initial inspection, she made a negative declaration to any contraband within the vehicle and provided false statements concerning her reasons for visiting Mexico.   

Authorities referred her to secondary inspection where a K-9 soon alerted to the rear back seat area.

They then discovered anomalies in the fuel tank and found 22 packages which field tested positive for fentanyl.

The combined weight was 8.70 kilograms.

Previously released on bond, Maldonado was taken into custody following the sentencing where she will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Blackmon prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A 35-year-old local resident has admitted he pointed a laser at a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) helicopter, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

George Anthony Garza pointed the laser multiple times on the evening of Dec. 29, 2024.

On that date, a CBP aircrew in an official Air and Marine Operations helicopter observed a green laser beam being pointed at the helicopter multiple times during flight, impeding the vision of a pilot. Authorities were able to determine the source originated from Garza’s backyard.

Law enforcement approached Garza at his residence, at which time he surrendered the laser pointer and admitted to aiming the beam at the aircraft that night. 

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing June 3. At that time, Garza faces up to five years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He was permitted to remain on bond pending sentencing.

The FBI, CBP and Border Patrol conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Federal Aviation Administration and the McAllen Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan is prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – A 43-year-old man with ties to the Humble area has been sentenced for the assault of federal officer resulting in bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

A federal jury deliberated for approximately two hours before convicting Cedric Tyrone Walker Aug. 20, 2024, following a two-day trial.

U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks has now ordered Walker to serve 97 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court considered the nature and extent of the injuries which caused permanent disfigurement. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that the federal law enforcement officer just showed up for work and then landed in the hospital as a result of Walker’s violent behavior.

“The Southern District of Texas (SDTX) has zero tolerance for violence against law enforcement,” said Ganjei. “They are heroes who put themselves in harm’s way every day. Today’s sentence demonstrates how SDTX will always have their backs.”

On Dec. 27, 2022, authorities learned that on two occasions Walker failed to return in a timely manner to the residential reentry center (RRC), also referred to as a halfway house, where he was serving a federal prison sentence for armed bank robbery.

Law enforcement told the RRC Walker needed to be transported back to a federal detention center. However, Walker was reluctant to comply with instructions from authorities and struck a deputy U.S. marshal (DUSM) in the mouth with a closed fist.

A struggle ensued on the ground, and authorities restrained Walker after two taser deployments. Law enforcement then took Walker to a federal detention center and he refused medical attention.

The injured DUSM arrived at the emergency room where he received treatment for a laceration on his lip which required 12 stitches. As a result of the assault, he also sustained two chipped teeth.

At the time of the trial, the defense attempted to convince the jury Walker did not cause the injury. They did not believe those claims and found him guilty as charged.

He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Wirsing prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 39-year-old resident of Laredo is back on U.S. soil on charges of aiding and abetting straw purchasing, being a felon in possession of a firearm and transferring a firearm to a prohibited person, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Jesus Guadalupe Covarrubias had previously fled to Mexico. He is expected to make his initial appearance Feb. 24 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song at 9:30 a.m.

A federal grand jury returned an indictment against him and others Oct. 5, 2021.

In August 2021, authorities had been conducted surveillance at a house in Laredo, according to the charges. During the operation, they allegedly observed Covarrubias and others as they exited and entered the house or garage and appeared to be placing items into nearby vehicles. The charges allege Covarrubias eventually left the house with two others and went to a second home.

There, law enforcement observed the movement of three rifles from a truck into the house and took Covarrubias and others into custody.

The charges allege they had been involved in fraudulently purchasing firearms since Dec. 4, 2019.   

Covarrubias is a convicted felon, according to the charges. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.

After his arrest, he was permitted release on bond and fled to Mexico where he was ultimately arrested and later returned to United States authorities.

If convicted, Covarrubias faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive conducted the investigation with assistance from the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and Laredo Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Covarrubias. U.S. Marshals Service completed the removal of Covarrubias from Mexico to the Southern District of Texas. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

HOUSTON – A 22-year-old New York native has been sentenced for production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of minors and cyberstalking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Tyler N. Grundstrom pleaded guilty Oct. 8, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen has now sentenced Grundstrom to a total of 288 months in federal prison. When he is eventually released, he will be on supervised release for the rest of his life, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Grundstrom will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

“The significant sentence in this case is a reminder of how seriously the Department of Justice takes the online victimization of minors,” said Ganjei. “Gone are the days where the predator lives next door or down the street; now a would-be exploiter can be thousands of miles away. Grundstrom, and similar online predators, are the reason why parents need to know who is talking to their child online.”

“This case is a chilling reminder there are twisted criminals, like Tyler Grundstrom, who use the internet’s anonymity to manipulate children’s innocence for their own sick ends,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “I want to remind every child and parent to remain vigilant, especially on social media, because predators regularly use these platforms to find their victims. Today’s sentencing shows the FBI will relentlessly hunt down those who harm children, no matter where they live, and ensure they face the full force of the law for their vile crimes.”

Grundstrom used popular online communication platforms to identify and target young girls for extortion and exploitation. Grundstrom would manipulate, threaten and coerce the victims into producing explicit and offensive content. The investigation revealed more than one victim in at least two states had been targeted, and the abuse occurred from 2021 and continued through 2022.

He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.

FBI Houston and FBI Atlanta’s Athens Resident Agency conducted the investigation.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

HOUSTON – A 53-year-old federal railroad employee has agreed to pay $24,000 to resolve potential violations related to his submission of unemployment benefit claims under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Between April 20, 2020, and Aug. 27, 2021, Chad Gillingwater, Katy, allegedly falsely claimed federal unemployment benefits.

Gillingwater was not entitled to those funds because he was already receiving state unemployment benefits and/or paid leave from his employer at the same time. Gillingwater also received additional benefits under The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, which extended unemployment insurance benefits for railroad workers sidelined during COVID-19.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation with assistance from the Railroad Retirement Board - Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Michelle Luong handled the matter. 

McALLEN, Texas – A 54-year-old Baytown resident has been ordered to prison for his role in firearms trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Eduardo Hernandez pleaded guilty Oct. 31, 2024. 

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Hernandez to serve 151 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence about Hernandez’ activities, including his purchase of several firearms from a licensed dealer in the Houston area. He had also sent photos of the firearms to an individual in Michoacan, Mexico, to provide confirmation of the transaction. During his allocution, Hernandez apologized for his offense against the United States. In handing down the sentence, Judge Crane responded by commenting that the victim of this offense is really Mexico and how the people of that country suffer at the hands of cartel violence.

“Illegal aliens are prohibited from possessing firearms, period,” said Ganjei. “Hopefully Hernandez’s conviction and sentence will serve as a warning to others who would consider supplying guns to those illegally in the country.”

On Nov. 1, 2023, as part of an on-going criminal investigation involving the unlawful purchase, transfer and exportation of firearms and ammunition, authorities conducted a search of a residence. At that time, they discovered and seized multiple firearms from an individual unlawfully present in the United States who admitted the firearms were intended to be transported into Mexico.

The investigation revealed Hernandez had purchased two of the seized weapons - both rifles.

At the time of his arrest, Hernandez admitted to purchasing approximately 50 firearms from licensed dealers and private sellers and transferring those firearms to aliens unlawfully present within the United States. Hernandez also admitted having transported tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition to a home near the U.S.-Mexico border.

Hernandez was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

This case is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Texas Department of Public Safety - Criminal Investigations Division are conducting the OCDETF operation with the assistance of the Baytown Police Department. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt and Brittany Jensen are prosecuting the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A 56-year-old convicted felon has been ordered to prison for drug trafficking while on federal supervision, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Salvador Noyola pleaded guilty May 3, 2024.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Noyola to serve 188 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. On supervised release when he committed the crime, the court included 18 months as part of the sentence for violating that term. In handing down the sentence, Judge Crane warned Noyola, stating “You’ve got to get out of this business… I hope that you will find another way to make money.”

In December 2023, authorities arrested Noyola following a search at his residence.

At the time of the search, law enforcement seized over a kilogram of powdered cocaine.

Noyola will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

This case is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Texas Department of Public Safety - Criminal Investigations Division are conducting the OCDETF operation with the assistance of the Hidalgo County Sheriffs Office and the Mission and Alton police departments. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt and Brittany Jensen are prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – Two Honduran brothers who had been illegally residing in Houston after numerous removals have been found guilty of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and related offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.   

The jury deliberated for approximately five hours before convicting Edwin Olivares-Calderon, 51, and Marcos-Olivares Calderon, 42. The seven-day trial included testimony from two confidential informants and 10 law enforcement officials and approximately 100 exhibits.

“With today’s guilty verdict, there are two fewer violent criminals operating in Houston, and that means a safer community for everyone” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas thanks the jury for their service.” 

Both men were members of the Los Tumbadores rip crew, an armed robbery group of Honduran illegal aliens that focused on targeting drug traffickers, alien smugglers and illegal game room operators.

The jury heard that the Olivares-Calderon brothers attempted to rob approximately 27 kilograms of cocaine between March 11, 2016, and March 21, 2016, first from a tire shop on Crosstimbers and then from a BMW that had just crossed the U.S.-Mexican border in Hidalgo. 

The brothers had been using a tracker to surveil a vehicle that was believed to be transporting cocaine. Law enforcement then identified that vehicle and on March 19, 2016, recovered 27 kilograms of cocaine from underneath the center console. Marco Olivares-Calderon and others later attempted to locate the vehicle they believed was loaded with drugs.

Upon the arrest of Marco Olivares-Calderon, authorities discovered a loaded firearm behind the glove compartment in the dashboard of his car. 

The defense attempted to convince the jury there was insufficient evidence that they were at the identified locations, and if they were present, that they did not plan to engage in any criminal activity. The jury did not believe those claims.

U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett presided over trial and set sentencing for May 22. At that time, the bothers face up to 20 years for the armed robbery conspiracy. Edwin also faces up to two additional years for illegal reentry after removal, while Marcos could receive up life imprisonment and 15 years, respectively, for his convictions of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. They will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Homeland Security Investigations and the Houston Police Department conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection, Citizenship and Immigration Services and Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Laurence Goldman and Anh-Khoa Tran prosecuted the case.  

McALLEN, Texas – A 44-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Mission has been ordered to prison for trafficking cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Jorge Alberto Galindo-Vargas pleaded guilty June 28, 2024.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Galindo-Vargas to serve 210 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. During the hearing, Galindo-Vargas spoke to the court noting that he had previously received a large sentence for drug trafficking at the age of 17. In handing down the sentence, in response to Galindo-Vargas statements, Judge Crane stated “Unfortunately, you’re in the cocaine business again, and that’s going to cost you another chunk of your life.”  

“Illegally entering the United States is bad enough; illegally entering the United States in order to traffic drugs is even worse,” said Ganjei. “Galindo-Vargas will now have 17 years to think about his poor choices as he awaits his eventual deportation.”

On Nov. 1, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 12 kilograms of cocaine inside an ice chest inside the vehicle. 

Galindo-Vargas will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

This case is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation.

Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Texas Department of Public Safety - Criminal Investigations Division are conducting the OCDETF operation with the assistance of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and the Mission and Alton police departments. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt and Brittany Jensen are prosecuting the case.

VICTORIA, Texas – A federal jury sitting in Victoria has returned a guilty verdict against a 27-year-old Houston man for armed robbery and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

The jury deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Jordan Javon Ashton following a three-day trial.

The robbery took place at the Morelos Supermercardos in Victoria Oct. 31, 2023, and involved a stolen vehicle with stolen plates and a stolen gun.

On that Halloween evening, Latrayveon McNeal and Jerrell Potts – wearing masks and brandishing firearms - entered the supermarket and approached the Barri money services counter. They pointed weapons and yelled at the cashier, store employees and customers. Fearing for their lives, the employees complied with demands and provided U.S. currency and a large amount of cashed checks.   

McNeal and Potts fled in a stolen white truck and met up with Ashton who was armed and waiting for them a few blocks away from the store. Ashton then drove the robbers from the scene leaving the white truck in the middle of the road with the motor still running.

The jury saw numerous exhibits to include several photographs and surveillance video from the supermarket, the weapons used in the crime and heard excerpts of 911 calls made on that day.

They also heard that Ashton had previously been convicted of a felony and was on parole during the commission of this crime.

The defense attempted to convince the jury that he withdrew from the conspiracy. They did not believe those claims and found Ashton guilty as charged.

McNeal, 26, and Potts, 25, both of Houston, previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the crime. Potts received 87 months in federal prison, while McNeal is pending sentencing.

U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over trial and set sentencing for May 29. At that time, Ashton faces up to 20 and 15 years for the robbery and the firearms charges, respectively, as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of Victoria Police Department, Victoria County Sheriff’s Office and Victoria County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth is prosecuting the case.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 34-year-old man had entered a guilty plea to production of child sexual abuse material otherwise known as sexual exploitation of a child, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

The investigation into Valentine Cancino began when authorities received multiple cyber-tips indicating child pornography had been uploaded onto the internet. Law enforcement was able to identify Cancino as the source of the content.

On Jan. 30, 2024, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Cancino’s residence in Corpus Christi. They located and seized two electronic devices.

One of those devices was a Samsung Galaxy cell phone. Upon inspection, authorities discovered a video recording Cancino made of himself engaging in sexual activity with a minor relative.

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing June 4. At the time, Cancino faces up to 30 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Cancino has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Homeland Security Investigations and the Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

HOUSTON – A Honduran woman illegally residing in the United States has been indicted for failing to surrender to serve her sentence for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Leidy Areli Hernandez Lopez, 44, pleaded guilty May 10, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud stemming from her role in selling illegal temporary Texas license plates. U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. later sentenced her to serve 30 months in federal prison and to pay over $316,000 in restitution.  

She was to report to federal prison before 2 p.m. April 9, 2024. However, she failed to do so.

A federal grand jury returned an indictment Feb. 20 charging her with failure to surrender. If convicted of that charge, she faces another five years in federal prison.

Lopez is considered a fugitive, and a warrant remains outstanding for her arrest. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000. 

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

McALLEN, Texas – A 29-year-old local resident has been sentenced for enticement of a minor and production of child sexual abuse material, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Christian Hanks pleaded guilty Oct. 15, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez has now sentenced Hanks to 400 and 360 months for enticement and production of child pornography convictions, respectively. The court ordered the sentences will run concurrently. In handing down the prison terms, the court noted the repeat nature of the offenses and the degree of manipulation involved in them. Judge Alvarez also indicated Hanks’ behavior was consistent with that of a sexual predator. He was further ordered to serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison terms. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Hanks will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

“As the court found, the defendant’s behavior in this case was particularly abhorrent, and deserving of a significant sentence” said Ganjei. “Children deserve to grow up in a safe community, free from the predations of individuals like Hanks. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that similar predators are uncovered and prosecuted.”

“The conviction and sentencing of this individual today highlights our steadfast dedication to safeguarding our children,” said Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mark Lippa. “With the sentence of production of child pornography, ICE-HSI sends a strong message that such reprehensible behavior will not be tolerated. We must remain united in our efforts to protect the safety and well-being of every child.”

Hanks recorded himself sexually abusing a minor victim in December 2023. The investigation revealed years of communication between himself and the minor regarding further sexual abuse, and requests to abuse the minor and other minor children.

The investigation also revealed Hanks had engaged in grooming behavior with another minor victim in the Western District of Louisiana to entice her to engage in sexual conduct with him. The investigation revealed he also engaged in sexual intercourse with the second minor victim.

He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations in Texas and Louisiana conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cahal P. McColgan and Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Texas charging 14 members and associates of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in murder, robbery, arson, narcotics distribution, and witness intimidation in and around Houston.

The indictment accuses the defendants of various crimes, including engaging in a conspiracy to commit racketeering (RICO) activity and committing violent crimes in furtherance of the gang such as murder, attempted murder, and assault. The indictment alleges that the Bandidos are a self-identified “outlaw” motorcycle organization with a membership of approximately 1,500 to 2,000 in the United States and an additional 1,000 to 1,500 members internationally, including in Mexico.

“Today’s indictment is an important step in eliminating the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Bandidos declare war on rivals — and they wage that war on our streets. Criminal behavior like this has no place in America, and the Department of Justice is fully committed to bringing peace back to our communities.”

“Ensuring the safety of the public is Southern District of Texas’ paramount concern,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas. “The indictment here not only alleges shocking crimes of violence, but also alleges that these offenses were committed openly and wantonly, where any innocent member of the public could have been hurt or killed.”

According to court documents and statements in court, beginning in 2019, a violent turf war erupted between the Bandidos and B*EAST, a rival outlaw motorcycle gang in the Houston area. As part of this turf war, Bandidos national leadership allegedly put out a “smash on site” order to commit physical assaults, including murder, against B*EAST members. The turf war has resulted in gunfire exchanged on public roadways and in public establishments with innocent civilians present, according to the charges.

John M. Pfeffer, also known as Big John, 32, Darvi Hinojosa, also known as 10 Round, 35, and Bradley Rickenbacker, also known as Dolla Bill, 37, all of Katy, Texas; Michael H. Dunphy, also known as Money Mike, 57, of Cleveland, Texas; Christopher Sanchez, also known as Monster, 40, of Tomball, Texas; and Brandon K. Hantz, also known as Loco and Gun Drop, 33, of Crosby, Texas, are charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering activity. Pfeffer, Dunphy, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker, and Sanchez are further charged with multiple counts of assault in aid of racketeering. Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker, and Sanchez are also charged with using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, while Sanchez faces charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hantz is also charged with arson.

If convicted, Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker, and Sanchez each face a maximum penalty of life in prison, while Dunphy and Hantz each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each of their counts.

The indictment also charges David Vargas, also known as Brake Check and First Time, 33, of Houston, with murder in aid of racketeering; using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence resulting in death; attempted murder in aid of racketeering; and using a firearm during and in relation to the attempted murders. All those charges relate to the killing of a rival and the shooting of two others. If convicted, Vargas faces a mandatory penalty of life in prison or the death penalty.

Further, Marky Baker, also known as Pinche Guero and Guero, 40; Ronnie McCabe, also known as Meathead, 56; and Jeremy Cox, also known as JD, 37, all of Houston; Roy Gomez, also known as Repo, 50, of Richmond, Texas; and Marcel Lett, 56, of Pearland, Texas, are charged along with Pfeffer and Rickenbacker with assault in aid of racketeering and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. These charges are in relation to an alleged assault and robbery that resulted in the death of a rival. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Hinojosa is also charged along with John Sblendorio, also known as Tech9, 54, of Houston, with conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, assault in aid of racketeering, and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in connection with the shooting of a rival gang member. Hinojosa is also charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and three counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted, Sblendorio and Hinojosa each face a maximum penalty of life in prison.

In addition, Sean G. Christison, also known as Skinman, 30, of Katy, is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

For all defendants, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI, Texas Board of Criminal Justice — Office of Inspector General, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office; Houston and Pasadena Police Departments; Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission; LaMarque and Katy Police Departments; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Police Department.

Trial Attorneys Grace H. Bowen and Christopher Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

This investigation was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Justice Department’s OCDETF webpage.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Justice Department’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about PSN, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

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

HOUSTON – A 22-count indictment has been unsealed in the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) following an operation targeting multiple members of an allegedly violent, transnational motorcycle gang in the Houston metropolitan area.

Current and former members of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang and Mascareros Motorcycle Club are charged for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in violent criminal activity in and around Houston. The Mascareros is a support club of the Bandidos.

Several of those are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo at 2 p.m. Feb. 20.

A federal grand jury returned an indictment Feb. 11 against 14 members and associates of the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang accusing them of various crimes, to include engaging in a conspiracy to commit racketeering activity and committing violent crimes in furtherance of the gang such as murder, attempted murder and assault. The indictment alleges the Bandidos are a self-identified “outlaw” motorcycle organization with a membership of approximately 1,500 to 2,000 in the United States and an additional 1,000 to 1,500 members internationally, including in Mexico.

“Ensuring the safety of the public is SDTX’s paramount concern,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “The indictment here not only alleges shocking crimes of violence, but also alleges that these offenses were committed openly and wantonly, where any innocent member of the public could have been hurt or killed.” 

“Today’s indictment is an important step in eliminating the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Bandidos declare war on rivals—and they wage that war on our streets. Criminal behavior like this has no place in America, and the Department of Justice is fully committed to bringing peace back to our communities.”

The indictment alleges that beginning in 2019, a violent turf war erupted between the Bandidos and B*EAST, a rival outlaw motorcycle gang in the Houston area. As part of this turf war, Bandidos national leadership allegedly put out a “smash on site” order to commit physical assaults, including murder, against B*EAST members. The turf war has resulted in gunfire exchanged on public roadways and in public establishments with innocent civilians present, according to the charges.

John M. Pfeffer aka Big John, 32, Darvi Hinojosa aka 10 Round, 35, Bradley Rickenbacker aka Dolla Bill, 37, all of Katy; Michael H. Dunphy aka Money Mike, 57, Cleveland; Christopher Sanchez aka Monster, 40, Tomball; and Brandon K. Hantz aka Loco and Gun Drop, 33, Crosby; are charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering activity. Pfeffer, Dunphy, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez are further charged with multiple counts of assault in aid of racketeering. Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez are also charged with using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, while Sanchez faces charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hantz is also charged with arson.

Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez each face up to life in prison if convicted, while Dunphy and Hantz each face up to 20 years on each of their counts upon conviction.

The indictment also charges David Vargas aka Brake Check and First Time, 33, Houston, with murder in aid of racketeering; using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence resulting in death; attempted murder in aid of racketeering; and using, carrying, brandishing, discharging and possessing a firearm during and in relation to the attempted murders. All those charges relate to the killing of a rival and the shooting of two others. Murder in aid of racketeering carries a mandatory life sentence or the death penalty, if convicted.

Further, Pfeffer and Rickenbacker are also charged with assault in aid of racketeering and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence  along with Marky Baker aka Pinche Guero and Guero, 40, Ronnie McCabe aka Meathead, 56, and Jeremy Cox aka JD, 37, all of Houston; Roy Gomez aka Repo, 50, Richmond; and Marcel Lett, 56, Pearland. These charges are in relation to an alleged assault and robbery that resulted in the death of a rival. If convicted, they face up to life in prison.

Hinojosa is also charged along with John Sblendorio aka Tech9, 54, Houston, with conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, assault in aid of racketeering and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in connection with the shooting of a rival gang member. Hinojosa is also charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and three counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Sblendorio and Hinojosa each face up to life in prison, if convicted.

In addition, Sean G. Christison, aka Skinman, 30, Katy, is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. 

The FBI, Texas Board of Criminal Justice - Office of Inspector General, Texas Department of Public Safety and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation with the assistance of Harris County Sheriff’s Office; Houston and Pasadena Police Departments; Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission; LaMarque and Katy Police Departments; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Police Department. 

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos of the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case in partnership with Trial Attorneys Grace H. Bowen and Christopher Taylor of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division - Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.