Eastern District of Virginia

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Three Washington men have been sentenced to prison for a series of armed robberies across Maryland and Virginia.

According to court documents, from September 2023 to February 2024, brothers Andre Joel White Jr., 41; Abdullah Khalil Ismael DeVaugh Michelle, aka Damien Devaughn Moore, 43; and Aaron Isaiah Devaughn Aaron White, 29, robbed a convenience store, four tobacco shops, and a gas station, which they robbed twice, and attempted to rob another gas station. During the robberies, the brothers wore masks and gloves, brandished firearms, assaulted a victim, and stole money and cigarettes.

On Dec. 4, 2023, in Washington, D.C., Michelle noticed a ride-share driver exit his vehicle at a hotel to help a passenger with their luggage. Michelle jumped in the driver’s seat of the car and drove away. The brothers then used the stolen car to commit additional robberies in Virginia. When the car became disabled following a robbery, they abandoned it and continued to rob stores using a van rented by Michelle. The van was eventually reported stolen, and despite using stolen license plates, Michelle was arrested on Feb. 13, 2024, while driving the van.

On Feb. 5, Michelle pled guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. On July 2, he was sentenced to 21 years in prison.

Aaron White pled guilty on Feb. 5 to two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. On June 18, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

On Dec. 18, 2024, Andre White pled guilty to three counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He was sentenced today to 10 years and six months in prison.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and William J. DelBagno, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith J. Edwards and Nicholas A. Durham prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-222-2.

RICHMOND, Va. – A federal jury convicted a Richmond man yesterday for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on Feb. 23, Henrico County Police observed Tajon Rasheed Baskerville, 35, rummaging through a purse, which had been taken from a nearby vehicle earlier. As an officer performed a pat-down of Baskerville, the officer felt a firearm in a holster on Baskerville’s hip. Baskerville pulled away from and struck the officer. The officer fell, at which time Baskerville drew his firearm and, in response, the officer drew his service weapon. Baskerville tossed his firearm and attempted to flee on foot. The officer recovered the firearm and Baskerville was apprehended.

Investigators found items that had been taken from the purse in Baskerville’s pockets. They also found a wallet, which had been in the purse, in Baskerville’s shirt.

At the time of the offense, Baskerville had previously been convicted for possession of a schedule I or II controlled substance (2010 and 2012), felony probation violation (2012, 2014, and twice in 2017), grand larceny (2015 and 2018), and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (2022). As a previously convicted felon, Baskerville cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Baskerville faces a up to 15 years in prison when sentenced on Dec. 17. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Eric D. English, Chief of Henrico County Police Division, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge David J. Novak accepted the verdict.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick J. McGorman and Stephen E. Anthony are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-79.

NORFOLK, Va. – A Norfolk man was sentenced today to six years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of firearms.

According to court documents, in February 2024, law enforcement investigators conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from Stanley Desmarat, aka Whisper, Tony Sulza, Tony Demarcy, or Stanly Desmaratti, 46. On May 13, 2024, law enforcement encountered a parcel containing five kilograms of cocaine and performed a controlled delivery. Shortly after the parcel was delivered, Desmarat arrived in a rental vehicle and retrieved the cocaine. Investigators stopped and arrested Desmarat.

During a subsequent search of Desmarat’s residence, investigators recovered three handguns, one of which was stolen, as well as various ammunition and magazines. Among his previous felony convictions, Desmaret was convicted in 2003 for the manufacture, sale, or possession with intent to manufacture or sell controlled substances and in 2007 for being a felon in possession of a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Desmarat cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Mark Talbot, Chief of Norfolk Police; and Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Jamar K. Walker.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham M. Stolle, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Marek prosecuted the case.

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

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-138.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A federal jury yesterday convicted four defendants charged in a 127-count superseding indictment relating to a Hampton Roads-based drug trafficking conspiracy.

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, federal law enforcement opened an investigation into large-scale drug trafficking activity at Lux Auto in Newport News around June 2021. The conspirators used the business as a base of operations, storing illegal drugs in vehicles throughout the parking lot of Lux Auto. Members of the organization were frequently armed with handguns and other weapons. Between August 2020 and August 2023 at major airports in the Mid-Atlantic area, law enforcement seized almost $400,000 in drug proceeds and 1,000 pounds of marijuana and contraband relating to the conspiracy.

Members of the organization had varying roles and responsibilities. The leaders engaged with the sources of supply outside Virginia and arranged for the purchase of large loads of marijuana. They also instructed other members of the organization to arrange for couriers to fly to the sources of supply, deliver money to them, and return to Virginia with the marijuana. The leaders further arranged for midlevel members to receive marijuana from couriers and distribute it to customers or have subordinate dealers sell the marijuana.

Cortez Dayshawn Bumphus, aka Co, 32, was convicted of continuing criminal enterprise; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; conspiracy to launder money; being a felon in possession of a firearm; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime; maintaining a drug-involved premises; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking.

Dilquon Best, aka Quon or DQ, 33, was convicted of continuing criminal enterprise; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; conspiracy to launder money; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking.

Earvin Jerome Moore, aka Gooch, 45, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; maintaining a drug-involved premises; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking.

Kamani Johnson, aka Komma or Kazz, 30, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana, and interstate travel in aid of racketeering.

Thirty-one other defendants pled guilty previously.

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

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Jason S. Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen accepted the verdict.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric M. Hurt and Luke Bresnahan are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alyson C. Yates, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:23-cr-54.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Peruvian citizen pled guilty today to importing cocaine into the United States.

According to court documents, José Luis Castillo Rojas, 43, was employed by an airport services company at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Castillo Rojas held a Special Access Seal that provided him unescorted access to customs security areas within the airport, including access to international flights and secure baggage areas.

On April 24, Castillo Rojas arrived at IAD on COPA Airlines Flight 404 from Tocumen International Airport in Panamá City, Panamá, with one cargo bag and one backpack.  During an authorized inspection of Castillo Rojas’ cargo bag, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered multiple packages of cocaine, totaling 1.95 kilograms and more than $54,000 in counterfeit U.S. currency. An inspection of his cellphone revealed a text message conversation in which Castillo Rojas discussed retrieving the cargo bag from an individual in Peru and payment for delivering the bag to an individual in the United States.

Castillo Rojas is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 6. He faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Christine Waugh, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C. made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff accepted the plea.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyndi McVey and David Lubitz and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Harvey are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-188.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, announced today case updates on 11 immigration cases in the district.

On Jan. 20 the President signed executive orders addressing the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. Protecting the American People Against Invasion recognized that enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States, and that it is the policy of the United States to faithfully execute the immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens, particularly those aliens who threaten the safety or security of the American people. The order tasked the Department of Justice with prioritizing the prosecution of criminal offenses related to the unauthorized entry or continued unauthorized presence of aliens in the United States. Securing Our Borders prioritizes the pursuit of criminal charges against illegal aliens who violate immigration laws and against those who facilitate their unlawful presence in the United States.

According to court records, on March 4, 2000, Mexican national Noe Medrano Nuñez, 51, was convicted in Dallas for carrying a firearm on an alcohol premises. Pursuant to a final order of removal, Medrano Nuñez was removed from the United States on June 1, 2000. On Dec. 13, 2024, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Medrano Nuñez had illegally reentered the United States and was residing in Hampton. On June 3, Medrano Nuñez pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 4:25-CR-7

On Oct. 21, 2011, Honduran national Wuender Santos-Gonzalez, 39, was convicted in Fairfax County of forgery of public records. Pursuant to a final order of removal, on Jan. 13, 2012, Santos-Gonzalez was removed from the United States. Santos-Gonzalez illegally reentered the United States and on May 18, 2013, was encountered by ICE agents near Carizo Springs, Texas. On Dec. 18, 2013, Santos Gonzalez was convicted in federal court in Texas for illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal and on Aug. 11, 2014, was removed again. On June 22, 2016, U.S. Border Protection agents encountered Santos Gonzalez near Amado, Arizona. On April 18, 2017, Santos-Gonzalez was federally convicted for illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal and on April 25, 2017, was removed yet again. On Feb. 28, ICE agents learned that Santos Gonzalez had once again illegally reentered the United States and was in the Richmond area. On June 10, Santos Gonzalez pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. He remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 3:25-CR-73

Pursuant to a final order of removal, on Feb. 17, 2017, Honduran national Roger Alfonso Marin, 55, was removed from the United States. ICE agents learned that Marin had illegally reentered the United States following a traffic violation on Dec. 25, 2024. On July 15, Marin pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. He remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 3:25-CR-84

On June 16, 2014, Guatemalan national Hamilton Estuardo Marroquin-Barillas, aka Jair Figueroa, Haminton Barillas, Jose Carlos Gonzalez, or Alexander Jaramillo, 32, illegally entered the United States and, on Nov. 20, 2018, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. Marroquin-Barillas illegally re-entered the United States and, on May 16, 2021, was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Chesterfield County. On Dec. 10, 2021, he was arrested and charged with grand larceny (auto theft), again in Chesterfield County. On April 15, Marroquin-Barillas was charged in the Eastern District of Virginia with illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. He pled guilty on May 14 and remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 3:25-cr-69

On Aug. 27, 2015, Salvadoran national Alfredo Dubon-Navarro, 30, was arrested near Roma, Texas, for illegally entering the United States and, pursuant to an expedited order of removal, was removed from the country. On Sept. 5, 2015, Dubon-Navarro was arrested near Rio Grande City, Texas, for illegally entering the United States and was removed again on Sept. 7, 2015. ICE agents encountered Dubon-Navarro on July 7, 2019, at the Henrico County Jail following his arrest for assault and battery on a family member. During processing, Dubon-Navarro stated that he had previously misrepresented himself to be a Mexican citizen and admitted that he is a citizen and national of El Salvador. On Aug. 30, 2019, Dubon-Navarro was removed from the United States to El Salvador. On April 6, ICE agents learned that Dubon-Navarro was once again illegally present in the United States following a DWI arrest in Henrico County. On May 22, Dubon-Navarro pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. He remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 3:25-CR-78

On Oct. 11, 2006, pursuant to a final order of removal, Salvadoran national Walter Caceres Chavarria, 50, was removed from the United States. Caceres Chavarria illegally reentered the United States and, subsequent to an aggravated felony conviction in 2009, was removed again on Jan. 13, 2009. ICE agents learned that Caceres Chavarria had unlawfully returned to the United States following an arrest in Fairfax County. Caceres Chavarria was indicted on a charge of illegally reentering the United States after removal for an aggravated felony conviction. A federal judge convicted Caceres Chavarria on July 14. He remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 1:25-cr-79

On March 30, 2015, Guatemalan national Otilio Herrera Morales, 40, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. On Jan. 2, ICE agents learned that Herrera Morales was illegally present in the United States when he was detained at the Fairfax County Jail. On July 23, Herrera Morales pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a prior removal. He remains subject to the previous order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-207

After unlawfully entering the United States, Honduran national Walter Lagos-Duron, 38, was convicted in Michigan in 2012 of driving without a license. Later in 2012, Lagos-Duron fraudulently obtained the identities of multiple individuals and used their personal information to illegally withdraw money for himself. He was convicted in 2013 of felony identity theft and was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. After illegally reentering the United States, in 2024 Lagos-Duron sexually assaulted two minors, ages four and five, in Virginia. Lagos-Duron pled guilty to sexual battery of a child under the age of six and must register as a sex offender. On May 12, Lagos-Duron pled guilty to illegal reentry subsequent to a felony conviction. On July 29, Lagos-Duron was sentenced to two years in prison and remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-93

Guatemalan national Felipe Perez-Cartalina, 44, was removed from the United States on July 31, 2009. After unlawfully reentering the United States, Perez-Cartalina was removed again on Oct. 5, 2017. Following his illegal return to the United States, Perez-Cartalina was removed a third time on Dec. 15, 2017. ICE Agents learned that Perez-Cartalina once again had illegally reentered the United States when he was detained at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and, pursuant to a federal warrant, arrested him on June 16. On July 29, Perez-Cartalina pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a previous removal and remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-202

On April 3, 2014, pursuant to a final order of removal, Salvadoran national David Jonathan Rodriguez Zelaya, 36, was removed from the United States. On Nov. 26, 2024, ICE agents learned that Rodriguez Zelaya had reentered the United States when he was detained in Stafford County. On July 29, Rodriguez Zelaya pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a previous removal and remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-189

On Feb. 9, 2009, Ecuadoran national Luis Gançalo Manobanda-Leon, 45, was convicted in Virginia Beach of aggravated malicious wounding, and on July 24, 2014, was removed from the United States. Manobanda-Leon illegally reentered the United States in April 2015. On Oct. 27, 2015, Manobanda-Leon was convicted of illegally reentering the United States after a previous removal and was deported on Jan. 19, 2018. On April 3, Manobanda-Leon was found unlawfully present in the United States and on April 22 he was arrested in Virginia Beach. On July 29, Manobanda-Leon pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after a previous removal and remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 2:25-CR-47

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for the case number provided above.

NORFOLK, Va. – A U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class in Norfolk was sentenced yesterday to six years in prison for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

According to court documents, on Nov. 13, 2024, the Norfolk Police Department (NPD) received a complaint that Robert Henry, 43, possessed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his personal laptop. The witness lawfully provided NPD with Henry’s laptop and two hard drives. Henry’s devices, including his cellphone, contained 176 CSAM videos and 119 CSAM images depicting at least 27 minor victims.

Henry searched online for groups on messaging apps, using keyword searches of “Teens and Schoolgirls” and “Teen XXX Groups.” Henry used the messaging apps to request CSAM and to find additional groups that shared CSAM. At one point, Henry deleted one of the messaging apps because “There are people looking for predators.”

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Emily Schmid, Special Agent in Charge of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Norfolk Field Office; and Mark Talbot, Chief of Norfolk Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-22.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Chesapeake man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.

According to court documents, Izayah Dural, 23, was a regular supplier of fentanyl pills to an individual identified as C.W. and several of C.W.' s high school friends and classmates. On June 2, 2024, Dural sold two counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to C.W., who used a portion of one of the pills, overdosed, and died of acute fentanyl toxicity.

“As a fentanyl trafficker, Izayah Dural displayed a callous disregard for the lives of others,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Even worse, he chose to target minors to sell one of the most dangerous drugs plaguing our society. His reckless pursuit of money to fuel his own consumption cut short the life of a young person who, unlike Mr. Dural, will never have the opportunity to make his own decisions as an adult. So, for drug traffickers in the Eastern District of Virginia, let this case make one thing clear--you are on notice.  My office, along with our federal, state, and local partners, will not stop until we find you and hold you responsible to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Drug traffickers like Dural prioritize profit over the lives and families they destroy,” said Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division. “They exploit the trust of vulnerable citizens by distributing fake pills that mimic legitimate medication but are, in fact, toxic substances, many of which contain fentanyl. The quantity of pills seized from this individual could have potentially resulted in the deaths of 40 people. Such actions are unacceptable, and we are committed to investigating to hold accountable those involved in the illegal production and distribution of drugs, thereby safeguarding American lives. One Pill Can Kill, and conversations save lives.”

On June 11, 2024, investigators observed Dural engaging in what appeared to be a hand-to-hand narcotics transaction in a convenience store parking lot in Norfolk. Dural was in possession of 80 counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. During a search of Dural's residence, investigators recovered additional fentanyl pills, a handgun with an extended magazine, and $7,870 in cash.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Virginia Beach Police Department, and Norfolk Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case. Dural was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Olivia L. Norman and Patrick J. McGorman prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-156.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Canadian was sentenced yesterday to a year in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit aggravated identity theft.

According to court documents, in May 2022, Cameron Albert Redman, 22, of Mississauga, Ontario, formed a scheme to steal non-fungible tokens (NFTs) by gaining unauthorized access to the X accounts of various digital artists. The conspirators used the artists’ online identities to direct the artists’ followers to fraudulent websites. There, victims would seek to claim new NFTs from the digital artists. Though victims thought they were authorizing a transaction to receive NFTs into their digital wallets, they unknowingly enabled the conspirators to remove cryptocurrency and NFTs from their wallets.

Within a few days, Redman and his co-conspirators defrauded over 200 victims and profited over $794,000.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Reid Davis, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance to secure the arrest and March 2025 extradition from Portugal of Redman. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Cybercrime Investigation Team, Central Region, provided valuable assistance in this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoe Bedell prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-129.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – In an indictment unsealed in the Eastern District of Virginia, the United States charged a Bulgarian arms trafficker and three other foreign nationals with conspiracy to distribute cocaine; conspiracy to possess firearms, including machineguns and destructive devices, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a foreign terrorist organization.

As alleged in the indictment, since at least September 2022, Peter Dimitrov Mirchev, along with Kenyan national Elisha Odhiambo Asumo, Ugandan national Michael Katungi Mpeirwe, and Tanzanian national Subiro Osmund Mwapinga conspired to illegally supply military-grade weaponry to Mexican drug cartels, and in particular, the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most violent and prolific transnational criminal organizations. The weaponry included machineguns, rocket launchers, grenades, night vision equipment, sniper rifles, anti-personnel mines, and anti-aircraft weapons.

The defendants allegedly believed that the CJNG intended to use these weapons in furtherance of the illegal trafficking of large shipments of cocaine into the United States. On Feb. 20, 2025, the CJNG was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization under the Immigration and Nationality Act and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist under Executive Order 13224. Arms sales to transnational criminal organizations like the CJNG are prohibited by virtually every country.

In a series of meetings with individuals claiming to represent the CJNG, Mirchev allegedly agreed to arrange, coordinate, and participate in illegal arms transactions while avoiding detection by international and U.S. law enforcement. Mirchev allegedly recruited Asumo to corruptly obtain an End-User Certificate (EUC) from a nation that would falsely claim a different end-user for the weapons. Asumo recruited Mpeirwe, who recruited Mwapinga. Together, they allegedly obtained an EUC from the United Republic of Tanzania authorizing the importation of AK-47s. As a test shipment, Mirchev and others then exported 50 AK-47 automatic assault rifles and accompanying magazines and ammunition from Bulgaria, using the EUC provided by Asumo, Mpeirwe, and Mwapinga, and intending that the weapons were actually received by the CJNG.

The defendants allegedly continued to conspire to supply drug cartels with even more weaponry, potentially including surface-to-air missiles, anti-aircraft drones, and the ZU-23 anti-aircraft weapon system. Mirchev allegedly created a list of weaponry for the CJNG totaling approximately 53.7 million Euros (approximately $58 million U.S.). Asumo, Mpeirwe, and Mwapinga allegedly agreed to again provide arms control documents designed to obscure that these weapons were intended for the CJNG.

According to court records, Mirchev was previously implicated in supplying arms to Viktor Bout,  who was convicted at trial of conspiring to kill U.S. nationals, conspiring to kill U.S. officers and employees, conspiring to acquire and export anti-aircraft missiles; and conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization in case 1:08-cr-365 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Mirchev was arrested by Spanish authorities in Madrid on April 8 and is currently pending extradition to the United States. Asumo was arrested by Moroccan authorities in Casablanca on April 8 and is currently in extradition proceedings. Mwapinga was arrested by Ghanaian authorities in Accra on April 8 and was extradited to the United States on July 25. Mpeirwe remains at large. If convicted, each defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Louis A. D’Ambrosio, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Special Operations Division, made the announcement.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided invaluable assistance in securing Mwapinga’s extradition, working in cooperation with the DEA Attaché to U.S. Embassy Accra and key Ghanaian partners, including the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice of Ghana, the Ghana Police Service, and Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission.

This case was investigated by the DEA’s Special Operations Division – Bilateral Investigations Unit. The Hellenic National Police (HNP) in Greece provided substantial assistance in this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony T. Aminoff and Edgardo J. Rodriguez are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-CR-102.

An indictment is merely an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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NORFOLK, Va. – A federal jury convicted a South Carolina man today on charges of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; sex trafficking of a minor; production of a visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct; transportation with the intent to engage in prostitution; transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in prostitution; and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, during July 2024, Johnny Thiel Banks, 30, of Summerville, transported a minor, identified as Jane Doe, from North Carolina to Virginia on multiple occasions. While in Virginia, he sex-trafficked Jane Doe at hotels, a truck stop, and a gas station in Hampton Roads, including in Suffolk and Virginia Beach. Jane Doe was 15 years old at the time and had just finished the 8th grade. Banks repeatedly threatened Jane Doe and her family to get her to comply with his demands. He also had her pose for and send him child sexual abuse material (CSAM). When she did not want to go back to Virginia to engage in commercial sex, he threatened to have her “floating in a creek.”

On July 31, 2024, while armed with a firearm, Banks took Jane Doe from a residence and brought her to a hotel in Virginia Beach to sex traffic her. He set up multiple commercial sex appointments that night. After they arrived in Virginia Beach, he argued with Jane Doe and strangled her, and she called a family member for help. After receiving information that Jane Doe was missing from Charlotte, the Virginia Beach Police Department quickly located Jane Doe in the parking garage of a hotel. As officers spoke with Jane Doe, Banks walked by and was detained.

Law enforcement obtained a search warrant and recovered Banks’ loaded handgun from his rental vehicle. As a previously convicted felon, Banks cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. Police also obtained search warrants for three cellphones that contained CSAM and evidence of sex trafficking.

Banks is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 19 and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson accepted the verdict.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Gantt and Megan M. Montoya are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-15.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A northern Virginia trio has been sentenced to prison for their roles in a series of armed robberies in northern Virginia.

According to court documents, on July 5, 2024, Javon Rustin Louis Paige, 38, robbed a cellphone store in Alexandria at gunpoint. Paige ordered an employee to the ground, hit the employee on the head with the handgun, and kicked the employee. Paige forced the employee through a back door into another business, then forced the owner of that business and the employee of the cellphone store back into the cellphone store and made them lie on the ground behind the counter. Paige stole several electronic devices and cash from the store, then fled.

On July 25, 2024, Paige robbed another Alexandria cellphone store with Vincent Henry Kirkland Jr., aka Daniel Eugene Robinson, 31, whom Paige met in prison. Paige pointed a handgun at an employee and customer, ordering them onto the ground and then to the back of the store. Kirkland started to drag the customer toward the back of the store before the customer was able to get up and walk to the rear. In the back of the store, Paige and Kirkland encountered the store manager and demanded cellular devices. Kirkland and Paige stomped on the employee’s head and Paige struck the store manager in the back of the head with his handgun. Paige and Kirkland loaded store merchandise and cash into backpacks and a trash can. Paige pepper-sprayed the employee and customer before fleeing the store.

On August 13, 2024, Brianna Mamie Oceolia Archie, 27, drove Paige and Kirkland to a Woodbridge business that sells and repairs electronic merchandise. Paige and Kirkland, both armed with handguns, entered the store and ordered two victims to the ground, demanded money, and ordered the victims to open the cash register. Paige and Kirkland struck both victims in the head with a handgun, causing injury. Paige and Kirkland loaded store merchandise and cash into bags and fled from the store. Archie then drove them back to a hotel in Dumfries where Paige was staying at the time.

Paige, Kirkland, and Archie were arrested in December 2024.

On March 11, Archie pled guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery. On June 17, she was sentenced to five years and ten months in prison.

On March 11, Kirkland pled guilty to two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. On July 15, Kirkland was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

On April 29, Paige pled guilty to two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Paige was sentenced today to 16 years in prison.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Reid Davis, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division; Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police; and Peter Newsham, Chief of Prince William County Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Smalky and Megan Braun prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:25-cr-50 (Archie), 1:25-cr-59 (Kirkland), and 1:25-cr-63 (Paige).

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former Air Force dentist pled guilty yesterday to conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to his applications for and receipt of pandemic relief funds to which he was not entitled.

According to court documents, from April 2020 through December 2021, Muhammad Adil Quraish, 35, of Alexandria, conspired with at least four co-conspirators to submit materially false applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). PPP was a COVID-19 relief program intended to provide loans backed by the Small Business Administration to certain businesses, nonprofit organizations, and others to help them remain afloat during the pandemic. The purpose of the EIDL program was to enable small businesses to meet financial obligations and operating expenses during the pandemic.

After learning of the PPP and EIDL programs, Quraish discussed applying for EIDL and PPP loans with co-conspirators with intentionally inflated and falsified payroll information to receive loans that the businesses were not entitled to receive. Quraish inflated the numbers of employees each entity claimed as well as quarterly and annual payroll figures for several entities. Quraish created falsified payroll records and falsified IRS tax forms, and falsely certified or caused to be falsely certified that such forms had been filed with the IRS.

Quraish and his co-conspirators personally profited $1,471,599 from the fraud conspiracy. Quraish used the fraud proceeds to invest in cryptocurrency, among other things.

Quraish is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 22 and faces up to five years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Brig. Gen. Amy Bumgarner, Commander of the Office of Special Investigations for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force; Christopher Dillard, Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office (DCIS), Kareem A. Carter, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office; and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary H. Ray is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-185.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Paraguay-based transnational money launderer was sentenced today to 15 years in prison.

According to court documents, Federico Ezequiel Santoro Vassallo, aka Capitan, 46, was a close associate of Uruguayan national Sebastian Enrique Marset Cabrera, 29, who, as alleged in an indictment, is a transnational drug-trafficker responsible for moving ton quantities of cocaine worth millions of dollars from South America to Europe. Santoro served as a transnational money launderer for drug-trafficking organizations and facilitated the movement of millions of dollars of drug proceeds from various countries in Europe to South America and elsewhere.

Santoro and his co-conspirators arranged for the collection of narcotics proceeds and utilized couriers and tokens to covertly deliver bulk illicit currency, typically in euros. Santoro’s co-conspirators specialized in placing the illicit currency into the global banking system. He then would direct the movement of the funds internationally, usually via bank wire transfer. Santoro typically directed that the funds be delivered in U.S. dollars and a correspondent bank in the United States would facilitate the transaction.

Santoro used at least seven businesses to facilitate the transmission of money and hid the location and ownership of the assets being laundered by using unrelated companies, all registered as purportedly doing business in different, unrelated industries. Santoro used businesses registered in South America and Asia to receive the laundered drug proceeds and concealed the source of the funds by creating false invoices to justify the wire transfers.

Santoro threatened violence to protect his money laundering activities. Santoro laundered millions of dollars of drug proceeds and, in a span of less than five months, directed the movement of more than $11 million in drug-trafficking funds through U.S. banks. As payment, Santoro took a percentage of the illicit bulk cash proceeds that he laundered.

As part of the sentence, the Court entered an Order of Forfeiture in the amount of $11,537,860.47.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Louis A. D’Ambrosio, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Special Operations Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and law enforcement partners in Paraguay provided substantial assistance to secure the arrest and extradition of Santoro Vassallo.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony T. Aminoff and Catherine Rosenberg prosecuted the case.

Anyone with information about Marset’s operation, including his drug trafficking, money laundering, and use of (or threats to use) violence, or about his location, is urged to contact the DEA by email at MarsetTips@dea.gov.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-143.

RICHMOND, Va. – A South Chesterfield woman pled guilty today to embezzling funds from and making false statements to her former employer, Truist Financial Corporation.

According to court documents, Ahshah Dior Martin, 35, repeatedly stole customer banking information to enrich herself.

In 2023, Martin began improperly using her access to Truist computer systems to gather Truist account holders’ banking information. Then, she initiated fraudulent debits and withdrawals from these accounts for her own benefit. For instance, Martin repeatedly initiated payments from customer bank accounts to a child support payment processor, through which Martin paid herself. In all, Martin used her access to sensitive customer financial information to steal $195,000 from at least 70 separate Truist customer accounts.

Martin stole from the Truist accounts of individuals and entities, including multiple churches, a children’s museum, an eye tissue bank non-profit organization, manufacturing and construction companies, a small business making customized holsters, and the North Carolina Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. Martin spent stolen funds on cosmetic products, clothing, travel expenses, dining, and at a hookah bar. 

On April 15, 2024, Martin was terminated by Truist. Despite repeated attempts to retrieve her Truist laptop, Martin retained access to her work computer. To conceal her wrongdoing and prevent the return of her Truist laptop, Martin faked her own death. On April 17, 2024, in response to an email from Truist asking for the computer, Martin responded, “Sorry to inform you, she has passed away.”

Martin is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20 and faces up to 30 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeffrey D. Pittano, Special Agent in Charge of the Mid-Atlantic Region for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi Panth and Robert S. Day are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-102.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Smithfield man was sentenced yesterday to two years and four months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on May 25, 2024, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Ahmod Keshawn Finney, 24, and placed him in custody pursuant to outstanding state arrest warrants. While Finney was being detained, officers observed and recovered a loaded handgun from the vehicle. The handgun was stolen and was equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device.

As a previously convicted felon, Finney cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Col. Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of Virginia State Police; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Jamar K. Walker.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter G. Osyf prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-86.

NORFOLK, Va. – A Smithfield man pled guilty today to possession of an unregistered short barrel rifle and possession of an unregistered destructive device.

According to court documents, on July 31, 2021, Brad Kenneth Spafford, 36, was admitted to an emergency room with a completely amputated right thumb, partially amputated right middle and index fingers, hearing loss, and scalp lacerations. Spafford falsely told the hospital his injuries were caused by fireworks. An investigation later revealed that Spafford’s injuries resulted from his misfire of a launcher at a family member’s rural property where Spafford routinely detonated explosives he made.

On Dec. 17, 2024, law enforcement arrested Spafford for possession of an unregistered short barrel rifle. Immediately following Spafford’s arrest, law enforcement searched his Smithfield property and vehicles. Agents recovered an unregistered short barrel rifle and ammunition compatible with the rifle. Agents also found approximately 155 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that appeared to be homemade pipe bombs. Some of the IEDs had handwritten identification on them, including “lethal” and “concussion.”

Among the IEDs analyzed were propellant capabilities consistent with use in a launcher and IEDs capable of causing property damage, personal injury, or death. Investigators also recovered bomb-making equipment, along with riot gear, Tannerite, two empty grenade canisters, an improvised mine, precursor chemicals for explosive materials, and numerous rounds of homemade ammunition.

Spafford is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 18 and faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea.

The Suffolk Police Department, Norfolk Bomb Squad, Virginia State Police, Isle of Wight County Fire Rescue, and Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation, with continued support from the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Norfolk.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Gantt and Luke Bresnahan are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-3.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Connecticut man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to import GBL with intent to manufacture GHB, and concealment money laundering.

In May 2024, investigators learned that Hatem S. Salem, 56, was importing quantities of GBL, a precursor for the “date-rape” drug GHB, into Virginia from China. From August 2024 through January 2025, law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases of various controlled substances, including cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, and over 100 grams of meth from Salem.

On Jan. 30, investigators searched Salem’s residence in Shelton, Connecticut. Agents recovered 151 grams of meth, 626 grams of cocaine, various quantities of Ketamine, MDMA, and LSD, bottles containing GBL and GHB, and 157 boxes containing nearly 1,200 liters of suspected GBL in Salem’s basement. As part of his guilty plea, Salem admitted that over 2,000 liters of GBL was involved in the importation conspiracy.  Investigators also discovered a clandestine lab in Salem’s shed that contained substances and equipment for manufacturing GHB. A financial investigation revealed that Salem used various methods, such as convoluted transactions between business and personal bank accounts, to conceal or disguise the proceeds from his drug conspiracy. Investigators seized assets constituting proceeds of Salem’s drug trafficking conspiracy and property involved in money laundering, including approximately $370,000 in cash and $171,500 in cryptocurrency.

Salem has several prior federal narcotics-related convictions. In 1999, Salem was convicted for conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids, distribution of anabolic steroids, and making false statements. In 2005, Salem was convicted for distribution of GBL and GHB while he was on probation for his 1999 conviction. In 2015, Salem was convicted for unlawful importation of GBL with intent to manufacture GHB.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Claude M. Hilton.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hahn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Annie Zanobini prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-105.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Gloucester man was sentenced yesterday to five years in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on July 15, 2024, Kyle Jacob Buquor, 26, parked a pickup truck in the area of Market Drive and entered a store. While Buquor was inside the store, a K9 positively alerted for narcotics in the truck as law enforcement conducted an open-air sniff around the vehicle.

Buquor was detained when he returned to the vehicle. During a probable cause search of the vehicle agents recovered a handgun, three loaded magazines, an empty magazine, 11.5 grams of methamphetamine, and various items indicative of drug trafficking.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Darrell W. Warren, Jr., Gloucester County Sheriff, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Heath prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-56.

RICHMOND, Va. – An Arizona man was sentenced on July 15 to seven years and six months in prison after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and distribution of pills containing parafluorofentanyl and fentanyl.

According to court documents, three controlled buys were conducted in February and March 2022, Matthew Stuart Powlowsky, 35, sold meth and counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and parafluorofentanyl, which he shipped by mail from Arizona to Virginia. In all, the Powlowsky sold 86.48 grams of meth, which forensic analysis showed was 95% pure.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Stephen Farina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Mastandrea prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-151.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News man was sentenced today to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on May 20, 2024, two police officers observed that James Earl Hooker, 35, appeared to have a firearm in his waistband as he was walking in downtown Newport News. When one of the officers attempted to speak with Hooker, he immediately fled on foot. During the pursuit, a loaded handgun fell from Hooker’s waistband. The officers recovered the firearm after apprehending Hooker.

Hooker has multiple prior federal convictions for conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and mail fraud. At the time of Hooker’s arrest, he was under federal court supervision for his 2022 conviction for pandemic-related mail fraud in the Eastern District of Virginia. As a previously convicted felon, Hooker cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

The four-year sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm will be served consecutive to an eight-month sentence for his supervised release violations.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Coleman prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-1.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to seven years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl.

According to court documents, On Aug. 18, 2024, Richmond police observed Ernest Winfred Mealey, 30, with what appeared to be a firearm. Mealey and another individual began walking away from the officers. The officers approached Mealy and asked if he had a firearm, which he denied. When asked if he had a concealed weapons permit, Mealey did not respond, then attempted to flee.

The officers pursued and tackled Mealey, at which point a firearm fell from Mealey’s shirt. Mealey also had a bag, from which officers recovered $1,696, a digital scale, 48.14 grams of fentanyl, and 28.17 grams of cocaine.

Mealey has seven prior felony convictions, including for drug and firearms offenses.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Rick Edwards, Chief of Richmond Police; and Colette Wallace McEachin, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Richmond, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Groover, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-7.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Falls Church woman pled guilty today to causing damage to property of the United States.

According to court documents, on Jan. 16, mail carrier Lolita Brickhouse, 31, had concluded her work shift and began looking for her cellphone. Brickhouse began accusing other USPS employees and supervisors of stealing her cell phone. Brickhouse proceeded to violently knock over and throw objects around the postal facility. She personally insulted her supervisors and coworkers and taunted them to call the police.

Without authorization, Brickhouse took a set of vehicle keys, walked to the parking lot, and entered a USPS vehicle. Shen then deliberately rammed the vehicle into another USPS vehicle with such force that the second vehicle collided with and damaged a third USPS vehicle. Brickhouse exited the USPS vehicle and used her metal water bottle to break and shatter a driver-side window. As a result of the violent crash, Brickhouse totaled the second USPS vehicle.   

Brickhouse is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 16 and faces up to 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff accepted the plea.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake Drucker is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-152.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to eight years and four months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on June 13, 2024, Richmond Police officers observed Emanuel Leon Crawford, Jr., 33, in a parking lot area of a convenience store on Mosby Street in Richmond acting suspiciously. When they got out of their patrol vehicle, Crawford fled on foot. As Crawford was running, he removed a crossbody bag and threw it. Officers took Crawford into custody and recovered the bag, which contained a loaded .40 caliber handgun. Officers also recovered 18 multi-colored pressed pills containing methamphetamine.

On July 26, 2024, as officers served Crawford with a misdemeanor warrant, they found him in possession of a loaded 9mm handgun.

Crawford was convicted in 2013 of attempted unlawful wounding, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and burglary of a residence. Crawford also was convicted in 2020 of possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I/II controlled substance. As a previously convicted felon, Crawford is prohibited from legally possessing firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman and Third-Year Law Student Kevin C. Teel prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-169.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Two Honduran nationals pled guilty to charges relating to their purchasing and international shipping of ammunition to Honduras and an attempt to send firearms to Honduras.

According to court documents, in July 2013, Miguel Humberto Pinto Serrano, 29, unlawfully entered the United States and was encountered by immigration officials. Pinto Serrano was found removable in absentia after he failed to appear at his removal hearing. In August 2021, Walter Antonio Coto Alvarenga, unlawfully entered the United States and was encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in New Mexico. CBP determined that Coto Alvarenga was unlawfully present in the United States and removed him from the country. Coto Alvarenga later illegally reentered the United States.

The two were illegally residing in the United States in a residence they shared in Sterling. On at least 23 occasions from 2020 to 2025, Pinto Serrano purchased ammunition and firearm parts from three companies. Pinto Serrano also purchased pistol magazines, grips, barrels, and night sights on eBay. On Nov. 29, 2022, Pinto Serrano shipped 3,000 rounds of ammunition to Honduras, and, in coordinating the shipment, stated that the shipment contained clothes and food for Coto Alvarenga’s family in Copán, Honduras. The ammunition was later seized by Honduran officials in a box bearing Coto Alvarenga’s name and phone number.

On April 10, Pinto Serrano ordered 1,200 rounds of ammunition that were delivered to the residence in Sterling on April 19. On April 21, 2025, law enforcement searched the residence shared by Pinto Serrano and Coto Alvarenga. From the residence, investigators recovered over a thousand rounds of ammunition, firearm parts, 10 new rifle magazines, and three handgun magazines, including an extended capacity magazine. During the search, Pinto Serrano and Coto Alvarenga arrived in a rental vehicle from which investigators recovered two rifles, four unloaded magazines, and one loaded magazine. The serial number on one of the rifles had been obliterated. On Pinto Serrano’s cellphone were messages indicating that he intended to sell and ship the rifles to Honduras.

Pinto Serrano pled guilty today to smuggling goods from the United States and possession and interstate transport of a firearm by an illegal alien. He remains subject to the 2013 order of removal. Coto Alvarenga pled guilty yesterday to possession and interstate transport of a firearm by an illegal alien. Pinto Serrano and Coto Alvarenga are scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 24 and face up to 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather D. Call and is prosecuting the case. Former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Binder assisted in the prosecution.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:25-cr-175 (Pinto Serrano) and 1:25-cr-176 (Coto Alvarenga).

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Philadelphia man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine after having previously been convicted of a serious drug felony.

According to court documents, in September and October of 2024, Antonio Ortiz, 43, arranged to sell two kilograms of cocaine and agreed to travel to Arlington County to complete the transaction. On Oct. 15, 2024, law enforcement took Ortiz into custody upon his arrival at the agreed location in Arlington and searched his rental vehicle. From the trunk of the vehicle, law enforcement recovered 2,005.3 grams of cocaine. Law enforcement in Philadelphia searched Ortiz’s residence and recovered an additional 3,022.3 grams of cocaine.

Ortiz was convicted in 2002 and again in 2003 for distribution of cocaine. In 2011, Ortiz was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine while he was still on parole for a 2004 conviction for aggravated assault and carrying a firearm without a license after shooting another individual during an argument. Ortiz was on supervised release for the 2011 conviction at the time of his arrest on Oct. 15, 2024.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; and Charles “Andy” Penn, Arlington County Chief of Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Alito and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hahn prosecuted the case.

This investigation is part of the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking (HIDTA) Northern Virginia Drug Initiative, which seeks to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations; reduce drug-related crime and violence; and identify and respond to emerging drug trends.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-35.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Maryland man pled guilty today to interfering with security screening personnel.

According to court documents, on March 13, Christopher Stuart Crittenden, 54, of Frederick, who had consumed multiple alcoholic beverages, became irate about a delay and his seating assignment for his flight from Washington Dulles International Airport. Crittenden shouted expletives at a gate agent. The agent informed the flight captain, who was on the jet bridge, that Crittenden was likely inebriated and verbally harassing airline staff. The captain came to the gate to speak with Crittenden and ultimately informed him that he could not fly on the aircraft.

Crittenden then assaulted the agent by punching him in the face, temporarily rendering the victim unconscious. Crittenden also attempted to punch another gate agent, but that gate agent avoided the assault.

Crittenden is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Joshua P. Stone, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Counterterrorism Division, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Clement is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-167.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced yesterday to five years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on July 16, 2024, Richmond Police officers approached Terry B. Matthews, 41, in a parking lot in Richmond. When the officers engaged Matthews in conversation, Matthews fled on foot and the officers pursued. Matthews jumped from a ledge and injured himself when he landed. Officers observed a loaded handgun in Matthews’ waistband and recovered it. Matthews also possessed a knotted plastic baggie containing over five grams of cocaine.

In 2005, Matthews was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He then was convicted of assault and battery for beating his 17-year-old former girlfriend with a wooden board and a stick. Matthews was later convicted of second-degree murder after using a tree branch to strike the head of a victim who allegedly owed him money. As a previously convicted felon, Matthews cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Rick Edwards, Chief of Richmond Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. McGorman prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-160.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, announced today case updates on 11 immigration cases in the district.

On Jan. 20 the President signed executive orders addressing the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. Protecting the American People Against Invasion recognized that enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States, and that it is the policy of the United States to faithfully execute the immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens, particularly those aliens who threaten the safety or security of the American people. The order tasked the Department of Justice with prioritizing the prosecution of criminal offenses related to the unauthorized entry or continued unauthorized presence of aliens in the United States. Securing Our Borders prioritizes the pursuit of criminal charges against illegal aliens who violate immigration laws and against those who facilitate their unlawful presence in the United States.

“These defendants are just more examples of individuals who not only illegally entered the United States but committed serious crimes that harmed our citizens and jeopardized public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Siebert. “From drug offenses, to sexual battery, to assault and battery, to child neglect, to drinking and driving, these defendants were all removed previously for crimes they committed after coming to our country, and they each committed yet another serious violation of federal law by illegally returning following removal. Moreover, most of the defendants were found by immigration authorities after being arrested for committing still additional crimes after their unlawful return, to include four who escaped an ICE detention facility. As these cases demonstrate, enforcement of our immigration laws is essential to protecting the American people and we will not waiver in our responsibility to keep the citizens of the Eastern District of Virginia safe.”

On March 16, 2017, Guatemalan national Angel Estuardo Marchorro-Giron, 34, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents learned that Marchorro-Giron had unlawfully reentered the United States and had been detained at the Fairfax County Detention Center on Sept. 25, 2020, following his arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI). On Oct. 1, 2024, in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Marchorro-Giron was arrested for and later convicted of two counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance and possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle. On June 24, Marchorro-Giron pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-119

On April 3, 2014, Salvadoran national David Jonathan Rodriguez Zelaya, 36, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. On Nov. 26, 2024, ICE agents learned that Rodriguez Zelaya had unlawfully reentered the United States after his arrest in Stafford County on charges of sexual battery, taking indecent liberties with a child, and peeping. On March 19, 2025, Rodriguez Zelaya was convicted on the sexual battery and peeping charges. On June 6, Rodriguez Zelaya was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. A federal grand jury indicted Rodriguez Zelaya today. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-MJ-237

On April 17, 2009, Mexican national Alejandro Perez Garfias was apprehended by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Border Patrol agents and was granted voluntary return to Mexico. Perez Garfias illegally reentered the United States and on March 28, 2013, was convicted of driving under influence (DUI) in Kenosha County, Wisconsin. On Jan.17, 2014, Perez Garfias was convicted of attempted possession of cocaine. On May 25, 2016, Perez Garfias was convicted of larceny in Lake County, Illinois. On Oct. 10, 2016, Perez Garfias was removed from the United States pursuant to an order of removal. On June 6, 2017, Perez Garfias was encountered by ICE-Fugitive Operations and, on June 16, 2017, was removed again. After illegally reentering the United States again, ICE encountered Perez Garfias following his arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Henrico County. On May 20, Perez Garfias pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. Case No. 3:25-CR-71

On Feb. 5, 2011, Mexican national Abel Cordova-Garrido, 49, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. On June 17, 2022, Cordova-Garrido was convicted of DUI and felony child neglect in Spotsylvania County, and was again removed from the United States. On April 13, 2025, ICE agents learned that Cordova-Garrido had unlawfully reentered the United States and had been detained by law enforcement at the Rappahannock Regional Detention Center in Stafford. On July 1, Cordova-Garrido pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-cr-166

On Sept. 19, 2012, Mexican national Joaquin Garcia-Munoz, 38, was convicted in Lunenburg of DUI. On Sept. 19, 2013, he was convicted in Nottoway County of assault and battery of a family member and failure to appear. On Jan. 16, 2014, Garcia-Munoz was convicted in Lunenburg County of sexual battery. On April 17, 2014, Garcia-Munoz was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. On April 27, 2014, Garcia-Munoz illegally reentered the United States and was arrested. On April 29, 2014, Garcia-Munoz was convicted in the Southern District of Texas of illegal entry, and on Aug. 26, 2014, was removed from the United States. Garcia-Munoz again unlawfully reentered the United States and was arrested in Virginia on May 15, 2025. On July 1, Garcia-Munoz pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 3:25-cr-80

On Feb. 24, 2020, Salvadoran national Roberto Antonio Flores-Marquez, 41, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. On Jan. 22, 2024, ICE agents learned that Flores-Marquez had illegally reentered the United States after he had been detained by law enforcement and then fingerprinted at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. On June 12, Flores-Marquez pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-139

On July 3, 2018, Salvadoran national Cesar Marquina-Martinez, 27, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal. ICE agents learned that Marquina-Martinez had unlawfully reentered the United States after he was detained in Fairfax County on Nov. 25, 2022. On June 18, Marquina-Martinez pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal. He remains subject to the prior order of removal. Case No. 1:25-CR-118

On March 2, Salvadoran national Jose Lovo-Bautista, 27, Honduran national Wilmer Alberto Isaola-Medina, 22, Mexican national Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Rosales, 25, and Salvadoran national Byron Isaac Toledo-Henriquez, 22, escaped from the Farmville Detention Facility by scaling a fence around an outdoor recreation area. Lovo-Bautista was arrested the following day while hiding in the woods in Farmville. Toledo-Henriquez and Isaola-Medina, stole a car and fled to Richmond. Rodriguez-Rosales also fled to Richmond. Dozens of members of law enforcement participated in the fugitive search. Toledo-Henriquez was arrested on March 3 and Rodriguez-Rosales was arrested on March 4. Isaola-Medina remained a fugitive for 15 days. Case No. 3: 25-CR-58

Lovo-Bautista was arrested in Spotsylvania for DUI on Nov. 11, 2019. On Aug. 28, 2020, he was arrested and charged with a second DUI and felony possession of a Schedule I or II drug in Stafford County and was convicted on May 6, 2021. Pursuant to a final order of removal, on June 18, 2021, immigration officials removed Lovo-Bautista from the United States to El Salvador. Lovo-Bautista illegally reentered the United States and on Dec. 19, 2024, was arrested in Stafford County. On Jan. 16, pursuant to the prior removal order, immigration officials directed that Lovo-Bautista be removed from the United States. Following his escape from immigration custody and his subsequent arrest, Lovo-Bautista pled guilty on May 1 to illegal reentry after a felony conviction and failure to comply with a removal order. He remains subject to the removal order.

Rodriguez-Rosales illegally entered the United States in 2017 and was quickly returned to Mexico by U.S. immigration authorities. Rodriguez-Rosales illegally reentered the United States less than a month later. On Feb. 5, 2019, an Immigration Judge determined that Rodriguez-Rosales was removable from the United States but allowed him to return to Mexico voluntarily. Rodriguez-Rosales failed to exit the United States and immigration officials were directed to arrest him and effectuate his removal. From 2019 to 2025, Rodriguez-Rosales remained in the United States as a fugitive subject to his order of removal. ICE officials took Rodriguez-Rosales into custody following a traffic stop in Richmond in February 2025 and ICE officials issued a Warrant of Removal/Deportation. On May 22, Rodriguez-Rosales pled guilty to failure to comply with a removal order, and he remains subject to that order.

Toledo-Henriquez illegally entered the United States before March 14, 2022, when he was charged with traffic offenses in Richmond and later charged with petit larceny committed on several occasions between August 2024 and September 2024. Toledo-Henriquez entered ICE custody in January 2025, and ICE issued Toledo-Henriquez a Notice to Appear in Immigration Court, which alleged that Toledo-Henriquez was unlawfully present in the United States. Following his March 2 escape and March 3 arrest, Toledo-Henriquez pled guilty on April 23 to escape.

After failing to appear in immigration court on July 27, 2023, an Immigration Judge determined that Isaola-Medina was removable from the United States and ordered that he be deported to Honduras. On Feb. 26, 2025, ICE officers placed Isaola-Medina in custody and ICE officials issued a Warrant of Removal/Deportation. On May 7, Isaola-Medina pled guilty to failure to comply with a removal order, and he remains subject to that order.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for the case number provided above.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Pennsylvania man pled guilty today to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

According to court documents, on May 1, Keith Allen Pinkard, 67, of Middletown, sent a private message to another user on a social media platform, unaware that the other user was an undercover FBI special agent. Pinkard told the user that he was seeking “a new playmate” for an “ongoing adventure.” The two discussed their interests, including Pinkard’s interest in young girls, leading to discussion of the other user’s purported nine-year-old daughter. Pinkard expressed interest in meeting the other user in person and engaging in sex acts with the purported nine-year-old girl. Pinkard said he was ready to commit “to a regular thing” with the user and the purported child, and that he wanted to present the child with a gift before going to the child’s bedroom. Pinkard and the other user arranged to meet at a coffee shop the following week and then walk together to the other user’s residence, where the purported child would be waiting.

On May 6, Pinkard arrived at the agreed upon location in Virginia, where he was arrested by FBI agents. In his vehicle were a gift bag containing a coloring book, colored pencils, and two packs of candy, as well as an Easter-themed basket with candy. He also had an image of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct on his cellphone.

Pinkard is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 30. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Emily Odom, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Halper is prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-183.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Williamsburg man pled guilty today to distributing obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children.

According to court documents, on Feb. 14 and 15, a police officer made contact with Xavier Joseph Stafford, 22, and asked Stafford to remove his vehicle from private property in Williamsburg. On Feb. 18, Stafford sent an email to the officer in which Stafford threatened to rape the officer’s daughter. Stafford included two animated images depicting child sexual abuse. The email also included a live photo repeatedly looping several frames of consecutive images of the officer’s home.

Stafford is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 4. He faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Therese O'Brien is prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-40.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Today, Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, announced criminal charges against six defendants. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

“This action underscores our efforts to holding accountable those who abuse our health care systems for personal profit,” said U.S. Attorney Siebert. “Health care fraud not only wastes valuable resources but also jeopardizes patient safety and trust. Under the leadership of Attorney General Bondi, my office, along with our stalwart law enforcement partners, will not stop until fraud, waste, and abuse are eliminated across the health care sector.”

“The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”

“Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said Director Kash Patel of the FBI. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”

The charges announced today by U.S. Attorney Siebert are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in intended loss s and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets, and the Government, in connection with the Takedown, seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.

The following individuals were charged in the Eastern District of Virginia:

Jawad Bhatti, 54, of Richmond, was charged by indictment with health care fraud, false statements related to health care matters, receiving adulterated and misbranded devices, and administering a misbranded drug in connection with schemes to defraud Medicare and Medicaid. As alleged in the Indictment, in his first scheme, Bhatti received in interstate commerce three FDA-unapproved devices that produced medical ozone gas, which the FDA has described as “a toxic gas that with no known useful medical application in specific, adjunctive, or preventive therapy.” Bhatti then allegedly advertised these devices on his website and used them in his pain management practice. Bhatti allegedly advertised to patients the benefits of ozone, to include that it treats cancer, AIDS, arthritis, and lower back pain, and improves weight management, sexual stamina, energy, and mental acuity. When Bhatti allegedly injected ozone into patients’ necks, backs, toes, and scalps, many reported it to be the worst pain they had ever experienced. To disguise his unapproved ozone treatments from the FDA, Medicare, and Medicaid, he allegedly falsely billed ozone and other treatments as nerve blocks. In his second scheme, Bhatti allegedly falsely billed Medicare and Medicaid for using ultrasound to guide the insertion of a needle for his injections when in fact he either did not use an ultrasound at all or he only used the ultrasound after the injection was complete. Bhatti allegedly was by far the most prolific pain management biller of this procedure in Virginia. In total, Bhatti allegedly submitted and caused the submission of over $5,202,374.96 in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shea Gibbons of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Keri Ayres, 50, of Warrenton, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to overcharge Medicaid for environmental modifications to homes or vehicles such as installing wheelchair ramps, or grab bars in showers, which scheme cost Medicaid approximately $245,000. As alleged in the information, Ayres was the owner of Ability Unlimited, a Medicaid provider whose business centered on facilitating but not performing environmental modifications, and Medicaid did not allow facilitators that performed no actual labor to charge a separate profit margin. Unsatisfied, Ayres allegedly directed her employees to hide their arbitrary and often exorbitant profit margins in the subcontractor costs. For example, Ability Unlimited purchased a generator from Amazon.com for less than $1000 and had it shipped directly to the Medicaid recipient, but charged Medicaid $3,395.16, listing the generator cost in an altered invoice as $2,610.16, and including an additional labor cost of $785 despite the direct shipment of the generator. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shea Gibbons of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Lori Adcock, 54, of Hampstead, North Carolina, was charged by complaint with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to overcharge Medicaid for environmental modifications to homes or vehicles such as installing wheelchair ramps or grab bars in showers, which scheme cost Medicaid approximately $213,210.69 attributable to Adcock. As alleged in the complaint, Adcock was the operations manager of Ability Unlimited, a Medicaid provider whose business centered on facilitating but not performing environmental modifications, and Medicaid did not allow facilitators that performed no actual labor to charge a separate profit margin. Adcock was the manager of the fraudulent scheme to hide Ability Unlimited’s arbitrary and often exorbitant profit margins in the subcontractor costs. For example, Ability Unlimited purchased a generator from Amazon.com for less than $1000 and had it shipped directly to the Medicaid recipient, but charged Medicaid $3,395.16, listing the generator cost in an altered invoice as $2,610.16, and including an additional labor cost of $785 despite the direct shipment of the generator. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shea Gibbons of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Kevin White, 56, of Richmond, was charged by information with health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicaid for residential group home services when the Medicaid recipients were hospitalized, incarcerated, or otherwise outside the group home. As alleged in the information, White was the owner of Ithiel Group, a Medicaid residential group home provider. White allegedly billed Medicaid for often-months-long periods when Medicaid group home residents were outside Ithiel’s group homes when they were hospitalized, incarcerated, or visiting their families. White and his managers allegedly often sent employees home because they lacked residents for which to care, but White billed Medicaid as if the residents were present. White allegedly received funds from a separate Virginia agency to hold bed space for absent residents while at the same time charging Medicaid as if he were providing services to these same absent residents. As a result of the scheme, Medicaid was billed over $1,000,000, and paid $461,704.23, in false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shea Gibbons of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Yvoune Kara Petrie, 54, of Leesburg, was charged by Information with health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) for medical services and products that were not provided to patients, not prescribed by a physician, and not medically necessary. As alleged in the information, Petrie was the president and chief operating officer of Virginia Integrative Health, a medical clinic that provided hyperbaric oxygen therapy (“HBOT”) to patients. Petrie allegedly recruited her family members and friends to participate in her fraud as patients and she submitted fraudulent claims based on profit rather than the services that were actually prescribed. Petrie allegedly hired physicians at her clinic, but then used at least four physician’s National Provider Identifiers (“NPIs”) without their knowledge or permission to submit fraudulent claims to CareFirst. For example, Petrie allegedly used one physician’s NPI to submit fraudulent HBOT claims for that physician, as if the physician prescribed HBOT treatment for himself, but the treatment was never provided nor prescribed. As a result of the fraud scheme, Petrie allegedly caused at least $1,900,000 in actual loss to CareFirst. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary H. Ray of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Cristina Schasse, 40, of Glen Allen, was charged by Criminal Information with three charges of Criminal Tampering.  As alleged in the Criminal Information, Schasse, while working as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at Chippenham and Johnston-Willis Medical Center, on three separate dates tampered with a Pyxis machine that contained fentanyl and Versed, by drawing syringes of fentanyl and Versed, placing them into her pockets, and then preparing syringes of Precedex (a non-scheduled sedative), mixed with saline, and then marked the syringes with preprinted labels misidentifying them as containing either fentanyl or Versed. Schasse then allegedly stored these mislabeled syringes in the Pyxis machine, knowing that the substituted drugs would be administered to patients. After the patient was sedated with Propofol, Schasse then allegedly administered the replacement substances she had placed inside the mislabeled syringes, to multiple patients during medical procedures.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Angela Mastandrea and Patrick J. McGorman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

“The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

"Defrauding the American health care system is not a victimless crime," said Assistant Director in Charge Steven Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office. "It raises health insurance premiums, exposes patients to unnecessary medical procedures, and can lead to identity theft. Every dollar stolen is one fewer that's available to pay for needed care. The FBI will continue our relentless pursuit of those committing health care fraud and hold them accountable for their crimes."

“Health care professionals who tamper with patients’ medications not only endanger those patients, but also undermine the trust Americans place in their medical providers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ronald Dawkins, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice health care professionals who tamper with patients’ medications.”

“We are sending a strong message: if you abuse your position to harm patients or engage in criminal activities, you will lose the privilege of handling, distributing, and prescribing controlled substances in our country,” emphasized Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for DEA Washington Division. “The DEA targets individuals involved in fraud and criminal enterprises, regardless of whether they are disguised in white coats or blue scrubs. We are committed to pursuing anyone who exploits financial, pharmaceutical, and criminal systems.”

The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Henrico County man was sentenced today to five years and three months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2024, Henrico County Police responded to a report of gunshots at an apartment complex where Michael Anthony Nolan, 35, had been arguing with his ex-girlfriend. On arriving, officers observed Nolan, who was intoxicated, standing in the apartment complex's parking lot next to the driver-side door of a vehicle inside which officers observed a handgun on the floorboard.

In 2010, Nolan was convicted of robbing and attempting to rob pizza delivery drivers with a knife, and subsequently found guilty of two felony probation violations. As a previously convicted felon, Nolan cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Eric D. English, Chief of Henrico County Police Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. McGorman prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-179.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Four people have been sentenced to prison for kidnapping an 83-year-old Arlington man and taking $7,000 from him.

According to court documents, on Dec. 30, 2023, Phillip Anderson, 37, Anthony Brockington, 22, Damien Griffin, 23, and K’la Hargrove, 27, traveled to the victim’s home intending to rob him. Hargrove’s boyfriend, who was incarcerated, owed $4,000 to Anderson for drugs, and had performed yardwork and handiwork for the victim. Hargrove, who had previously met the victim through her boyfriend, contacted the victim and arrived at the residence first. After the victim allowed Hargrove into his home, some of her co-conspirators, all of whom were armed, forced their way inside the home, assaulted the victim, and held him at gunpoint while demanding he give them money.

When the victim explained he didn’t have enough cash in his home, the co-conspirators kidnapped the victim and took him to a “trap house” in Washington, where they physically restrained the victim and continued to assault him. The victim was forced to transfer $7,000 to the bank account of an associate of Griffin. While the victim was being held, Griffin used the victim’s credit card to make purchases from McDonalds, DoorDash, and a gas station, and attempted to purchase gift cards at a CVS Pharmacy. During the night of Dec. 31, 2023, Griffin and Brockington, at Anderson’s direction, returned to the victim’s home, broke into a locker, and stole firearms. They transferred the firearms to Anderson, who later sold them.

On Jan. 1, 2024, the victim escaped from the trap house and returned to his home. A neighbor called 911 to report the kidnapping, and the victim was taken to a hospital for treatment. The kidnappers caused the victim to sustain fractures to his sternum and hands, broken ribs, and bruises and lacerations to his head and face.

On Oct. 30, 2024, Griffin pled guilty to conspiracy to kidnap. On Jan. 30, he was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison.

Anderson pled guilty on Jan. 16, to conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping. On May 1, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

On Jan. 30, Brockington pled guilty to kidnapping and aiding and abetting kidnapping. On May 1, he was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison.

Hargrove pled guilty on March 13 to aiding and abetting kidnapping. She was sentenced today to six years in prison.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Emily Odom, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff.

The Arlington County Police Department provided valuable assistance in the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sehar F. Sabir and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Cristina Stam prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-196.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria woman pled guilty today to embezzling campaign contributions from three federal candidates for political office and committing tax evasion.

According to court documents, Katherine Margaret Buchanan, 59,  worked as a political campaign compliance consultant for more than 20 years for various political campaigns and political action committees (PACs). Typically, she held the title of “Treasurer” of the campaign or PAC. Beginning in 2020 and continuing to 2024, Buchanan used the access she had as treasurer to embezzle contributed funds from her clients and converted that money to her own personal use. Buchanan used campaign or PAC funds to make payments to her personal credit cards, used official campaign or PAC credit cards to make personal purchases, used campaign or PAC funds to pay third parties for her own personal enrichment, and transferred funds from campaign or PAC bank accounts into her personal bank accounts.

Buchanan used the embezzled funds for such personal expenses as dining, landscaping, aesthetic services, a Peloton exercise bike, clothing, airline tickets to Italy, concert tickets and suites, landscaping, chartered yacht tours, and legal fees. Altogether, Buchanan misappropriated at least $840,006.98 in contributed funds from the various campaign committees and PACs for whom she served as treasurer.

Buchanan also under-reported the income she received from 2017 through 2022 to the Internal Revenue Service to avoid paying taxes on it. This resulted in a total loss of unpaid federal taxes of $671,200.

Buchanan is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 8 and faces up to five years in prison for each charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Emily Odom, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division; and Kareem A. Carter, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Rumbaugh is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-150.

A Virginia man was sentenced today in Alexandria for his attempt to carry out a mass shooting at a Haymarket, Virginia church, for carrying a gun during that attempt, and for transmitting threats over the internet. Rui Jiang, 36, of Fairfax, Virginia, was sentenced to 25 years in prison and five years of supervised release. Jiang was previously convicted by a jury in March 2025.

According to evidence presented at trial, Jiang began posting online threats against the Park Valley Church on the evening of Sept. 23, 2023, which made clear his intention to kill congregants. The next morning, police searched for Jiang in response to a concerned citizen’s call. Officers located Jiang at the church while Sunday services were underway. Jiang was armed with a semiautomatic handgun, two magazines of ammunition, and two knives. He had additional ammunition, knives, and a canister of bear spray in his nearby car. During a search of Jiang’s apartment, police discovered copies of a manifesto, signed by Jiang, which read in part, “I am here deny (sic) the love lives blessed by God to these lucky men, by taking out these men . . .To the families of those men about to be slain – I am sorry for what I have done and about to do (sic).”

“This was the closest of calls. But for the determination of a concerned citizen; the exceptional police work by the Anne Arundel, Fairfax, and Prince William County Police Departments; and the steadfast vigilance of the church security team, this would have ended in unimaginable tragedy,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will relentlessly investigate and prosecute attacks on our nation’s houses of worship.”

“The freedom to worship without fear is one of the bedrock principles of our Nation,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Rui Jiang set out to violate that principle by entering a church during a religious service armed with the intent to murder innocent parishioners. This unspeakable act, only thwarted by brave law enforcement officers and civilians, has no place in our Republic and will always be a priority of my office.”

“The church shooting that was thwarted because of the vigilance of concerned citizens is a reminder that when communities and law enforcement agencies work together, we can prevent targeted acts of violence.” said Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Prince William County and Fairfax County Police Departments. The Anne Arundel County Police Department also assisted. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas A. Durham and Troy A. Edwards Jr., for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.

Douglas Wayne Cornett, 58, of Ruther Glen, Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court today to two federal hate crimes charges involving attempts to kill and to discharging a firearm during a federal crime of violence.

According to court documents, on the evening of Feb. 28, 2024, Cornett followed a box truck driven by a victim with the initials O.G., an adult Latino male, into the Sheetz gas station along Interstate 95 in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. Cornett then asked a victim with the initials J.M., an adult Latino male and a friend of O.G., how long O.G. had been present in the United States.

Upon learning that O.G. had arrived within the last two years, Cornett drew handgun and fired six rounds, striking O.G. three times and J.M. once. Cornett later confessed to a Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Deputy to shooting the victims because of his perception of their national origin.

“Hate crimes driven by bias against national origin or any other protected characteristic are a direct assault on the principles of equality and justice that define our nation,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division is committed to vigorously prosecuting such acts of violence to secure a just outcome.”

“Crimes like Douglas Cornett’s, acts of hate motivated violence, victimize not just the individual, but harm families, communities, and groups by robbing them of their sense of security,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Every person has a right to live free of the fear of violence and the menace of hate, and my office is committed to eliminating both.”

“Hate crimes not only harm individuals but undermine the fabric of our communities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen Farina of the FBI Richmond Field Office. “FBI Richmond is steadfast in its dedication to investigating these violations thoroughly and swiftly to ensure justice for the victims and to protect the American people.”

“Violence based on race or nationality will not be tolerated in Spotsylvania County," said G. Ryan Mehaffey, Spotsylvania County Commonwealth’s Attorney. "Douglas Cornett found out there is a heavy price to be paid.” 

Cornett faces a mandatory 10-year sentence on the firearms violation and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the two hate crimes. His final sentence will be determined by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a sentencing hearing scheduled for Nov. 13.

The Richmond Field Office of the FBI investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Garnett for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

Note: The press release was updated to accurately reflect the defendant's residence.

RICHMOND, Va. – A Ruther Glen man pled guilty today to two federal hate crimes involving attempts to kill and to discharging a firearm during a federal crime of violence.

According to court documents, on the evening of Feb. 28, 2024, Douglas Wayne Cornett, 58, followed a box truck driven by a victim with the initials O.G., an adult Latino male, into the Sheetz gas station along Interstate 95 in Spotsylvania County. Cornett then asked a victim with the initials J.M., also an adult Latino male and a friend of O.G., how long O.G. had been present in the United States. Upon learning that O.G. had arrived within the last two years, Cornett drew a handgun and fired six rounds, striking O.G. three times and J.M. once.

“Crimes like Douglas Cornett’s, acts of hate motivated violence, victimize not just the individual, but harm families, communities, and groups by robbing them of their sense of security,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Every person has a right to live free of the fear of violence and the menace of hate, and my office is committed to eliminating both.”

“Hate crimes driven by bias against national origin or any other protected characteristic are a direct assault on the principles of equality and justice that define our nation,” said Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division is committed to vigorously prosecuting such acts of violence to secure a just outcome.”

“Hate crimes not only harm individuals but undermine the fabric of our communities,” said Stephen Farina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office. “FBI Richmond is steadfast in its dedication to investigating these violations thoroughly and swiftly to ensure justice for the victims and to protect the American people.”

Cornett later confessed to a Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Deputy to shooting the victims because of his perception of the victims’ national origin.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

The Richmond Field Office of the FBI investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-CR-91.

This release was edited on June 18, 2025, to correct the defendant's city of residence.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Fairfax man was sentenced today to 25 years in prison for his attempt to carry out a mass shooting at a Haymarket church, for carrying a gun during that attempt, and for transmitting threats over the internet. Rui Jiang, 36, was sentenced to 25 years in prison and five years of supervised release. Jiang was previously convicted by a jury in March 2025.

According to evidence presented at trial, Jiang began posting online threats against the Park Valley Church on the evening of Sept. 23, 2023, which made clear his intention to kill congregants.  The next morning, police searched for Jiang in response to a concerned citizen’s call. Officers located Jiang at the church while Sunday services were underway. Jiang was armed with a semiautomatic handgun, two magazines of ammunition, and two knives. He had additional ammunition, knives, and a canister of bear spray in his nearby car. During a search of Jiang’s apartment, police discovered copies of a manifesto, signed by Jiang, which read in part, “I am here deny (sic) the love lives blessed by God to these lucky men, by taking out these men… To the families of those men about to be slain – I am sorry for what I have done and about to do (sic).”

“The freedom to worship without fear is one of the bedrock principles of our Nation,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Rui Jiang set out to violate that principle by entering a church during a religious service armed with the intent to murder innocent parishioners.  This unspeakable act, only thwarted by brave law enforcement officers and civilians, has no place in our Republic and will always be a priority of my office.”

“This was the closest of calls. But for the determination of a concerned citizen; the exceptional police work by the Anne Arundel, Fairfax, and Prince William County Police Departments; and the steadfast vigilance of the church security team, this would have ended in unimaginable tragedy,” said Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will relentlessly investigate and prosecute attacks on our nation’s houses of worship.”

“The church shooting that was thwarted because of the vigilance of concerned citizens is a reminder that when communities and law enforcement agencies work together, we can prevent targeted acts of violence,” said Steven J. Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office.

The FBI investigated the case with substantial assistance from the Prince William County and Fairfax County Police Departments. The Anne Arundel County Police Department also assisted.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas A. Durham and Troy A. Edwards Jr. for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-65.

A twelve-count indictment was unsealed today in the Eastern District of Virginia charging nine members of the Eastside Rollin’ 20s Crips (RTC) violent street gang with crimes including a drug conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, firearms offenses, and  a racketeering conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, conspiring to distribute large quantities of pressed fentanyl pills, narcotics trafficking, identity fraud, and the illegal use and straw purchasing of firearms.

According to the indictment, the RTC is a subunit or “set” of the Crips national street gang. The indictment alleges RTC members and associates committed numerous violent acts on behalf of the RTC, including a June 2022 murder in Alexandria, Virginia; a July 2021 attempted shooting of several individuals in the District of Columbia; an August 2021 armed robbery and pistol whipping of an individual in Hollywood, Florida; and a January 2021 attempted murder of two individuals in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. To finance and promote the RTC’s criminal activities, the indictment alleges that RTC members and associates obtained and distributed multi-kilogram quantities of pressed fentanyl pills. The indictment also alleges that, as part of the gang’s criminal activity, the RTC recruited children and encouraged them to commit crimes on behalf of the gang, including acts of violence and drug trafficking.

“As alleged, RTC members unleashed a wave of violence across three states and the District of Columbia, extending down the East Coast to Florida,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their commission of brutal, indiscriminate acts over perceived slights on social media reflects a particularly dangerous form of gang activity. The Criminal Division remains firmly committed to prosecuting menacing gangs and ensuring the safety of our communities.”

“The offenses alleged in this indictment represent the spectrum of danger presented by nationwide criminal enterprises,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Any of these elements alone – from violence to illegal drugs to identity theft – is enough to destroy communities and lives, and these organizations employ them without compunction. Through coordination with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we are determined to eradicate criminal gangs and protect our citizens from the detriment they bring.”

“DEA is committed to protecting Americans by investigating and taking down major violators of drug laws who operate within the United States and around the world,” said Special Agent in Charge Ibrar Mian of the DEA Washington Field Division. “As demonstrated by today’s indictment, drug trafficking, firearms, and violence are undeniably connected, which is why we continue to address these threats with the full force of the federal government. The tenacious and hard-working men and women of DEA are combatting the illicit manufacture and distribution of drugs, removing illicit firearms from American streets, helping to put public threats in jail, and restoring safety in our communities.”

“Today’s announcement indicates a significant step towards making it even more clear that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with our partner agencies are committed to protecting our communities from violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the ATF Washington Field Division. “There just isn’t a place for criminal behavior in our neighborhoods. Although this is very early on in the judicial process, we remain optimistic that all of those involved will be held accountable for their actions.”

If convicted, the defendants face penalties including: up to life in prison or the death penalty for murder in aid of racketeering and use of a firearm during a crime of violence causing death; up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and use of a firearm during or in relation to drug trafficking; up to 25 years in prison for straw purchasing of firearms; up to 20 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and up to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Virginia State Police; and Arlington County Police Department are investigating the case with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia; United States Postal Inspection Service; FBI; Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI); U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Fairfax County Police Department; Prince William County Police Department; Prince William County’s Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney; Prince William County Parks and Recreation; United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina; Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office; Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office; Stafford County Sherriff’s Office; Manassas Park Police Department; George Mason University Police Department; Chesterfield County Police Department; Del City, OK, Police Department; Valley Brook, OK, Police Department; Tonto Apache Police Department; Sumter County, SC, Sheriff’s Office; Hollywood, FL, Police Department; Nash County, NC, Sheriff’s Office; Winston-Salem, NC, Police Department; and Nebraska State Patrol.

Trial Attorney César S. Rivera-Giraud of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edgardo J. Rodriguez and Ryan B. Bredemeier for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs), which identify, disrupt, and dismantle the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

An indictment is merely an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A twelve-count indictment was unsealed today in the Eastern District of Virginia charging nine members of the Eastside Rollin’ 20s Crips (RTC) violent street gang with crimes including a drug conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, firearms offenses, and a racketeering conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, conspiring to distribute large quantities of pressed fentanyl pills, narcotics trafficking, identity fraud, and the illegal use and straw purchasing of firearms.

According to the indictment, the RTC is a subunit or “set” of the Crips national street gang. The indictment alleges RTC members and associates committed numerous violent acts on behalf of the RTC, including a June 2022 murder in Alexandria; a July 2021 attempted shooting of several individuals in the District of Columbia; an August 2021 armed robbery and pistol whipping of an individual in Hollywood, Florida; and a January 2021 attempted murder of two individuals in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. To finance and promote the RTC’s criminal activities, the indictment alleges that RTC members and associates obtained and distributed multi-kilogram quantities of pressed fentanyl pills. The indictment also alleges that, as part of the gang’s criminal activity, the RTC recruited children under the age of 18 and encouraged them to commit crimes on behalf of the gang, including acts of violence and drug trafficking.

“The offenses alleged in this indictment represent the spectrum of danger presented by nationwide criminal enterprises,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Any of these elements alone – from violence to illegal drugs to identity theft – is enough to destroy communities and lives, and these organizations employ them without compunction. Through coordination with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we are determined to eradicate criminal gangs and protect our citizens from the detriment they bring.”

“As alleged, RTC members unleashed a wave of violence across three states and the District of Columbia, extending down the East Coast to Florida,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their commission of brutal, indiscriminate acts over perceived slights on social media reflects a particularly dangerous form of gang activity. The Criminal Division remains firmly committed to prosecuting menacing gangs and ensuring the safety of our communities.”

“DEA is committed to protecting Americans by investigating and taking down major violators of drug laws who operate within the United States and around the world,” said Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division. “As demonstrated by today’s indictments, drug trafficking, firearms, and violence are undeniably connected, which is why we continue to address these threats with the full force of the federal government. The tenacious and hard-working men and women of DEA are combatting the illicit manufacture and distribution of drugs, removing illicit firearms from American streets, helping to put public threats in jail, and restoring safety in our communities.”

“Today’s announcement indicates a significant step towards making it even more clear that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with our partner agencies are committed to protecting our communities from violent crime,” said Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division. “There just isn’t a place for criminal behavior in our neighborhoods. Although this is very early on in the judicial process, we remain optimistic that all of those involved will be held accountable for their actions.”

If convicted, the defendants face penalties including: up to life in prison or the death penalty for murder in aid of racketeering and use of a firearm during a crime of violence causing death; up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and use of a firearm during or in relation to drug trafficking; up to 25 years in prison for straw purchasing of firearms; up to 20 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and up to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Virginia State Police; and Arlington County Police Department are investigating the case with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Fairfax County Police Department; Prince William County Police Department; Prince William County’s Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney; Prince William County Parks and Recreation; Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office; Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office; Stafford County Sherriff’s Office; Manassas Park Police Department; George Mason University Police Department; Chesterfield County Police Department; Del City, Oklahoma, Police Department; Valley Brook, Oklahoma, Police Department; Tonto Apache Police Department; Sumter County, South Carolina, Sheriff’s Office; Hollywood Police Department; Nash County, North Carolina, Sheriff’s Office; Winston-Salem Police Department; and Nebraska State Patrol.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edgardo J. Rodriguez and Ryan B. Bredemeier of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney César S. Rivera-Giraud of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-148.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Gloucester man was sentenced today to four years and nine months in prison for dealing firearms without a license and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on Jan. 16, 2024, Daniel Shaun Smith, 37, brokered a transaction in which another individual delivered a stolen handgun to a buyer in Smith’s presence. At the same time, Smith also delivered a shotgun to the buyer. On Jan. 18, 2024, during a controlled purchase conducted at Smith’s residence, Smith sold the buyer another shotgun and ammunition. During this transaction, Smith asked if the buyer wanted to use methamphetamine with him, but the buyer declined.

On Feb. 8, 2024, during another controlled purchase at Smith’s residence, Smith sold the buyer a sawed-off shotgun, a handgun, 1,971 rounds of assorted ammunition, four rifle scopes, a Tactacam scope, and 1.62 grams of methamphetamine. Another individual present during the transaction provided the buyer 3,000 rounds of ammunition.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives recovered the firearms and ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Heath prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-57.

A six-count indictment was unsealed today in the Northern District of Georgia charging former Fulton County Jail Sergeant, Khadijah Solomon, 47, with using excessive force by repeatedly deploying tasers against compliant, non-resisting pretrial detainees on three separate occasions in January 2025 and writing false reports about each of the incidents.

“The Civil Rights Division has zero tolerance for law enforcement officers who abuse public trust through excessive force and concealing their misconduct,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We will vigorously safeguard the constitutional rights of all individuals, including those in custody, and ensure accountability in this case.”

“Law enforcement officers in this district perform their duties professionally and honorably, but those who abuse their power will be held accountable for their unlawful conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia. “On three occasions, Khadijah Solomon allegedly tased Fulton County Jail detainees without a legitimate purpose, causing each of them pain and injury. Abuses of power of this kind are unconstitutional, erode our community’s trust, and will be prosecuted.”

Solomon faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each federal civil rights violation, and 20 years in prison for each false report. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia and Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case based on a referral from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bret Hobson and Brent Gray for the Northern District of Georgia and Trial Attorney Briana M. Clark of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

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

NORFOLK, Va. – A Chesapeake man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on Feb. 10, 2024, Chesapeake Police officers were attempting to serve arrest warrants for assault and battery of a family or household member and destruction of property on Abdul-Wakeel Khabeer Qaabid, aka Kenneth Andrew Jordan, 39. Qaabid fled during a traffic stop, but crashed his vehicle and fled on foot. From Qaabid’s vehicle, investigators recovered two loaded handguns, five ounces of cocaine base, 43 grams of marijuana, $25,020, and three cellular devices. During a search of Qaabid’s residence, investigators recovered over six kilograms of cocaine, packaging materials, .45 caliber ammunition, and $26,900 in drug proceeds.

Qaabid was arrested on March 13, 2024, at a residence in Chesapeake. During a search of that residence, CPD recovered an additional $11,850 in drug proceeds.

Qaabid previously had been convicted for attempted capital murder, use of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and felony assault and battery. As a previously convicted felon, Qaabid cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Mark G. Solesky, Chief of Chesapeake Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin G. Bird prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-68.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The United States has recovered and cleared title to over $680,000 worth of stolen cryptocurrency using civil asset forfeiture and is in the process of returning those funds to the victim, a cryptocurrency and blockchain company.

According to court documents, on March 28, 2023, an unidentified person sought to exploit a vulnerability in a cryptocurrency product created by SafeMoon, LLC. SafeMoon used a reserve, called a liquidity pool, to allow trading between different types of cryptocurrency by securing a supply of cryptocurrency assets to ensure sufficient liquidity in the market. This allowed SafeMoon to prevent large fluctuations in the price of SafeMoon’s cryptocurrency. The liquidity pool was secured and managed by a digital program called a “smart contract” that automatically executed when specified conditions occurred. The smart contract was mistakenly programmed, however, so that it could be used by anyone to “burn,” or destroy, tokens from the SafeMoon liquidity pool.

The exploiter’s scheme involved manipulating SafeMoon’s cryptocurrency by initiating a transaction that would burn a large number of SafeMoon tokens simultaneously, resulting in an artificial price spike. Then the exploiter could sell tokens back to the liquidity pool at an artificially inflated price at a loss to SafeMoon.

At the same time, however, an automated cryptocurrency trading program called a “bot” was engaged in “front-running,” which exploits normal delays in the processing of transactions by scanning and simulating pending transactions to determine how profitable they are, then executes profitable trades ahead of the original trader. In this case, the front-running bot caused the exploiter’s transaction to fail and directed the profits from its own trade to an account the bot operator controlled. The cryptocurrency stolen from SafeMoon was worth over $8.5 million on the day it was stolen.

Within a few hours of the attack, the front-running bot operator contacted SafeMoon, claiming to have prevented an attack. While purportedly offering to return the stolen cryptocurrency, the bot operator also threatened to withhold the entirety of the cryptocurrency stolen from SafeMoon if SafeMoon did not allow the operator to keep a percentage. SafeMoon relented and let the bot operator keep 20 percent of the stolen cryptocurrency.

On May 15, 2023, the FBI seized $680,467.92 and 480.996 BNB from accounts at OKX, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, representing approximately half of the 20 percent extorted from SafeMoon. SafeMoon has since filed for bankruptcy, but the funds are being returned to the bankruptcy trustee for SafeMoon.

Neither the original exploiter nor the bot operator has been identified to date and they may be located abroad. Without the possibility of a criminal prosecution, the United States used a civil asset forfeiture action against this stolen cryptocurrency to recover these funds for theft victims.  The civil asset forfeiture action afforded all potential claimants an opportunity to contest the forfeiture in court and put the government to its burden of proof.   

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Emily Odom, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Divisions, made the announcement after the settlement order between the United States and the SafeMoon bankruptcy trustee was issued by U.S. District Judge Patricia T. Giles.

The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Keim and Former Eastern District of Virginia prosecutor Jay V. Prabhu supported the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cv-1065.

A Virginia man was sentenced today to 33 years in prison for transporting a teenager across state lines with the intent to sexually abuse her.

According to court documents, in 2022, Daniel Wayne Kidd, 50, of Powhatan, spent thousands of dollars to entice a teenage girl to come to Virginia so that he could sexually abuse her over the course of a week. Kidd and his co-defendant, Rosalinda Delgado Rosas, schemed to obtain custody of the minor in order to ply her with expensive gifts and experiences and coerce her into engaging in sexual acts with Kidd. Prior to the nightly sexual abuse acts, the minor was given medications, including medications that made her drowsy. Kidd and Rosas also recorded Kidd’s sexual abuse of the minor. Rosas was sentenced on Sept. 4, 2024, to 25 years in prison for her role in the scheme.

Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Washington made the announcement.

ICE-HSI investigated the case with the assistance of the Powhatan Sheriff’s Office.

Trial Attorney Alicia A. Bove of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather H. Mansfield for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecuted the case.

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

RICHMOND, Va. – A Powhatan man was sentenced today to 33 years in prison for transporting a minor across state lines with the intent to sexually abuse her.

According to court documents, Daniel Wayne Kidd, 50, spent thousands of dollars to entice a teenage girl to come to Virginia in 2022 so that he could sexually abuse her over the course of a week. Kidd and his co-defendant, Rosalinda Delgado Rosas, 36, schemed to obtain control and custody of the minor and to ply her with expensive gifts and experiences to coerce her into engaging in sexual acts with Kidd. Prior to the nightly sexual abuse acts, the minor was administered medications, including some that made her drowsy. Kidd and Rosas also recorded Kidd’s sexual abuse of the minor.

Rosas was sentenced on Sept. 4, 2024, to 25 years in prison for her role in the scheme.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck.

The Powhatan Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation of this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather H. Mansfield and Trial Attorney Alicia A. Bove of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section prosecuted the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-93.

A former CIA analyst was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for unlawfully retaining and transmitting Top Secret National Defense Information to people who were not entitled to receive it, information which was publicly posted on social media platforms in October 2024.

According to court documents, Asif William Rahman, 34, of Vienna, was an employee of the CIA since 2016 and had a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) until his employment was terminated after his arrest.

“For months, this defendant betrayed the American people and the oaths he took upon entering his office by leaking some of our Nation’s most closely held secrets,” said John Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “As this case demonstrates, the Department of Justice will continue to protect our nation by vigorously investigating and prosecuting leakers who compromise our nation’s security.”

“Asif Rahman violated his position of trust by illegally accessing, removing, and transmitting Top Secret documents vital to the national security of the United States and its allies,” said Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “The urgency with which Mr. Rahman was identified, arrested, charged, and prosecuted is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of the investigators and prosecutors who brought him to justice. This case should serve as a stern warning to those who choose to place their own goals over their allegiance to our nation.”

“By stealing and divulging classified information and then attempting to conceal his crimes, Asif Rahman not only violated the law; he also betrayed his oath as a government employee and his responsibility to the American people,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “Now he will pay the price for putting American lives and U.S. national security at risk. Let this be a warning to all clearance holders: The FBI will exhaust all avenues to find and bring to justice anyone — no matter who they are — who endangers our nation by disclosing sensitive information without authorization."

On Oct. 17, 2024, Rahman accessed and printed two Top Secret documents containing National Defense Information regarding a U.S. foreign ally and its planned actions against a foreign adversary. Rahman removed the documents, photographed them, and transmitted them to individuals he knew were not entitled to receive them.  By Oct. 18, 2024, the documents appeared publicly on multiple social media platforms, complete with the classification markings. After Oct. 17, 2024, Rahman engaged in a deletion campaign of work product on his Top Secret work station.

In 2024, continuing through November, Rahman repeatedly accessed and printed classified National Defense Information, including documents classified up to the Top Secret and further compartmented levels, that he learned in the course of his employment and transmitted to multiple individuals he knew were not entitled to receive it.

Rahman was indicted by a grand jury on Nov. 7, 2024, and was arrested by the FBI as he arrived to work on Nov. 12, 2024. On Jan. 17, Rahman pleaded guilty to two counts of willful retention and transmission of classified information related to the national defense. He has remained in custody since his arrest.

The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy A. Edwards Jr. for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case. 

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Three Ecuadoran nationals pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute cocaine on board a vessel.

According to court documents, on Jan. 31, United States Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter Stone identified a target of interest, a go-fast vessel (GFV) in international waters approximately 550 nautical miles south of Mexico. USCG Stone launched a helicopter and a small boat and diverted to intercept the GFV.

After gaining control of the GFV, a USCG boarding team encountered Marco Antonio Garcia-Morales, 50, Luis Geraldo Pico-Bastardo, 26, and Segundo Gonzalo Lucas-Veliz, 44. The boarding team observed packages as well as fuel barrels onboard the GFV, which had no indicia of nationality. The packages on deck contained approximately 1,160 kilograms of cocaine.

Garcia-Morales and Pico-Bastardo are scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 16; Lucas-Veliz is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 29. The defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric M. Hurt and Kevin M. Comstock are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-12.

NORFOLK, Va. – Two Ecuadoran nationals pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine on board a vessel.

According to court documents, on Jan. 16, a helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter Waesche located a go-fast vessel (GFV) that appeared to be dead in the water with two people on board in international waters approximately 544 nautical miles south of Mexico. The GFV displayed no indicia of nationality.

A small boat from the USCG Cutter Waesche approached the GFV and the crew observed Adan Bolivar Arcentales Anchundia, 57, and Frowen Antonio Alcivar Muentes, 56, cutting lines connecting the GFV to bundles of bails in the water. USCG personnel boarded the vessel and conducted tests of the contents of one package taken from the water. The contents tested positive for cocaine. USCG personnel gathered additional contraband from the water around the GFV. In total, ten bales containing approximately 397.9 kilograms of cocaine were recovered.

Arcentales Anchundia pled guilty on May 28 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 30. Alcivar Muentes plead guilty today and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. Both defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Douglas E. Miller accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin M. Comstock and Eric M. Hurt are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:25-cr-59 (Arcentales Anchundia) and  2:25-cr-69 (Alcivar Muentes).