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1 June 2026
Disgraced Former FBI Agent Pleads Guilty in Second Federal ProsecutionRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Former FBI Special Agent Jeffrey Royer pleaded guilty today to defrauding investors in a foreign currency (“forex”) trading scheme, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan, Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Royer pleaded guilty to a charge of wire fraud and admitted that he defrauded multiple third-party investors. Royer acknowledged that while he told investors their money would be used for commodity futures trading, he fraudulently diverted a portion of investor funds for his own personal expenses. Royer also admitted he fraudulently told investors that their investment principal was protected against loss and that set future earnings would occur. After suffering significant trading losses, Royer repeatedly lied to his investors and provided them with fictious monthly account statements showing that their investments were earning significant positive returns month after month when their investments were, in fact, suffering significant losses. Royer also admitted that his conduct violated numerous regulatory requirements of the Commodity Exchange Act.
As part of his plea agreement, Royer has agreed to pay restitution of $576,818.83 to his victims.
“Investment fraud is theft, and no one, including a former FBI Special Agent is entitled to a different set of rules,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The defendant betrayed the trust of investors, concealed the truth, and caused significant financial harm through a fraudulent foreign currency trading scheme. Today’s plea holds him accountable for those actions. I am grateful to the dedicated members from FBI Detroit for their diligent work throughout this investigation.”
Royer was released from the Federal Bureau of Prisons in 2012 after serving a multi-year prison sentence for racketeering conspiracy, securities fraud conspiracy, securities fraud, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. Those charges stemmed from Royer’s corrupt use of his position as an FBI agent to steal confidential criminal law enforcement information about companies under investigation by the FBI and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Royer passed that confidential information along to a “short seller” trader in exchange for the promise of cash and future employment. Using the confidential information provided by Royer, that trader established short positions in the stocks of companies under investigation.
Sentencing is set for September 3, 2026, before Judge Mark A. Goldsmith. Royer faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Yahkind.
Coral Gables Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Distributing Sexual Torture and Mutilation Videos of Baby MonkeysRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Francisco Javier Ravelo, of Coral Gables, was sentenced to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release, during which he is not permitted to have any unsupervised contact with animals. Ravelo was sentenced in connection with his involvement with online groups dedicated to distributing videos depicting acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys in violation of the federal Animal Crushing statute.
Ravelo pleaded guilty in March to distributing more than 40 so-called “animal crush videos.”
According to court documents and statements made during his sentencing hearing, Ravelo owned and administered several online chat groups dedicated to distribution and discussion of sexual and violent videos depicting monkeys being mutilated and tortured. The court ruled that Ravelo controlled access to and moderated his invitation-only private groups, where he was a leader and organizer, which served as a basis for Ravelo’s upward variance prison sentence. The court described the material distributed as “evil.” The court explained that it fashioned the sentence to show that “in society we will not tolerate this kind of material being distributed in any way, shape, or form” and further, that the harshness should serve as a deterrence for others in the monkey hate community.
“The production and distribution of obscene animal crush videos is a felony,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “In passing the Animal Crushing statute, Congress recognized that cruelty to animals desensitizes participants to the suffering of human beings. Today’s sentence is a warning to all future would-be creators and consumers of animal crushing that they risk federal prosecution and imprisonment for these crimes.”
“This case is deeply disturbing, and the 60-month sentence reflects the seriousness of the conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Ravelo did not merely view this material. He owned and administered private online groups dedicated to distributing obscene videos of monkeys being sexually abused, mutilated, and burned. As a former state court judge who presided over domestic violence cases, I know that deliberate cruelty to animals is one of the clearest warning signs of dangerousness. Animal crushing is a serious federal crime, and those who organize, distribute, and celebrate this kind of cruelty will face federal prison.”
“Ravelo’s conviction and today’s sentencing make it clear that those who commit these horrific crimes cannot evade justice,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans. “Even when offenders use advanced technology and exclusive, invitation-only groups to hide their illegal activities, HSI will relentlessly pursue them and ensure they are held accountable. Our team worked tirelessly to stop Ravelo’s egregious crimes and prevent further harm, and we remain committed to bringing others who commit these offenses to justice.”
HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brooke E. Latta for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Emily R. Stone of the ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20477.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A convicted felon has been sentenced for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
U.S. District Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Charles Frederick Austin, Jr., 44, of Birmingham, to 60 months in prison. In February, Austin pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on October 22, 2023, officers with the Birmingham Police Department responded to a Shot Spotter call in the Gate City Community. When the officers arrived, they were informed that a shootout had taken place on 67th Street South. Officers arrived at 67th Street South and observed Austin walking quickly down the street. An officer noticed something in Austin’s waistband which appeared consistent with a firearm. The officers then contacted Austin, retrieved a Canik 9mm firearm from his waistband, and arrested him.
Austin is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of multiple prior felony convictions. Austin pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm in two separate cases in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama in May 2008 and February 2013. Austin also incurred four felony convictions between 2005 and 2021—three in the Circuit Court of Jefferson County and one in the Circuit Court of Shelby County.
The ATF investigated the case along with the Birmingham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin A Keown, Sr., and John G. Camp prosecuted the case.
Convicted Felon Indicted for Gun & Drug Possession in PensacolaRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – EP Hall, 42, has been indicted in federal court for one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and one count of possession of a controlled substance. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.
Hall appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
Hall faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and up to three years’ imprisonment if convicted of possession of a controlled substance.
The case is being jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
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.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Clemency recipient receives lengthy sentence for new drug trafficking offenseRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 53-year-old Laredo resident has been ordered to federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to do so, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
Pio Alejandro Campos pleaded guilty Jan. 12.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now ordered Campos to serve 262 months in federal prison. The court also found Campos had violated the terms of his supervised release from a previous federal drug trafficking crime by committing this offense and sentenced him to an additional term of 12 months to be served consecutively. The total 274-month term of imprisonment will be immediately followed by another eight years of supervised release. The court also assessed a $14,000 money judgement.
At the hearing, the court heard evidence that described his multiple convictions in various jurisdictions. In handing down the sentence, Judge Saldaña noted Campos had engaged in a continuing pattern of criminal activity that dated back to 2008, which included federal convictions involving cocaine or heroin in the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Northern District of Illinois and Southern District of Ohio and was ordered to serve approximately 250 total months in prison. In each case, he committed a new crime while on supervised release. After his most recent federal conviction, he was granted executive clemency in December 2024 and was on supervised release for that crime when he committed this cocaine trafficking offense in the Southern District of Texas.
In August 2024, while at a halfway house completing his sentence for heroin trafficking, Campos engaged in a series of cell phone and WhatsApp communications involving the potential sale of cocaine. During the course of the undercover operation, he sought to meet in person to discuss specifics rather than communicating via phone.
Following his release from custody upon his clemency approval, he continued to maintain communications, agreed to supply cocaine and discussed pricing based on delivery location which included San Antonio and Houston as well as New Orleans, Louisiana. On May 3, 2025, he delivered one kilogram of cocaine in San Antonio for $14,000.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Lou Castillo prosecuted the case.
Chunchula Man Sentenced to 96 MonthsRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Christopher Benedum was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison for Distribution of Child Pornography.
According to court documents, Benedum, 47, was using the social media application Discord to trade videos and images of child pornography with other users. Many of the images depicted children younger than ten years old. Some of the children were identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Benedum was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2025 as a part of “Operation Relentless Justice,” a nationwide Department of Justice initiative, focused on identifying and arresting child predators.
After his period of incarceration, Benedum will be placed on a term of supervised release for fifteen years. He will be required to register as a sex offender and was ordered to pay restitution to the victims identified.
U.S. Attorney Sean Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Invesetigation and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources
Chilean Nationals Arrested in Multi-State Criminal InvestigationRead the Press Release
OXFORD – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that two Chilean nationals who have overstayed their visas were arrested in Missouri for criminal offenses committed in the Northern District of Mississippi and elsewhere.
These arrests follow an investigation by the Oxford Police Department (OPD) which began after officers responded to a burglary where evidence was retrieved that allowed them to track the suspect’s vehicle. Investigators learned that the vehicle was associated with burglaries in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri and Illinois. Law enforcement was able to locate the vehicle in Missouri where two suspects were arrested.
Fabian Ignacio Navarro-Aliaga, 27, and Marcelo Alejandro Telechea-Droguett, 36, were arrested after a brief pursuit by Howell County sheriff’s deputies with the assistance of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Items of investigatory value were recovered from the scene where the arrest was made as well as from the vehicle.
This case was investigated through collaboration of HSI, Howell County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, Missouri Highway Patrol, Oxford Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen stated, “This case is a testament to what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies work together toward a common goal. The Oxford Police Department is grateful for the outstanding support provided by Homeland Security Investigations and our other law enforcement partners. Through intelligence sharing, technology, and relentless investigative work, we were able to identify those responsible, recover stolen property, and hold these offenders accountable.”
“I am extremely proud of the work done by our deputies and our partner agencies in bringing this situation to a safe conclusion,” said Howell County Sheriff Matt Roberts. “This case is a strong example of what happens when criminals try to operate across jurisdictions and underestimate the coordination between local, state, and federal partners. Because of that teamwork, two individuals believed to be responsible for crimes across multiple states are now in custody.”
This case is being prosecuted by John Herzog Jr. of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
California Man Admits Role in Attempted Robbery in DanburyRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ADAM IZA, 25, of California, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to an offense related to his involvement in an attempted robbery of Bitcoin and a kidnapping in Danbury in August 2024.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 25, 2024, Danbury Police arrested six Florida men who were involved in a violent carjacking of a Lamborghini Urus and the kidnapping of two occupants of the vehicle on that date. The investigation revealed that the kidnapping victims are the parents of an individual who participated in the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars in Bitcoin. In an attempt to steal some of that Bitcoin, Iza and others planned and coordinated the attempted robbery and ultimately the kidnapping. Iza’s alleged co-coconspirator, who had an altercation with the victims’ son in a Miami nightclub in July 2024, was in regular communication with certain of the kidnappers in the days before the crime, provided funding for it, and helped arrange the participants’ transportation and lodging. Iza communicated via cellphone and encrypted messaging applications with certain of the kidnappers, directed them as to the logistics of the scheme, and also provided funding.
Iza pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (“Hobbs Act Robbery”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 12.
Iza has been detained since September 24, 2024, after he was charged in the Central District of California with unrelated federal offenses.
Six other individuals were charged with offenses related to the carjacking and kidnapping. All have pleaded guilty.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Los Angeles, FBI St. Louis, and the Danbury Police Department. The FBI Task Force includes members from the Connecticut State Police and several local police departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Daniel George.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central District of California, the Eastern District of Missouri, the District of Columbia, and the District of New Jersey, and the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Danbury, for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.
Brooklyn Man Charged with Threatening to Assault and Murder ICE Officer and His FamilyRead the Press Release
A Brooklyn man was charged today with threatening to assault and murder a U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) officer outside an ICE detention facility.
Nicholas Matthew Scelfo, 27, of Brooklyn, New York, was arrested for influencing, impeding, and retaliating against a federal officer by threat. Scelfo is scheduled to appear today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Newark federal court.
“Federal law enforcement officers face danger with great courage, and they should be able to do their jobs without being threatened and fearing for their families’ lives,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “We take such threats very seriously and will prosecute those who make them to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This individual allegedly threatened violence toward one of our federal law enforcement officers and their family — and by using facial recognition technology, within 24 hours this FBI got him,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “In particular, I want to thank Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche who moved extremely quickly to locate, pursue, and bring the subject to justice — as well as our FBI Newark and New York teams who executed brilliantly. Let this be a message to any criminal actor who may try something similar: you touch a cop, and this FBI will put you down.”
“This violent rioter who allegedly threatened to murder an ICE law enforcement officer and his family is being brought to justice,” said Secretary Markwayne Mullin of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). “Our ICE officers are facing an 8,000% increase in death threats against them as they put their lives on the line to arrest murderers, rapists, pedophiles, gang members, and terrorists. Our officers have been assaulted, doxxed, their families threatened. This violence against law enforcement must end. President Trump and I will always stand with our law enforcement officers.”
“As alleged, the defendant threatened a federal law enforcement officer and members of that officer’s family with violence and death,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer for the District of New Jersey. “Threats against federal officers and their families are serious crimes and will not be tolerated. Federal officers serve our communities every day, often in difficult circumstances, and this office is committed to holding accountable those who, as alleged here, threaten violence against them or their loved ones.”
“There is no place for the violent threats Scelfo allegedly screamed at law enforcement. Instead of protesting peacefully, there are groups and individuals targeting federal law enforcement agents who are carrying out their duties,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy for the Newark Field Office. “We will follow the law and hold anyone who chooses to break the law accountable.”
“Calling for the murder of a federal law enforcement officer and his family is not speech safeguarded by the Constitution; it is a grave criminal offense that will not be tolerated,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark. “Homeland Security Investigations remains resolute in ensuring that individuals who threaten or attack law enforcement face the full force of the law. We are grateful to our partners at the FBI for their outstanding work in helping us identify and locate this defendant so he can face justice.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, on or about May 27, during a demonstration outside an ICE detention facility in Newark, Scelfo threatened to assault and murder an ICE officer. According to a video posted to social media and other evidence obtained by law enforcement, Scelfo screamed toward the ICE officer: “I’ll kill your whole f------ family! Your whole f------ family is dead! Your children, your wife, all dead! I have your face, motherf-----! You’re dead! Dead!” During an interview with law enforcement after his arrest on or about May 29, Scelfo admitted to threatening to kill an officer and his family at the demonstration and that he later saw in the media a video of him making statements to law enforcement at the demonstration.
If convicted, the threat charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, HSI Newark, and the New York Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camila A. Garces and Casey S. Smith for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brooklyn Man Charged with Threatening to Assault and Murder ICE Officer and His FamilyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Brooklyn man was charged with threatening to assault and murder a U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement officer outside an ICE detention facility, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Nicholas Matthew Scelfo, 27, of Brooklyn, New York, was arrested for influencing, impeding, and retaliating against a federal officer by threat. Scelfo appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stacey D. Adams in Newark federal court on June 1, 2026, and was released on a $100,000 bond. He was also prohibited from returning to Delaney Hall.
“As alleged, the defendant threatened a federal law enforcement officer and members of that officer’s family with violence and death. Threats against federal officers and their families are serious crimes and will not be tolerated. Federal officers serve our communities every day, often in difficult circumstances, and this Office is committed to holding accountable those who, as alleged here, threaten violence against them or their loved ones.”
- U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer
“Federal law enforcement officers face danger with great courage, and they should be able to do their jobs without being threatened and fearing for their families’ lives,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “We take such threats very seriously and will prosecute those who make them to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This individual allegedly threatened violence toward one of our federal law enforcement officers and their family — and by using facial recognition technology, within 24 hours this FBI got him,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “In particular, I want to thank Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche who moved extremely quickly to locate, pursue, and bring the subject to justice — as well as our FBI Newark and New York teams who executed brilliantly. Let this be a message to any criminal actor who may try something similar: you touch a cop, and this FBI will put you down.”
“This violent rioter who allegedly threatened to murder an ICE law enforcement officer and his family is being brought to justice,” said Secretary Markwayne Mullin of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). “Our ICE officers are facing an 8,000% increase in death threats against them as they put their lives on the line to arrest murderers, rapists, pedophiles, gang members, and terrorists. Our officers have been assaulted, doxxed, their families threatened. This violence against law enforcement must end. President Trump and I will always stand with our law enforcement officers.”
“There is no place for the violent threats Scelfo allegedly screamed at law enforcement. Instead of protesting peacefully, there are groups and individuals targeting federal law enforcement agents who are carrying out their duties,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy for the Newark Field Office. “We will follow the law and hold anyone who chooses to break the law accountable.”
“Calling for the murder of a federal law enforcement officer and his family is not speech safeguarded by the Constitution; it is a grave criminal offense that will not be tolerated,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark. “Homeland Security Investigations remains resolute in ensuring that individuals who threaten or attack law enforcement face the full force of the law. We are grateful to our partners at the FBI for their outstanding work in helping us identify and locate this defendant so he can face justice.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On or about May 27, 2026, during a demonstration outside an ICE detention facility in Newark, Scelfo threatened to assault and murder an ICE officer. According to a video posted to social media and other evidence obtained by law enforcement, Scelfo screamed toward the ICE officer: “I’ll kill your whole fucking family! Your whole fucking family is dead! Your children, your wife, all dead! I have your face, motherfucker! You’re dead! Dead!”
The threat charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark and Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. in New York; Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas; and the New York Police Department under the direction of Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch for their assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camila A. Garces and Casey S. Smith of the National Security Unit in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel: Laura Sayler, Assistant Federal Public Defender.
scelfo.complaint.pdfBronx Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking More Than 100 Firearms into New York CityRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced today that EDSON BROWN, a Bronx resident, pled guilty to an 18-count indictment, charging him with crimes in connection with a firearms trafficking scheme spanning more than a year and involving at least two straw purchasers. BROWN pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge John P. Cronan.
“New Yorkers want criminals who use guns off our streets and, together with the NYPD, the FBI, the ATF, and many others, we are committed to pursuing gun-toting criminals and gun traffickers,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “To be clear, gun traffickers are criminals who serve violent criminals—there is no place for them in New York.”
As alleged in the Superseding Indictment and other public filings in this case:
Between in or about July 2023 and in or about February 2025, BROWN, who lived in the Bronx, traveled to North Carolina and South Carolina more than a dozen times to illegally purchase approximately 118 firearms at gun stores, each of which were federal firearms licensees (“FFLs”) that he then transported back to New York and sold. BROWN was not allowed to purchase or possess guns because he is a convicted felon.
BROWN’s illegal purchases were split between North Carolina and South Carolina. BROWN illegally acquired approximately 53 guns in North Carolina that he then transported to New York and sold to others. Between July and December 2023, BROWN made six trips from New York to North Carolina with a straw purchaser, that is, someone who falsely stated to FFLs that the straw purchaser was buying the guns legally and for his or her own use, but in reality was buying the firearms for BROWN and for the purpose of resale in New York. BROWN also illegally acquired approximately 65 guns in South Carolina that he then transported to New York and sold to others. Between October 2023 and February 2025, the defendant worked with a second straw purchaser in South Carolina to acquire those guns. Sometimes that straw purchaser bought the guns and then transferred them to the defendant. Other times the defendant traveled to South Carolina from New York, impersonated the straw purchaser himself by using the straw purchaser’s ID to buy the guns, and then transported the guns back to New York himself.
BROWN defaced many of the guns by removing their serial numbers before selling them in New York. Members of the NYPD have recovered seven of the guns that BROWN trafficked from North Carolina and South Carolina to New York. Six of those seven guns had obliterated serial numbers that the NYPD firearms lab was able to restore—and thus trace back to BROWN’s purchases in North Carolina and South Carolina. The remaining firearms that BROWN trafficked have not yet been recovered, or if they have been recovered, members of law enforcement have been unable to trace them because their serial numbers cannot be restored.
* * *
BROWN, 37, of the Bronx, New York, pled guilty to the following 18 crimes, which carry the maximum sentences described in the below chart:
Count(s)
Charge
Maximum Sentence
1
Conspiracy to Traffic Firearms15 years
2
Firearms Trafficking15 years
3
Unlicensed Dealing of FirearmsFive years
4-18
Unlicensed Transportation of FirearmsFive years per count
The statutory maximum sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the New York City Police Department.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent Organizations and Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Jones and Joseph H. Rosenberg are in charge of the prosecution.
Bronx Man Charged with Distributing Fentanyl That Caused the Fatal Overdoses of Three Victims, Including A 12-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Task Force Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), Christopher Roberts, and the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today the unsealing of a Superseding Indictment charging ARISTIDES CABRERA, a/k/a “Buddha,” with drug crimes resulting in the fatal poisoning of Alex DeFilippo and Kyla McCarthy on May 29, 2022. The Indictment previously charged CABRERA with drug crimes resulting in the fatal poisoning of a 12‑year-old child on June 28, 2022, and with having used, carried, and possessed firearms in connection with his drug trafficking crimes. On March 25, 2026, following the initial Indictment, CABRERA was brought into federal custody from New York State custody, where he had been serving state sentences for other firearm and drug crimes. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken.
“As alleged, Cabrera’s drug dealing not only caused the death of a 12-year-old child but also the deaths of two adults,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “This case shows: if you deal fentanyl, you’ve chosen to deal in death. And there is no place for you in New York.”
“Today’s unsealing of a superseding indictment against Aristides Cabrera sends a clear and powerful message to those who continue to poison our communities with fentanyl and other illicit drugs: your day of reckoning is coming,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Christopher Roberts. “This defendant’s alleged actions contributed to the tragic loss of three lives, including that of a young person whose future was senselessly stolen. The blatant and utter disregard for human life demonstrated in this case underscores the devastating toll drug traffickers inflict on our communities and families every day. Through the tireless work of our investigators and the close collaboration of our prosecutorial partners, we were able to pursue death-resulting charges that reflect the gravity of these allegations and the irreversible harm caused. While no investigation or prosecution can restore the lives lost, the DEA remains steadfast in its mission to ensure those responsible for fueling addiction, violence, and death are identified and brought to justice.”
“Because of this defendant, three New Yorkers, including a 12-year-old child with disabilities, overdosed on drugs and lost their lives,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “Despite knowing about these deaths, the defendant continued selling the same narcotics, showing a complete disregard for human life. This case is a devastating example of the danger fentanyl poses, especially when it is brought into a home with children. I thank the NYPD detectives, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District, and our law enforcement partners for working to hold this criminal accountable.”
As alleged in the Indictment and other public filings:
From at least in or about November 2017 through in or about January 2024, CABRERA worked with others to sell, among other things, heroin, fentanyl, and para-fluorofentanyl in the Longwood neighborhood of the Bronx, New York. During a single-month span of that period, between on or about May 29, 2022, and on or about June 28, 2022, CABRERA’s drugs killed three people, including a 12-year-old boy with a history of autism spectrum disorder who had been residing with CABRERA and others in his Bronx apartment.
Despite knowing about these deaths, CABRERA continued selling the same drugs, including during a later period in which he was detained at a state correctional facility. CABRERA led his drug trafficking operation, in part, from his Bronx apartment, where he stored firearms and significant quantities of narcotics, including fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl, a deadly fentanyl analogue. CABRERA stored narcotics, including fentanyl-laced pills, in multiple locations in his apartment, including in a safe where he also kept firearms. CABRERA typically met and sold drugs to customers in the immediate vicinity of his apartment.
On or about May 29, 2022, CABRERA met with and sold drugs to Alex DeFilippo (also identified in the Indictment as Victim-1) and a relative of DeFilippo. CABRERA knew DeFilippo and had previously engaged in narcotics transactions with him. CABRERA also previously discussed drug sales with DeFilippo’s intimate partner, Kyla McCarthy (also identified in the Indictment as Victim-2). After purchasing CABRERA’s drugs, DeFilippo returned to McCarthy’s apartment. Shortly thereafter that same day, McCarthy’s cellphone was used to conduct three internet searches, all of which related to the use of naloxone (commonly known as Narcan), a nasal spray used to reverse the deadly effects of overdoses from opioids like fentanyl. Approximately eighteen hours later, at the request of one of McCarthy’s family members, NYPD officers responded to the apartment to conduct a wellness check. Inside, NYPD officers discovered DeFilippo and McCarthy, both of whom had died after ingesting the fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl sold to them by CABRERA. One unused dose of Narcan was found at McCarthy’s feet.
Less than a month after the fatal overdoses of DeFilippo and McCarthy, on or about June 28, 2022, at CABRERA’s apartment, a 12-year-old boy was found by a family member in his bed unresponsive and foaming at the mouth. The boy was transported to a Bronx County hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
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CABRERA, 35, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death and three counts of distribution of narcotics resulting in death, all of which crimes carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. CABRERA is also charged with firearms use, carrying, and possession in connection with his drug trafficking crimes, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence, and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The statutory minimum and maximum penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the NYPD, DEA, and Drug Enforcement Task Force Division, as well as Special Agents, Task Force Officers, the Digital Forensics Unit, and the Complex Analytics and Social Media Enhancement Team at the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Mr. Clayton also thanked the Bronx District Attorney’s Office for its assistance in the case.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley C. Nicolas, Benjamin M. Burkett, Dana R. McCann, Lisa Daniels, and Amanda C. Weingarten are in charge of the prosecution.
Baltimore Man Convicted of Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal jury convicted a Baltimore man in connection with drug trafficking and firearm crimes.
The jury found Wayne Lee, 36, guilty of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person; possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the verdict with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
According to evidence presented at trial, on July 10, 2023, a BPD detective, surveilling the 100 block of North Howard Street on a CitiWatch camera, observed Lee exiting a convenience store. As Lee left the store, an unknown man approached him and engaged in a hand-to-hand drug transaction involving drugs in exchange for money.
After the transaction, law enforcement arrested Lee and recovered six orange-top vials of cocaine base from his right hand upon handcuffing him. Additionally, law enforcement recovered a loaded firearm with six rounds of ammunition, from Lee’s waistband. BPD officers also recovered nine more orange-topped vials of cocaine base, eight additional rounds of ammunition, a clear bag containing approximately eight grams of loose cocaine base, and $937. He possessed the drugs with the intent to distribute them and possessed the firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Lee is also prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction.
Lee faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a prohibited person; a maximum of 20 years for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances; and a minimum of five years and a maximum of life in prison, consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Simpkins who prosecuted the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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America 250 Charity Drive Collects items for WellspringRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – In recognition of America’s 250th birthday the Department of Justice and the United States Attorney’s Office is proud to support Wellspring through a gift-in-kind donation drive.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III led the effort recognizing the important partnership Wellspring brings to United States Attorney’s Office in support of victims.
Wellspring is the domestic violence and sexual assault services resource for Saratoga County residents and the sexual assault services resource for Washington County residents. Wellspring’s mission is to support survivors and engage our community to end relationship and sexual abuse.In recognition of this event First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said “As our office celebrates the 250th birthday of our nation, we are reminded that one group alone cannot do it all. We are proud to collect and donate these items in support of our partners’ mission and to support victims. Their partnership and resources are a vital piece of the puzzle during the often long and complex investigations and prosecutions surrounding their work.”
This effort was made possible through the generosity and participation of employees of the Albany and Plattsburg United States Attorney’s Offices, as part of the ongoing Freedom 250 celebration. Freedom 250 celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. It honors the enduring ideals of Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility.
Alien Sent to Prison for Illegally Voting in North Carolina ElectionsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced a Canadian citizen to two months in federal prison for making false claims of United States citizenship to vote in the 2022 elections and 2024 presidential election.
Denis Bouchard, 70, falsely claimed to be a United States citizen when he voted, including registering to vote in the 2024 presidential election. Bouchard resided in the United States since the 1960’s but never became a citizen. He illegally certified that he was a United States citizen on North Carolina voter registration applications and ballots. Bouchard made these false claims of citizenship to vote in North Carolina elections dating back to 2004. Voting records confirm that he unlawfully cast a ballot in nine federal elections between 2004 and 2024.
“We will not allow aliens to disrupt and degrade the U.S. democratic system by lying to pervert the outcome our elections. Every American citizen’s vote is sacred. Allowing a single illegal vote by any ineligible person destroys and negates a citizen’s vote. We have had recent statewide elections decided by 401 votes; some local elections decided by about 20 votes. It happened here, and it can happen anywhere.” United States Attorney W. Ellis Boyle stated today. “The prison sentence that the Court imposed sends a strong warning about the consequences of attempting to take advantage of this country’s free and fair election process. We will protect the Constitutional right of citizens to vote, and prosecute those who attempt to corrupt that system.”
Bouchard pleaded guilty to two counts of 18 U.S.C. § 1015(f). Bouchard also faces one year of supervised release and will be subject to immigration consequences.
W. Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after the Honorable James C. Dever announced the sentence. The FBI investigated the case, with assistance from the North Carolina Board of Elections, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-CR-00083-D.
Activity in the U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Drug Trafficking
Oscar H. Hinojosa, 40, of Moreno Valley, California, was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for distribution of fentanyl. According to court documents, in October 2022, DCI, USPIS, and the DEA began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating between California/Arizona and Wyoming. When investigating a load coordinator for the Sinaloa Cartel, agents made a controlled buy of 10,000 fentanyl pills through the load coordinator. The pills were mailed to an address in Casper, where agents intercepted the package. The parcel contained 10,128 fentanyl pills. DEA and USPIS investigators determined Hinojosa mailed the parcel. DCI, USPIS and DEA investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Hinojosa was indicted on Sept. 3, 2025, and pleaded guilty on Feb. 5. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on April 23 in Cheyenne. Case No. 26-00017.
Sage Renee Jacobs, 24, of Evanston, Wyoming, was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and the distribution of fentanyl. According to court documents, in July 2024, DCI was investigating a drug ring in Sweetwater County. Agents learned that Jacobs may be involved in distributing controlled substances and arranged for several controlled buys of fentanyl over the course of three months from Jacobs and her co-conspirators. The investigation discovered Jacobs transported two pounds of methamphetamine from the west coast to Wyoming for her co-conspirators to redistribute. DCI and DEA investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Jacobs was indicted on Jan. 15, 2025, and pleaded guilty on Feb. 6, 2026. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on May 21 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-00007.
Jessie Murphy Johnson, 37, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 110 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine (aid and abet). According to court documents, DCI was investigating a methamphetamine distributor in Laramie County. Through the investigation, they discovered the defendant was involved in trafficking drugs from Denver to Cheyenne and supplied over 500 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. DCI, DEA and the Wyoming Highway Patrol investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Johnson was indicted on March 20, 2025, and pleaded guilty on March 28, 2026. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on May 28 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00056
Firearm Offenses
Donald Gregory Hensley aka Greg Thrailkill, 36, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment with two years of supervised release to follow for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on October 2, 2025, Gillette Police investigated reports that the defendant threatened self-harm and fired a handgun into the air, which was later confirmed by officers. The next day, Thrailkill admitted to possessing the firearm, which was later returned to its lawful owner, a co-worker who reported the gun may have been missing for about a month. As a previously convicted felon, Thrailkill is prohibited from possessing firearms. The Gillette Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Johnston prosecuted the case. Thrailkill waived indictment and pleaded guilty on March 6. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on May 21 in Cheyenne. Case No. 26-CR-00020
13 Illegal Aliens Arrested, 8 Indicted for Using a False Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – On May 21 and May 22, 2026, federal law enforcement agencies arrested 13 illegal aliens in the Paducah area. Of those arrests, 8 had pending criminal arrest warrants after a federal grand jury in Paducah returned indictments on May 12 and April 14, 2026, for falsely using social security numbers during their employment verification.
The illegal aliens not charged criminally will be held in ICE custody, pending removal proceedings and potential deportation.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Acting Special Agent in Charge Norman Jenkins, Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs made the announcement.
According to the indictments, between June 23, 2021, and August 15, 2025, in McCracken County, eight of the illegal aliens completed USCIS I-9 forms to apply for and receive compensation for employment, knowing that the Social Security account numbers used on the forms were not assigned to them. Form I-9, officially called the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to verify both the identity and employment authorization of non-citizens hired for work in the United States.
The following eight were charged by indictment for using a false social security number:
- Daniel Martinez Cruz, 22, a citizen of Mexico
- Manuel Martinez Garcia, 32, a citizen of Mexico
- Joel Gomez, 36, a citizen of Guatemala
- Juan Pastor Gonzalez, 36, a citizen of Guatemala
- Julio Venture Hernandez, 29, a citizen of Mexico
- Marcelina Juarez-Vicente, 33, a citizen of Guatemala
- Ricardo Lopez, 23, a citizen of Guatemala
- Ana Osorio Louzado, 23, a citizen of Spain
On May 22, 2026, the 8 indicted defendants made initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, each defendant faces a sentence of not more than 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “As alleged in the indictment, these illegal aliens lied about their status to gain employment and, thereby, took jobs from American citizens. This prosecution is part of our continuing effort to support President Trump’s mission to enforce American’s immigration laws and put Americans first.”
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to upholding the integrity of the nation’s employment and immigration systems,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “By uncovering and addressing the fraudulent use, our team has sent a clear message that those who attempt to circumvent federal law will be held accountable. This case underscores the importance of coordinated enforcement and collaboration in safeguarding American workplaces by combatting fraud in all forms.”
“These arrests highlight our commitment to protecting the integrity of Social Security numbers and holding accountable those who misuse the identities of American citizens for unlawful employment,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit as First Assistant for the SSA Office of the Inspector General. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate identity fraud and protect the public from this type of criminal activity.”
“These are not victimless crimes,” said ICE Louisville acting Assistant Field Office Director, Luis Aguirre. “Using fraudulent social security numbers to take jobs from American citizens hurts our communities and American workers. I am so proud of our officers and partners who work tirelessly to enforce our immigration laws.”
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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31 May 2026
Homeland Security Task Force investigation into methamphetamine trafficking leads to lengthy federal prison sentence for Fort Worth manRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Fort Worth man has been sentenced to over 29 years in federal prison as a result of an investigation by the Homeland Security Task Force in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Donald Lee Harris, 40, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 350 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael J. Truncale on May 29, 2026.
According to information presented in court, in 2024, law enforcement began investigating a drug trafficking conspiracy involving large amounts of methamphetamine being brought to the United States from Mexico for distribution. Harris was found to be responsible for trafficking over three kilograms of methamphetamine.
This case 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 Dallas comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Dallas Field Office; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations - Dallas (ICE-HSI); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Dallas Field Division; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Dallas Field Division; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations (IRS-CD; United States Postal Service, United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); Transportation Security Administration, Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS); United States Secret Service (USSS); Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS); TEXOMA HIDTA; and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Eastern District of Texas with the prosecution being led by Eastern District of Texas Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Johnson.
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30 May 2026
Morris County Man Arrested for Kicking and Biting ICE Deportation OfficersRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Morris County man was arrested on May 28, 2026 and charged with assaulting federal officers and causing bodily injury, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
“As alleged, this defendant responded to lawful orders from federal officers by kicking one and biting two others who were performing their official duties. Assaulting law enforcement officers is unacceptable. Period. Federal officers must be able to carry out their responsibilities without being subjected to violence, intimidation, or obstruction. This Office will continue to prosecute those who, as alleged here, assault officers and interfere with the lawful execution of their duties.”
- U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer
“Peaceful protest doesn’t translate to violently attacking federal law enforcement officers,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Federal officers are protecting United States’ property and facilities. With virtually no local law enforcement support from New Jersey, rioters are regrouping and attacking. We will not tolerate the vicious attacks we have seen in Newark the last few days, and we will make arrests and hold people accountable for criminal conduct.”
“As alleged in the Justice Department's complaint, this violent rioter savagely bit an ICE law enforcement officer outside of Delaney Hall. The Trump Administration will always stand with our law enforcement officers,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“To be clear, peaceful protest does not mean biting, kicking, or punching law enforcement officers. “said HSI Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas. “The repeated assaults on federal officers at Delaney Hall are criminal acts—not protected speech. Homeland Security Investigations is unwavering in its commitment to hold those who attack law enforcement fully accountable under the law.”
“This defendant’s court appearance is a clear step toward justice after 21 individuals were arrested for assaulting federal officers at Delaney Hall from May 26-29,” said ERO Newark acting Field Office Director Arthur J. Wilson Jr. “Instead of peacefully protesting, rioters blocked ICE officers conducting their lawful duties, ignored repeated lawful commands and threatened violence. Our brave ICE officers risked their lives to protect everyone present inside and out of Delaney Hall and we will continue to pursue charges against agitators and ensure violent offenders have real consequences.”
Brendan John Geier, 26, of Madison, was charged by complaint yesterday and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cari Fais, and was released with location monitoring, a curfew, and prohibited from returning to Delaney Hall.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On May 28, 2026, officers of the U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) were engaged in official duties relating to security and crowd-control operations during a demonstration near the ICE Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark. Certain ICE Deportation Officers were assigned to conduct perimeter enforcement for the Facility, which included clearing the road leading to and from the Facility for vehicles. At approximately 10:30 p.m., a large group of demonstrators was blocking that road. Deportation Officers, in an attempt to clear the road, formed into a line and began to move towards the group of demonstrators, which included Geier. The Deportation Officers issued commands to the demonstrators to “move back,” but the demonstrators, including Geier, ignored those commands and refused to clear the road. One Deportation Officer, Victim-1, moved in Geier’s direction, which caused Geier to lose his balance. Geier then kicked Victim-1 in the leg, and in response, Victim-1 struck Geier’s leg with a baton. Other officers, including Victim-2 and Victim-2, came to Victim-1’s assistance. As they lifted Geier to remove him from the location of the original struggle, Geier bit the forearm of Victim-2, as shown below, and the knuckle of Victim-3. Geier also kicked Victim-1 in the forearm. All three victims received medical attention from Emergency Medical Technicians on site; Victim-2 and Victim-3 also received treatment for their injuries at a hospital in Newark.
The charge for assault resulting in bodily injury carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, with the investigation. He also thanked Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Sinclair of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel: K. Anthony Thomas, Esq., Federal Public Defender.
geier.complaint.pdf
29 May 2026
Wareham Man Sentenced to over Seven Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Wareham man was sentenced in federal court in Boston for possessing and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Brandon Bendall, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun to 90 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In February 2026, Bendall pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography. Bendall was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on May 2, 2025 and indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025.
Bendall was a member of an online chat group in which members viewed and posted CSAM. While in the chat group Bendall posted at least 17 videos containing CSAM. During a search of Bendall’s residence and cell phone, approximately 9,400 images and videos of CSAM, including images of children as young as infants being sexually assaulted, were located.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Wareham, Marion and East Bridgewater Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 119 Border-Related Cases This WeekRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 119 border-related cases this week, including charges of bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city).
In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
A sample of border-related arrests this week:
- On May 23, Diego Salinas, a U.S. citizen, was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found more than 104 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in the firewall, dashboard and both front seats of a vehicle driven by the defendant. Salinas, who had applied for entry to the U.S. at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, admitted being paid $5,000 to smuggle narcotics into the U.S.
- On May 23, Juan David Garzon Laverde, Ivan Sendejas-Cervantes, Jose Luis Cardoso-Aguilera, Jose Alfredo Hernandez-Medina and Antonio Palacios-Ruiz - all Mexican nationals - were arrested and charged in connection with a maritime smuggling event. According to a complaint, Garzon, the alleged boat captain, was charged with Attempted Transportation of Illegal Aliens; Sendejas-Cervantes, who was allegedly guiding the aliens across the beach in Carlsbad after the boat came ashore, was charged with Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain; and the remaining defendants were charged with Attempted Entry after Deportation.
- On May 27, Jose Luis Cruz-Cruz, a Mexican national, was arrested and charged with Attempted Entry after Deportation. According to a complaint, Border Patrol agents found Cruz hiding in a bush about 100 yards north of the border and five miles west of the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners.
Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Concludes Investigation into Drug Overdose While in Police CustodyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that there is insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights or District of Columbia charges against officers with the Metropolitan Police Department arising out of the death of a 39-year-old District resident from a drug overdose that occurred on Jan. 4, 2026.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Metropolitan Police Department Internal Affairs Division conducted a comprehensive review of the incident, which included a review of law enforcement and civilian accounts, security camera footage, Body-Worn Camera footage, physical evidence, recorded radio communications, forensic reports, autopsy and toxicology reports, and reports from the Metropolitan Police Department
According to the evidence, on Jan. 4, 2024, Brent Garcia was arrested for simple assault. Mr. Garcia was taken to the Sixth District, and the police began to process the paperwork. In consuming alcohol prior to his arrest, Mr. Garcia consumed fentanyl while in the cell. Mr. Garcia passed out after 15 minutes. Other detainees helped him to a bench in the cell where he appeared to be sleeping. When the police attempted to contact him, Mr. Garcia was not responsive. The police immediately requested assistance, and an ambulance came to the scene. Unfortunately, Mr. Garcia could not be revived, and he was declared dead at the scene. An autopsy revealed that Mr. Garcia had died from a drug overdose from alcohol and fentanyl.
After a careful, thorough, and independent review of the evidence, federal prosecutors found insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officers willfully violated the civilian’s rights.
Investigations generally
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews all police-involved fatalities to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to conclude that any officers violated either federal criminal civil rights laws or District of Columbia law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division investigates all police-involved fatalities in the District of Columbia.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the two-week period ending May 29, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 166 individuals were charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 7 individuals were charged with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 168 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 129 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for sexual misconduct with a minor, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, burglary, drug trafficking, money laundering, aggravated DUI, aggravated carjacking, alien smuggling, DUI and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine Appointed to Serve on the Attorney General's Advisory CommitteeRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz.– Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche recently selected U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine to serve on the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC). The AGAC provides sound counsel and advice to the Attorney General on matters of national policy, management, and procedure and is comprised of 18 U.S. Attorneys and First Assistant U.S. Attorneys leading Districts across the nation.
Courchaine brings an Arizona voice to the committee and proven experience leading an office that handles one of the nation’s highest volumes of cases, prosecuting a range of matters that are imperative to national security and public safety, including countering fraud, violent crime, illegal immigration, and foreign terror organizations like the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels.
“It is always an honor to serve the United States in any role. I am humbled by the opportunity to serve with an incredible group of leaders on the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee as we help shape national level policy and priorities. This is also a pivotal moment when the Department of Justice seeks to recruit top-level talent to serve long into the future,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “The District of Arizona is at the tip of the spear when it comes to guarding our national security and advancing Administration priorities. I look forward to bringing that experience to the Committee.”
Courchaine has served as U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona since February 2025, leading 180 federal prosecutors and 160 support staff spread across offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Flagstaff. In addition to prosecuting cases arising along the 375-mile border with Mexico, the office also manages the nation’s most robust Indian Country docket and serves as the exclusive felony prosecutor for nearly all of the 22 federally-recognized tribes whose reservations fall in whole or in part in Arizona.
Courchaine joined the Department of Justice in 2020 as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Criminal Division of the Phoenix office. During his time with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Courchaine prosecuted crimes across the Southern Border, including human trafficking, illegal immigration, and drug smuggling. He also prosecuted cases involving transnational drug organizations.
Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Courchaine was a law clerk for Arizona Supreme Court Justice William G. Montgomery. He also served as a Judge Advocate with the United States Marine Corps for four years, leaving as a Captain. As a Marine Officer, he served in a variety of roles, including trial counsel, civil and legal assistance officer in charge, and as a felony level defense counsel aboard MCAS Miramar.
Courchaine received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach, and his law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law. He lives in the Phoenix area with his wife and four children.
Others also appointed to the AGAC include, U.S. Attorney Dan Bishop (Middle District of North Carolina), U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros (Northern District of Illinois), U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford (District of Oregon); Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine Crosby (Northern District of Alabama), U.S. Attorney Michael Dunavant (Western District of Tennessee), First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison (District of New Mexico), First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bilal Essayli (Central District of California), U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon (Southern District of California), U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon (Eastern District of Michigan), Acting U.S. Attorney John Marck (Southern District of Texas), U.S. Attorney Peter McNeilly (District of Colorado), U.S. Attorney David Metcalf (Eastern District of Pennsylvania), U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro (District of Columbia), U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quiñones (Southern District of Florida), and U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods (District of Nebraska).
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-088_Attorney General Advisory Committee
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Two Lake City Methamphetamine Dealers Sentenced to Lengthy Prison TermsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Terry Alonza Brown (54) and Doug Bradley (46), both of Lake City, have been sentenced by United States District Judge Jordan E. Pratt to federal prison terms for possessing kilogram amounts of pure methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. Brown was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison and Bradley was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. Brown pleaded guilty on December 17, 2025, and Bradley pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, on June 23, 2025, law enforcement officers conducting surveillance at Brown’s residence in Lake City observed Bradley enter the residence, exit a short time later with a bag, place the bag in a vehicle, then drive away. After Bradley was stopped for a traffic infraction, his vehicle was searched and officers found a vacuum-sealed plastic bag that contained a large amount of a white crystalline substance. The substance was later determined to be 100% pure methamphetamine weighing 1,340.2 grams.
Later the same day, officers observed Brown leave the residence with a multi-colored bag, place the bag in a vehicle, then drive away. After Brown was stopped for a traffic infraction, his vehicle was searched and officers found the multi-colored bag in the backseat area. The bag contained two separate vacuum-sealed plastic bags, inside of which were additional bags containing a white crystalline substance. The substance was later determined to be 99% pure methamphetamine weighing 2,694 grams.
Subsequently, officers obtained a search warrant for Brown’s residence. During the search, officers seized two black bags containing packages of a white crystalline substance, $12,000 from a safe, and $1,000 from inside one of the bedrooms. The substance was later determined to be 99% pure methamphetamine weighing 1,786.8 grams.
Before committing these offenses, Brown and Bradley had previously been convicted of federal drug trafficking charges. In April 2013, Brown was convicted of five counts of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. In November 2008, Bradley was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Towing Company Owner Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Bribe Bexar County SheriffRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man pleaded guilty in federal court today to conspiring to bribe the Bexar County Sheriff in an attempt to obtain a Bexar County towing contract, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas.
According to court documents, Muhammad Choudary, 78, owned and had operational control over a vehicle towing and heavy-duty recovery business which operated within Bexar County. On or about March 28, 2025, Bexar County solicited bids for towing and wrecking services for the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and Bexar County Constable Offices. Choudary used an associate, co-conspirator Anwar Tahir, as a middleman.
During an April 16, 2025 lunch meeting set up by Tahir, Choudary and Tahir told the Bexar County Sheriff that they would pay the Sheriff $30,000 to use his position to award the Bexar County towing contract to Choudary’s company. The following day, the Bexar County Sheriff reported the bribery attempt to FBI.
The FBI then introduced an intermediary posing as a representative of the Sheriff. At an ensuing lunch meeting, Tahir, on behalf of Choudary, offered to pay the Bexar County Sheriff, through the representative, $10,000 upfront plus a payment of $25,000 a year for the life of the contract, in exchange for the Sheriff’s assistance in awarding the towing contract to Choudary’s company.
Choudary pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and faces up to five years in federal prison. Tahir pleaded guilty to the same conspiracy charge on March 31. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI and IRS-CI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Blackwell is prosecuting the case.
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Toa Alta Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On May 28, 2026, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging Harold Borrero-Borrero, with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, and firearms offenses, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
According to court documents, beginning in or about 2025, defendant Borrero-Borrero, conspired with other persons to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base (commonly known as “crack”), and marijuana, at the Enrique Catoni Public Housing Project in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico. Borrero-Borrero was arrested on May 21, 2026, in possession of drugs and multiple firearms, including one without a serial number. As part of the conspiracy, the defendant and his co-conspirators possessed and had access to a vehicle that resembled an “unmarked” law enforcement car. The defendant and his co-conspirators stored drugs, in kilogram and user quantities, as well as packaging materials, in a stash house; maintained weapons and ammunition of various calibers to protect themselves and their narcotics; communicated with each other using cellphones; possessed hundreds of thousands of dollars in United States currency, the product of their sale of narcotics; recorded narcotics sales, cash distributions, and other pertinent information pertaining to the organization in “drug ledgers”; and in order to carry on the business of the conspiracy, they kept in their possession tools of the drug trafficking trade, including but not limited to: a bulletproof vest, black ski masks, an extra license plate, and a safe.
Harold Borrero-Borrero is charged with one count of controlled substance conspiracy, two counts of possession of controlled substances with the intent to distribute, one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises.
The defendant made his initial court appearance May 21, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marcos E. López of the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum term of 15 years of imprisonment and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico; and Michael Mayer, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Puerto Rico Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Myriam Y. Fernández-González, Chief of the Asset Recovery, Money Laundering & Transnational Organized Crime Section, and AUSA María L. Montañez-Concepción, Deputy Chief of Asset Recovery, Money Laundering & Transnational Organized Crime Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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indictment_26-201adc_5-28-26.pdfThree Foreign Nationals Sentenced in May for Illegally Reentering the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that three foreign nationals convicted separately of illegally reentering the United States after prior deportations were sentenced this month.
Leobardo Lopez-Garcia, aka Nazario Moreno Gonzalez, 46, a Mexican national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Karen Spencer Marston to time served, approximately 10 months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his sentence, he will be removed from the United States again.
Lopez-Garcia had previously been removed from the U.S. three times: in October 2000, January 2004, and January 2006, following encounters with the U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona.
In April 2023, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) became aware that the defendant had been arrested by the Hatfield Township Police Department on a driving under the influence charge. He pleaded guilty to that offense in April 2024 in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas.
Lopez-Garcia was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in August of last year, indicted for illegal reentry in November, and pleaded guilty this March.
Baudilio Lopez-Ramirez, 37, a Mexican national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Paul S. Diamond to time served, approximately two and a half months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his sentence, he will be removed from the United States again.
Lopez-Ramirez had previously been removed from the U.S. in March 2012, following his arrest by the U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona.
In December 2025, ICE learned that the defendant had been arrested by the Philadelphia Police Department. Lopez-Ramirez was taken into federal custody on a criminal complaint this February, charged by indictment with illegal reentry in March, and pleaded guilty in April.
Jose Fernando Gomez-Urquia, 32, a Honduran national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. to time served, approximately two months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his sentence, he will be removed from the United States again.
Gomez-Urquia had previously been removed from the U.S. in May 2016, following an encounter with the U.S. Border Patrol in Texas.
In November of last year, ICE became aware that the defendant had been arrested by the Coatesville Police Department. Gomez-Urquia pleaded guilty this March in the Chester County Court of Common Pleas to making terroristic threats with the intent to terrorize another and was sentenced to time served.
He was arrested on a federal criminal complaint the same month, charged by information with illegal reentry in April, and pleaded guilty this month, waiving prosecution by indictment.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The cases were investigated by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Josh Davison, Catherine Dos Santos, and Robert Schopf.
Three Florida Men Indicted for Dog FightingRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Drew Geer (42, Lake Butler), Anthony Crosby (42, Keystone Heights), and Leroy Halbert (53, Lake Butler) have each been charged by indictment with three counts of possession of dogs for dog fighting ventures. In addition, Geer and Crosby were charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Geer and Crosby each face a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison. Halbert faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
Geer was arrested on May 20, 2026, and has been detained pending trial, which is currently scheduled for July 2026. Crosby and Halbert were arrested on May 29, 2026.
According to the indictments, on December 10, 2025, Geer, Crosby, and Halbert each possessed at least three dogs that were used in dog fighting ventures. In addition, on that same date, Geer and Crosby each possessed firearms knowing that they were convicted felons.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Union County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
Texas man pleads guilty to making threats against a company over his debtRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Texas man pled guilty yesterday to sending threatening interstate communications.
According to court documents, a Norfolk-based collection agency sent a message to Taylor Bullard, 35, of Houston, regarding a debt he owed. Bullard sent a signed response threatening to show up at one of the company’s locations with a machete and gasoline to “do things that are unforgivable” and “make your executive team question their life choices.”
Bullard is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 2 and faces up to five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton D. LaForge is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-CR-5.
Texas Man Indicted in Shooting at Secret Service Agent Near the Washington MonumentRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An indictment was filed today in U.S. District Court charging Michael Marx, 45, of Midland, Texas, in connection with the May 4 shooting near the Washington Monument in which a civilian bystander was struck by gunfire, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
indictment_michael_marx.pdfThe federal indictment charges Marx, aka Patrick Gary Michael or Michael Zavici, with assaulting certain officers using a dangerous weapon and with using a firearm during a crime of violence. Marx is expected to make his first appearance in U.S. District Court today before a magistrate judge.
“Today’s indictment reflects the gravity of the defendant’s actions on one of the most heavily visited public spaces in the nation,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “The evidence shows Marx not only carried an illegal firearm into DC, but he fired it at uniformed officers, wounding an innocent teenage bystander who was simply visiting the National Mall with his family on a spring afternoon. When someone brings violence to a place that symbolizes the heart of our democracy and does so along the path of the Vice President’s motorcade, we will respond with the full weight of federal charges and pursue accountability at every step.”
According to the previously filed complaint, on May 4, 2026, about 3:40 p.m., a plainclothes U.S. Secret Service agent observed a man, later identified as Marx, appearing to conceal a firearm on the right side of his body near 15th Street and Madison Drive NW. The agent alerted the Secret Service Joint Operations Center and requested uniformed backup.
At the same time, the motorcade for Vice President J.D. Vance was departing the White House, passing through the area of 15th Street and Independence Avenue SW.
Uniformed Secret Service officers responded and located Marx along the path of the Vice President's motorcade. As officers approached, Marx walked toward a group of civilians crossing the street.
Officers issued verbal commands. Marx fled east on Independence Avenue SW. As officers pursued him, Marx drew a firearm from his waistband while running through the crosswalk toward bystanders.
When Marx reached the sidewalk, he turned and fired at one of the pursuing officers. A civilian witness standing behind the officer was wounded in his leg. Officers returned fire, striking Marx in the hand, left arm, and upper abdomen.
Marx collapsed at the intersection of 15th Street and Independence Avenue SW, where officers rendered aid. He was identified through a Texas driver's license found on his person. Law enforcement also identified aliases including Patrick Michael and Michael Zavici. Marx was transported to George Washington University Hospital. While in the hospital, he allegedly made statements to officers including “F--- the White House” and “kill me, kill me, kill me.”
Investigators recovered a Sig Sauer P365 handgun loaded with 9mm ammunition from the area where Marx fell. Law enforcement confirmed Marx does not hold a license to carry a handgun in the District of Columbia.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Secret Service Washington Field Office. The matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
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Sweet Springs, Missouri Man Indicted for Engaging in Business of Manufacturing Explosives, Unlawfully Possessing Unregistered Destructive Devices and Distributing Information Relating to Manufacturing ExplosivesRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Sweet Springs, Mo., man has been charged by a federal grand jury with one count of engaging in the business of manufacturing explosive materials without a license, one count of unlawful possession of unregistered destructive devices, one count of unlawful possession of components that can readily be converted into destructive devices, and one count of distributing information relating to manufacturing explosives, in violation of U.S. law.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, no later than Sept. 18, 2023, Jordan Derrick, 40, began using several social media sites to distribute videos of himself making various explosive materials. In his videos, Derrick provided step-by-step instructions on how to make these explosives.
Derrick’s videos were downloaded from his publicly available video sharing accounts and used by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the terrorist who conducted an attack in New Orleans on Jan. 1, 2025. Jabbar had created IEDs consistent with Derrick’s instructional videos. The devices placed by Jabbar did not detonate and were subsequently rendered safe by law enforcement. Also, according to the complaint, on May 4, 2026, an explosion occurred at a private residence in Odessa, Mo. Investigators who searched the private residence after the explosion found two components suspected of being used in explosive devices. The occupant of the residence told investigators that he manufactured explosive devices after watching online tutorials on a social media account that is believed to be utilized by Derrick to distribute information relating to the manufacture of explosives. An investigation of the Odessa explosion is ongoing.
The allegations contained in the indictment are accusations, not evidence of guilt, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted of engaging in the business of manufacturing explosive materials without a license, Derrick would be subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison. If convicted of unlawfully possessing an unregistered destructive device or components that can readily be converted into a destructive device, Derrick would be subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison on each count. And if convicted of distributing information relating to the manufacture of explosives, Derrick would be subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison. In the federal judicial system, there is not the possibility of parole. These maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress, and they are provided here for informational purposes. Any sentence would be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Chlarson with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the National Security Division. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Stericycle Resolves Criminal and Civil Investigations with over $56 Million Agreement for Long Running Failures in Handling Controlled Substances Bound for DisposalRead the Press Release
Full Settlement:
stericycle_civil_settlement_fully_executed_w_sof.pdfInformation:
stericycle_information_felony.pdfBrief/Settlement
stericycle_pre_hearing_brief_by_usa.pdfSACRAMENTO, Calif. — Stericycle Inc., an international waste management company headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, has agreed to pay more than $56 million to resolve parallel criminal and civil investigations into its improper handling of controlled substances between 2015 and 2020, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
Stericycle collected, transported, and disposed of pharmaceutical waste for hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and other health care providers across the United States and abroad.
“Stericycle has accepted responsibility for handling controlled substances in a manner that was insecure, unsafe, and unlawful,” said U.S. Attorney Grant. “Despite being warned by the DEA that it needed to correct its deficient handling procedures, the company operated an insecure transportation network, relied on multiple unregistered facilities, and failed to notify the DEA of diversions and significant losses as required by law. Today’s resolution demonstrates the Justice Department’s continuing commitment to ensuring that all registrants safely and securely handle controlled substances so that dangerous drugs are not diverted into the community.”
“DEA will hold organizations accountable who violate the Controlled Substances Act and improperly handle controlled substances. Stericycle’s actions were far more troubling than a simple reporting error,” said Bob P. Beris, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, San Francisco Field Division. “These drugs did not merely go unaccounted for, employees and others stole them, used them, or diverted them into the community. Such conduct endangers public safety, fuels addiction, and undermines the integrity of our regulatory system. The DEA remains committed to ensuring that every registrant fulfills their obligations to protect the public from exactly these kinds of risks.”
“Controlled substance regulations are designed to keep dangerous and addictive medications out of the wrong hands. Stericycle ignored those responsibilities, resulting in expired medications being stolen and sold illegally on the street,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue pursuing those who endanger the public through negligence or criminal conduct.”
Criminal charges filed today allege that Stericycle conspired to defraud the United States by failing to report thefts and significant losses of controlled substances to the DEA. On four separate occasions, the company offered justifications for failing to file required Form 106s that were unsupported by federal regulations. As part of a one‑year deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with the Department of Justice, Stericycle will pay a $19.08 million criminal penalty.
Separately, Stericycle has agreed to pay $37.81 million to resolve civil liability for repeated violations of the CSA.
Because of the risk that prescription drugs can be diverted or misused, the handling of controlled substances is tightly regulated under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
According to court documents, Stericycle was registered with the DEA as a “reverse distributor,” allowing it to receive unwanted, unusable, or expired controlled substances from hospitals, pharmacies, and other registrants. As a reverse distributor, Stericycle was subject to strict recordkeeping, reporting obligations, security requirements, and regular DEA inspections of its registered facilities, including the duty to promptly notify the local DEA Field Division Office in writing of any theft or significant loss.
As admitted by the company, Stericycle circumvented these requirements by using temporary storage facilities that were not registered with the DEA and thus not subject to regular inspection. Security was inadequate at many locations, including at the company’s former facility in Rancho Cordova. In some instances, controlled substances were stored in unlocked trailers within fenced yards. Though some facilities had security cameras, several cameras were non‑operational.
Stericycle conspired to defraud the DEA by avoiding the filing of reports that would have alerted the agency to thefts and significant losses of controlled substances in its care. Multiple Stericycle managers and executives were aware that the company lacked a reliable system for tracking packages across its transportation network or auditing packages received in Indianapolis, creating opportunities for diversion.
Under the DPA, Stericycle has agreed to continue cooperating in any ongoing or future criminal investigations related to this conduct. The company also agreed to enhance its compliance program, including measures for independent oversight, training, internal investigations of reported misconduct, and compliance reporting to the Department of Justice for the remainder of the agreement’s term. The resolutions do not include the criminal release of any individuals.
The government reached this resolution based on several factors, including the nature and seriousness of Stericycle’s conduct, its knowing and willful decisions not to report thefts or significant losses, its use of unregistered facilities to store controlled substances, and the company’s divestiture of the business component at issue in April 2020 to a non‑affiliated company that brought the business segment into compliance. The remaining business was acquired by another company in November 2024. Stericycle also enhanced its compliance program and committed to continuing improvements to meet the minimum requirements set forth in the DPA. The company received credit for accepting responsibility for its criminal conduct.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Anderson and Adrian T. Kinsella are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Thiess assisted with the civil settlement.
St. Louis Man Sentenced to 47 Years in Prison for Carjackings, Fatal Fentanyl SaleRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Thursday sentenced a St. Louis man to 47 years in prison for his involvement in two carjackings, an attempted carjacking and the sale of fentanyl that killed a woman in 2023.
In January, jurors in U.S. District Court in St. Louis convicted Bobby Lee Jones, 27, of one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Evidence and testimony during his trial showed that he sold the fentanyl that killed an 18-year-old woman in 2023. The victim was seeking marijuana. Jones agreed to sell her marijuana and offered her what he claimed was the pain pill Percocet, evidence shows. The pills were manufactured to resemble Percocet but actually contained fentanyl. The victim took one of the pills and her boyfriend found her dead the next day.
The victim’s mother, aunt, friend and a family friend spoke at the sentencing hearing Thursday. In a letter, her best friend called the victim “beautiful, unforgettable, and full of life.”
In December, Jones pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking. He admitted driving his nephew, Labron Collins, and a juvenile, to the scene of a carjacking in the 4100 block of Botanical Avenue in St. Louis on Jan. 25, 2023. Collins and the teen then stole a 2012 Honda Civic at gunpoint.
At Thursday’s sentencing hearing, Judge Clark found by a preponderance of the evidence that Jones was involved in another carjacking and an attempted carjacking. Evidence and testimony showed that Jones and the two others tried to steal a 2022 Dodge Charger an hour before the Civic carjacking. Collins and the juvenile began shooting when the Charger’s driver started to drive off, shattering a rear window and striking her in the back, evidence showed. Later, they were driving and struck the rear of a 2011 Infiniti G37 and then carjacked that driver. Several hours after the owner of the Charger was shot, police pulled over a car in which Jones was a passenger. One of the guns used in the shooting was located under Jones’ seat. Police later found the Infiniti parked behind Jones’ mother’s house.
Jones instigated the crimes and used his 18-year-old nephew and the juvenile to commit them to avoid liability, a sentencing memo filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski says. He also has a significant criminal history, the memo says. At 18, police caught Jones with cocaine base and a firearm, the memo says. At 20, they caught him in a carjacked vehicle after a chase and less than three months after his release from custody, he carjacked a BMW and was caught with another gun shortly thereafter, the memo says.
Judge Clark sentenced Jones to 45 years in prison for the fentanyl and carjacking cases and two years for violating his supervised release in a 2019 case in which he pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Collins, now 21, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty to five counts of carjacking and three charges of possession or brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He admitted the two carjackings and one attempted carjacking that he committed with Jones. He also admitted carjacking a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta on February 11 and a 2013 Acura TL and a 2014 Honda Civic, the next day. He is serving a 15-year prison sentence.
The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Szczucinski and Nicholas Lake prosecuted the case.
St. Bernard Parish Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN LAJOIE (“LAJOIE”), age 28, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, was sentenced on May 21, 2026 by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 142 months’ imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), and distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, in July 2025, the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office (SBSO) received a tip that someone was selling marijuana and methamphetamine at a residence located in St. Bernard Parish. SBSO Narcotics Agents conducting surveillance in the area observed LAJOIE and two others enter the residence. Minutes later, LAJOIE exited the residence and rode away on a bicycle. Agents attempted to approach LAJOIE, but LAJOIE led the agents on a chase and discarded several items during his flight from the agents. Agents eventually arrested LAJOIE and recovered approximately 43 grams of methamphetamine, a cell phone and a digital scale from the area in which LAJOIE discarded the items.
Agents interviewed the two individuals at the residence who both admitted that they purchased methamphetamine from LAJOIE. Agents seized 0.93 grams of methamphetamine from them.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
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.
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South L.A. Man Sentenced to More Than 25 Years in Federal Prison for St. Valentine’s Day Armed Robbery of Armored Truck in HawthorneRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A South Los Angeles man was sentenced today to 308 months in federal prison for committing the armed robbery of an armored truck in Hawthorne on St. Valentine’s Day in 2022, a heist in which more than $166,000 in cash and customer checks were stolen and a firearm was discharged after the truck’s driver was held on the ground at gunpoint.
Deneyvous Jayan Hobson, 39, of West Adams, was sentenced by United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, who also ordered him to pay $166,640 in restitution.
At the conclusion of a six-day trial in November 2024, a jury found Hobson guilty of one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
On February 14, 2022, Hobson and co-defendant James Russell Davis, 37, also of West Adams, robbed a Sectran Security Services armored truck by ambushing the truck’s driver after the driver had finished servicing an ATM.
Three weeks prior to the robbery, Hobson and Davis cased the Wescom Credit Union in Hawthorne and observed a Sectran driver serving an ATM. During and before the robbery, Davis acted as a lookout and performed countersurveillance nearby.
On St. Valentine’s Day, at approximately the same time in the morning as their casing three weeks earlier, Hobson, traveling in a separate car from Davis, arrived at the credit union while the victim – identified in court documents as “J.G.” – was servicing the credit union’s ATMs.
Hobson and two other co-conspirators got out of their white Honda Accord, approached the victim, ordered him to the ground at gunpoint, and took J.G.’s service weapon, a .40-caliber handgun. Hobson and two co-conspirators stole approximately $166,640 in cash and checks from the Wescom Credit Union’s ATM. As Hobson and two accomplices returned to their car, one of the co-conspirators fired the 9mm semi-automatic handgun he was carrying. They then fled the scene.
The next day, Hobson attempted to sell for $800 via text the 9mm semi-automatic handgun he carried at the robbery, stating that the weapon was “not all the way bad it was just shot doing a get down,” according to court documents.
In October 2022, Hobson illegally possessed a 9mm pistol and 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Hobson was not permitted to possess the firearm or ammunition because his criminal history includes felony convictions in 2003 in Los Angeles Superior Court for robbery and assault with a deadly weapon.
Davis pleaded guilty in February 2024 to one count of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. In June 2024, Judge Aenlle-Rocha sentenced Davis to 166 months in federal prison and ordered him to pay $166,640 in restitution to Sectran Security Services.
“The nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offenses cannot be understated as [Hobson] violently robbed an innocent worker, forever changing that man’s life, and nearly killing him, all for money,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum.
The FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Inglewood Police Department, and the Hawthorne Police Department investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe of the Major Crimes Section, and Jason C. Pang of the Transnational and Organized Crime Section prosecuted this case.
Second Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Ponzi Scheme that took in over $27 Million in InvestmentsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Florida man has pled guilty to his part in defrauding investors through a company called Peoples Equity Group (PEG), an investment company based in Miami, Florida that operated from 2021 to 2024. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
Simon G. Outhwaite, Jr., 26, of Miami, Florida, pled guilty on May 26, 2026 before United States District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to information presented in court, Outhwaite conspired with Dakota Smith in the execution of a scheme to defraud investors. For his role in the offense, Smith previously pled guilty on November 18, 2025 and was sentenced on May 8, 2026 to 188 months in federal prison.
Through their conspiracy, the pair misrepresented to investors that PEG owned small, profitable companies in e-commerce and aviation. Smith, who was the face of PEG, solicited investments based on promises that the investors would obtain ownership interests in the companies owned by PEG and its affiliated entities.
In fact, Smith and Outhwaite knew that neither PEG nor its affiliated entities had any ownership interest or control over the companies it marketed. Outhwaite’s contributions to the conspiracy included opening and maintaining the bank accounts used in the scheme.
Outhwaite is scheduled to be sentenced on September 3, 2026. He faces up to five years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Ponzi schemes and crimes of dishonesty do not pay and will be exposed. This case represents our commitment to root out fraudulent schemes, protect investors, hold offenders accountable for their dishonest criminal conduct, and to recover ill-gotten proceeds on behalf of victims.”
“Simon G. Outhwaite, Jr. and his co-conspirator, Dakota Smith, built a Ponzi scheme on lies, exploiting trust to steal millions of dollars that left innocent people paying the price,” said Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Schemes like this exploit trust and can devastate victims’ and their families. The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue those who weaponize fraud and deception against investors and bring them to justice.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The case was prosecuted on behalf of the government by Assistant United States Attorney Scott P. Smith.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Shipping Half-a-Million Fentanyl Pills Across the United States a result of Homeland Security Task ForceRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Marcus Miller, 36, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to 15 counts of drug trafficking offenses and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Miller and his fellow conspirators shipped hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills around the country for more than a year. On several occasions, law enforcement seized packages shipped by Miller, Jones, and their co-conspirators, and found fentanyl pills, often hidden inside children’s toys. In total, law enforcement seized approximately 450,000 fentanyl pills connected to the conspiracy through seized shipments and search warrants. Based on additional evidence, law enforcement estimates that members of the conspiracy have shipped more than one million fentanyl pills to customers in several different states.
During searches connected to the conspiracy, agents found hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills, more than $80,000 in cash, and 17 firearms. Some of the pills and a firearm were hidden inside a secret compartment in Miller’s vehicle. Miller is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions that include burglary, carrying a loaded firearm, carrying a loaded concealed weapon, and convictions in 2009, 2017, and 2020 of being felon in possession of a firearm.
Miller is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 8, 2026. Miller faces a mandatory sentence of at least 10 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case 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 Sacramento is composed of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Northern California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
The Sacramento Police Department, the Folsom Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Citrus Heights Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ross Pearson is prosecuting the case.
Rochester man sentenced to 10 years in prison for attempting to have sex with 11 and 13-year-old girlsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Tony Rodriguez, 40, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca.
Between February 26 and March 12, 2025, Rodriguez engaged in graphic sexual conversations online with a person he believed to be an 11-year-old girl. Rodriguez was actually communicating with a member of the community group “Predator Poachers.” In addition to online conversations, Rodriguez also arranged a meeting with the 11-year-old girl in person, to engage in sexual activity. He arranged for the 11-year-old to meet him at the Fairport Public Library on March 12, 2025. However, when Rodriguez arrived at the library, he was confronted by the community group member. He left the location prior to the arrival of law enforcement.
On April 15, 2025, law enforcement responded to a residence in the Town of Perinton and apprehended Rodriguez for attempting to meet a 13-year-old female to engage in sexual contact. In reality, the 13-year-old was a member of an unrelated community group called “Child Predator Hunter.” Rodriguez was then taken into custody for this incident and arrested for the March 12, 2025 incident at the Fairport Library.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Fairport Police Department, under the direction of Acting Police Chief Matt Weber, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford.
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Postal Employee Indicted for Delay or Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – Stacy Michelle Braxton, 39, of Marianna, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with delay or destruction of mail. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.
Braxton appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026, at 8:30 am in Tallahassee before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.
If convicted, Braxton faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Emma Schwan are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Ouachita Parish Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
MONROE– On May 21, 2026, Stanquan Lavelle Shaw, a.k.a. “Munchie,” a 36-year-old Ouachita Parish man, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm and to possessing that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In addition to his prison sentence, Shaw will serve five years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
According to court documents, officers of the Monroe Police Department saw Shaw driving in Monroe and attempted to stop him based on Shaw’s having outstanding warrants. Shaw fled from law enforcement, ultimately crashing his car into a person’s parked car and fleeing on foot. Officers caught Shaw during his flight and arrested him. While investigating the scene, officers recovered methamphetamine from Shaw’s car, a 9mm bullet in his pocket, and a firearm recovered from a puddle along his flight path that officers found using a police dog. By law, Shaw was not allowed to possess firearms because he had prior felony convictions for Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery with a Firearm and for Simple Robbery.
The Monroe Police Department, West Monroe Police Department, Ouachita Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gaskins with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00269.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Orlando Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Child Sextortion Scheme Involving More than 50 Child VictimsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – Montrey Roseberry (20, Orlando) was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza to life in federal prison for coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and production and possession of child sex abuse material. Roseberry was found guilty on February 19, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from at least July 14, 2023, through at least April 2024, Roseberry operated a scheme to extort, intimidate, and threaten children into producing child sex abuse material. Roseberry, while impersonating a woman, coerced young victims he identified on social media into producing images and videos of themselves engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Roseberry then used the images and videos to extort the victims into producing increasingly perverse content involving, sadomasochism, coprophilia, bestiality, and the sexual abuse of other children.
If the child victims did not comply, Roseberry threatened to disseminate prior images and videos they had sent him that were sexual in nature to the child victims’ family members, friends, and classmates. In some cases, Roseberry threatened the child victims with death. As part of the scheme, and to further frighten and extort the victims into complying with his demands, Roseberry sent the child victims photographs of their homes and names of their schools, friends, and family members. As a result of this scheme, Roseberry obtained child sex abuse images of more than 50 victims.
“Roseberry targeted young children, coerced them into producing abuse material, and threatened to destroy their lives if they resisted. This sentence sends a message that dangerous pedophiles will receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Kehoe. “We commend the hard work of the FBI agents for helping to bring this predator to justice.”
“The terror he inflicted is heart wrenching. Mr. Roseberry threatened and blackmailed his young victims into committing horrific acts. The FBI and its law enforcement partners are relentless in their mission to identify and bring these vile criminals to justice. We urge young people and their parents to be cautious, especially on social media and gaming platforms, because child predators typically use these platforms to find their victims,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kaley Austin-Aronson and Noah P. Dorman.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Norfolk sailor sentenced to five years in prison after he was found with thousands of files of child sexual abuse materialRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A U.S. Navy sailor stationed in Norfolk was sentenced today to five years in prison for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, on May 15, 2023, Sergio Octavio Garcia, 30, used PayPal to purchase CSAM from an international user for $80. On April 21, 2024, on board the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, agents with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) interviewed Garcia and seized his electronic devices. A digital forensics expert found 2,716 images and 3,109 videos of CSAM on Garcias devices, including the abuse of infants and toddlers.
The NCIS Norfolk Field Office investigated this case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nikolas Nelson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-131.
This release was edited on June 1, 2026, to correct a misspelling.
Non-Citizen Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Voting in Numerous ElectionsRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Mexican man has pleaded guilty to voting in multiple elections despite being a non-citizen, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
Homero Ramos, 45, of Haleyville, pleaded guilty this week before U.S. District Judge Edmund G. LaCour, Jr., to two counts of fraudulent voting.
According to the indictment, Ramos is a lawful permanent resident but never obtained U.S. citizenship. Despite this, Ramos registered to vote and voted—even though he knew that only U.S. citizens are permitted to do so under Alabama law. In fact, Ramos voted in both the 2022 and 2024 general elections.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, with the assistance of the Alabama Secretary of State’s Office and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Brett A. Janich is prosecuting the case.
New York Attorney Admits Embezzling More Than $500K from TrustRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that EDWARD W. MILLER, 70, of Lawrence, New York, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to a fraud offense stemming from his embezzlement of more than $500,000 from a trust.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Miller was an attorney licensed to practice law in New York. In December 2014, an individual, identified in court documents as “M.P.,” established a trust for the purpose of managing certain real property, including a commercial building that M.P. owned in New Canaan, Connecticut. Edwards was named as the trustee for the trust (the “M.P. Trust”) and was directed to open a trust bank account to manage the finances of the real property in the M.P. Trust, including depositing rental income from the commercial building into the trust account, paying costs associated with the management of the building, and distributing funds to M.P. Miller was also responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the building in the M.P. Trust. The trust provided that Miller would be paid five percent of total monthly rents collected and any agreed-upon commissions for new tenant leases and renewals.
Between approximately February 2016 and September 2022, Miller embezzled more than $500,000 from the M.P. Trust by writing and negotiating unauthorized checks from the M.P. Trust to himself, his law practice, and to his relatives for his own benefit. He also made unauthorized withdrawals and transfers from the M.P. Trust bank account for his own benefit. After M.P. died in 2022, Miller made false representations and promises to M.P.’s beneficiaries about the identification, whereabouts, and disbursement of the trust’s assets.
Miller pleaded guilty to wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Miller has previously paid restitution of $509,372.82 as part of a settlement of a separate civil lawsuit filed by the victims.
Miller is released on a $200,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for August 13.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LORENZO SMITH (“SMITH”), age 20, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on May 12, 2026 to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $500 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846; distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B); and two counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, over the course of five transactions between November 2024 and January 2025, SMITH, and his co-conspirators, sold fentanyl, methamphetamine, and firearms to persons he believed to be legitimate buyers. The conspiracy involved over 640 grams of fentanyl and over 1200 grams of methamphetamine, of which more than 800 grams was pure methamphetamine. In total, SMITH, and his co-conspirators, sold 13 guns to the persons he believed to be legitimate buyers, including several AR-15 pistols and an AK-47-style rifle.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Jersey Rioter at Delaney Hall Charged for Kicking and Biting ICE OfficersRead the Press Release
A New Jersey man was arrested yesterday and charged with assaulting federal officers and causing bodily injury.
Brendan John Geier, 26, of Madison, New Jersey, was charged by complaint today and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cari Fais.
“Peaceful protest doesn’t translate to violently attacking federal law enforcement officers,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Federal officers are protecting United States’ property and facilities. With virtually no local law enforcement support from New Jersey, rioters are regrouping and attacking. We will not tolerate the vicious attacks we have seen in Newark the last few days, and we will make arrests and hold people accountable for criminal conduct.”
“As alleged in the Justice Department's complaint, this violent rioter savagely bit an ICE law enforcement officer outside of Delaney Hall. The Trump Administration will always stand with our law enforcement officers,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“As alleged, this defendant responded to lawful orders from federal officers by kicking one and biting two others who were performing their official duties,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer for the District of New Jersey. “Assaulting law enforcement officers is unacceptable. Period. Federal officers must be able to carry out their responsibilities without being subjected to violence, intimidation, or obstruction. This Office will continue to prosecute those who, as alleged here, assault officers and interfere with the lawful execution of their duties.”
“To be clear, peaceful protest does not mean biting, kicking, or punching law enforcement officers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark. “The repeated assaults on federal officers at Delaney Hall are criminal acts — not protected speech. Homeland Security Investigations is unwavering in its commitment to hold those who attack law enforcement fully accountable under the law.”
“This defendant’s court appearance is a clear step toward justice after 21 individuals were arrested for assaulting federal officers at Delaney Hall from May 26-29,” said ICE-Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Newark acting Field Office Director Arthur J. Wilson Jr. “Instead of peacefully protesting, rioters blocked ICE officers conducting their lawful duties, ignored repeated lawful commands and threatened violence. Our brave ICE officers risked their lives to protect everyone present inside and out of Delaney Hall and we will continue to pursue charges against agitators and ensure violent offenders have real consequences.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, on May 28, officers of the U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) were engaged in official duties relating to security and crowd-control operations during a demonstration near the ICE Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark, New Jersey. Certain ICE deportation officers were assigned to conduct perimeter enforcement for the facility, which included clearing the road leading to and from the facility for vehicles.
At approximately 10:30 p.m., a large group of demonstrators was blocking that road. Deportation officers, in an attempt to clear the road, formed into a line and began to move towards the group of demonstrators, which included Geier. The deportation officers issued commands to the demonstrators to “move back,” but the demonstrators, including Geier, ignored those commands and refused to clear the road. Geier instead engaged in a struggle with deportation officers, kicking officers and ultimately biting an officer’s forearm, and another’s knuckle. Both victims received treatment at a local hospital.
The charge for assault resulting in bodily injury carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
HSI Newark investigated the case. ICE and the FBI provided assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Sinclair for the District of New Jersey is handling this matter.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New Britain Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEMUEL VEGA-GOMEZ, 26, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and New Britain Police Department investigated a drug trafficking organization, headed by Wilfredo Ortiz, that was operating out of Supreme Automotive, a car dealership located on Main Street in New Britain. The investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical and electronic surveillance, and several controlled purchases of narcotics, primarily cocaine, from Ortiz and other members of the conspiracy. Vega-Gomez was identified during the investigation engaging in suspected narcotics trafficking activity.
Vega-Gomez, Ortiz, and several other members of the drug trafficking organization were arrested on November 14, 2024. In association with the arrests, investigators conducted court authorized searches of Supreme Automotive and residences and other locations connected to the organization and seized more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 200 grams of fentanyl, approximately 30 grams of heroin, a kilogram press, seven firearms, ammunition, approximately $75,000 in cash, and 26 vehicles. A search of Vega-Gomez’s residence revealed more than two kilograms of cocaine, a .45 caliber handgun, two firearm magazines, ammunition, and approximately $14,500 in cash.
Vega-Gomez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. He has been detained since his arrest.
Ortiz pleaded guilty and, on March 9, 2026, was sentenced to 135 months of imprisonment.
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Police, and the New Britain, Hartford, West Hartford, Waterbury, Naugatuck, East Hartford, Brookfield, Milford, Norwich, Orange, North Haven, Meriden, Berlin, and Manchester Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth, Reed Durham, and David Nelson.
Missoula man sentenced to over four years in prison on drug trafficking chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Missoula man who trafficked methamphetamine and fentanyl from Washington to Montana was sentenced today to 55 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said.
Nathanial John Shoen, 33, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Shoen, along with Devon Bond and Joseph Cierley, was transporting methamphetamine and fentanyl from Washington state to Missoula with plans to distribute.
Bond, 29, was sentenced on April 24, 2026, to 10 years and six months in prison and five years of supervised release. Cierley, 38, was sentenced on May 19, 2026, to seven years and three months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Law enforcement officers began surveillance on Shoen, Bond and Cierley in summer 2025 after receiving a tip from an informant that the group was bringing back “pounds of methamphetamine and ounces of fentanyl” from Washington.
Officers conducted a traffic stop in July 2025 of a vehicle in which the three men were traveling. In the vehicle, agents discovered 896.9 grams, or nearly 2 pounds, of meth, 66.4 grams of fentanyl pills and a loaded .357 revolver. A search of the men’s cell phones showed that all three were involved in distributing the drugs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Missoula Drug Task Force conducted the investigation.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Andrew Benvie, 43, Frazee, Minnesota pleaded guilty and was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 8 years in prison for possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine intended for distribution. Benvie’s prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On February 11, 2025, Superior Police Department officers responded to a call about an intoxicated driver. Officers found Benvie in his car at a local gas station and identified him as the alleged intoxicated driver. When officers searched Benvie’s vehicle, they found approximately 270 grams of methamphetamine and 27 grams of fentanyl pre-packaged for distribution. Officers also found a handgun between the driver’s seat and center counsel.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson classified Benvie’s armed drug trafficking as very serious misconduct. The seriousness of Benvie’s misconduct, coupled with his aggravated criminal history, led Judge Peterson to the 8-year sentence.
The charge against Benvie was the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, and the Superior Police Department. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force is comprised of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Glinzak prosecuted this case.
Federal prosecutions by the U.S. Department of Justice involving drugs and guns are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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