District of Vermont

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Peter Booth, 58, of Jericho, Vermont; Lexington Kennedy, 22, of New York, New York; Henry Prensky, 80, of Burlington, Vermont; Roan Wade, 23, of Red Hook, New York; and Sherri Wormser, 57, of Colchester, Vermont, have been charged by Information with knowingly obstructing access to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement National Criminal Analysis and Targeting Center, located in the White Cap business park in Williston, Vermont. The Court has issued summonses which will require the defendants to appear before the Court for initial appearances, which have not yet been scheduled.

According to court records, on February 9, 2026, Booth, Kennedy, Prensky, Wade, and Wormser entered the atrium of the White Cap building and used their bodies to block the access doors between the atrium and the federal facility. All five were repeatedly warned their conduct was in violation of the law. All five ignored the warnings and directives to disperse. Access to the federal facility was restored only when law enforcement physically removed the five from White Cap. On May 14, 2026, Booth and Prensky again entered the atrium of the White Cap building and used their bodies to block the access doors between the atrium and the federal facility. Both were repeatedly warned their conduct was in violation of the law. Both ignored the warnings and directives to disperse. Access to the federal facility was restored only when law enforcement physically removed Booth and Prensky from White Cap. On July 24, 2026, Kennedy and Wade again entered the atrium of the White Cap building and used their bodies to block the access doors between the atrium and the federal facility. Both were warned their conduct was in violation of the law. Both ignored the warning and directive to disperse. Access to the federal facility was restored only when law enforcement physically removed Kennedy and Wade from White Cap.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt stated: “By repeatedly blocking the entrances and exits to this federal facility, the defendants created a risk to the safety and wellbeing of the Vermonters who work there. Such obstructions are dangerous, as they restrict the ability of people to enter and exit the facility, including in the event of an emergency. Moreover, the actions of these defendants, and others, necessitated a substantial police response, diverting law enforcement resources from other important priorities and responsibilities. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont will prosecute all those who knowingly obstruct access to federal facilities.” First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt thanked the Vermont State Police, the Williston Police Department, and the Federal Protective Service for their assistance in maintaining access to and from the federal facility.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the Information contains allegations only and that all five defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Booth, Kennedy, Prensky, Wade, and Wormser face up to 30 days of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000 if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the statutory sentencing factors.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nate Burris. Booth, Kennedy, Prensky, Wade, and Wormser have not yet retained nor been appointed counsel.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Kendall Liberty, 25, of South Burlington, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Liberty appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on Friday, September 25, 2026, who ordered that Liberty be detained pending further proceedings in the case.

According to court records, on November 27, 2025, a woman reported to the Burlington Police Department that between that day and the previous day, she had received numerous messages from Liberty, including threats that he was going to find her and hurt her. The woman returned to her residence on November 27, 2025, after learning that police had encountered Liberty, to find her residence in disarray, with blood on the walls. Burlington Police reviewed camera footage from the woman’s residence that confirmed Liberty had been to the woman’s residence when she was not present. A relative of the woman discovered a pistol in cushions of the woman’s couch, which law enforcement’s investigation linked to Liberty. Liberty is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior federal felony conviction.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Liberty is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Liberty faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and thanked the Rutland Police Department for their assistance.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Lasher. Liberty is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Shameik Camara, of Hartford, Connecticut, has been charged by criminal complaint with knowingly and intentionally distributing cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance.

On September 17, 2026, Camara appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Camara be detained during the pendency of this matter.

According to court records, Camara’s charge resulted from a controlled purchase in which Camara is alleged to have sold 39 grams of cocaine base to a law enforcement confidential informant in Brattleboro, Vermont. That purchase was one of a series of seventeen video-recorded controlled purchases arranged by law enforcement using a phone associated with Camara, which in total resulted in the distribution of over 293 grams of cocaine base and over 91 grams of fentanyl.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Camara is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Camara faces up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Brattleboro Police Department, and the Police Department of Hartford, Connecticut.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney David Golubock. Camara is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Brayden Hemingway, 18, of Vergennes, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with interfering with commerce by robbery, specifically the robbery of the Stewart’s Shop in South Burlington, Vermont on September 13, 2026.

On September 15, 2026, Hemingway appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Hemingway was ordered detained, pending a detention hearing, which is currently scheduled for September 22, 2026.

According to court records, at approximately 7:00 pm on September 13, 2026, South Burlington Police were dispatched to the Stewart’s Shop on Shelburne Road in South Burlington, Vermont, following an armed robbery. Security footage showed a male—later identified as Hemingway—arrive at the store in a white Kia Soul, enter the store, point an apparent handgun at store clerks, demand money, and then leave the store with cash. A man matching Hemingway’s description and apparel robbed the Winooski Champlain Farms convenience store approximately an hour earlier in a similar manner. Hemingway is further suspected of engaging in three burglaries in Burlington and South Burlington between September 12 and 14, 2026.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Hemingway is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Hemingway faces up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the South Burlington Police Department, the Burlington Police Department, the Milton Police Department, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, the Vermont Highway Patrol, and the Winooski Police Department. Ophardt added: “I am extremely grateful for the coordinated, diligent, and swift work of the officers and agents who investigated these crimes, and who safely apprehended Hemingway.”

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Hemingway is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 15, 2026, Russell Biathrow, 68, of Killington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 90 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. Judge Mary Kay Lanthier also imposed a fine of $10,000. Biathrow previously pleaded guilty to production of a morphed image of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

According to court records, in or about March 2025, Biathrow produced an image of an identifiable minor by cropping a hardcopy image that depicted a prepubescent girl engaging in a sex act. The image was printed on laminated paper and the reverse side of the paper contained cut-out images depicting three different children in various poses and stages of nudity. Biathrow produced the image with the intent of distributing it.

Biathrow has a long history of involvement with CSAM. In 2008, Biathrow was convicted of CSAM-related offenses in the Eastern District of North Carolina, receiving a 100-month sentence and a lifetime term of supervised release. After his release from custody, Biathrow had numerous violations of his supervised release, including a 2019 violation for possessing CSAM that resulted in a 78-month term of imprisonment. Biathrow was on federal supervised release in March of 2025 when he produced the morphed image of CSAM.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and thanked the United States Marshals Service for their assistance.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Biathrow was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC. 
 

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 14, 2026, Theodore Bland, 31, of Stowe, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to two consecutive sentences of life imprisonment after his guilty plea to causing the deaths of two men while carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking, and concurrent sentences of imprisonment for various federal drug and firearm charges. Judge Sessions also required Bland to pay restitution of $12,504.92 to the Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services.

According to court records, on the morning of October 12, 2023, Bland walked into the back bedroom of a mobile home in Lowell, Vermont and murdered two men by shooting them. Bland murdered the men so that he could obtain cocaine base and fentanyl that he knew that they had in their possession to further his own drug distribution conspiracy. Bland shot the men in broad daylight, in the presence of numerous witnesses, and in the hours and days that followed, bragged to others about the way he had killed the men. Bland also used the drugs and weapons that he had obtained from the killings to persuade a number of people to assist him in moving the men’s bodies to a wooded area in Eden, Vermont, and attempting to conceal the murders. Bland also traded one of the firearms he stole from one of the victims to a drug supplier in exchange for quantities of cocaine base and fentanyl that Bland intended to distribute. At the time of the murders, Bland was on state conditions of release for a March 17, 2023 armed assault in South Burlington, Vermont.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Morristown Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Ophardt added: “Theodore Bland committed two depraved, violent murders to secure greater illicit profits in the drug trade. This case is a chilling reminder of the extreme danger posed by the combination of drug trafficking and firearms. I am grateful to the family and friends of the victims who spoke at today’s sentencing hearing. Their words were powerful reminders of the true toll of Bland’s crimes. As they made clear, two consecutive life sentences will never erase the harm and pain caused by Bland’s violence.”

“Mr. Bland was responsible for trafficking deadly narcotics on the streets in Vermont,” said Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albany Field Office. “His decision to escalate to cold-blooded murder has landed him in federal prison for the rest of his life. This case and subsequent sentence illustrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to working with our Department of Justice colleagues and our partners at every level of law enforcement to leverage our resources and ensure that criminals who terrorize our communities through vicious acts of violence and the sale of dangerous drugs and weapons are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“This crime shocked Vermont in its callousness and left the families of two young men with a grief that will never end,” said Major Ashley Barnes, commander of the Vermont State Police Criminal Division. “We extend our sincere thanks to our law-enforcement partners at the federal, state and local level who joined together to locate the victims, identify the perpetrator, and ensure he faced justice.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason M. Turner and Dana E. Hill. Bland was represented by David C. Sleigh, Esq., Bren E. Newton, Esq., Bruce D. Koffsky, Esq., and Francis L. O’Reilly, Esq.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

RUTLAND – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on September 8, 2026, Todd Hoyte, 55, of Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 36 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Judge Lanthier scheduled a hearing on December 3, 2026, to determine any restitution that Hoyte owes as part of his sentence. Previously, Hoyte pleaded guilty to making interstate threats and cyberstalking.

According to court records, between July 29, 2024, and September 25, 2024, in a campaign of harassment, intimidation, and threats, Hoyte, while living in the U.S. Virgin Islands, placed more than 10 cellphone calls to Vermont, during which he left voicemails for Grand Isle County State’s Attorney Douglas DiSabito. These voicemails included a threat on DiSabito’s life as well as insults, slurs, and derogatory language against DiSabito. At the time, DiSabito was prosecuting Hoyte for a criminal offense. In pleading guilty, Hoyte admitted that he made communications to harass and intimidate DiSabito as well as for the purpose of issuing a threat and with knowledge that the communications would be viewed as a threat to DiSabito.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI and thanked the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Hoyte was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 8, 2026, Alassane Sow, 34, of Senegal, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a time-served sentence, which equates to approximately 17 months of imprisonment. Sow previously pleaded guilty to unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed.

According to court records, Sow moved from Senegal to Columbus, Ohio in 2014, eventually becoming a lawful permanent resident. While living in Ohio, Sow was arrested and convicted of multiple criminal offenses, including felony attempted vehicular assault in 2017, misdemeanor driving while impaired in 2018, felony theft in 2019, and felony receipt of stolen property in 2020. In 2023, while incarcerated in Ohio, Sow received a notice to appear for removal proceedings. Sow was subsequently removed on October 16, 2024. On April 13, 2025, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Sow crossed the international border between the United States and Canada near Holland, Vermont. Sow’s unlawful crossing was detected by U.S. Border Patrol sensors, and Sow was apprehended shortly thereafter by U.S. Border Patrol Agents.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt stated: “I am extremely grateful for the hard work and diligence of our Border Patrol Agents on the northern border. Their efforts ensure that those seeking to evade inspection at our ports of entry are swiftly detained. Due to these dedicated men and women, a man with a concerning criminal history was apprehended before he could proceed further into the United States.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nate Burris and Matthew Greer. Sow was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

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.
 

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 8, 2026, Alec Diaz, a/k/a “Benn Tenn,” 22, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 144 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Diaz previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base, possessing with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, and carrying and using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court records, between January 2023 and September 2025, Diaz was a manager and supervisor of a drug trafficking organization operating around Bennington, Vermont. Diaz and his associates imported kilograms of cocaine into Vermont on multiple occasions. Once the cocaine was in Vermont, 90% of it was cooked into cocaine base. Diaz and his associates also regularly imported fentanyl. Numerous individuals, including a juvenile, distributed drugs on behalf of Diaz, at times selling over 1,000 bags of fentanyl a day. On September 24, 2025, law enforcement arrested Diaz in Pownal, Vermont. In the camper where Diaz was found, agents seized a .45 caliber handgun, approximately 26 grams of cocaine, approximately 32 grams of cocaine base, and $15,000 cash.

In addition to drug trafficking, Diaz was involved in firearms trafficking. Diaz obtained both handguns and AR-style rifles from a Bennington-area resident, and later transferred them to another drug trafficker. Diaz also used firearms during his drug trafficking activities, displaying them to intimidate others and protect his drug trafficking operation. On at least one occasion, Diaz obtained a firearm in exchange for drugs.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department, the Vermont State Police Narcotics Investigation Unit, the Bennington Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, the Springfield (MA) Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Cambridge (NY) Police Department.

First Assistant United States Attorney Ophardt added: “For two and a half years, Diaz pushed kilograms of poisonous drugs into Vermont for profit while facilitating the movement of firearms to other drug traffickers. Diaz’ lengthy prison sentence should serve as a warning to others who would do the same.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Turner. Diaz was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Samuel Ansell.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on September 2, 2026, Kenneth Beane, 37, of Richmond, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 120 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release. Judge Lanthier also imposed $5,000 in restitution for the victims of the offense, as well as assessments totaling $15,100. Bean previously pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse materials (“CSAM”) on his personal electronic devices.

According to court records, law enforcement discovered that Beane was making CSAM available to others through a peer-to-peer file sharing application, and thereafter downloaded CSAM images from Beane’s IP address. On September 8, 2025, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant on Beane’s residence in Richmond, Vermont. During the search, law enforcement seized electronic devices with additional CSAM material, including images of prepubescent minors under the age of 12. In total, Beane possessed approximately 3,600 digital files containing CSAM.

Bean has a prior federal conviction for possession of CSAM stemming from a 2015 arrest. This prior conviction also involved Bean sharing CSAM materials via peer-to-peer networks. Bean received a one-year sentence in 2016, which was followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Bean had multiple violations of his supervision, including using unapproved electronics and unauthorized contact with minors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Vermont Attorney General’s Office.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Golubock. Kenneth Beane was represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 27, 2026, Christopher Dezotelle, 43, most recently of Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 72 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 4-year term of supervised release. Dezotelle previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine base and 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

According to court records, Dezotelle, a life-long Vermonter with an extensive criminal history, conspired to distribute narcotics around Burlington, Vermont, between May 2024 and June 2024. A confidential informant working with law enforcement made recorded controlled purchases from Dezotelle and his coconspirator during law enforcement’s investigation. These sales involved fentanyl and cocaine base. The investigation culminated in a search of Apartment 3 at 95 Grant Street in Burlington. Inside the apartment, law enforcement found approximately 259 grams of fentanyl, 92 grams of powder cocaine, 22 grams of cocaine base, and smaller amounts of other controlled substances, including methamphetamine. Law enforcement also seized $4,406 in cash.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua L. Banker. Dezotelle was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Edwin Enrique Menjivar, 54, of Newark, New Jersey, has been charged by criminal complaint with human smuggling, specifically the transportation of aliens within the United States in furtherance of their unlawful entry.

On August 25, 2026, Menjivar appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Menjivar be released on conditions pending trial.

According to court records, U.S. Border Patrol Agents were patrolling the international border near Holland, Vermont during the morning hours of August 24, 2026. Agents observed an SUV with a New Jersey license plate driving on a small rural dirt road that has previously been the site of cross-border smuggling activity. Agents conducted surveillance which provided indicators the SUV was likely engaged in smuggling. Further, a vehicle bearing the same New Jersey license plate had previously been encountered near the border during a suspected smuggling event. During a traffic stop of the SUV, agents discovered a person crouched down in the floor area of the front passenger seat of the SUV, attempting to conceal herself. Three people were found in the second row of the SUV, attempting to conceal themselves under blankets. Two additional people were found fully concealed under a blanket in the third row of the SUV. The occupants were determined to be aliens from Mexico, Ecuador, and China.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Menjivar is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Menjivar faces up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney David Golubock. Menjivar is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 27, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jesse Roy, 45, of Milton, Vermont, with assaulting and resisting a federal agent while the agent was engaged in the performance of his official duties, and in so doing, inflicting bodily injury. Roy’s arraignment has not yet been scheduled.

According to court records, on June 30, 2026, a Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent working with a Detective from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force went to Roy’s residence in Milton to arrest him on unrelated charges. Roy refused to step outside of his residence and, as the officers tried to enter, Roy resisted and impeded their entry by attempting to push closed his front door. The force Roy exerted on the door as the officers attempted to gain entry resulted in impact to the Special Agent’s right hand, resulting in a torn ligament ultimately necessitating surgery with a 6-to-8-week recovery period.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Roy is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Roy faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Roy has not yet retained nor been appointed counsel.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 27, 2026, Joshua Burbank, 40, of Johnson, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 100 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release. Burbank previously pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse materials involving prepubescent minors.

According to court records, in 2021, law enforcement was provided a laptop by Burbank’s family member after the family member discovered child sexual abuse materials on the laptop. A search of the laptop confirmed it contained files that depicted child sexual abuse, including a video of a man sexually assaulting a toddler. In 2024, Burbank was served with a Relief from Abuse Order and arrested on new criminal charges. At the time of this 2024 arrest, Burbank possessed a cellphone (in violation of his state conditions of release). This cellphone was searched and also found to contain child sexual abuse material.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Newport, Vermont Police Department, and the Vermont State Police. “The collection of heinous depictions of child sexual abuse causes significant and continuing harm to the victims depicted in those images. Those who seek out such imagery also pose a significant risk of danger to children. I am extremely grateful to the law enforcement officers whose work enabled us to hold Burbank accountable for his conduct.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Burbank was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Cruz Gary, 39, of Jackson, Mississippi, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

On August 24, 2026, Gary had his initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. A detention hearing was held on August 25, 2026, during which Gary was ordered detained during the pendency of the case.

According to court records, on August 21, 2026, U.S. Border Patrol Agents were patrolling the international border near Derby Line, Vermont. During those patrols, an agent noticed a car with a Mississippi license plate traveling from near the international border onto a rural road. The car continued into an area that has been frequently used for alien smuggling, and slowed to half the speed limit, which the agent inferred was an attempt to locate people who may have illegally entered the United States. During a traffic stop, the driver of the car was identified as Gary. The agent learned from the occupants of the car that a firearm was inside the vehicle. A record check revealed Gary to have an extensive criminal history in Mississippi, including felony convictions. The firearm, a SCCY 9-millimeter pistol, was recovered from a bag removed from the driver’s area of the car. Inside the same bag, agents located a Social Security card and a health insurance card both bearing Gary’s name.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Gary is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Gary faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney David Golubock. Gary is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

RUTLAND – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 19, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Dylin Wainscott a/k/a “Slim,” 30, of Springfield, Massachusetts and Precious Okorie, a/k/a “P,” 32 of Springfield Massachusetts, with the fatal shooting of a victim in Rutland, Vermont on November 15, 2024, in the course of a conspiracy to distribute drugs in Vermont. The indictment also charged Dakota Moretti, 35, of Rutland, Vermont, and Nichole Siliski, 40, of Rutland, Vermont, with participating in that drug distribution conspiracy.

Previously, the grand jury returned multiple indictments charging Wainscott with possession of ammunition as a convicted felon on November 15, 2024, charging Wainscott, Okorie, Siliski and Moretti with conspiring to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, and charging Wainscott and Okorie with discharge of a firearm during the course of that drug conspiracy. A previous indictment also charged Laryssa Johnson, 33, of Rutland, Vermont with participating in the drug conspiracy. Johnson pled guilty to that charge on December 16, 2025.

The indictment returned on August 19, 2026, was the first indictment in this case to charge Wainscott and Okorie with causing a death through the discharge of a firearm during the drug conspiracy. Also on August 19, 2026, the U.S. Attorney’s Office filed a notice that it would not be seeking the death penalty in connection with these charges.

The defendants have been arrested, arraigned, and detained in connection with other indictments returned in this case and all will be arraigned on the most recent superseding indictment. Wainscott was originally arraigned on May 1, 2025, pleaded not guilty to the charge against him, and was detained pending trial. Okorie was arraigned on July 21, 2026, pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, and was subsequently detained pending trial. Siliski was arraigned on June 25, 2026, pleaded not guilty to the charges against her, and was detained. Moretti was arrested on August 18, 2026, in South Carolina and was detained pending his transportation to Vermont to face charges against him.

According to court records, Wainscott shot and killed the victim at around 7:00 p.m. on November 15, 2024, when the victim returned to a Rutland, Vermont apartment. For weeks prior to the shooting, Wainscott had been using that apartment to conduct his drug business in Vermont. Wainscott worked for his supplier and childhood friend, Okorie. Johnson rented that apartment and assisted Wainscott and Okorie in the drug conspiracy. Moretti and Siliski were local drug users and dealers who also worked with Wainscott and Okorie to distribute drugs.

Court records state that approximately ten days before the shooting, Wainscott was robbed at the Rutland apartment of drugs and drug proceeds at gunpoint, and pistol-whipped, by a rival drug dealer. Following the robbery, Wainscott, Okorie, and Moretti worked together to locate the dealer and others they believed had stolen Wainscott and Okorie’s drugs and drug proceeds. On November 15, 2024, believing the dealer was at and/or coming to the Rutland apartment, Wainscott worked with Okorie and Moretti to find the person. Just before 7:00 p.m., the ultimate victim, who was not the rival dealer, returned to the apartment. Multiple shots were fired from the area a few houses down, wounding and ultimately killing the victim. Law enforcement found and arrested Wainscott and Okorie later that evening.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that all the charged defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Okorie and Wainscott face a maximum of life in prison if convicted. Siliski and Moretti face a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Rutland Police Department.

The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Arra and Dana Hill. Wainscott is represented by Jordana M. Levine, Esq. Okorie is represented by William A. Vasiliou, Esq. Siliski is represented by Heather E. Ross, Esq. An attorney has not yet been appointed to represent Moretti.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 18, 2026, Kevin Manning, 43, of South Hero, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 8 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, with the first four months of supervised release to be served on home detention. Manning previously pleaded guilty to three counts of theft or attempted theft of mail, and one count of possession of stolen mail.

According to court records, beginning in early December 2025, the Grand Isle Sheriff’s Department began receiving reports from residents of Grand Isle, Vermont that packages which had been shipped to them were missing from their porches and mailboxes. Law enforcement investigated and identified Manning as the likely suspect. On December 24, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Manning’s residence, recovering approximately 120 items during the search. Manning admitted these were items he had stolen.

Following the December 24, 2025 search warrant, Grand Isle Sheriff’s Department received additional reports of missing packages. Law enforcement executed a second search warrant at Manning’s residence on February 13, 2026, and recovered additional items. Manning again admitted to stealing packages. Between the two search warrants, law enforcement recovered stolen goods worth more than $13,000. These goods included winter coats, home safety equipment, medical equipment, prescription medication, and checks.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Grand Isle Sheriff’s Department, Vermont State Police, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, and the Essex Police Department.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn. Manning was represented by Federal Public Defender Alejandro Fernandez.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 18, 2026, Joseph Vaillancourt, 43, of Hartford, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. The sentence will run concurrent to any sentence imposed in a pending Windsor County, Vermont case. Vaillancourt previously pleaded guilty to knowing possession of the silencer in June 2026.

According to court records, in November 2024, law enforcement recovered 13 firearms, the charged silencer, and over 1,200 rounds of ammunition from Vaillancourt’s apartment during execution of a search warrant on an unrelated offense. The firearms seized from the apartment have been administratively forfeited. Officers also found evidence of an apparent marijuana distribution operation in the apartment. The National Firearms Act requires registration of all silencers, including homemade silencers like the one Vaillancourt possessed.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Hartford, Vermont Police Department, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in preparing the case.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Vaillancourt was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Andrew Buzzell, 34, of West Rutland, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution of child pornography, also known as Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

On August 10, 2026, Buzzell appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Buzzell be released subject to, among other conditions, home incarceration, which restricts Buzzell to 24-hour-a-day lock-down at his residence.

According to court records, in or around November 2024, Buzzell is alleged to have distributed materials containing child pornography, also known as Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) through a free instant messaging mobile application. According to a Cyber Tip submitted by the messaging platform to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), account user “kinkyvt1231” shared four files to other users via private chat messaging on the messaging platform, including, one .mp4 video file categorized as apparent child pornography. Law enforcement’s investigation revealed that the IP address and email address submitted with the Cyber Tip are both associated with Buzzell.

In June 2026, an FBI Online Covert Employee (OCE) working within a different application posted a message offering sex that was “Taboo Young.” During that conversation with the OCE, Buzzell solicited photos of the supposed nine-year-old girl who was available for sex and made various statements to the OCE discussing the specifics of a desired sexual encounter. Open-source information identified Buzzell as being an elder at a church in West Rutland, Vermont, and as the state director of the Child Evangelism Fellowship of Vermont.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Buzzell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Buzzell faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI, including the Violent Crimes Against Children Unit.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Buzzell is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 25, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Tyquan Washington, a/k/a “Bones,” 36, of Brooklyn, New York, with distribution of 28 grams or more of cocaine base (crack cocaine) and a quantity of cocaine.

Washington was arrested in New Jersey on June 11, 2026, pursuant to a warrant issued in connection with a criminal complaint filed in 2024 that charged Washington with the same distribution offense. Washington thereafter appeared before a United States Magistrate Judge in the District of New Jersey, where he was detained, and ordered transported to the District of Vermont. Upon arrival in Vermont, Washington was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on Monday, August 3, 2026.

According to court records, on February 22, 2024, agents with Homeland Security Investigations made a controlled purchase of more than 29 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of powder cocaine from Washington in Burlington, Vermont. Court records also indicate that the government has collected evidence that Washington is responsible for leading a drug trafficking organization that began operating in Vermont no later than 2023.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Washington is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Washington faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 40 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Washington is represented by Attorney William E. Kraham.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on July 23, 2026, a federal grand jury indicted Angel Louis Concepcion a/k/a “Cito” (37, of McKinney, Texas), Troy McIlwain a/k/a “Breeze” (37, of St. Albans, Vermont), and David Lauderbach a/k/a “Cane” (42, of Milton, Vermont), with conspiring to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and fentanyl from August 12, 2025, through May 2026 and with eight counts of distributing those drugs on specific dates within that time frame. The indictment was fully unsealed on July 30, 2026.

Both Concepcion and McIlwain are charged with distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl over the course of the conspiracy and doing so after they were previously convicted of “serious drug felonies” as defined by federal law.

On July 28, 2026, Concepcion was arrested in McKinney, Texas and, the next day, entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Concepcion was detained and is being transported to Vermont for prosecution.

Also on July 28, 2026, McIlwain was arrested in Vermont and, on July 29, 2026, entered a plea of not guilty during an arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge James O’Hara in the U.S. District Court of Vermont. McIlwain was detained pending trial.

On July 30, 2026, Lauderbach was arrested and is scheduled to appear in the U.S. District Court of Vermont on July 31, 2026 for his arraignment.

According to court records, Concepcion – operating remotely from Texas – coordinated the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine base by McIlwain, Lauderbach, and others in Vermont. On one occasion, when Concepcion was unhappy with the work of his subordinates, Concepcion traveled to Vermont to distribute the drugs himself.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that all of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, Concepcion and McIlwain face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison on Count One of the Indictment and they face charges of up to 20 years of incarceration for each count of distribution. Lauderbach faces a maximum sentence of 20 years for his role in the conspiracy and a statutory maximum of 20 years’ incarceration for each count of distribution. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Burlington Police Department, as well as assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, the Milton [Vermont] Police Department and the Collin County [Texas] Sheriff’s Office.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill. An attorney has not yet been appointed or retained to represent Concepcion or Lauderbach in the District of Vermont. McIlwain is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 11, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Maurice Nelson, 38, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with interfering with commerce by robbery, and with brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

Nelson entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on July 30, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge James P. O’Hara. Nelson was previously ordered detained pending trial at his initial appearance which occurred on May 19, 2026.

According to court records, on April 3, 2026, Nelson entered a convenience store in Williston, Vermont, pointed a handgun at the store clerk, and threatened to “blow [the clerk’s] head off.” Nelson fled the store with approximately $369 and packs of cigarettes, lighters, and a cup full of coins. After leaving the store, Nelson stole a vehicle from the parking lot and drove off. About 90 minutes later, law enforcement located the stolen vehicle on Main Street in Burlington, and apprehended Nelson nearby. Nelson’s clothing at the time of his apprehension was consistent in appearance with the clothing worn by the robber. Packs of cigarettes bearing the same lot number as the stolen packs were found in the vehicle. The day after Nelson’s arrest, Burlington Fire Department personnel located a handgun in the area where Nelson was arrested.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Nelson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Nelson faces a mandatory minimum of seven years of imprisonment and up to lifetime imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the swift and collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Williston Police Department, the Burlington Police Department, and the Vermont State Police.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jason Turner. Nelson is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Donald Stewart, 42, of Schenectady, New York, and Lisandro Brown, 49, of Rotterdam, New York, have been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base.

On July 27, 2026, Stewart and Brown both appeared before United States Magistrate Judge James O’Hara. Judge O’Hara ordered that both Stewart and Brown be detained pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled.

According to court records, Stewart and Brown sold cocaine base to a confidential source throughout June and July of 2026. On July 24, 2026, law enforcement executed search warrants at apartments located at 60 Colchester Avenue in Burlington, Vermont; 157 North Avenue in Burlington, Vermont; and 134 North Street in Burlington, Vermont. The searches resulted in the seizure of over 200 grams of powder cocaine, a loaded SKS rifle, and over $27,000 of cash.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Stewart and Brown are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Both men face up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The prosecutor is First Assistant United States Attorney Ophardt. Stewart is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Brown is represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 27, 2026, Richard Bailey Jr., 35, of St. Albans, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 22 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Richard Bailey previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on January 9, 2026.

According to court records, on June 2, 2025, police in St. Albans, Vermont, received a report of a domestic violence incident in which Bailey was reported to have struck a woman in the face and strangled her approximately six times, leaving her unable to breathe. Police observed bruising on the woman’s neck. Police also were informed that the woman was dropping her and Bailey’s child off at school and that Bailey was on his way there, threatening to shoot them. Police later escorted the woman to her workplace and observed Bailey standing at a nearby intersection. Bailey thereafter fled from police and discarded a fanny pack containing a loaded Sig Sauer pistol with a round chambered, as well as 9.6 grams of cocaine base. Bailey was prohibited from possessing firearms at the time of the incident because on September 15, 2015, Bailey was convicted of felony escape in Chittenden County Superior Court. During the sentencing hearing on July 27, 2026, the Court and the government were informed that Bailey’s felony conviction for escape was expunged after his federal guilty plea but prior to the sentencing hearing. Bailey has a long history of arrests related to domestic violence that resulted in misdemeanor resolutions for simple assault and stalking despite Bailey causing his victims physical harm. After the expungement, Bailey’s only felony conviction is his federal firearm conviction.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt stated: “Those who terrorize their domestic partners with violence cannot be allowed to possess firearms; the consequences of domestic abusers arming themselves with lethal weapons are too dire to tolerate. I applaud the collaborative investigatory work in this case of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Albans Police Department, and the Burlington Police Department. Their quick actions prevented a potential tragedy. Bailey’s federal conviction now ensures that he will be prohibited from possessing firearms regardless of any future expungements of state convictions.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Burris. Bailey was represented by Samuel Ansell of the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 24, 2026, Willard Perry, 68, of Milton, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 60 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release. The Court will hold a separate hearing as to restitution on September 16, 2026. Perry previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material, also known as child pornography.

According to court records, Perry possessed over 50,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse materials, including content depicting prepubescent female children between the ages of three and seven, who were bound, blindfolded, and sexually assaulted.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Willard Perry was represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

Jesus Hernandez Ortiz, 38, of Puerto Rico, pleaded guilty today in the District of Vermont to one count of conspiracy to illegally bring aliens to the United States and one count of illegally bringing at least one alien to the United States for the purpose of private financial gain.

Hernandez Ortiz and a co-defendant, Francisco Antonio Luna Rosado, were charged on Jan. 29. According to court documents, as early as September 2023, Hernandez Ortiz was added to an encrypted chat platform that coordinated drivers for long distance trips, including the pick-up of aliens illegally crossing into the United States from Canada. In mid-September 2023, Hernandez Ortiz agreed to such a trip. Hernandez Ortiz rented a commercial van in New Jersey and drove the van to the designated pick-up location in Holland, Vermont, at the assigned time. Hernandez Ortiz’s co-conspirators updated him on the exact location and time of the pick-up. Once there, Hernandez Ortiz picked up a group of twelve, including two young children, who had just entered the United States illegally. Hernandez Ortiz expected payment of $400 per alien ($4,800 total) upon arrival in New York City.

“The defendant joined a sophisticated illegal alien smuggling network, which spanned at least three continents, and even smuggled young children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Smuggling illegal aliens over our borders — whether southern or northern — puts both aliens and the American people at risk and violates the sanctity of our laws and our national security. The Department of Justice will continue to aggressively prosecute alien smugglers to enforce our criminal laws against illegal immigration and keep the American people safe.”

“The northern border is incredibly dangerous and anyone encouraging or facilitating the smuggling of aliens, especially children, across the border in these remote locations is putting lives at risk,” said Acting Deputy Executive Associate Director Matthew Millhollin of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Hernandez Ortiz has admitted to smuggling aliens for profit and now he’s facing real prison time. HSI and our law enforcement partners are using intelligence-focused investigations to secure our borders and stop alien smugglers in their tracks.” 

“Human smuggling, especially that of children, is a crime that preys on the most vulnerable populations,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Richard J. Fortunato of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Swanton Sector. “The incredible work of Swanton Sector’s Intelligence Unit, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations, was essential in preventing the smuggling and potential trafficking of these individuals and children. Border Patrol will continue to ensure these bad actors are apprehended and held accountable for their crimes.”

The Swanton Sector Intelligence Unit assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Newport Station and the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England Office led U.S. investigative efforts, with assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.

Trial Attorneys Jake Drucker and Emily Cohen of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles for the District of Vermont are prosecuting the case.

The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section's (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.

MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims.

The investigation and charges are supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 465 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 419 U.S. convictions; more than 363 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 25, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Todd Bussino, age 42, of Rutland, Vermont, with interfering with commerce by attempted robbery.

Bussino entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on July 21, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Bussino also appeared on allegations he violated his federal supervised release. Judge Doyle ordered that Bussino be detained pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled.

According to court records, on June 14, 2026, Bussino walked into a Rutland convenience store while wearing a hat and mask, displayed a box cutter, and demanded the money in the cash register. The cashier told Bussino no and retreated to the store’s office. Bussino attempted to open the register himself, failed, and left the store after stealing a beverage.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Bussino is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Bussino faces up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Rutland City Police Department and the FBI.

The prosecutor is First Assistant United States Attorney Ophardt. Bussino is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 21, 2026, Stephen Lane, 57, of Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 97 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release. Chief Judge Reiss also imposed a $10,000 assessment to be paid to the Child Pornography Victims Reserve and a $5,000 assessment to be paid to the Domestic Trafficking Victims’ Fund. Lane previously pleaded guilty to distributing a video of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

According to court records, between September 26, 2024, and October 9, 2024, defendant Lane corresponded with an undercover U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) special agent, who purported to be a 13-year-old living in Korea with her family. Lane engaged in messaging through social media websites and internet-based platforms, seeking to have the purported teenage girl produce and send CSAM. Army CID coordinated with the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations, who then executed a search warrant at Lane’s residence on October 10, 2024. A subsequent review of Lane’s electronic devices revealed that Lane was corresponding with multiple people over the internet, seeking media files and/or video chats depicting CSAM involving teenage girls. One of these people indicated they were 17 years old. Lane asked this person to produce CSAM, and during the exchange, sent a 28-second video of a child under the age of 16 exposing herself. Lane was initially charged in Vermont Superior Court. Upon his federal arrest in December 2025, Lane was found to be in violation of his state release conditions, including by using the messaging component of a meditation cellphone application to contact other users who he believed looked like young girls.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division, Homeland Security Investigations, and Detectives of the Vermont Attorney General’s Office.

The case was prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt. Lane was represented by Jessica L. Burke, Esq., and Sara M. Puls, Esq.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont  announced that on July 15, 2026, following a six-day jury trial in United States District Court in Burlington, Rockylane Lewis, 36, of Springfield, Massachusetts was convicted of conspiring to distribute cocaine base (crack), fentanyl, and oxycodone, conspiring to use juveniles to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, four counts of using juveniles on specific dates to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, and conspiring to use firearms in relation to, or possess firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy. Prior to opening statements in the trial, Lewis also pled guilty to three counts of distributing cocaine base and fentanyl on specific dates in 2023, while his co-defendant Takar Watson, 42, of Springfield, Massachusetts, pled guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine. Lewis, who was arrested in June 2023, and Watson, who was arrested in September 2025, remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending post-trial proceedings.

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Lewis, Watson, and other co-conspirators conspired to distribute oxycodone in Massachusetts, and then used proceeds from those drug sales to fund the purchase of drugs to be distributed in Vermont. Lewis and others agreed that juveniles would be taught to sell drugs and would distribute drugs on behalf of the conspiracy in Vermont. Between December 2022 and June 2023, law enforcement conducted fourteen controlled purchases of cocaine base and fentanyl from Lewis and others associated with the drug conspiracy in the Rutland, Vermont area. In three of those controlled purchases, Lewis sold fentanyl or cocaine base to a law enforcement confidential informant. In eight of the controlled purchases, five juveniles between the ages of 15 and 17, distributed controlled substances to the law enforcement confidential informant. Social media and text messaging presented during the trial showed Lewis communicating with the juveniles regarding the distribution of controlled substances. The evidence at trial also showed that the members of the conspiracy agreed to use firearms in relation to, or possess firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy. Lewis was arrested in Rutland, Vermont on the afternoon of June 21, 2023. Later that evening a 15-year-old co-conspirator was detained by law enforcement in possession of a 9mm pistol and approximately seven grams of cocaine base.

Based on the jury’s verdict, Lewis faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment and a potential maximum sentence of life. Takar Watson’s plea agreement includes an agreed sentence, subject to approval by the Court, of 48 months, with a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years. The ultimate sentence for both Lewis and Watson will be determined by the Court with reference to the Sentencing Guidelines and statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigative efforts of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the Rutland City Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives (“ATF”), the Vermont State Police Vermont Drug Task Force (“VDTF”), and the Bennington County Sheriff’s Office. Ophardt added: “Lewis manipulated and armed children to peddle poisons for profit throughout Rutland. I am extremely proud of the law enforcement efforts to uncover the extent of Lewis and Watson’s illicit activities, and grateful for the hard work of the trial team in obtaining these convictions. We will be advocating for a lengthy sentence for Lewis, whose callous conduct warrants significant punishment.”

“Trafficking drugs in our community is bad enough, but endangering the lives and futures of children for profit is simply egregious. Now, a jury has found Lewis guilty and he’s facing serious prison time. HSI is working every day with our law enforcement partners to improve public safety in Vermont. Tackling drug trafficking is an important part of our strategy and this verdict marks a significant achievement towards our goals,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Grimming.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Turner and Michelle Arra. Rockylane Lewis was represented by Karen Shingler, Esq. and Takar Watson was represented by Matthew Anderson, Esq.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on July 14, 2026, Reginald Adam Velasquez, age 34, a citizen of Belize, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 14 months’ imprisonment. Velasquez previously pleaded guilty to lying in connection with the attempted purchase of a firearm.

According to court records, Velasquez illegally entered the United States in 2022. After his illegal entry, Velasquez was paroled into the United States, but in early 2025, Velasquez failed to comply with the terms of his parole and his immigration proceedings were terminated. Approximately nine months later, in late 2025, Velasquez attempted to purchase a firearm from a federal firearms licensee in Vermont. During the attempted purchase, Velasquez filled out an ATF Form 4473 on which he knowingly lied about his immigration status. After Velasquez was arrested, additional investigation revealed that, during the Summer and Fall of 2025, Velasquez was engaged in drug dealing in Vermont, including trading a firearm for drugs.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Border Patrol, and Homeland Security Investigations.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn. Velasquez was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.

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.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on July 2, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Myrkel Latroy Staley, 43, of Shelburne, Vermont, with bank fraud. Staley entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on July 14, 2026 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered Staley released on conditions.

According to the indictment, between June 2021 and March 2023, Staley devised a scheme to defraud TD Bank by submitting fraudulent documents in connection with a mortgage loan on a property in Shelburne, Vermont and a home equity loan on the same property. To obtain the loans, Staley submitted fraudulent tax returns to TD Bank. He also fraudulently obtained $283,000 from another person and used those funds to pay for the downpayment on the Shelburne property. To legitimize the source of funds for the downpayment on the property, Staley submitted additional fraudulent documents to the bank.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Staley is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Staley faces up to 30 years and a $1,000,000 fine, or both, if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI, the United States Secret Service and the IRS-Criminal Division.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Wendy L. Fuller. Staley is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced today that it had successfully obtained a judgment in forfeiture for $2,270,202.39 in funds stolen from the Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) in a cyber-enabled fraud scheme. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III signed the order of forfeiture and judgment on July 2, 2026, releasing the funds to the government. According to the settlement agreement in the case, the funds will now be returned to CSWD by the United States Marshals Service.

As explained in documents from the case, in late January 2026, CSWD received an email that appeared to redirect payments owed to a construction company with whom they were engaged in an ongoing project. Pursuant to the email’s directions, CSWD sent two payments, totaling over $3 million, to an account at Citibank. In fact, the account at Citibank did not belong to the construction company but was instead receiving the funds as part of an ongoing fraud scheme. With the assistance of the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office seized the funds from the bank pursuant to a civil seizure warrant and obtained forfeiture of the funds to the government to allow the return to CSWD.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the prompt investigatory efforts of the FBI in identifying and recovering the stolen funds and thanked the United States Marshals Service for their assistance executing the forfeiture. He added: “Recoveries of stolen funds from sophisticated cyber actors are only possible when impacted entities quickly alert law enforcement about their losses. In this case, CSWD swiftly notified law enforcement and coordinated with the FBI. Because of CSWD’s actions in the wake of the phishing scam, we were able to seize and return over $2 million dollars to CSWD, a benefit to all residents of Chittenden County.”

FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli of the Albany Field Office also praised CSWD’s actions and urged rapid reporting saying, "this type of fraud is one of the most pervasive threats facing our communities today, but the FBI is here to help. Thanks to the quick reporting from Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD), our team was able to immediately get to work to recover the transactions and return a substantial portion of the stolen funds. I thank CSWD and the District of Vermont for their swift and strong coordination, and I implore the public to immediately report this type of fraud to law enforcement so we can work together to achieve a similar outcome."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia A. P. Cowles handled this civil forfeiture matter for the government.

BURLINGTON – Over the last six weeks, unlawful crossing activity at Vermont’s international border with Canada has increased significantly, resulting in a substantial number of criminal prosecutions in the District of Vermont. Since May 22, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont has prosecuted 60 defendants for crimes related to unlawful border crossings. These 60 defendants were citizens and nationals of 20 different foreign countries including Angola, Chile, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Greece, Guatemala, Guinea, India, Iran, Ireland, Jamaica, Mauritania, Mexico, Romania, Senegal, Spain, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom. Court proceedings required interpretation services for 12 different languages. Four of the defendants were charged with felony alien smuggling offenses. One defendant was charged with felony unlawful reentry after a prior removal. The remainder of the defendants were charged with misdemeanor illegal entry.

One of the alien smuggling cases occurred on June 11, 2026. According to court records, a minivan linked to prior smuggling activity was located by Border Patrol in Newport, Vermont. The minivan drove at a high rate of speed through streets in the City of Newport, eventually merging onto Interstate 91 southbound. Border Patrol successfully stopped the vehicle on Interstate 91. An immigration inspection revealed that the driver of the minivan was Eduardo Luis Frias-Urena, age 37, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, who has lawful permanent resident status in the United States. In the back seat, agents located Ion Tulceanu, age 31, a citizen of Romania. Tulceanu admitted he had flown from Romania to Poland, and then to Toronto, Canada, rode a bus to Montreal, and paid for a ride to the border, where he crossed the border on foot. On June 12, 2026, Tulceanu pleaded guilty to illegal entry and received a sentence of time served from United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Frias-Urena was charged by criminal complaint with transportation of an illegal alien and was ordered by Magistrate Judge Doyle to be released on conditions pending trial.

Another alien smuggling case occurred on June 20, 2026. According to court records, Border Patrol surveillance detected a crossing event on the border near Highgate, Vermont at approximately 4:00pm. Approximately 2.5 hours later, six people were found hiding in the woods off a rural road in the same vicinity. They were identified as Sidney Lauryn Parra Torres, age 24, a citizen of Colombia and a woman from the Congo with her four children aged 2 to 14 years old. Border Patrol later apprehended Maimouna Diakhate, age 24, of Senegal, at a residence in close proximity to where the others had been apprehended. A Toyota Prius that had been previously suspected of alien smuggling was located loitering in the area in proximity of the Highgate Port of Entry. The vehicle was stopped, and the driver identified as Oguzhan Yilmaz, age 25, a citizen of Türkiye, who was detained. Investigation revealed that Yilmaz had received Zelle payments from Parra Torres. On June 22, 2026, Diakhate pleaded guilty to illegal entry and received a sentence of time served from Magistrate Judge Doyle. Parra Torres was charged by criminal complaint with illegal entry and consented to detention pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. Yilmaz was charged by criminal complaint with attempted transportation of an illegal alien and was ordered by Magistrate Judge Doyle to be released on conditions pending trial.

One of the illegal entry cases involved an illegal entry through the Haskell Free Library and Opera House in Derby Line, Vermont by Maria Paz Gonzalez-Vidal, age 59, a citizen of Chile. According to court records, Gonzalez-Vidal purchased both a Canadian and an American ticket to a performance at the Haskell on June 13, 2026. While inside the Haskell, Gonzalez-Vidal changed clothing in an apparent attempt to facilitate her unlawful entry into the United States. Gonzalez-Vidal then exited the Haskell, and was apprehended on Main Street in Derby Line, Vermont. She pleaded guilty to illegal entry on June 15, 2026, and received a sentence of time served from Magistrate Judge Doyle.

Another case involved an illegal entry by Diego Alejandro Restrepo-Vergara, age 45, a citizen of Colombia. According to court records, Restrepo-Vergara flew from Panama City, Panama to Montreal, Canada on June 21. One June 22, he crossed the international border near the Haskell Free Library and Opera House in Derby Line, Vermont on foot, and was apprehended on June 23 in Newport, Vermont. At the time of his apprehension, Restrepo-Vergara had a valid American tourist visa, and could have lawfully entered at the Derby Line Port of Entry approximately 200 yards from the Haskell Free Library. Restrepo-Vergara pleaded guilty to illegal entry on June 24, 2026, and received a sentence of time served from Magistrate Judge Doyle.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that those pending trial are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Frias-Urena and Yilmaz face up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted of alien smuggling.  Parra Torres faces up to six months of imprisonment if convicted of illegal entry. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the diligent efforts of the United States Border Patrol Agents patrolling the northern border of Vermont. He added: “Securing our northern border with Canada remains a significant national security priority. Everyone crossing the border, including United States citizens, must do so at a designated port of entry. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize prosecution of those who unlawfully enter our country and those facilitating their unlawful entry.”

“Securing our border is a paramount national security priority, and I want to be unequivocally clear: the border is closed to illegal immigration”, stated Acting Chief Patrol Agent Richard Fortunato, Swanton Border Patrol Sector. “We are deeply grateful for the diligent efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont in prosecuting the 60 defendants involved in unlawful border crossings. Their commitment to upholding the rule of law is critical in our shared mission to protect our nation and deter those who seek to enter our country illegally.”

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

BURLINGTON– The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 25, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Tyree Canty a/k/a “Black,” 47, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Lord Crayton a/k/a “Little Creep,” 35, of Woodhaven, New York, and Dimetrice Warner a/k/a “Unc,” 37, of The Bronx, New York, with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. Two additional men were also indicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, but their identities remain under seal. Canty faces an additional charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

Canty, Warner, and Crayton all appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on June 22 after they were charged via criminal complaint. Judge Doyle ordered that Canty and Warner be detained pending further proceedings. Crayton was ordered released on conditions.

According to court records, the five men conspired to distribute cocaine and cocaine base at various locations in and around St. Albans, Vermont and Highgate, Vermont between approximately April 7, 2026 and June 18, 2026. Confidential informants, under the supervision of law enforcement, conducted multiple purchases of crack cocaine from the group. The investigation culminated in the execution of two federal search warrants on June 18, 2026, one in St. Albans and the other in Highgate. During the execution of the search warrant in St. Albans, Crayton and Warner were arrested, and cocaine and packaging materials were seized. During the execution of the search warrant in Highgate, Canty was arrested and law enforcement seized controlled substances, thousands of dollars in cash, and a firearm.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, all of the defendants face up to 20 years of imprisonment for the drug trafficking conspiracy. Canty faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of life imprisonment if convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Albans Police Department.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Dana Hill. Canty is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Warner is represented by Kevin Henry, Esq. Crayton is represented by Jessica Burke, Esq.

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 25, 2026, Jeffrey Brown, 35, of Richford, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 36 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Brown previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court records, in August of 2025, Brown was in regular disputes with his neighbors in Richford, Vermont. During one of the disputes, Brown pointed a handgun at his neighbor. Children were present during this armed confrontation. Brown is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony convictions for Harassment and Threatening which he received in Connecticut state courts.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt thanked the Vermont State Police and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for their work in investigating the case.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Jeffrey Brown was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.

BURLINGTON– The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Christopher Palermo, 49, of Andover, New Hampshire, has been charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer. On June 23, 2026, Palermo appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Palermo be detained pending trial.

According to court records, a Deputy U.S. Marshal and Vermont State Police Troopers were attempting to arrest Palermo on April 24, 2026, at a residence in Groton, Vermont. At the time, Palermo had multiple extraditable arrest warrants issued by New Hampshire state courts. Palermo attempted to flee on foot, and resisted arrest after his apprehension. While law enforcement was attempting to secure Palermo in a VSP cruiser, Palermo bit the Deputy U.S. Marshal on the bicep, causing injury.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Palermo is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Palermo faces up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its assistance investigating the case.

The prosecutor is First Assistant United States Attorney Ophardt. Palermo is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sam Ansell.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 16, 2026, Jason Douglas, age 42, of Saint Albans, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 65 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Douglas pleaded guilty on February 26, 2026 to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court records, during the middle of the day on July 29, 2024, Burlington Police Officers responded to College Street in Burlington, Vermont after reports that a man, later identified as Douglas, had pointed a firearm at another man during a dispute. Security footage from the area confirmed witness reports that Douglas had emerged from a vehicle carrying a handgun, loaded a round into the chamber of the firearm, and pointed the firearm at another man. While officers were investigating this first incident, officers received another report of Douglas pulling a handgun on a man during a fight on Main Street in Burlington. Douglas’s vehicle was located shortly thereafter, and a Ruger LCP .380-caliber pistol, loaded with a round in the chamber, was seized from the driver’s side of the vehicle. Douglas has an extensive criminal history in both Grand Isle and Franklin Counties, including convictions for kidnapping, burglary, unlawful restraint, domestic assault, simple assault, and hindering arrest. Some of these convictions stemmed from Douglas’s involvement in a violent armed home invasion in 2003 and a violent armed altercation in 2005. Douglas’s prior felony convictions prohibited Douglas from possessing a firearm under federal law.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the swift intervention of the Burlington Police Department to disarm Douglas, and thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for their investigatory assistance. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt added: “Douglas twice engaged in brazen daytime armed assaults in downtown Burlington with a loaded handgun. Dedicated officers of the Burlington Police Department took quick action and promptly apprehended Douglas. I am extremely grateful for the partnership of BPD and ATF; together we will continue to hold violent offenders like Douglas accountable through federal prosecutions.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wendy Fuller and David Golubock. Douglas was represented by Devin McLaughlin, Esq.

BURLINGTON – First recognized on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides an opportunity for dialogue and action on the issues of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation – crimes that are often overlooked or unreported. In 2026, government agencies and business across the United States are using this day to raise awareness about imposter scams and providing information about how to recognize and avoid them.

In imposter scams, criminals pretend to be someone they are not – including government agencies and well-known businesses. The scammers attempt to trick people into giving them money, access to financial accounts, and/or access to personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies, in an attempt to cause panic and force quick action before a person has time to think critically and/or talk to someone they trust.

Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million.

Common imposter scams that have targeted Vermonters in recent months include:

• “Juror Scams,” where scammers impersonate a U.S. Marshal, court clerk, or local law enforcement officer to threaten recipients with fines and jail time for “failing to appear” for jury duty or obtaining personal information by seeking to “verify” identity.
• “DMV” or “Toll Scams,” where scammers pretend to be seeking collection of unpaid tickets, fees or tolls, threatening recipients with suspension of a license or registration if they do not pay immediately.
• “Family Emergency Scams,” where scammers impersonate law enforcement, or falsely claim a relative is in distress or under arrest, and demand payment for rescue or “bail” money for the relative’s release.
• “Money Protection Scams,” where a scammer pretends to be with a government agency who “noticed” suspicious activity in an account, and seeks transfer of the funds to a “safekeeping” account.

“The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont is working tirelessly with our federal investigative partners to pursue scammers who reach into Vermont to cause fear and confusion for the sake of illicit profit,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. “We have had successes identifying these criminals to hold them accountable in the criminal justice system, and we will continue to prioritize investigation and prosecution of these offenders. But the best method to address this risk is prevention. I encourage everyone to become aware of the common methods used by scammers and help protect each other from these forms of abuse.”

Here are some tips on how to avoid falling victim to a financial scam:

• Slow down, breathe, and take your time. Scammers thrive on panic and urgency; slowing down phone and text interactions will help you spot the signs of fraud.
• Don’t share personal or financial information with anyone you don’t know.
• If someone contacts you and makes demands, write down the phone number and hang up.  Independently find the agency phone number from a trusted source before calling back.
• If the person asking for money or information claims to be a relative, a friend, or someone you know, do not respond right away. Instead, contact the person independently or ask a trusted family member or friend for help.
• In-person collection is a red flag; government agencies will not send someone to your home to collect cash.

Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if a stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — please report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. The Department of Justice also has a National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11, as well as resources for elder abuse awareness, prevention, and reporting at https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. The U.S. Administration on Aging also helps connect older adults and their families to services through its Eldercare Locator, reachable at 1-800-677-1116 and eldercare.acl.gov.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that ten defendants in a drug trafficking organization led by Hussein Iman, age 22, of Springfield, Massachusetts, have been sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss for drug trafficking and money laundering offenses.

According to court records, Iman managed an organization that distributed ounces of fentanyl and cocaine base throughout Vermont beginning by October 2023 and continuing even after Iman’s July 2024 arrest. Iman initially ran the organization from Springfield, Massachusetts using a social media account, and continued to direct its activities while detained in jail.

Law enforcement conducted a total of five controlled purchases from Iman’s organization through the social media account between April and July 2024. Iman had other people, including juveniles, transport drugs to Vermont for distribution from multiple locations in Orange and Washington Counties. Iman’s drug customers included at least one juvenile. Iman and other members of the organization possessed firearms and used violence to further their drug trafficking activities. In social media messages, Iman bragged about directing violence against individuals to further his drug trafficking business. Iman also conspired with co-defendants to launder the financial proceeds from the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine base.

One of the locations that Iman used as a drug distribution hub was a 14-acre property in Williamstown, Vermont that was controlled and maintained by co-defendant Joseph Cadorette, II. When law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Williamstown property in July 2024, they found a juvenile who had been reported missing, six firearms, ammunition, fentanyl, cocaine base, and a large amount of U.S. currency.

Hussein Iman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to use a place for the purpose of distributing and using a controlled substance, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to launder money, and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base. On October 9, 2025, he was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was represented by Tristram Coffin, Esq.

Joseph Cadorette, II, age 38, of Williamstown, Vermont, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to use a place for the purpose of distributing and using a controlled substance. On October 23, 2025, he was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He was represented by Lisa Shelkrot, Esq.

Abdirahman Aden, age 24, of Louisville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. On September 4, 2025, he was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He was represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.

Marcus Santiago, age 24, of Rochester, New York, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl. On August 4, 2025, he was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He was represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.

Michael Bernier, age 42, of East Montpelier, Vermont, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money. On May 7, 2026, he was sentenced to time served and three years of supervised release. He was represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq.

Amanda Delisle, age 39, of Leicester, Vermont, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money. On November 21, 2025, she was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. She was represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.

Christina Byrd, age 43, of Granville, Vermont, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and cocaine base. On November 25, 2025, she was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. She was represented by Michael Straub, Esq.

Geneva Brown, age 22, of Springfield, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money. On May 5, 2026, she was sentenced to five years of probation. She was represented by Frank Twarog, Esq.

Anthony Matarazzo, age 38, of Barre, Vermont, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl and cocaine base. On September 2, 2025, he was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the U.S. Border Patrol; the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Department; the Vermont State Police, including its Narcotics Investigation Unit; the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations; the Hampden County, Massachusetts Sheriff’s Office; the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Springfield, Massachusetts Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Barre Town Police Department; and the Barre City Police Department.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt stated: “This armed and violent drug trafficking organization, which distributed fentanyl and cocaine base throughout central Vermont, was dismantled thanks to the diligent and thorough investigation spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute dangerous narcotics distribution organizations.”

“Today’s tenth and final sentencing marks a significant milestone in the dismantlement of this drug trafficking ring and the end of a long, painstaking investigation. HSI and our law enforcement partners followed the trail of this sprawling conspiracy to Vermont where Iman and his conspirators peddled fentanyl and cocaine base with blatant disregard for the danger they inflict on the community. Deadly drugs have taken too many lives and destroyed too many families in Vermont. HSI will continue to work ceaselessly to dismantle drug trafficking networks and bring traffickers to justice,” said Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Grimming.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Cate and Andrew Gilman.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 9, 2026, Donna Robinson, age 44, of Randolph, Vermont was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 21 months of imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Robinson previously pleaded guilty to illegally possessing firearms as a convicted felon.

According to court records, Robinson was arrested after law enforcement responded to a shooting that occurred at a residence in Barre, Vermont on April 24, 2025. Investigators determined that Robinson and her significant other had gone to the residence to confront another individual about a drug-related dispute. While there, Robinson’s significant other tried to hand a firearm to Robinson. The gun fired, fatally wounding Robinson’s significant other. Law enforcement subsequently located two firearms concealed under rocks outside the residence. Robinson, who had previously been convicted of felony drug offenses and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms, admitted to law enforcement that she had previously handled and shot both firearms and that she moved the firearms after the shooting.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Vermont State Police; and the Barre City Police Department for their investigative efforts in this case.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Cate. Robinson was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on May 28, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Davon Olin, 36, of Hackensack, New Jersey and The Bronx, New York; Corey Vasquez, 35, of The Bronx, New York; James Michael Roosevelt Williams, 34, of The Bronx, New York; Mark Ochoa, 34, of The Bronx, New York; Lindsay Sheehan, 37, of The Bronx, New York, and two others with wire fraud conspiracy, bank fraud conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft. Olin appeared in United States District Court for the District of New Jersey on June 3, 2026, and was detained pending further proceedings to occur on June 8, 2026. Ochoa and Williams appeared in United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on June 3, 2026, and were ordered released upon satisfaction of conditions. Sheehan is expected to appear later today. Vasquez was previously arrested on state charges in Kentucky, and Vasquez’s appearance in federal court has not yet been scheduled. Two additional defendants have not yet been arrested.

According to court records, from approximately August 2024 to August 2025, Davon Olin obtained stolen, legitimate U.S. Treasury checks in the names of various individuals. Olin then obtained false identification documents, including driver’s licenses, using the names, dates of birth and social security numbers of the intended U.S. Treasury check recipients and photographs of Vasquez, Ochoa, Sheehan and other group members. Working with Vasquez and Williams, Olin provided the false identification documents to check depositors, including Vasquez, Ochoa, and Sheehan, who then presented the stolen U.S. Treasury checks and their false driver’s licenses to banks in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and elsewhere to open accounts and deposit the stolen checks, thereby fraudulently obtaining government funds. The scheme involved more than $500,000.00 in stolen U.S. Treasury checks.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that the seven defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Each defendant faces up to 30 years of imprisonment if convicted. Cory Vasquez, Mark Ochoa, and Lindsay Sheehan also face aggravated identity theft charges which carry a mandatory 2-year consecutive sentence. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Eugenia A. P. Cowles. The seven defendants have not yet retained nor been appointed counsel.

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

RUTLAND – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 27, 2026, Terry Russ, 43, of Grafton, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 72 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Russ pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and possessing a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking offense.

According to court records, ATF’s investigation into Russ first began when Russ was connected with a firearm used in an incident in Springfield, Massachusetts, in which police officers were shot and one was seriously injured. Russ later sold an untraceable privately-manufactured firearm with 53 rounds of ammunition, 200 bags of fentanyl, and 15.5 grams of cocaine to a confidential informant. A subsequent search of Russ’s property resulted in the seizure of 12 additional firearms, 12.5 grams of fentanyl, and 69.5 grams of cocaine.

At sentencing, the government noted the scale of Russ’s drug dealing, highlighting witness statements indicating that Russ had served as many as ten clients per day, keeping multiple firearms in close proximity to where he conducted drug transactions. The government’s sentencing memo also highlighted Russ’s significant criminal history and his prior convictions for violent offenses, including four convictions for assault and two convictions for violating abuse prevention orders, as well as prior convictions for burglary and drug offenses.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Vermont State Police; and the Brattleboro Police Department.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Corinne Smith and David Golubock. Terry Russ was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.

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.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont is proud to announce that Detective Trooper Jesse Dambrackas of the Vermont State Police has been awarded the inaugural Hometown Hero Award, sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

Detective Dambrackas has been a member of the Vermont Drug Task Force in southwest Vermont since 2019. During this tenure, Detective Dambrackas has assisted the United States Attorney’s Office in securing convictions for over 65 defendants in federal court. Many of these defendants were armed with firearms, and many employed violence in Rutland, Addison, and Bennington Counties as part of their drug trafficking activities.

Detective Dambrackas is well known among federal, state, and local law enforcement as a willing and effective investigatory partner who sets aside concern for personal credit and recognition, focusing instead on pursuing violent and armed drug traffickers that cause harm in Vermont communities. In addition to his work on the Vermont Drug Task Force, Detective Dambrackas is a member of the Vermont State Police Underwater Recovery Team, assisting the team with recovering people and evidentiary items from bodies of water throughout Vermont.

In a ceremony on May 19, 2026 at the Vermont State Police Rutland barracks, First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt (on left) awarded Detective Dambrackas (on right) the Hometown Hero Award. In addition to Detective Dambrackas’s colleagues from the Vermont State Police, representatives from the FBI, DEA, and HSI were present to thank Detective Dambrackas for his support and partnership on federal investigations and prosecutions.

BURLINGTON – First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont collected $4,437,008.08 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $1,722,712.24 was collected in criminal actions and $2,714,295.84 was collected in civil actions. The District of Vermont also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $73,705.04 in criminal cases pursued jointly by these offices.

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

U.S. Attorneys’ Offices also use civil and criminal forfeiture tools to seize and forfeit monies and property that were proceeds of or facilitated serious criminal conduct. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $7,720,856.00 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets are deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund and used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

Notable forfeitures and collections include the following:

• Over $6.9 million of funds and property that were the proceeds of a cryptocurrency confidence scam impacting over 100 victims across the United States. In total, during fiscal years 2024 and 2025, FBI Vermont and the Vermont U.S. Attorney’s Office have forfeited over $8.1 million of funds and property related to the scam. FBI and the Vermont U.S. Attorney’s Office worked to identify assets purchased with victim money, ultimately forfeiting a residence in Frisco, Texas and $6.9 million of cryptocurrency. Feng Chen, 36, and Tianqiong Xu, 36, recently of Frisco, Texas, were indicted for the scheme on June 27, 2024, but are fugitives and believed to have returned to China. The indictment contains allegations only; Chen and Xu are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The Vermont U.S. Attorney’s Office is currently working to return the seized funds to the victims of the scheme.
• $226,409.95 of restitution, fines, and assessments were collected from Matthew Ernest, 51, of Winooski, Vermont in 2025. In 2024, Ernest was convicted of possessing child sexual abuse materials. On January 16, 2025, United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier ordered Ernest to serve 8 months in prison, pay $104,000.00 of restitution to 14 victims of his offense, a $100,000.00 fine plus interest, and $22,100.00 of special assessments.
• $82,500.00 was collected from Madison Carrig in 2025. In 2024, Carrig was convicted of access device fraud related to her embezzlement of money from the automobile dealerships that employed her. During Carrig’s 2025 sentencing, she was ordered to pay $141,000.00 of restitution.
• $321,718.00 of restitution and fines were collected from James Mailhiot.  In 2024, Mailhiot was convicted of federal income tax evasion, stemming from Mailhiot’s understating the income he earned from his roofing business. $296,718.00 of back taxes and a $25,000.00 fine were collected from Mailhiot in 2025.
• $1,994,000.00 was collected from Galvion, Ltd., in connection with its 2024 settlement of False Claims Act allegations for the knowing sale of non-conforming parts to the United States Department of Defense.
• $426,186.23 was collected from Revision Military, Ltd., in connection with its 2024 settlement of False Claims Act allegations for selling eyewear products that it falsely represented were wholly sourced in the United States.
• $201,400.00 was collected on behalf of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to resolve debts owed to the government.

First Assistant United States Attorney Ophardt commended the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Financial Litigation Unit and Asset Forfeiture personnel for their diligent work on behalf of crime victims and the public.
 

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Joshua Bedard, 38, of Waterbury, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and distribution of cocaine and cocaine base. On May 12, 2026, Bedard appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Bedard be detained pending trial.

According to court records, Bedard was involved in the distribution of cocaine and cocaine base on at least two separate occasions in April of 2026 in the greater Brattleboro, Vermont area. During one of the distributions, Bedard was observed in possession of a revolver. Bedard was arrested for these distributions on May 12, 2026 in Brattleboro. At the time of his arrest, Bedard was driving a rental vehicle. Inside the rental vehicle, law enforcement located approximately 400 grams of cocaine and a loaded revolver.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Bedard is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Bedard faces up to life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum of 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force, the FBI Vermont, the FBI’s Western Massachusetts Gang Task Force, the Brattleboro Police Department, and the Hartford, Vermont Police Department.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Joshua L. Banker. Bedard is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Todd Jarvis, 54, and Kylei Brown, 24, both of Winooski, Vermont, have been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl. On May 12, 2026, Jarvis appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Jarvis be detained pending trial. Brown is scheduled to have her initial appearance later today.

According to court records, the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted substantial surveillance of Jarvis after learning from sources that Jarvis was engaged in drug trafficking. DEA’s surveillance revealed that Jarvis was associated with multiple drug-involved locations in the greater Burlington area, that Brown frequently accompanied him on visits to these drug-involved locations, and that Jarvis was making short-duration trips to New York City. These observations led law enforcement to interdict Jarvis on the evening of May 10, 2026, while he was returning to Vermont from New York City. During a traffic stop in Shelburne, Vermont, Brown was driving, and Jarvis was the passenger. A search of Jarvis’ person revealed approximately 510 grams of suspected cocaine base and 24 grams of suspected fentanyl in his vest pocket. A search of Jarvis and Brown’s Winooski apartment occurred in the early morning hours of May 11, 2026, resulting in the seizure of additional suspected controlled substances and drug trafficking paraphernalia.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Jarvis and Brown are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Jarvis and Brown face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Vermont Office, thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Task Force 21, the Burlington Police Department, and the Essex Police Department for their assistance.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nate Burris. Jarvis is represented by Lisa Shelkrot, Esq. Brown is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on May 8, 2026, Kyle Pickett, 31, of Windsor County, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to 53 months of imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Pickett previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms.

According to court records, on November 25, 2023, Pickett possessed two loaded stolen firearms, a Winchester Model 62 .22 rifle and a Winchester Model 42 410 shotgun, in a Ford Ranger truck, which Pickett had also stolen from a residence in Strafford, Vermont. When law enforcement attempted to conduct a vehicle stop on Pickett while he was driving the Ranger, he fled at a high rate of speed, through a residential neighborhood. Pickett is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony convictions, including one for eluding a law enforcement officer.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Pickett was represented by Charles N. Curlett, Jr., Assistant Federal Public Defender.

BURLINGTON – National Police Week will be observed from Sunday, May 10, 2026, to Saturday, May 16, 2026. National Police Week is set aside each year to recognize the significant contributions and extraordinary work by law enforcement in keeping our communities safe. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont thanks all federal, state, county, and local law enforcement officers in Vermont for their service and sacrifice.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt stated: “Police officers are vital guardians, essential to maintaining the thriving communities within which we live. Over 1,000 police officers, sheriff’s deputies, troopers, and agents work tirelessly across Vermont to prevent the victimization of the vulnerable and apprehend those who commit crime. These law enforcement officers face dangerous and challenging situations on a daily basis, and their commitment to serving and protecting our community is truly inspiring. I invite all Vermonters to honor the courageous law enforcement professionals who serve the public and call on good men and women to join them in the ranks of this noble profession.”

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Based on data compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 109 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2025.

Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages Vermonters and citizens across the country to remember and honor those who gave their lives so the rest of us can live safely.

As stated on NLEOMF’s website, the names of all officers killed in the line of duty are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C. and will be read aloud during the annual Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall, on May 13, 2026. This year, U.S. Border Patrol Agent David “Chris” Maland’s name will be added to the Memorial. Agent Maland was shot and killed in the line of duty on January 20, 2025, in Coventry, Vermont.

The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.

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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.

BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on November 18, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging the following seven Canadian nationals with participation in a “Grandparent Scam” that defrauded elderly individuals in Vermont and more than 40 other states:

Evangelos Lohaitis, a.k.a. “Bucky,” (36 – Saint-Eustache, Québec)
Mitchell Burnett-Guarna, a.k.a. “Juice,” (39 – Dorval, Québec)
Kyle Lesser, a.k.a. “Brock,” (34 – Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot, Québec)
Luca Santalucia, a.k.a. “Rocco,” (27 – Montreal, Québec)
Glen Crossley, a.k.a. “Buju,” (56 – Kirkland, Québec)
Cody Jodouin-King, a.k.a. “Lids,” (28 – Vaudreuil-Dorion, Québec)
Panagiota Fountotos, a.k.a. “Nike,” (29 – Laval, Québec)

All seven defendants were arrested in Canada on May 7, 2026. The charges relate to a separate indictment charging 25 other defendants, including Gareth West, with participation in the same Grandparent Scam.

According to the indictment, which was unsealed on May 7, 2026, between the summer of 2021 and June 4, 2024, the defendants engaged in a “Grandparent Scam” involving phone calls made from call centers in and around Montreal, Québec. During these phone calls, defendants falsely claimed to be an elderly victim’s relative, typically a grandchild, who had been arrested following a car crash and needed money for “bail.” Other defendants posed as an “attorney” representing the elderly victim’s relative. Elderly victims were often told that there was a “gag order” in place to prevent the elderly victim from telling anyone about their family member’s supposed arrest. Elderly victims were convinced to provide bail money to an individual falsely posing as a bail bondsman, who would come to the elderly victim’s home to collect the money. This money was later transmitted to Canada following cash deliveries and financial transactions, sometimes involving cryptocurrency, which, the indictment alleges, obscured the source of the money and the identities of defendants.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The defendants face up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, as well as Customs and Border Protection. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ophardt also acknowledged the contributions of numerous other local, state, and federal investigators and agencies across the United States who assisted the investigation, and recognized the contributions of the United States Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs as well as Justice Canada.

The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Nate Burris, Michelle Arra, and Nicole Cate. Santalucia is represented by David Sleigh, Esq. The other defendants have not yet retained or been appointed counsel in the United States.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Vermont comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Diplomatic Security Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and state and local partner agencies, with prosecutions being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.

BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that on May 7, 2026, Tyshan Murray, 44, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a sentence of 18 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Murray previously pleaded guilty to unlawfully transporting aliens in furtherance of their unlawful entry into the United States.

According to court records, on September 8, 2024, nine citizens of Ireland had illegally crossed into the United States in the vicinity of Drew Road in Richford, Vermont. Murray picked up the five adults and four children near the U.S.-Canada border.  U. S. Border Patrol Agents had been alerted to an unlawful crossing in the area, responded to investigate, and stopped Murray’s SUV in the vicinity of the unlawful crossing. During the traffic stop, a Border Patrol Agent observed three adults and three young children in the rear seats, and two additional young children in the rear cargo compartment sitting on luggage.

At sentencing, the government requested a 33-month sentence, noting Murray’s reckless endangerment of the unrestrained children and his extensive criminal history, which includes multiple previous sentences of incarceration.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol. He added: “The smuggling of aliens across our northern border creates significant national security risks and endangers the lives of the people unlawfully entering our country. Those like Tyshan Murray, who reap illicit profit from alien smuggling, should receive significant punishment.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Murray was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.

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.