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Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
22 May 2026
Lewisville man, Michigan woman indicted in the Eastern District of Texas for synthetic drug schemeRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A man and woman have been indicted for a drug trafficking scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Adell Willis, 43, of Lewisville, and Judy Ly, 30, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were named in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas. Willis and Ly were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute synthetic drugs and conspiracy to possess contraband in prison. Ly was also charged with possession of synthetic drugs with intent to distribute.
The indictment alleges that beginning in March 2023, Willis and Ly conspired to possess synthetic opioids, synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic stimulants, and other controlled analogues, in correctional institutions. It is alleged in the indictment that Willis purchased synthetic drugs from China and had them shipped to his residence in the Eastern District of Texas and Ly’s residence in Michigan. It is also alleged that once Willis and Ly received the synthetic drugs, they would convert the drugs to a liquid before soaking sheets of paper in the drug mixture. Once the sheets of paper were saturated, they were then delivered to inmates at various federal and state correctional institutions across the country.
If convicted, Willis and Ly could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
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.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Lawrence Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Nine Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lawrence man was sentenced in federal court in Boston for conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
Leonardo Lara, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In October 2025, Lara was convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (involving five kilograms or more of cocaine). In August 2023, Lara was indicted by a federal grand jury along with co-conspirators Merced Navarro Morfin and Leandro Martinez.
In April 2022, an investigation revealed that Lara was in possession of $230,000 in drug proceeds that he sought to send to Mexico. On April 20, 2022, Lara was stopped on Interstate-84 in Sturbridge and approximately $40,000 in drug proceeds were found hidden in baby-wipe containers in the trunk. Lara was released from the traffic stop and promptly contacted his co-conspirators. Approximately 36 minutes after the traffic stop concluded, Martinez and Navarro Morfin were observed travelling to Lara’s residence in Methuen and removing eight kilograms of cocaine. Another kilogram of cocaine, and approximately $196,000 in bundled cash, were found in the car that Martinez and Navarro Morfin drove to Lara’s house.
According to court records, Lara was previously convicted twice in federal court in Boston. In 2004, Lara was convicted of bank larceny and was sentenced to probation. In 2017, Lara was convicted of money laundering, transactions in criminally derived funds and theft of government funds and was sentenced to 15 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.In November 2025, Navarro Morfin was sentenced to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In May 2025, Martinez was sentenced to 23 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Samuel R. Feldman and Sandra Gonzalez Sanchez of the Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
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 Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
Lake Oswego Man Charged with Sexually Exploiting Multiple Minors and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Lake Oswego, Oregon, man has been charged with sexually exploiting minor victims online and in person across multiple states and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Alex Miller Eldridge, 36, has been charged by criminal complaint with sexual exploitation of children and possession and distribution of child pornography.
According to court documents, since May 2025, Eldridge used multiple online accounts to sexually exploit minors in multiple U.S. states and at least one foreign country. In December 2024, Eldridge flew from Hawaii to Pennsylvania to sexually abuse a minor victim he met on the Discord application. Eldridge recorded his sexual abuse of the minor victim and later sent those videos to multiple other minor victims.
Eldridge used the Discord and Session applications to engage in sexually themed chats with additional minor victims in 2025 and 2026. He directed one minor victim in Colorado and another in Greece to send him videos of themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct, which he then threatened to distribute online. Discord also reported him for distributing multiple files of CSAM in November 2025.
Investigators executed a search warrant at Elridge’s home on May 20 and located additional evidence of sexual exploitation of minors and CSAM activity. Evidence found on Eldridge’s cell phone showed that he distributed CSAM on Discord the day before his arrest.
Eldridge made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. magistrate judge, who detained Eldridge pending further court proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
This case was brought in collaboration with 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 www.justice.gov/psc.
Killer Convicted of Two Murders on Ft. BraggRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal jury convicted a Laurinburg man last week on eight charges including first degree murder, drug conspiracy, and obstruction of justice.
Kenneth Maurice Quick, Jr., 26, murdered WL and TD. After that following a series of events, Quick agreed to buy cocaine from WL, only he never intended to pay. TD sold the cocaine to WL, and joined him on the trip to sell it to Quick. Quick took WL to a trap house in Laurinburg where he shot him in the back five times. Then, TD agreed to help Quick dump WL’s body at a rural location in the woods on Ft. Bragg, hoping to avoid the same fate. However, when the truck bottomed out in the sand, Quick killed TD: shooting him once in the head and once in the back. Quick then coordinated with others to escape Ft. Bragg. The next day Quick and his coconspirators ransacked, moved, and burned TD’s truck.
“This verdict ensures that North Carolina is a safer place. A killer will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Despite fantastical claims in media accounts, this jury heard the actual facts and determined the truth of what happened. The victims and their families obtained a measure of justice, but the wounds will never be truly healed.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle.
In the lead up to the trial, Quick passed the names of two potential witnesses against him (spelling the names letter by letter) and discussed the “work” those witnesses required. When Quick’s mom later told him that one of the witnesses was killed, he responded, “Damn, you don’t know how happy that makes me feel.”
"Quick likely believed he got away with killing two men and discharging their bodies on Fort Bragg property without a second thought. He clearly didn't consider the dedication and expertise of the FBI Special Agents who, working with our partners from the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division, followed the evidence and put together a meticulous timeline of his crimes. The verdict, guilty on all eight federal counts related to murder, drugs, illegal firearms, and obstruction tells the story. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will make certain violent criminals are always held accountable," said Reid Davis, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
Quick faces a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment when sentenced in August 2026. There is no parole in the federal system.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan accepted the verdict. The FBI and U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division led the investigations in 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. 5:23-CR-246.
Jefferson County man guilty of drug trafficking as part of Homeland Security Task Force investigation in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations following a Homeland Security Task Force investigation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
James William Quinney, Jr., 38, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on May 21, 2026.
According to information presented in court, in October 2024, law enforcement began investigating Quinney for trafficking drugs in Beaumont and the surrounding area. During the investigation, Quinney was identified as the leader of a drug trafficking organization that distributed kilogram quantities of methamphetamine to other distributors for redistribution. Quinney was found to be purchasing 18 kilograms of methamphetamine at a time for redistribution. In total, law enforcement seized nearly five kilograms of methamphetamine from Quinney and over $80,000.00 in U.S. currency.
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 Houston comprises agents and officers from the FBI; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations - Houston (ICE-HSI); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Eastern District of Texas; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; Beaumont Police Department; Orange Police Department; Orange County Sheriff’s Office; Texas Department of Public Safety; Lumberton Police Department; and Galveston County Sheriff’s Office with the prosecution being led by Eastern District of Texas Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Lee.
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Jackson Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – Level Allen was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. Additionally, once released, he will be placed on supervised release for four years.
According to court documents, and statement made in open court, Allen sold methamphetamine from a Jackson motel on multiple occasions. Allen was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pled guilty in January 2026.
U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger for the Southern District of Mississippi; ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson; and DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer made the announcement.
The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline 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).
Illegal alien with multiple felony convictions, indicted for returning to the United States after being previously deportedRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A Mexican national has been charged with unlawfully returning to the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Julio Zamudio-Ramirez, 33, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien.
The indictment alleges that in August 2025, Zamudio-Ramirez was in the Gregg County jail for abandoning or endangering a child, when it was determined that he was a citizen of Mexico and in the United States illegally after having been previously deported to Mexico. Zamudio-Ramirez had previously been removed from the United States on June 6, 2020, following a Gregg County conviction in 2016 for delivery of a controlled substance. Zamudio-Ramirez also has a Gregg County conviction for burglary of a vehicle from 2013.
If convicted, Zamudio-Ramirez faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation.
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.
This case is being investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Illegal alien from Honduras sentenced to over three years in prison for illegally reentering the United States after multiple deportations and drug convictionsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Honduran national was sentenced on May 20 to three years and four months in prison for illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country twice.
According to court documents, in 1997, Franklin Geovany Alvarez-Villanueva, 54, was convicted of assault and possession of a controlled substance in Fairfax County. In 2000, Alvarez-Villanueva was convicted of grand larceny and distribution of controlled substances in Fairfax County. Alvarez-Villanueva was removed from the United States on Oct. 18, 2002.
Alvarez-Villanueva illegally reentered the United States and in 2013 was convicted for possession with intent to manufacture or sell cocaine. In 2015, Alvarez-Villanueva was convicted of unlawful reentry after removal subsequent to the conviction of an aggravated felony. He was removed from the United States again on June 30, 2017.
Alvarez-Villanueva again illegally reentered the United States and, in 2025, was convicted of possession of cocaine in Fairfax County. On Feb. 18, Alvarez-Villanueva pled guilty in the Eastern District of Virginia to illegally reentering the United States. He remains subject to the previous order of removal.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Washington, D.C., investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob A. Mercer prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-3.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – An illegal alien from Mexico, living locally in Keswick, Virginia, pled guilty this week to a federal firearms charge for illegally possessing a gun while being in the United States unlawfully.
Javier Bernal-Lopez, 38, pled guilty this week to illegal possession of a firearm while being illegally or unlawfully in the United States.
According to court documents, on November 18, 2025, Victim 1 and another person came to the Albemarle County Police Department (ACPD) to report a domestic dispute which had occurred the previous day near Keswick, Virginia. Victim 1 described a violent encounter with her ex-boyfriend, Javier Bernal-Lopez, involving a firearm being shot through their entrance door.
Victim 1 advised detectives with ACPD that Bernal-Lopez always carries a firearm on his person. In addition, Victim 1 advised detectives that she had been dating Bernal-Lopez for several years and she knew him to be a Mexican National illegally present in the United States.
Authorities confirmed that Bernal-Lopez had twice been arrested by U.S. Border Patrol at Nogales, Arizona, in June 2004. Following both arrests he was allowed to voluntarily return to Mexico.
On November 25, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the defendant’s home. During the search, law enforcement located a SCCY CPX-2 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The firearm was located in a bag along with Bernal-Lopez’s Mexican passport. A box of ammunition, as well as an extended magazine, capable of holding more than twenty rounds were located within the home as well.
First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf for Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. made the announcement.
The Department of Homeland Security and the Albemarle County Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sally J. Sullivan is prosecuting the case.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Alexi Zamora-Chona, 30, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced on May 19, 2026, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a short-barreled rifle in furtherance of drug trafficking. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Zamora-Chona to a total of 192 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Zamora-Chona’s release from prison, he will begin a four-year term of supervised release.
On November 21, 2024, DEA agents and local law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Omaha where Zamora-Chona and co-defendant Octavio Zamora-Chona lived. Probable cause for the search warrant was based on a controlled buy of half a pound of methamphetamine in Omaha. Agents recovered more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine, five firearms, and more than $19,000 cash. One of the firearms was a short-barreled rifle. Zamora-Chona said that the firearms were his and acknowledged that he knew the methamphetamine was at his house. Octavio Zamora-Chona’s seized cell phone was searched and extracted data revealed his involvement in methamphetamine dealing.
Octavio Zamora-Chona, 39, an illegal alien from Mexican, was sentenced February 13, 2026, to 180 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Lesley Woods said, “This case is a prime example of how drug trafficking and firearms go hand-in-hand and the presence of them together is a public safety threat to Nebraska’s communities. This sentencing was a just and appropriate outcome. Law enforcement should be commended for taking these individuals and their dangerous contraband off of our streets. We look forward to their swift deportation following their lengthy terms of imprisonment.”
The seized cash and firearms will be forfeited to the United States.
This case was investigated by the DEA with assistance from the Omaha Police Department, Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, and Saunders County Sheriff’s Office.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Recording His Sexual Abuse of Sleeping ChildRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIO RENE GARCIA MARTINEZ, also known as “Mario Rene Martinez Garcia,” 41, a citizen of Guatemala unlawfully residing in the U.S., pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to child exploitation offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on two occasions in February 2024, in Connecticut, Garcia Martinez used his smartphone to record images and videos of himself sexually abusing a prepubescent minor female while she was sleeping.
Garcia Martinez pleaded guilty to production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Garcia Martinez has been detained since his arrest on March 6, 2025. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel E. Cummings and Anastasia E. King with the assistance of the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Ansonia-Milford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
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.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Benefit Fraud and Identity Theft OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican man unlawfully residing in Salem, N.H., pleaded guilty yesterday to stealing the identity of an American citizen from Puerto Rico to obtain a U.S. Passport as well as federally funded benefits from Massachusetts.
Juan Felipe Chalas, 58, pleaded guilty to making a false statement in a passport application and unlawfully obtaining Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits. U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled sentencing for Sept. 8, 2026. The defendant was one of nine charged earlier this year as part of a benefit fraud crackdown. He remains in federal custody pending sentencing.
Pursuant to a plea agreement which calls for Chalas to serve one year of incarceration and two years of supervised release, Chalas also agreed to pay restitution of $12,584 to the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance for fraudulently obtaining SNAP benefits, $25,491 to the Social Security Administration for fraudulently obtaining disability benefits and $266,857 for fraudulently obtaining MassHealth benefits.
As far back as 1996, Chalas, a Dominican national who has never been admitted or inspected by immigration authorities, assumed the identity of an American citizen from Puerto Rico. Using the victim’s identity, Chalas obtained United States passports in 1998, 2010 and 2023 as well as various Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles identifications using the name and other information of an American citizen from Puerto Rico.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Amy Connelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division; Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region; Nathan Hebert, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office; and Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Grady, Deputy Chief of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Houston felon sentenced to federal prison for Crockett firearms violationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Houston convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Erik Saenz, 43, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone on May 21, 2026.
According to information presented in court, on February 2, 2025, law enforcement officers were dispatched to a child endangerment complaint in Crockett. The reporting party stated that Saenz was intoxicated and traveling on foot with a pre-school aged child. Officers located Saenz walking on the side of a highway and attempted to speak with him. Saenz smelled of alcohol and showed signs of intoxication. When officers attempted to remove the child from Saenz, he resisted. During the struggle, Saenz attempted to reach for a firearm that was tucked into his waistband. The officers were eventually able to disarm Saenz and he was arrested. Further investigation revealed
Saenz has previous felony convictions for evading arrest with a motor vehicle, burglary, and injury to a child. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms.
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.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Crockett Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter.
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Honduran National Sentenced to 175 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Distribution Offense in Atlantic CityRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Honduran national was sentenced for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it, United States Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Diogenes Galvez, 21, of Atlantic City, New Jersey, previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on May 19, before U.S. District Chief Judge Renée Marie Bumb in Camden federal court. Chief Judge Bumb sentenced Galvez to serve 175 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
According to the evidence and statements made in court:
On September 27, 2023, Atlantic City Police Department officers and agents with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force executed a search warrant at Galvez’s home. Officers found methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and other controlled substances. Officers also found a loaded semiautomatic handgun that had a defaced serial number, as well as nearly $5,000 in cash. Prior to possessing the controlled substances and defaced firearm, Galvez had been convicted of multiple firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy of Newark, with the investigation. U.S. Attorney Frazer also thanked the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor William Reynolds, for its assistance in the investigation. The investigation was part of the U.S. Attorney and Atlantic County Violent Crimes Initiative (VCI), which is a collaboration of multiple local, state and federal law enforcement agencies operating within Atlantic County, including, but not limited to, the Atlantic City Police Department and the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Department, designed to identify the most violent offenders and coordinate law enforcement efforts.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph McFarlane in Camden.
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Georgian Citizen Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison for International Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Georgian citizen was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for laundering more than $1.1 million in illicit health care fraud proceeds to his co-conspirators located abroad.
According to court documents, Irakli Nakashidze, 35, a Georgian citizen residing in Miami, Florida, owned ABRH Care Inc. (ABRH), an alleged medical supply company located in Miami. In reality, ABRH was a sham company used to defraud Medicare. In just the first six months of 2025, ABRH billed Medicare and private insurers roughly $179 million for medical supplies — including orthotic braces and wound dressings — that were never provided to patients. This fraudulent billing was conducted by a transnational criminal organization that orchestrated a large-scale fraud on Medicare and private insurers. Nakashidze laundered over $1.1 million in proceeds from this fraud to his co-conspirators, including by transferring large sums to accounts located in China and Hong Kong. Bank surveillance depicted Nakashidze laundering the money on multiple occasions.
In November 2025, Nakashidze pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. At sentencing, he was ordered to pay $1,108,504 in forfeiture.
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Scott Lampert for the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles for the FBI Miami Office; and Special Agent in Charge Derek Holt for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of the Inspector General (OPM-OIG) made the announcement.
HHS-OIG, FBI, and OPM-OIG investigated the case. Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate, and the U.S. Marshals Service provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Claire Horrell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Georgia Sex Offender Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Register in Madison County, FloridaRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – Tavaris Andre Donaldson, 30, of Madison, Florida, was sentenced in federal court to 27 months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Convicted sex offenders like this defendant are legally required to register with local authorities when they move to a new location. This legal requirement is necessary to keep our communities informed of their presence and safe, and my office will ensure those registration requirements are strictly enforced.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant was convicted of child molestation in May 2014 in Lowndes County, Georgia, and, as a result, was required to register as a sex offender in each county where he lived and worked. Although the defendant had been registering as a sex offender as required in Lowndes County, Georgia, he absconded from there in October 2024 and traveled to Madison County, Florida, where he lived and worked. Employment records showed that the defendant began employment in Madison County, Florida, in early-2025; however, the defendant knowingly failed to report his employment and residence as required by SORNA.
After serving his term of imprisonment, Donaldson will have to serve eight years of supervised release.
“There is nothing more important than protecting our nation’s children,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal. “If a sex offender crosses state lines and fails to register, the U.S. Marshals will arrest and bring charges against them for these violations.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.
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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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.
Former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Sentenced to 72 Months in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer was sentenced yesterday on charges of distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Scott Rocky, 58, of Center Line, Michigan stands convicted of distribution of child pornography. United States District Judge Terrence G. Berg sentenced Rocky to 72 months in federal prison.
According to court records, in April 2025, Rocky shared and downloaded hundreds of files of child sexual abusive material (CSAM) online via peer-to-peer applications. Following the execution of a search warrant at Rocky’s residence, agents located on his computer over five hundred accessed images of CSAM, including those depicting the sexual abuse of toddlers, infants, and prepubescent children.
“We trust law enforcement to uphold the law and protect Americans. This pervert violated our trust and broke the law so that he could hurt children. He deserves every day of his sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon.
“This sentence should serve as a warning: no badge, title, or position of public trust will shield anyone who exploits our children from facing justice under federal law,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “Public trust amongst law enforcement officials is essential. This former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer distributed child sexually abuse material, which is disturbing and does not represent the men and women who serve honorably in law enforcement. Our FBI Detroit Crimes Against Children Squad, alongside the CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility, worked tirelessly to hold this sexual predator accountable and protect our children from further exploitation.”
The FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan Ho prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Former Senior Vice President of Atlanta Housing Authority Sentenced to Prison for Housing Assistance Fraud and Pandemic Relief FraudRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Tracy Jones, a former Senior Vice President at the Atlanta Housing Authority, has been sentenced to prison and ordered to pay restitution for a scheme to fraudulently collect Section 8 housing assistance payments for her own rental property and family members, making fraudulent applications to collect pandemic relief funds, and committing mortgage fraud when refinancing her rental property.
“Jones violated the trust of the community, the taxpayers, and the needy families she was supposed to assist, using her senior position at one of the largest housing authorities to steal limited public funds,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Her theft of that money meant other members of the community went without much-needed relief. Our office will continue to vigorously act to hold people like Jones, who violate the public trust and pilfer from the treasury, accountable.”
“Tracy Jones abused a position of trust by diverting funds from multiple federal programs, undermining assistance intended for vulnerable communities and struggling businesses during the pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Jerome Winkle with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG). “HUD OIG will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who exploit HUD-funded programs for personal gain.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: From April 2017 to the time of her guilty plea in this case, Jones served as Senior Vice President over the Housing Choice Voucher Program at the Atlanta Housing Authority, overseeing one of the largest Section 8 programs in the country. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funds Section 8 programs, including rental assistance payments to landlords on behalf of low-income families and individuals. Section 8 funds are limited, and there is often a long waiting list of low-income families seeking acceptance into the program. Housing authority staff are generally prohibited from receiving Section 8 payments for their own properties, and Section 8 landlords are typically prohibited from leasing to their own family members.
Instead of upholding the integrity of the housing assistance program, Jones defrauded the program by using a series of falsified forms to have her family members admitted to the Section 8 program and then to receive Section 8 payments for them to live in her own rental house. To conceal her identity, Jones used a fake name and a shell business entity to execute housing authority documents. As a result, she improperly obtained more than $36,000 of Section 8 funds. Jones then obstructed subsequent investigations by submitting a false affidavit and convincing friends to lie and present false documents on her behalf.
At the same time, Jones used her shell business and another business to collect more than $27,000 from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s COVID-19 pandemic relief programs, falsely claiming that the businesses were functioning, had multiple employees, and received over $56,000 of gross revenues in 2019. When the SBA denied one of Jones’s applications, she appealed the denial, falsely stating:
- “I am truly a[n] honest business owner[.]”
- “I hear the stories how people abused the PPP loans to establish a lavish lif[e] style. That is not me. My business is small and is growing, but I [am] one of the legitimate and honest business that can use all the help I can.”
- “I also serve a community of low income families in my business, renting one of my three homes to a low income family as well as serve other owners of low income rental properties.”
Jones also committed mortgage fraud when she refinanced her Section 8 rental property, falsely claiming on her application for a $219,780 loan that the property was her primary residence, that the residence was not a rental property, and that she did not own any other property.
On May 20, 2026, Tracy Denise Jones, 61, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to 9 months in prison to be followed by 9 months of home detention and 15 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $65,598.80 and a fine of $63,546. She pled guilty on February 2, 2026, to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, wire fraud, and credit application fraud.
This case was investigated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett L. Bradford prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former CDC Supervisor Pleads Guilty to Stealing More than $190,000 of Agency FundsRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Gwendolyn Brandon, a former supervisor at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has pleaded guilty to theft of government funds in connection with fake invoices she submitted to the CDC.
“This defendant embezzled taxpayer money and brazenly exploited her position of public trust by fabricating invoices,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “When she is sentenced later this year, she will pay the price for her greed and deception.”
“This federal employee-turn-fraudster exploited her government position to steal taxpayer money to enrich herself,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus L. Sykes of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “HHS-OIG is committed to protecting the integrity of the federal workforce and to help ensure that HHS funding is spent appropriately to serve the American public.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: From approximately August 2023 to February 2025, while employed as a CDC administrative professional, Brandon created fraudulent invoices that appeared to be from vendors requesting payment for goods or services provided to the CDC. The invoices triggered payments to an account she controlled. She used her role as a supervisor and her knowledge of CDC’s invoice and credit card processing system to perpetuate the fraud by causing employees under her supervision, who were unaware of the fraud, to make the payments. Through her scheme, she caused the CDC to pay at least 46 fraudulent invoices in amounts ranging from $2,230 to $9,970, resulting in the theft of $190,461.50 in government funds.
Gwendolyn Brandon, 43, of Cumming, Georgia, pleaded guilty to theft of government funds yesterday. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Steven D. Grimberg. In determining the actual sentence, the Court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders. As part of her plea agreement, Brandon agreed to resign from the CDC and never apply for employment with the federal government again, nor will she seek to do business with the federal government as a contractor or vendor.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica C. Morris is prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Five Gang Members Plead Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Mohamed Jaber (33, Tampa), Irving Bruzon (28, Tampa), Christian Andujar (28, Tampa), Kyle Miller (34, Orlando), and Julissa Collazo (29, Tampa) have each pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute more than 1,000 kilograms of marijuana. Andujar also pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering and one count of financial institution fraud. Bruzon also pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering and one count of financial institution fraud. Jaber pleaded guilty to an additional count of financial institution fraud. Each faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not yet been set. A sixth individual, Xavier Garnder, has been charged and has entered a plea of not guilty. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court records and hearings, these individuals were members of a street gang called Alexander Park, or AP. The gang, or enterprise, operated in part by selling and distributing marijuana and by robbing other drug dealers of their marijuana and money. The gang also carried out acts of violence in furtherance of these activities and to maintain the credibility of the gang and strengthen the position of members within the gang. The gang also obtained high end vehicles by making misrepresentations about their employment and incomes. Some of the vehicles were used during their crimes.
Beginning in January 2020 and continuing through July of 2021, Andujar and Garnder, who has pleaded not guilty, conspired to kill a rival gang member. In April 2023, Andujar, Bruzon, Garnder, and an unknown fourth co-conspirator conspired to kill an individual who had angered them. The victim was shot 17 times while sleeping in his car and died of his injuries.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tampa Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Shelby Township Police Department (Michigan). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Newman and Brooke Padgett. Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky is handling the forfeiture.
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.
Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to More Than a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dubuque man who distributed fentanyl between July 2022 and October 2023 and illegally possessed a gun was sentenced on May 18, 2026, to more than ten years in federal prison.
Derrick Deonte Moore, age 31, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 22, 2025, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and distribution of fentanyl.
Evidence at plea and sentencing hearings showed that between July 1, 2022, and October 10, 2023, Moore worked with others to distribute fentanyl. In October and December 2023, Moore distributed fentanyl that caused two nonfatal overdoses. In March 2023, investigators searched Moore’s home in Dubuque. They found Moore in the home and in possession of over $2,500. Investigators also found 234 fentanyl pills hidden inside a stuffed animal, five more fentanyl pills in a bag inside Moore’s bedroom closet, a loaded .45 caliber pistol in the same closet, a scale, prescription drugs, and marijuana. On September 6, 2023, and October 10, 2023, Moore sold ten fentanyl pills to another person. Moore was prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony and domestic abuse assault convictions.
Moore was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Moore was sentenced to 137 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
More is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael S.A. Hudson and Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Dubuque Drug Task Force, the Dubuque Police Department, the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory.
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.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-1036.
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Feeding Our Future Ringleader Sentenced to 500 MonthsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Aimee Bock has been sentenced to 500 months in prison for her lead role in a $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
As proven at trial, Aimee Bock, 44, was the founder and executive director of Feeding Our Future, a nonprofit organization that was a sponsor participating in the Federal Child Nutrition Program. Salim Said, 36, former co-owner of Safari Restaurant, was jointly tried with Bock. Together, they oversaw a massive fraud scheme carried out by sites under Feeding Our Future’s sponsorship.
“Over forty-one years in prison is the cost this fraudster will pay for stealing from children,” said Colin M. McDonald, Assistant Attorney General for the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Rather than using taxpayer funds intended to feed vulnerable children, the defendant instead pocketed the money to buy luxury vehicles, residential and commercial real estate in Minnesota, and finance international travel. As this prison sentence makes clear, Minnesota fraudsters should be on high alert—justice is on the move.”
"Aimee Bock and her co-conspirators orchestrated one of the largest frauds against a social service program ever in Minnesota," said FBI Minneapolis Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. "The hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars stolen through Bock's scheme were meant to help children and families in need. Defrauding programs designed to feed hungry children is despicable and the sentence handed down today underscores that fact. Complex fraud investigations are at the heart of the FBI's work. Our Special Agents, Forensic Accountants, Analysts, and professional staff will continue to work tenaciously with our law enforcement partners to protect the American taxpayer and families in need from frauds like these."
As proven at trial, Feeding Our Future employees recruited individuals and entities to open Federal Child Nutrition Program sites throughout the state of Minnesota. These sites, created and operated by Bock, Said, and others, fraudulently claimed to be serving meals to thousands of children a day within just days or weeks of being formed. Bock and Said created and submitted false documentation, including fraudulent meal counts consisting of fake attendance rosters purporting to list the names and ages of the children receiving meals at the sites each day. Feeding Our Future submitted these fraudulent claims to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and then disbursed the fraudulently obtained Federal Child Nutrition Program funds to their co-conspirators involved in the scheme.
To accomplish their scheme, Bock and her co-conspirators created dozens of shell companies to enroll in the program as food program sites, and to receive and launder the proceeds of their fraudulent scheme. In exchange for sponsoring these sites’ fraudulent participation in the program, Feeding Our Future received more than $18 million in administrative fees to which it was not entitled. In addition to the administrative fees, Feeding Our Future employees solicited and received bribes and kickbacks from individuals and companies sponsored by Feeding Our Future. Many of these kickbacks were paid in cash or disguised as “consulting fees” paid to shell companies created by Feeding Our Future employees to make them appear legitimate.
In total, Feeding Our Future opened more than 250 Federal Child Nutrition Program sites throughout the state of Minnesota, and in doing so, went from receiving and disbursing approximately $3.4 million in federal funds in 2019 to nearly $200 million in 2021. Throughout the course of their scheme, Feeding Our Future fraudulently obtained and disbursed more than $240 million in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. The defendants used the proceeds of their fraudulent scheme to purchase luxury vehicles, residential and commercial real estate in Minnesota, and to fund international travel.
In pronouncing sentence, Judge Nancy Brasel told Bock, “This was a fraud vortex and you were at the epicenter of it.” Judge Brasel stated that “A sentence of less than 500 months would not do justice to the people of Minnesota, who were in a very real sense the victims of this fraud.”
These cases result from an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Matthew D. Evans are prosecuting these cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
Feeding Our Future Ringleader Sentenced to 500 MonthsRead the Press Release
Aimee Bock has been sentenced to 500 months in prison for her lead role in a $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
As proven at trial, Aimee Bock, 44, was the founder and executive director of Feeding Our Future, a nonprofit organization that was a sponsor participating in the Federal Child Nutrition Program. Salim Said, 36, former co-owner of Safari Restaurant, was jointly tried with Bock. Together, they oversaw a massive fraud scheme carried out by sites under Feeding Our Future’s sponsorship.
“Over 41 years in prison is the cost this fraudster will pay for stealing from children, said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald for the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Rather than using taxpayer funds intended to feed vulnerable children, the defendant instead pocketed the money to buy luxury vehicles, residential and commercial real estate in Minnesota, and finance international travel. As this prison sentence makes clear, Minnesota fraudsters should be on high alert — justice is on the move.”
“Aimee Bock and her co-conspirators orchestrated one of the largest frauds against a social service program ever in Minnesota,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office. “The hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars stolen through Bock's scheme were meant to help children and families in need. Defrauding programs designed to feed hungry children is despicable and the sentence handed down today underscores that fact. Complex fraud investigations are at the heart of the FBI's work. Our Special Agents, Forensic Accountants, Analysts, and professional staff will continue to work tenaciously with our law enforcement partners to protect the American taxpayer and families in need from frauds like these.”
As proven at trial, Feeding Our Future employees recruited individuals and entities to open Federal Child Nutrition Program sites throughout the state of Minnesota. These sites, created and operated by Bock, Said, and others, fraudulently claimed to be serving meals to thousands of children a day within just days or weeks of being formed. Bock and Said created and submitted false documentation, including fraudulent meal counts consisting of fake attendance rosters purporting to list the names and ages of the children receiving meals at the sites each day. Feeding Our Future submitted these fraudulent claims to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and then disbursed the fraudulently obtained Federal Child Nutrition Program funds to their co-conspirators involved in the scheme.
To accomplish their scheme, Bock and her co-conspirators created dozens of shell companies to enroll in the program as food program sites, and to receive and launder the proceeds of their fraudulent scheme. In exchange for sponsoring these sites’ fraudulent participation in the program, Feeding Our Future received more than $18 million in administrative fees to which it was not entitled. In addition to the administrative fees, Feeding Our Future employees solicited and received bribes and kickbacks from individuals and companies sponsored by Feeding Our Future. Many of these kickbacks were paid in cash or disguised as “consulting fees” paid to shell companies created by Feeding Our Future employees to make them appear legitimate.
In total, Feeding Our Future opened more than 250 Federal Child Nutrition Program sites throughout the state of Minnesota, and in doing so, went from receiving and disbursing approximately $3.4 million in federal funds in 2019 to nearly $200 million in 2021. Throughout the course of their scheme, Feeding Our Future fraudulently obtained and disbursed more than $240 million in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. The defendants used the proceeds of their fraudulent scheme to purchase luxury vehicles, residential and commercial real estate in Minnesota, and to fund international travel.
In pronouncing sentence, Judge Nancy Brasel told Bock, “This was a fraud vortex and you were at the epicenter of it.” Judge Brasel stated that “A sentence of less than 500 months would not do justice to the people of Minnesota, who were in a very real sense the victims of this fraud.”
These cases result from an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Matthew D. Evans are prosecuting these cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
FBI Agent Honored with Inaugural Hometown Hero Award by the United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana IslandsRead the Press Release
Hagåtña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, is proud to announce that Special Agent Richard J. Bauer has been awarded the inaugural Hometown Hero Award sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of America’s 250th Birthday.
“It is a privilege to call Special Agent Bauer a federal partner,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “Rick works in both of our judicial districts as a criminal investigator, specializing in child exploitation offenses, among other serious federal offenses. He is an expert in the forensic examination of electronic evidence. Rick also volunteers as a coach in youth wrestling, soccer, and baseball in the CNMI, including for national teams that compete throughout the Pacific region. He is also the vice president of the Northern Marianas Wrestling Federation. I applaud his commitment to service and civic responsibility for the citizens of our districts.”
The Hometown Hero Award was created in honor of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The Department of Justice is proud to honor law enforcement across the country with recognition of the extraordinary service to their fellow citizens.
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Eastern District of Texas honors Jacksonville Police Officer with Hometown Hero AwardRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs of the Eastern District of Texas announced Officer Elyse Hand of the Jacksonville Police Department as the district’s 2026 Hometown Hero Award recipient.
The Hometown Hero Award is sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of the United States of America’s 250th year of celebrating its independence. The Hometown Hero award recognizes one of our law enforcement partners who best embodies the spirit upon which our Nation was founded and reflects a steadfast commitment to the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office recognizes Officer Hand for her courageous actions on the evening of Sunday, November 2, 2025. On this day, Officer Hand was shot twice in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a wanted fugitive. Today, she is on the road to recovery, supported by her husband, a Texas State Trooper, and their young son.
In honor of Officer Hand, employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office held a gift-in-kind charity drive to benefit local child advocacy centers in the Eastern District of Texas. Those centers include the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County in Plano, the Grayson County Children’s Advocacy Center in Sherman, the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County in Tyler, Harold’s House East Texas Alliance for Children in Lufkin, and the Garth House in Beaumont.
As the Eastern District of Texas’ Hometown Hero, Officer Hand represents the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers across the nation every day. We salute Officer Hand and her bravery and wish her a speedy recovery.
To learn more about the Hometown Hero award and Freedom 250, please visit https://freedom250.org/.
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EDNC U.S. Attorney’s Office Threat Prosecutions Since 2022Read the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C.— The EDNC U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to protect the public by prosecuting criminal threats across the district. Since 2022, this Office has successfully prosecuted numerous threat-related cases. These prosecutions have involved a range of targeted victims, from individuals, federal employees, and elected officials to public institutions. These cases involve threats intended to intimidate, disrupt government operations, or make victims fear for their safety.
As a result of these enforcement efforts, convicted defendants have received substantial sentences in federal court. These outcomes underscore the seriousness with which the justice system treats threats of violence and the lasting impact such criminal behavior forces victims and the broader community to suffer.
Date
Case Name
Status
Charge
Prior Press Release
112/22Lydia Crouse
5:22-CR-00345
1 year and 1-day federal prison18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce 24/25Michael Ferr
5:25-CR-00036
2 years and 3 months federal prison18USC871(a), 879,
and 115(a)(1)(A) Threaten to assault/murder immediate family member of U.S. official
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/raleigh-man-sentenced-federal-prison-threatening-kill-potus-and-us-secret-service31/24Robert Glauner
5:24-CR-00025
5 years federal prison 18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/albuquerque-man-sentenced-threatening-and-stalking-raleigh-woman-he-met-online412/25Blake Govea
5:25-CR-313
3 years supervised release 18USC115(a)(1)(A) Threaten to assault /murder immediate family member of U.S. official 51/25Edward Huffman
5:25-CR-00030-M
6 months federal prison18USC875(a) Transmit demand/request for ransom/reward for kidnapped personhttps://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/man-arrested-after-threats-hunt-down-corporate-executives-and-their-families611/25Christopher Lancaster
5:23-CR-00036
1 year and 7 months federal prison18USC115(a)(1)(B) Threaten to assault or murder Federal official 712/22Timothy Mann
5:23-CR-00014
3 years federal prison18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commercehttps://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/man-sentenced-three-years-cyberstalking-after-months-harassment-and-violent-threats88/25Ashley Moore
5:25-CR-00245
1 year
& 1-month federal prison
18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commercehttps://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/woman-sentenced-year-jail-threats99/25Zachary Newell
7:25-CR-00095
2 years federal prison18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commercehttps://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/newport-man-sentenced-2-years-threatening-shoot-and-skin-black-preschoolers1011/24Matthew Woodruff
5:24-CR-00349
2 years & 6 months federal prison18USC875(a) Transmit demand/request for ransom/reward for kidnapped person 115/22Carl Abernathey
7:22-CR-00065
3 years supervised release with location monitoring18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce 127/23Jason Evans
5:23-CR-00233
1 year and 6 months federal prison 18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce 137/23Steven Tomes
5:23-CR-00274
5 years’ probation 18USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce 1410/24Jesse Metcalf
5:24-CR-00293
Charged, Pending Trial July 202618USC875(c) Transmit threat in interstate commerce 154/26Eric Byrd
5:26-CR-69
Charged, Pending Arraignment18USC875(a) Transmit demand/request for ransom/reward for kidnapped person 164/26James Comey
4:26-CR-00016
Charged, Pending Arraignment18USC871
Threats against President
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-former-fbi-director-james-comey-threats-harm-president-trump174/26Christopher Hill
7:23-CR-00056
Charged, Pending Arraignment18USC871
Threats against President
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/wilmington-man-indicted-threatening-president-trump184/26Daniel McSwain
5:26-MJ-01682
Charged,
Pending Arraignment18USC871
Threats against President
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/south-carolina-man-arrested-threatening-kill-president194/26Richard Warren
7:26-CR-00026
Charged, Pending Arraignment18USC115(a)(1)(B) Threaten to assault or murder Federal official 207/24Joshua JusticeCharged, pending evaluation18USC115 Threaten
to assault or murder Federal official
These prosecutions reflect the Office’s ongoing commitment to public safety, ensuring that individuals who make threats—whether in person, online, or through other means—are held accountable under federal law. Our Office works closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute these cases.
East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Recognized as Freedom 250’s Hometown Hero for the Middle District of LouisianaRead the Press Release
Deputy Brandon Searles of the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office was recognized as the Middle District’s Freedom 250 Hometown Hero, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall. The Freedom 250 Hometown Hero initiative is part of America’s 250 anniversary celebrations, honoring local law enforcement heroes across the country for their courage, generosity, and service.
On May 8, 2025, Deputy Searles, a private citizen and former Marine Reservist at the time, stopped an attempted bank robbery at the Regions Bank on South Sherwood Forest Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Without hesitation or concern for his own safety, Deputy Searles disarmed and secured Quarles James Harris, age 52, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Harris was then arrested by Baton Rouge Police officers and taken into custody.
Before the incident, Deputy Searles was in the process of applying with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. He graduated from the Capital Area Regional Training Academy in December 2025.
Harris was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2025, for bank robbery; using, carrying, possessing, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to and in furtherance of a crime of violence; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty and is currently awaiting sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Wall stated, “It is my honor to recognize Brandon for his selflessness and bravery. Without hesitation, he took action that day to protect his fellow neighbors from a very dangerous situation. He has served our country as a marine and continues to serve our community as a deputy. We are very fortunate to have Brandon as our Hometown Hero.
“Even before Deputy Brandon Searles joined the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, he demonstrated the courage, selflessness, and instinct to protect others that define the very best in law enforcement,” stated Sheriff Sid Gautreaux. “His actions that day reflected the character, integrity, and sense of duty that cannot be taught. We are incredibly proud of Deputy Searles for receiving this well-deserved recognition and grateful that he is now a member of the EBRSO family. I also want to thank U.S. Attorney Kurt Wall and his office for recognizing Brandon’s actions and honoring individuals who selflessly step forward to protect others. We are fortunate to have Deputy Searles serving our community alongside us each day.”
District of Arizona Charges 389 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this WeekRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from May 16 through May 22, 2026, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 389 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 170 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 191 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 23 cases against 28 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Recent matters of interest include:
United States v. Gregory James Russell. Gregory James Russell was charged by criminal complaint on May 20, 2026, with Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit and Placing in Jeopardy the Life of Any Person. On May 19, Border Patrol Agents observed a Ford F-150 exceeding 80 mph in a 55 mph zone. The driver also swerved from side to side, crossing the center line, then continued into the town of Sonoita, Arizona, where agents eventually initiated a stop. Inside the vehicle, agents discovered two individuals who were determined to be citizens of Mexico, unlawfully present in the United States. Agents also observed an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle and noted that Russell appeared to be intoxicated. Agents learned that Russell drove from Tucson to Nogales to pick up two illegal aliens and transport them to Phoenix and that he would be paid to do so. At the request of agents, Arizona Department of Public Safety Troopers also responded and charged Russell with Driving Under the Influence. [Case number: 26-MJ-03276]
United States v. Robert Blair Schenberg. On May 20, 2026, Robert Blair Schenberg was charged by criminal compliant with Transportation of an Illegal Alien. On May 19, a Pinal County Deputy noticed the license plate on a silver Hyundai Elantra was blowing upright in the breeze, making it unreadable. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, Robert Blair Schenberg. While speaking to Schenberg, the deputy noticed the rear passenger was dressed in camouflage clothing and wearing carpet shoes. On the floorboard next to the passenger was a camouflage backpack. The deputy contacted the U.S. Border Patrol for assistance. Border Patrol Agents confirmed that the passenger was a citizen of Mexico, unlawfully present in the United States. [Case number: 26-MJ-5222]
United States v. Luis Arturo Quezada-Garcia. On May 19, 2026, Luis Arturo Quezada-Garcia was charged by criminal complaint with Transportation of an Illegal Alien. On May 18, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent noticed a Chevrolet Silverado near Wickenburg, Arizona, with dark window tint and an item hanging from the rearview mirror. The agent followed the vehicle and noticed the driver slow down and repeatedly drift across the fog line. As the agent pulled up to the vehicle, he could see two passengers in the back seat. Shortly after, the two passengers were no longer visible. The agent conducted a vehicle stop for an immigration inspection. During the stop, agents learned that the driver, Quezada-Garcia, and the rear passengers were citizens of Mexico, unlawfully present in the United States, and that they had crossed the border into the United States approximately one week prior. [Case number: 26-MJ-01388]
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-081_May 22, 2026, Immigration Enforcement
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
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Defendant Sentenced to 15 Years for Carjacking and Weapons OffensesRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on May 21, 2026, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Hector David Flores, age 29, of Kennewick, WA, to 15 years in federal prison for Carjacking, Brandishing a Firearm in Commission of a Crime of Violence, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Judge Dimke imposed 5 years of federal supervision upon Flores’ release from custody.
According to court documents, on June 10, 2025, Benton County Deputies observed Flores driving a vehicle just east of the Duportail Bridge in Richland. Deputies had been involved in an incident less than a week before, where Flores assaulted two deputies, and escaped by fleeing the scene in a vehicle. Anticipating that Flores would flee again, spike strips were deployed in an attempt to disable his vehicle. Despite successfully puncturing both front tires, Flores fled. Minutes later, his vehicle was reported abandoned in a nearby neighborhood. As deputies responded to the area, Flores was observed as a passenger in a truck. It was later learned that Flores had approached a good Samaritan and requested a ride to Pasco. The good Samaritan agreed. However, after a sheriff’s vehicle attempted to stop the truck, Flores pulled a loaded firearm, pointed it at the good Samaritan, and commanded him to keep driving. Instead, the good Samaritan was able to push the firearm away, bring the truck to a stop, and run to safety, advising officers of the firearm in the process.
Flores stole the vehicle and drove away. Deputies pursued Flores in a high-speed chase, where Flores weaved in and out of traffic, and drove in the wrong lane of travel. Based on the incredible risk of harm posed by Flores, Deputies employed a pursuit intervention technique (PIT) maneuver, which ultimately allowed the pursuit to end.
Flores was taken into custody. Inside the vehicle, Deputies located three loaded firearms, one of which was stolen, 32 grams of methamphetamine, 62 grams of fentanyl, baggies, a scale and approximately $1,200 in cash, and Flores’s wallet and identification.
“In Washington, criminals have been emboldened by bad legislation that encourages the belief that they can elude law enforcement, evade capture, and avoid consequences,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano. “This case serves to show that my office, alongside our local law enforcement partners and federal agencies, will not let that happen. We will every tool possible to put an end to violent acts, protect our communities, especially our good Samaritans, and hold that criminals accountable.”
“The victim in this case was simply trying to lend a helping hand to a stranger in need, and, in the process, became the target of the type of violent crime that continues to plague our community,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Fortunately, the victim was able to escape, and the unrelenting pursuit of local law enforcement brought Flores into custody without any other citizen being harmed. ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to put an end to this type of violence.”
This case was initially investigated by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Richland Police Department. The case was formally adopted for federal prosecution by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Brandon Pang, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
4:25-cr-6032-MKD-1
Decorah Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Decorah man who obtained and distributed methamphetamine was sentenced on May 18, 2026, to more than 18 years in federal prison.
Cody Richard Reisner, age 42, from Decorah, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 2, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine after a prior conviction for a serious drug felony.
Information disclosed at sentencing showed that, in February 2025, Reisner obtained methamphetamine from a source of supply in Des Moines, Iowa, and distributed the methamphetamine to customers in the Decorah area. On February 26, 2025, law enforcement officers tried to stop Reisner’s car. Reisner fled from officers. He drove through a dorm parking lot and a grassy space of a college campus before he stopped and ran. Officers caught him and he was arrested. Officers recovered over 70 grams of methamphetamine from his car. Reisner’s has three prior drug‑trafficking convictions.
Reisner was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Reisner was sentenced to 224 months’ imprisonment, and he must also serve an eight‑year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Reisner is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25‑CR‑02044‑CJW.
D.C. Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for the 2021 Stabbing Death of a Mother at Southeast Gas StationRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tywan Morris, 30, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison in the 2021 murder of a woman at a Southeast gas station, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
A Superior Court jury found Morris guilty on Nov. 12, 2025, of one count of second-degree murder while armed. In addition to the 20-year prison sentence, the Honorable Michael Ryan ordered Morris to serve five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at 5:03 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2021, Danielle Stuckey, 27, and her 12-year-old child walked through the BP gas station at 2801 Alabama Avenue SE to a nearby bus stop.
A short time later, Morris pulled into the gas station with his girlfriend and child and parked. While Morris was pumping gas, the victim approached him, and a brief argument ensued between the victim, Morris, and Morris’s girlfriend.
Despite the victim walking back to the bus stop, Morris retrieved a knife with brass knuckles attached. Initially, Morris gave the knife to his girlfriend. The girlfriend attempted to stab the victim. Morris then retrieved the knife and charged at the victim. The victim attempted to back away, but Morris pursued her. He tripped her to the ground and kicked her in the head. While the victim was on the ground, Morris stabbed her in the left thigh transecting her femoral artery and vein and killing her. Morris then fled the scene with his girlfriend.
Morris was arrested the same day. He has been in custody since November 2023.
Joining U.S. Attorney Pirro in the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ariel Dean and Daniel Bromwich who prosecuted the case.
2021 CF1 005953, 2023 CF2 008570
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Convicted Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Justin Poon pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child pornography. The proceeding was held before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho. Poon was a registered sex offender in New York State when he committed the crimes. When sentenced, Poon faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years’ imprisonment and up to 70 years’ imprisonment, as well as restitution to victims of his crimes.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the guilty plea.
“The defendant is a depraved sextortionist and danger to the community who produced, collected, and distributed child pornography, and terrorized dozens of victims, including minors,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “His conduct reflects a total disregard for the trauma he inflicted on his victims and their families. Although today’s guilty plea cannot undo the harm that Poon has caused to his victims, it does ensure that he will be incarcerated for decades.”
“Already a convicted child predator, the defendant continued to exploit minors through extortion and production of sexually explicit videos,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “The FBI/NYPD Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force will continue to pursue those who seek to harm our children and ensure they face justice.
According to court proceedings and filings, from at least December 2018 through his arrest in December 2023, Poon engaged in a pattern of exploiting minor girls for the purpose of creating child pornography. Poon targeted his victims and solicited their production of sexually explicit materials for his gratification and financial gain. For example, Poon induced a 16 year-old victim to create sexually explicit images of herself according to his specifications and then sold those images on the internet. Poon also traveled across state lines to engage in sexual activity with another 16 year-old victim and created sexually explicit videos of that victim.
Poon engaged in an extortion scheme during the same period. Poon obtained sexually explicit images and videos of minors and young women using deceptive means, including by pretending to be Snapchat customer support to trick them into sharing their passwords so that he could access private materials in their accounts. Once the defendant had the images and videos, he then threatened to share them directly with his victims’ friends and family if they did not comply with his demands for payment or additional sexually explicit materials. When one of his 16-year-old victims pleaded with him not to “ruin [her] life,” because she “need[ed] to go to university,” the defendant responded: “I don’t care.”
As part of the government’s investigation, search warrants were obtained to search Poon’s electronic devices and DropBox accounts. He was found to be in possession of child pornography for at least 50 different victims. Poon was previously convicted in 2021 of sexual misconduct with a 15 year-old victim.
If you believe you may have been a victim of the defendant, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at https://forms.fbi.gov/victims/seeking-victim-information-in-justin-poon-investigation/view. This prosecution is 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, 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorney Kamil R. Ammari is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
JUSTIN POON
Age: 27
West Hempstead, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-533 (BMC)
Clinic Owner Convicted for $52M Health Care Fraud, Illegal Narcotics Distribution, and Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal jury in the Eastern District of New York convicted a New York man for his role in conspiracies to commit health care fraud, illegally distribute Suboxone, and pay and receive illegal health care kickbacks.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Tony Brown-Arkah, 78, of New York, New York, was the owner of American Medical Centers (AMC), a medical clinic in Brooklyn that purported to provide substance abuse treatment. AMC lured patients to the clinic by illegally prescribing them Suboxone, a Schedule III narcotic designed to treat opioid use disorder, which, as one witness testified, is commonly abused by prison inmates by boiling the medication and dripping it into users’ eyes. Brown-Arkah allowed a drug ring to proliferate inside and on the steps of his clinic where drug dealers offered to buy patients’ Suboxone prescriptions for cash. One witness testified that an AMC staff member directed him to a van outside where he could sell his Suboxone if he did not want it.
Photograph of the van oustide Brown-Arkah’s clinic that Brown-Arkah’s staff directed a patient to if he wanted to sell his Suboxone prescription.Many patients at Brown-Arkah’s clinic received prescriptions signed by a nurse practitioner who lived in Florida and did not see or speak with the patients. When they visited AMC, patients were met with a façade of substance abuse treatment and were required to undergo invasive, medically unnecessary testing in order to get Suboxone prescriptions. Brown-Arkah billed Medicare and Medicaid for services that were never provided, including office visits where Brown-Arkah, who was not a medical provider, was the only AMC staff person to meet with the patient. The evidence established that patients at AMC were frequently prescribed Suboxone when they were not taking the medication. Witnesses testified that these prescriptions were not medically necessary and can be dangerous, and that the lack of Suboxone in a patient’s laboratory results is a significant warning sign of illegal diversion.
To fuel his scheme, Brown-Arkah paid illegal cash kickbacks to patients. One of these illegal payments was caught on video, depicted below, by a confidential source. In this undercover recording, Brown-Arkah describes others who pay patients illegal kickbacks and bill for medically unnecessary services, saying “that’s why they go to jail . . . that’s when the government busts ‘em!”
Brown-Arkah in an undercover recording meeting with a confidential source posing as a patient at his medical clinic in Brooklyn, offering the patient an illegal cash kickback in exchange for referring another patient to AMC.Brown-Arkah funneled patients to receive medically unnecessary laboratory testing. He received thousands of dollars each month in illegal kickbacks from the laboratory in exchange for these referrals. To conceal the kickbacks, the defendant created a shell company and a sham contract and lied to law enforcement about the purpose of the payments. In total, Brown-Arkah and his co-conspirators caused over $52 million in false claims to Medicare and Medicaid.
Brown-Arkah in an undercover recording meeting with a confidential source posing as a patient holding a pen over the patient’s billing sheet.The jury convicted Brown-Arkah of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, 12 counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to illegally distribute narcotics, 3 counts of illegal distribution of narcotics, conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks and to defraud the United States, and 2 counts of receipt of kickbacks. A sentencing date has not been set. He faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on each health care fraud, narcotics, and kickbacks conviction, and five years in prison on the conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks and defraud the United States conviction. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella, Jr. for the Eastern District of New York; Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso for Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI); and Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr. for the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI) made the announcement.
The DEA, HHS-OIG, HSI, and IRS-CI investigated the case. The New York City Police Department and the New York City Human Resources Administration assisted in the investigation.
Trial Attorneys Miriam Glaser Dauermann and Margaret Mortimer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Chicago Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Cyberstalking Former Romantic PartnersRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A Chicago man has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for cyberstalking and harassing former romantic partners.
VINCENT STORME threatened and harassed six women after they ended their relationships with him. Storme stalked his victims both online and in person, with the harassment and threats often extending to the victims’ families, employers, and friends.
In one instance, Storme accessed and searched a former girlfriend’s phone without her knowledge and then published a semi-nude photograph of the victim that could be seen by her family, friends, and co-workers. Storme also created a website and social media accounts bearing her name and used the accounts to further embarrass and harass her.
While on bond in this case, police arrested Storme for stalking another victim by following her home in his car. Another victim reported that after breaking up with Storme, he often arrived at her home unannounced.
Storme, 38, pleaded guilty earlier this year to a federal charge of accessing a computer without authorization in furtherance of a criminal and tortious act. On May 15, 2026, U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey imposed the four-year prison term and ordered Storm to pay a total of $11,318.39 in restitution to three of his victims.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the Chicago Police Department and Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.
“With each relationship and each victim, defendant’s methods grew more prolific,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill J. Bhalakia argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “Computer intrusion and cyberstalking will not be tolerated by the criminal justice system.”
Barre Woman Pleads Guilty to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Barre woman pleaded guilty in federal court in Worcester to stealing over $100,000 in Social Security benefits.
Jennifer Valley, 51, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government money. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Aug. 28, 2026. Valley was charged in April 2026.
From October 2022 through August 2025, Valley stole approximately $100,218 in Social Security retirement benefits that were intended for a beneficiary that had died and with whom she had previously lived. Prior to the beneficiary’s death, Valley had been appointed as the beneficiary’s representative payee to manage their Social Security benefits and provide regular accountings to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Valley failed to report the beneficiary’s death to SSA. Instead, in June 2023, she submitted a representative payee report to SSA stating that all the benefits received during the previous 12 months had been spent for the benefit of the deceased, including $23,157 in funds improperly paid after death during that period. Additionally, in December 2023, Valley updated the deceased’s mailing address with SSA to her new address to conceal the beneficiary’s death.
The charge of theft of public funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Worcester Branch Office.
On March 26, 2026, United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the creation of the Benefit & Voter Fraud Team, a district-wide initiative established in response to the rampant fraud being uncovered across Massachusetts. The Team is led by two senior federal prosecutors serving as Fraud Coordinators, whose mission it is to aggressively investigate and prosecute misuse of taxpayer-funded benefits in Massachusetts.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected benefit fraud in Massachusetts by calling 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621).
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Arlington detective is Hometown Hero for the Eastern District of VirginiaRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia announced Detective John Bamford of the Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) as the district’s 2026 Hometown Hero Award recipient.
The Hometown Hero Award is sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of the United States of America’s 250th year of celebrating its independence. The Hometown Hero award recognizes one of our law enforcement partners who best embodies the spirit upon which our Nation was founded and reflects a steadfast commitment to the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office recognizes Detective Bamford for his numerous contributions to the community not only as a detective for Arlington County but also as an FBI Task Force Officer with the Washington Field Office. Detective Bamford’s efforts have resulted in the identification and rescue of hundreds of child and adult victims.
USAO Eastern District of VirginiaDetective Bamford’s efforts recently led to the identification and takedown of a notorious cybercriminal forum in South Africa and the arrest of its administrators. Prior to its shutdown, this forum sold hundreds of thousands of illicit images to customers in the United States and elsewhere. South African authorities, working with Detective Bamford, recovered over 37 terabytes comprising approximately 10 million images of sexually explicit material depicting minors from electronic devices during a search warrant. Detective Bamford was instrumental in the identification and successful prosecution for numerous egregious child exploitation offenses of a user whose collections were some of the worst of those featured on the forum.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia proudly recognizes Detective Bamford for all his hard work and efforts. Detective Bamford is the consummate law enforcement partner. As the above example demonstrates, his work reflects what can be achieved when federal and state law enforcement agencies work hand in hand. Without Detective Bamford’s steadfast dedication to the protection and safety of the people of the Eastern District of Virginia, many victims would not see justice.
Detective Bamford has been a police officer with ACPD since 2008. He currently investigates cyber crime as a member of the FBI’s Washington Field Office Cyber Task Force, while also teaching ACPD legal courses. He is a current member of ACPD’s Emergency Response Team’s Tactical Operations Center. Prior to his current role, Detective Bamford served as a detective in ACPD’s Economic Crimes Unit, a Field Training Officer, a Crime Scene Agent, and a member of ACPD’s Civil Disturbance Unit.
Detective Bamford received his Bachelor’s Degree from Siena College in 2006 and his Juris Doctor in 2010 from George Mason University Law School, now the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University.
APRN Charged with Defrauding Connecticut’s Medicaid ProgramRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin today announced that MARISOL RODRIGUEZ, also known as Marisol Colon, 49, of Lehigh Acres, Florida, was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint charging her with health care fraud offenses.
Following her arrest, Rodriguez appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was released on a $100,000 bond.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program (CTMAP) is a Connecticut Department of Social Services-administered program that provides medical assistance to low income persons. CTMAP’s benefit packages, referred to as “HUSKY” or “Connecticut Medicaid,” are jointly funded by the State of Connecticut and the federal government.
The complaint alleges that Rodriguez, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) who formerly resided in Newington, Connecticut, defrauded the Connecticut Medicaid Program by submitting fraudulent claims for what appear to be medication management services that, in fact, were not provided to Medicaid patients. As an APRN, Rodriguez was licensed to prescribe controlled substances to Medicaid recipients, and she billed Medicaid for medication management services to these patients. Rodriguez repeatedly billed Medicaid for services not rendered, including for services purportedly rendered to patients, sometimes for months or years after the patients stopped seeing her; while working full-time at a different employer; while she collected unemployment benefits after being terminated by that employer; and for services purportedly rendered to patients that were hospitalized, incarcerated, or deceased.
It is alleged that between approximately January 2022 and August 2025, more than 15,000 Medicaid claims totaling more than $1.35 million were paid to Rodriguez. An analysis conducted by the Connecticut Department of Social Services revealed that Rodriguez’s Medicaid billings during that time ranked her first among a peer group of 116 APRNs, and that she made approximately 5,000 more claims and was paid approximately $500,000 more than the second highest billing APRN.
It is further alleged that, for actual patients, Rodriguez frequently did not adequately review a patient’s medical history prior to prescribing controlled substances and did not consider or address how the prescriptions were necessary or safe when combined with the patient’s other prescriptions.
The complaint charges Rodriguez with health care fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and making false statements relating to health care matters, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Social Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
13 Defendants Sentenced for Serious Drug and Gun Crimes as Part of the Homeland Security Task Force InitiativeRead the Press Release
13 defendants were convicted and sentenced to a combined 915 months for dealing drugs, conspiring to deal drugs, and unlawfully possessing firearms announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
In this operation, law enforcement seized 4.1 kilograms of marijuana, 282 grams of crack cocaine, 2.3 kilograms of cocaine, 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 6.1 grams of fentanyl, 12 firearms, 2 glock switches, and $11,985 of United States currency.
The Court sentenced the last defendant as part of the DTO on May 7, 2026.
In total, 13 defendants were all convicted and received the following prison sentences:
- Edward Williams – 240 months
- Courtney Smith – 87 months
- Davonia Hart – 50 months
- Alicia Slaughter – 57 months
- Perry Taylor – 42 months
- Lucis Lugo – 57 months
- Dmarcus Quartez Roderick Moton – 40 months
- Quentavis Zikeiy Hawkins – time served (approximately 13.5 months)
- Jordan Davis – 87 months
- Xavier Barnes – 92 months
- Brandon Bedford – 87 months
- Ladarius Holly – 37 months
- Sebastian Medlock – 26 months
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 FBI- Dallas and the Dallas Police Department with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.
The Violent Crime Reduction Plan utilized hot spot policing across 47 neighborhoods that were identified as having the highest rates of violent crime. These neighborhoods were selected based on a comprehensive statistical analysis conducted by a local university. Investigators focused on one of the neighborhoods, most frequently associated with criminal activity, which include the sale of illicit narcotics, illegal firearms, machine gun conversion devices, as well as violent crimes such as capital murder, aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, and assault on public servants.
This operation represents a significant step forward in the shared mission of FBI Dallas, Dallas Police Department and the Northern District of Texas, to reduce violent crime and protect our community. The success of this initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies in keeping Dallas safe.
The Dallas Police Department (DPD) and the Dallas Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets and Gang Task Force (SSGTF) investigated the case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas prosecuted the case.
12 Members of Violent “Crown Hill Enterprise” in Indianapolis Indicted on Federal RICO Charges, Including MurderRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a 28‑count indictment Wednesday charging 12 alleged members of a racketeering enterprise accused of orchestrating widespread criminal activity in Indianapolis, including murder, kidnapping, assault, arson, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms crimes.The first of these defendants made their initial appearance today in the Southern District of Indiana.
“The superseding indictment in this case alleges, among other things, that these defendants shot and killed a man for slamming the door of a drug house, shot another man in the leg for a $40 drug debt, pistol-whipped at least two other people, and dealt all manner of drugs, including heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This type of alleged drug dealing and violence ruins communities, people, and their families. Drugs and gang violence are a scourge. These groups will be dismantled and prosecuted.”
“The allegations in this indictment describe a criminal organization that maintained a grip on Indianapolis neighborhoods for years through fear, violence, and devastation,” said U.S. Attorney Tom Wheeler for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will not allow groups that traffic deadly drugs, terrorize residents, and retaliate against witnesses to operate with impunity. We are grateful for the outstanding work of our federal, state, and local partners whose collaboration made today’s charges possible.”
“Violent criminal organizations that use fear, intimidation, and physical violence to further their operations have no place in our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “This case reflects the FBI’s commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those responsible for fueling violence and organized criminal activity. We will continue using every available resource to protect the public and pursue those who believe they can operate above the law.”
“This gang used firearms, arson and violence to intimidate the public and protect their criminal activities,” said Director Rob Cekada of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “Working with our law enforcement partners, we brought the full weight of our investigative capabilities to bear. We are proud of our work on this case, and we will continue to dismantle violent gangs like Crown Hill, hold their members accountable and bring them to justice for the American communities they threaten.”
According to court documents, between early 2019 and December 2024, the criminal organization known as the “Crown Hill Enterprise” allegedly operated to distribute an array of illegal drugs through no fewer than 11 different “trap houses” located throughout Indianapolis. The gang created fictitious business entities to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of its illicit drug proceeds.
The enterprise sought to preserve, expand, and protect its power, territory, reputation, and profits through intimidation and acts of violence, including murder, kidnapping, assault, arson, threats of violence, and the display of firearms. On multiple occasions, defendants Tre J. Dunn, 28, and Tanesha M. Turner, 40, both of Indianapolis, beat and shot individuals they believed had stolen drug proceeds, were associated with rival drug dealers, or owed a drug debt to the gang.
As alleged, on Nov. 3, 2024, Turner and an associate kidnapped an individual over a $40 debt related to fronted narcotics. The next day, Dunn and another gang member beat and fatally shot a victim after he allegedly disrespected Turner by slamming the door of a trap house.
As part of the workings of the gang, defendants and other gang members allegedly sought to obstruct law enforcement investigations by intimidating potential witnesses and retaliating against those they believed cooperated with police. On April 23, 2024, defendant Nahamani I. Sargent, 35 of Indianapolis, and other gang members fired gunshots and threw Molotov cocktails at a residence where they believed an individual had provided information to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department that led to the execution of a state search warrant at one of the organization’s trap houses.
During multiple court-authorized searches, law enforcement seized 35 firearms and a machinegun conversion device, along with drugs and cash.
The FBI, ATF, and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department are investigating this case.
Trial Attorney Samuel Benjamin Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley Blackington and Kelsey Massa for the Southern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.
An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
12 Members of Violent “Crown Hill Enterprise” Indicted on Federal RICO Charges, Including MurderRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- A federal grand jury returned a 28‑count indictment charging 12 alleged members of a racketeering enterprise accused of orchestrating widespread criminal activity in Indianapolis, including murder, kidnapping, assault, arson, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms crimes. The first of these defendants made their initial appearance today in the Southern District of Indiana.
“The superseding indictment in this case alleges, among other things, that these defendants shot and killed a man for slamming the door of a drug house, shot another man in the leg for a $40 drug debt, pistol-whipped at least two other people, and dealt all manner of drugs, including heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This type of alleged drug dealing and violence ruins communities, people, and their families. Drugs and gang violence are a scourge. These groups will be dismantled and prosecuted.”
“The allegations in this indictment describe a criminal organization that maintained a grip on Indianapolis neighborhoods for years through fear, violence, and devastation,” aid U.S. Attorney Tom Wheeler for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will not allow groups that traffic deadly drugs, terrorize residents, and retaliate against witnesses to operate with impunity. We are grateful for the outstanding work of our federal, state, and local partners whose collaboration made today’s charges possible.”
“Violent criminal organizations that use fear, intimidation, and physical violence to further their operations have no place in our communities,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “This case reflects the FBI’s commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those responsible for fueling violence and organized criminal activity. We will continue using every available resource to protect the public and pursue those who believe they can operate above the law.”
“The level of violence carried out by this criminal enterprise is both incomprehensible and deeply disturbing. Taking human lives over matters so trivial offends the basic sensibilities of any civilized society. The team of United States Attorneys, Special Agents, and police officers involved in this investigation worked tirelessly to dismantle this organization and bring those responsible to justice. We could not be prouder of, or grateful for, their extraordinary efforts. Residents of Indianapolis can sleep a little easier tonight knowing these defendants are in custody and no longer able to inflict violence on the community," said ATF Columbus Special Agent in Charge Jorge A. Rosendo.
“This criminal organization brought violence and chaos into our community, impacting countless lives,” said Deputy Chief of Criminal Investigations Kendale Adams. “Through strong partnerships with our state and federal law enforcement partners, we identified and apprehended violent offenders and removed them from our neighborhoods. This type of strategic investigation and enforcement is essential to holding those who threaten the safety of our community accountable.”
According to court documents, between early 2019 and December 2024, the criminal organization known as the “Crown Hill Enterprise” allegedly operated to enrich its members and associates through the distribution of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, heroin, oxycodone pills, and fentanyl. The organization maintained at least 11 “trap houses” throughout Indianapolis and created fictitious business entities to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of its illicit proceeds.
The enterprise sought to preserve, expand, and protect its power, territory, reputation, and profits through intimidation and acts of violence, including murder, kidnapping, assault, arson, threats of violence, and the display of firearms. On multiple occasions, defendants Tre J. Dunn and Tanesha Turner beat and shot individuals they believed had stolen drug proceeds, were associated with rival drug dealers, or owed a drug debt to the gang.
As alleged, on November 3, 2024, Turner and an associate kidnapped an individual over a $40 debt related to fronted narcotics. Tre Dunn later shot and wounded the individual over the debt. The next day, Dunn and another gang member beat and fatally shot a victim after he allegedly disrespected Turner by slamming the door of a trap house.
As part of the workings of the gang, defendants and other gang members allegedly sought to obstruct law enforcement investigations by intimidating potential witnesses and retaliating against those they believed cooperated with police. On April 23, 2024, defendant Nahamani I. Sargent and other gang members fired gunshots and threw Molotov cocktails at a residence where they believed an individual had provided information to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department that led to the execution of a state search warrant at one of the organization’s trap houses.
During multiple search warrants, law enforcement seized 35 firearms and a machinegun conversion device, along with drug contraband and cash.
The Department of Justice Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, FBI Indianapolis, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department are investigating this case.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley Blackington and Kelsey Massa, as well as Trial Attorney Samuel Benjamin Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, who are prosecuting this case.
An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
DefendantCharge(s)Lamar T. Browning, 40- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substance
- Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Aid of Racketeering Activity (2 counts)
- Assault With a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering Activity
- Using, Carrying and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Murder in Aid of Racketeering Activity
- Using, Carrying, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Conspiracy to Commit Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Aid of Racketeering Activity
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Assault With a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering Activity
- Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Distribution of Methamphetamine
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Possession of Cocaine Base with Intent to Distribute
- Possession of Machinegun
- Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Possession of Cocaine Base with Intent to Distribute
- Retaliating Against a Witness
- Use of Fire or Explosives
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Conspiracy
- Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Aid of Racketeering Activity (2 counts)
- Kidnapping in Aid of Racketeering Activity
- Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
- Accessory After the Fact
- Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Distribution of Fentanyl (2 counts)
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
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21 May 2026
Woman Wanted for Murder in Mexico Arrested for Illegal Reentry in Western WisconsinRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Alejandra Sanchez-Cuaquehua, 32, a Mexican citizen who was residing in Barron County, Wisconsin, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging her with illegally reentering the United States after having been previously removed.
According to the complaint, on April 2, 2026, the FBI National Threat Operations Center received a report that a woman living and working in Ridgeland, Wisconsin, Sanchez-Cuaquehua, was a suspect in a July 2025 homicide in Mexico. FBI personnel in Mexico coordinated with Mexican authorities to confirm that Sanchez-Cuaquehua was a wanted fugitive. According to the complaint, authorities also confirmed that she had previously been removed from the United States and did not have permission to return.
Following her arrest today, Sanchez-Cuaquehua made her initial appearance on the illegal reentry charge in federal court in Madison. Following the hearing, she was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to be returned to Mexico to face her murder charges.
The charge against Sanchez-Cuaquehua was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and their law enforcement attaché in Mexico City, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and their law enforcement attaché in Mexico City, Secreteria de Seguridad y Proteccion, Interpol, Fiscalia General Estado de Veracruz, and the Barron County Sheriff’s Office.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
West Tennessee Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Michael Fruitticher, 38, of Jackson, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for child pornography offenses committed against an autistic child. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
In October 2025, after a four-day trial, a federal jury found Fruitticher guilty of production, attempted production, and possession of child pornography. According to information presented at the trial, between at least July 2011 and continuing through May 2014, Fruitticher video-recorded the child nude in the shower, photographed the child nude and in lingerie in sexually lascivious poses, and photographed himself raping the child. DNA results revealed Fruitticher’s and the child’s DNA on an item of lingerie worn by the child in one series of photographs. In May 2019, federal and state law enforcement officers investigating the case found devices containing the child sexual abuse material in Fruitticher’s possession.
Information presented at the sentencing hearing revealed that Fruitticher had forcefully raped and abused the child over a ten-year period and threatened to kill the child and her family members if she revealed the abuse. Over this period, Fruitticher produced and possessed more than 700 images of himself sexually abusing the child.
On May 20, 2026, following his conviction for the above charges, United States District Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Fruitticher to 40 years’ imprisonment to be followed by lifetime supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Fruitticher is also facing state charges in Shelby County, including nine counts of rape of a child and seven counts of statutory rape, for the conduct underlying the federal child pornography offenses.
United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “Violent crimes against children, including the production of materials depicting child rape and sexual abuse, are heinous violations that continue to harm a child victim for a lifetime. No sentence is long enough to adequately punish this despicable predator for his crimes, but this is a good start toward achieving justice.”
The case was investigated by the Millington Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Delery and P. Neal Oldham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative that marshals federal, state, and local resources to apprehend individuals who exploit children and to identify and rescue victims.
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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.
Watertown Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Charles B. Kornmann sentenced a Watertown, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 18, 2026.
Kyle Ashton Carpenter, 26, was sentenced to a term of 12 months in custody, which he had served since his arrest in May 2025, as well as three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Carpenter was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 8, 2025.
Carpenter was found in possession of a handgun following an incident in early May 2025. He is prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of his prior felony conviction for assaulting a law enforcement officer. He was aware of his prohibition, yet he purchased a handgun and used it at a firing range. The handgun was seized and it will be forfeited.
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). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Carpenter was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Virginia Beach woman sentenced to over 28 years in prison after recording her sexual abuse of two childrenRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Grace Elizabeth Paradis, 43, was sentenced today to 28 years and four months in prison for conspiring to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, Paradis abused two minor children, ages five and nine, which she recorded, and then provided the resultant CSAM to her former boyfriend, Cory Richard Hambley, 43, of Water View.
In November 2022, Hambley, who was married, contacted Paradis and repeatedly encouraged her to provide CSAM. Hambley provided Paradis with a camera to be hidden and used to surreptitiously record images of the children, including Paradis sexually abusing them. Paradis leveraged Hambley’s desire for CSAM to negotiate for Hambley, who was married at the time, to commit to marrying her and assisting her with a rent payment. Paradis prepared a “contract” outlining the grooming and sexual abuse she and Hambley would inflict on future children.
Hambley was sentenced on March 11 to 35 years in prison for conspiring to produce CSAM and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
The Homeland Security Investigations Norfolk office investigated this case with assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Virginia Beach Police Department, and Middlesex Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Gantt and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Marek prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit Know2Protect.gov.
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-44.
Violent Criminal Illegal Alien from Honduras Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the CountryRead the Press Release
Pensacola, Florida – Franklin David Zelaya-Funez, 33, of Honduras, was sentenced to fourteen months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal illegal alien previously committed a serious violent felony while unlawfully present in our country, and despite being deported after that prior offense he illegally re-entered our country yet again. Enough is enough. President Donald J. Trump and acting Attorney General Todd Blanche have made clear through Operation Take Back America that the safety of our communities is not negotiable. The Department of Justice will aggressively prosecute the criminal illegal aliens invading our country until our citizens can walk the streets of their neighborhoods without fear of violent thugs, like this defendant.”
According to court records, the defendant was deported from the United States in 2021 after being convicted of felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without the intent to kill. He is also the subject of a permanent domestic violence injunction. The defendant illegally returned to the United States and was found in June 2025.
“This case underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting American communities from individuals who repeatedly disregard our laws and pose a threat to public safety,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The United States will not tolerate the standard of violence seen in other countries around the world, and we are resolute in removing weapons from those who cannot legally possess them. HSI, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue every legal measure to keep our communities safe and uphold the rule of law.”
Deportation proceedings against him will commence following the conclusion of serving his federal sentence.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke DiSalvo prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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.
UK/Jamaica Citizen Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering in International Lottery ScamRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of the United Kingdom and Jamaica illegally residing in Massachusetts pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Nicole Lamont, 32, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville on May 20, 2026.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Lamont participated in a “lottery scam” in which elderly victims were contacted by telephone and falsely informed they had won a sweepstakes, often totaling millions of dollars, and then directed to send money in the form of checks, cash, money orders, and/or wires to pay purported taxes due on their winnings.
Specifically, Lamont received funds directly from at least three members of the lottery scam, deposited them into her bank account, and made the funds available to other members of the conspiracy who were located in Jamaica.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for September 17, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Court continued Lamont’s detention pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Lamont.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes NCCPD Officers as “Hometown Heroes”Read the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – On May 19, 2026, U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace presented the District’s Freedom 250 Hometown Hero award to Officers First Class Christopher Hewlett, Nathan Jupiter, and Jay Scerbo of the New Castle County Police Department. Officer Scerbo’s award was presented in his absence. Members of the New Castle County Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office were present for the ceremony.
The Hometown Hero award commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. It honors the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility. Officers Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo were chosen for this award for embodying those ideals and for their steadfast commitment to public service and their exceptional work safeguarding our communities.
Officers Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo were on patrol duty on November 24, 2025. Shortly before midnight, they spotted a white Toyota Tacoma in Canby Park West. After lawfully stopping the truck, the officers developed probable cause to order the car’s sole occupant—Luqmaan Khan—out of the truck to search it. During that search, the officers found a loaded handgun, multiple extended magazines, an armored ballistic plate, and a marble composition book. A later search of Khan’s home conducted by the FBI and NCCPD uncovered a handgun equipped with an illegal machinegun conversion device, a rifle with a red dot sight, 11 more extended magazines, hollow point rounds of ammunition, and a tactical vest.
The marble composition notebook recovered from the truck discussed additional weapons, how they could be used in an attack, and how law enforcement detection could be avoided once an attack was carried out. The notebook also referenced a member of the University of Delaware’s Police Department by name, and included a layout of a building with entry and exit points under which the words “UD Police Station” were printed.
When presenting the awards, U.S. Attorney Wallace said, “The courage and professionalism that these three men showed on November 24, 2025, potentially averted a mass shooting and the slaying of one or more members of the University of Delaware’s campus police department. That is service of the highest order. The State is in these officers’ debt.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is honored to recognize Officers First Class Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo as our District’s Freedom 250 Hometown Heroes.
Credit: New Castle County Police Department###
U.S. Attorney Gives Hometown Hero Award to Benzie County DeputyRead the Press Release
Deputy Matt McKinley recognized for his work with “McKinley’s Kids”
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey today announced that the Justice Department gave its Hometown Hero Award to Benzie County Deputy Sheriff Matt McKinley. The award ceremony was held at Benzie Central High School in Benzonia, Michigan and attended by the students, friends and family of Deputy McKinley, the school’s Student Resource Officer and area law enforcement.
The Hometown Hero Award is part of the Freedom 250 celebration, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. At the request of the White House, the United States Attorney’s Offices in each of the 93 districts were asked to present the award to honor an outstanding member of its law enforcement community – a true “hometown hero” – during the week leading up to Memorial Day. Only 93 people nationwide were selected to receive this award, and Deputy McKinley is one of only two people in Michigan to receive it.
Deputy McKinley was selected from a large number of nominees submitted from all over the Western District of Michigan. All the nominees were worthy, but Deputy McKinley was selected because of his work with underprivileged kids in Benzie County, where he serves as the student resource officer for the Benzie County School system. Although McKinley’s job was formally limited to student safety, he soon saw other ways he could help the students under his care. For example, when he saw that some students did not appear to have enough to eat, McKinley set up an in-school food pantry where hungry students can get a healthy snack. When he learned that some students suffered over having to attend school with tattered or dirty clothes, he organized a community-wide effort to stock new clothing. These aid efforts, now affectionately known as “McKinley’s Kids” drives, have brought the Benzie County community together.
U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey said, “Deputy McKinley deserves this award because he is a great example of what it means to be an American. When he sees a problem he can fix, he rolls up his sleeves and sets out to fix it rather than waiting for someone else to do it. And when his neighbors saw his idea, they enthusiastically pitched in. People like him make the rest of us proud to be Americans and make us want to do our part too. Our great country turns 250 this year; as long as there are people like Matt McKinley out there, the next 250 years are going to be the best yet.”
U.S. Attorney Celebrates Hometown Hero for Contribution to Oklahoma Children in Foster CareRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Christopher J. Wilson, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, gathered with members of staff, community leaders, and the media today at the Muskogee non-profit, Fostering Hope, to honor Executive Director Annie Czaruk for her work with Oklahoma children and to award her the U.S. Department of Justice’s Hometown Hero Award for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
Czaruk, a Muskogee native, co-founded Fostering Hope in 2016 after encountering the stark gaps in funding and resources for children entering foster care. Seeing the need, Czaruk rose to fill those gaps with resources and care. In the ensuing ten years, what began with donation drives for emergency supplies has grown into something much greater, serving children in foster care across 58 counties in Oklahoma.
Today, Fostering Hope runs programs to meet the needs of foster children at all stages of care. Staff members work with teams of volunteers to assemble backpacks that equip a child with all the essentials they might need for the first two weeks at their new placement before state funds begin to cover their care. Backpacks might include a week’s worth of appropriately sized clothing and shoes, essential toiletries, baby blankets, formula, baby bottles, wipes, diapers, and toys.
Because Czaruk recognized another need in the foster care community, in 2020, Fostering Hope opened Hope House in Muskogee, offering a safe place for children and infants entering foster care. There, children can regain their footing in a safe, warm, and welcoming environment while awaiting placement into foster homes.
And because life’s challenges don’t stop after placement, Czaruk and her team at Fostering Hope also serve as a training ground where teens in foster care learn and practice life skills. A Teen Ambassador Board, chartered in 2021, teaches youth to interact with each other and with their community, modeling compassion, leadership, community involvement, and service for others. The Kind Society Social Club, launching this summer in partnership with Green Country Behavioral Health, will teach life skills in a fun community environment while preparing youth for adulthood and life beyond foster care.
“Through Fostering Hope of Muskogee, Annie serves as a continuing example of the good that multiplies from stepping in to meet a need,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “Because of her vision and commitment to making a difference for children, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma is proud to recognize Annie Czaruk as our Hometown Hero.”
The Hometown Hero Award was created by the Department of Justice to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Presented by U.S. Attorneys within their districts, the award recognizes local leaders who exemplify the qualities of Liberty, Service, and Civic Responsibility—the enduring ideals upon which our Nation was founded.
To learn more about the work Annie Czaruk, Fostering Hope, and Hope House are doing in Oklahoma, visit https://www.fosteringhopemuskogee.org/.
Two Charged with Trafficking Fentanyl After 7 Kilos Found Hidden in Car Door During a Traffic Stop in Fresno CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Mexican nationals Victor Piceno Madrigal, 46, and Erick Larios Acosta, 25, charging them with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on May 13, 2026, Madrigal and Acosta were driving northbound on U.S. Interstate-5 in Fresno County when they were stopped for a traffic violation. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded 7 kilograms of fentanyl powder divided into single-kilogram packages hidden inside the rear passenger door panel.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio Pataca is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Madrigal and Acosta face a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison up to life in prison and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would 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. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.