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12 May 2026
Pittsburgh Felon Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating a federal firearms law, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Keenan Tolliver, 32, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti to a one-count indictment charging Tolliver with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on or about February 21, 2025, Tolliver possessed a loaded and chambered pistol and ammunition in the center console of the vehicle he was operating. Tolliver previously had been convicted of 10 felony or first-degree misdemeanor offenses in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for September 16, 2026. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the Court ordered that Tolliver remain detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tolliver.
Pinal County Resident Sentenced to 24 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – A man who pleaded guilty to Producing Child Pornography involving a 14-year-old girl was sentenced on May 5, 2026, in federal court.
Agustin Julian Sauceda, 39, of Casa Grande, Arizona, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven P. Logan to 293 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Sauceda previously pleaded guilty to the charge on Aug. 11, 2025.
“No one should exploit and sexually victimize children, least of all a public servant entrusted with serving his community,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “This case demonstrates that proactive law enforcement work in child pornography cases is critical to not only identify individuals clicking on illicit images, but also to uncover even more serious offenses, as occurred here.”
“As a firefighter, this individual was entrusted with protecting and serving his community. Instead, he betrayed that trust in the most egregious way possible,” said Jason T. Stevens, special agent in charge for HSI Arizona. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message: those who abuse positions of public trust to harm children will be held fully accountable. HSI and our law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue child predators, hold them accountable and will stop at nothing to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
Sauceda, who was employed as an Eloy Fire Battalion Chief, was detected in a file sharing network between June and September 2024 as he distributed child pornography files. A review of Sauceda’s electronic devices following a search of his home on Oct. 30, 2024, revealed 5,063 files that he had produced of a nude and partially nude 14-year-old victim. The images were taken between August 2022 and July 2024. Sauceda also possessed approximately 14,089 child pornography files of prepubescent children that he had received from the internet.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country and 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, visit justice.gov/PSC.
Homeland Security Investigations-Arizona conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and the Casa Grande Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 24-CR-01898
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-073_Sauceda# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Perfectus Aluminum Inc. and Related Companies Agree to Pay $549.5M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Evaded Customs DutiesRead the Press Release
California-based companies Perfectus Aluminum Inc., Perfectus Aluminum Acquisitions LLC and four affiliated warehousing companies have agreed to pay a total of $549.5 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly evading, or conspiring to evade, antidumping and countervailing duties owed to the United States on aluminum extrusions imported from the People’s Republic of China (China).
“The President’s America First Trade Policy defends this country’s national and economic security and ensures compliance with trade laws, including the payment of tariffs intended to level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Those who try to game the system harm American businesses and workers and will be brought to justice.”
“Consistent with the goals of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, this settlement reflects our commitment to hold accountable those who commit fraud on the government by withholding duties that are owed on imported goods,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Civil Division will continue to zealously pursue those who attempt to evade such duties and harm U.S. manufacturing jobs.”
“Unscrupulous, corrupt, and anti-competitive practices against American manufacturers will not be tolerated,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “Law enforcement will use all legal means to protect American taxpayers, workers, and businesses.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) played a pivotal role in this action, providing critical support through the Office of Trade, Office of Field Operations, Office of Finance, and Office of Chief Counsel. “Duty evasion is not a victimless crime; it hurts businesses that play by the rules and undermines U.S. economic security,” said CBP Office of Trade Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan S. Thomas. “I am proud of CBP’s close collaboration with the Justice Department and Homeland Security Investigations, as we work together to protect the American economy.”
To enter goods into the United States, an importer must declare, among other things, the country of origin of the goods, the value of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, and the amount of duties owed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects applicable duties, including antidumping and countervailing duties assessed by the Department of Commerce. Antidumping duties protect against foreign companies “dumping” products on U.S. markets at prices below cost, while countervailing duties offset foreign government subsidies. During the relevant time period, aluminum extrusions from China were subject to both antidumping and countervailing duties.
The settlement resolves civil allegations that, from July 2011 through June 2014, Defendants Perfectus, Perfectus Aluminum Acquisitions, and its affiliated warehousing companies 1001 Doubleday LLC, Von-Karman Main Street LLC, 10681 Production Avenue LLC, and Scuderia Development LLC (together, “Perfectus Defendants”) knowingly made, and caused others to make, false statements on Customs Form 7501 Entry Summaries that were material to obligations to pay duties owed to CBP on extruded aluminum.
The Perfectus Defendants knowingly and improperly avoided antidumping and countervailing duties owed on more than 2.2 million aluminum extrusions in the form of “pallets,” which they misrepresented to CBP as finished merchandise not subject to antidumping and countervailing duties. The pallets were simply aluminum extrusions that were spot-welded together to make them appear to be functional pallets. In fact, there were no customers for these pallets imported by the Defendants between 2011 and 2014, and no pallets were ever sold. On Aug. 23, 2021, a jury in the Central District of California convicted the Perfectus Defendants of Conspiracy to Commit an Offense Against the United States or Defraud the United States, among other things. United States v. Perfectus Aluminum Inc., et al., No. 2:19-cr-00282-GK (C.D. Cal.).
The settlement with the Perfectus Defendants resolves civil lawsuits filed by relators Mike Rapport, Eric Shen, and the Aluminum Extruders Council under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The lawsuits were separately filed in the Central District of California and later consolidated under the caption United States ex rel. Rapport v. PengCheng Aluminum Enterprise Inc., et al., No. 5:15-cv-00712 (C.D. Cal.). As part of today’s resolution, the relator share will be 17.5 percent of the settlement proceeds that are returned to CBP.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, with assistance from CBP’s Office of Associate Chief Counsel, Los Angeles West Region.
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division.
The Civil Division coordinated this action through the Department of Justice’s Trade Fraud Task Force, a cross-agency law enforcement effort. The Task Force was created to leverage all of the Department’s tools and authorities to prevent trade fraud that deprives the government of vital revenue, threatens critical domestic industries, undermines consumer confidence, and weakens national security. The Task Force is designed to pursue enforcement actions against parties who seek to evade tariffs and other duties, as well as smugglers who seek to import prohibited goods into the American economy. The Justice Department encourages whistleblowers to alert the government to credible allegations of fraud, including utilizing the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act or through the Department’s Corporate Whistleblower Program at CorporateWhistleblower@usdoj.gov using the form available here.
Attorneys Jennifer Chorpening and Martha Glover of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Civil Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Hunter B. Thomson for the Central District of California handled the case.
Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – DARTAGNON EVERETTDEAN BURNS, 45, of Oklahoma City, has pleaded guilty to distribution and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on December 10, 2025, an undercover agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), posing as the mother of a small child, began communicating with an individual through an online application on the dark web. During the conversations, the individual expressed interest in sexually assaulting the fictitious child and shared child sexual abuse material (CSAM) with the agent. The individual, later identified as Burns, also claimed to have sexually abused other children and shared his phone number with the agent. Law enforcement used the phone number to identify Burns, who was arrested on December 11, 2025.
On January 6, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Burns with distribution of child pornography and possession of and access with intent to view material containing child pornography. On April 11, 2026, Burns pleaded guilty and admitted he used his cell phone to distribute child pornography and possessed devices containing child pornography, including images depicting prepubescent children.
At sentencing, Burns faces up to 40 years in federal prison and fines of up to $500,000. His crimes carry a mandatory minimum of at least five years in prison.
This case is the result of an investigation by HSI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Nigerian national admits to role in email scamRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 34-year-old foreign national who resided in Houston has pleaded guilty to illegal money transmission, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.
From 2020 to 2022, Edikan Adiakpan owned an unlicensed money transmitting business through a company he controlled called Akama Lifestyle. As part of his plea, he admitted he used the business to transfer funds and kept a percentage as a fee.
The funds Adiakpan received and then transmitted originated from fraudsters who carried out a business email compromise scheme. It targeted more than 10 victims who received “spoofed” emails that appeared to come from known suppliers and creditors. The victims were tricked into sending payments to bank accounts the fraudsters controlled instead of the actual suppliers.
One victim wired $927,080 to the fraudsters who then sent portions of those proceeds to Adiakpan. He redeemed a cashier’s check payable to himself that contained $60,000 of the victim’s money.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Another Nigerian citizen, Ayobami Omoniyi, 26, was sentenced March 24 to 32 months in federal prison for his role in the scheme.
U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen accepted the plea and has sent sentencing for Sept. 15. At that time, Adiakpan faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
FBI – Houston and its Bryan Resident Agency and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case.
New York-Based Iranian National Pleads Guilty to Alien Smuggling and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY – Earlier today in federal court in Brooklyn, Iranian national Sharon Gohari pleaded guilty to unlawfully smuggling aliens into the United States and intentionally receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). For years, Gohari, who is a naturalized United States citizen and resided alternately in Iran and Nassau County, New York, solicited and received payments from Iranian nationals and others seeking to enter the United States unlawfully in exchange for arranging and facilitating their entry. At least one individual whom Gohari aided had associations with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has been designated by the United States Department of State as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). During the investigation into Gohari’s illegal activities, law enforcement discovered that Gohari received and stored multiple videos on his phone depicting the rape of children, as well as hundreds of photos and videos reflecting the stalking and surreptitious recording of women throughout New York City. Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge Ann M. Donnelly.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; Donald Holstead, Assistant Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Counterterrorism Division (FBI); James C. Barnacle, Jr, Assistant Director in Charge, FBI, New York Field Office (FBI); Frank J. Russo, Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the guilty plea.
“The defendant exploited and endangered vulnerable individuals for profit, over and over again,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “In doing so, he also put our national security at risk and circumvented the vital procedures that are in place to vet those entering our country. Our Office will continue to aggressively pursue transnational criminal schemes operating here in the United States, especially when they involve terrorist groups like the IRGC that seek to do us harm. And we will always prosecute the sexual exploitation of children to the fullest extent of the law.”
Mr. Nocella praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which consists of investigators and analysts from the FBI, the New York City Police Department, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies, as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, for their crucial assistance.
Mr. Nocella also thanked the Homeland Security Task Force, 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.
“As this case illustrates, we cannot protect our national security without a secure border,” said Assistant Attorney General Eisenberg. “Gohari made a business of smuggling aliens into the United States, at least one of whom had ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a designated foreign terrorist organization. I applaud the investigators and prosecutors who made possible today’s plea, taking this defendant off our streets.”
“The defendant admits to helping people illegally enter the United States -- including someone associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – which endangers our country’s national security,” said FBI Assistant Director Holstead. “It is essential to protect our borders, and the FBI works closely with our interagency partners to prevent anyone from being smuggled in, especially those connected to our adversaries. This individual will now face justice not just for that crime but also for sexually exploiting children, the most vulnerable members of our society.”
“Sharon Gohari threatened our national security by selling illegal entry into the United States – including a client with ties to a designated terrorist organization. With our federal and local law enforcement partners, the FBI is committed to holding accountable criminals seeking to exploit our country’s border and our citizens,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
“This case underscores the dedication and vigilance of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Tactical Threat Response Team and Task Force Officers, whose actions were critical in identifying and stopping an individual who posed a significant threat to our national security and the safety of our communities," stated CBP Director of New York Field Operations Russo. “Thanks to our close partnership with the FBI and the U. S. Attorney’s Office, Gohari was brought to justice. CBP remains committed to securing our borders and working with our partners to pursue those who circumvent our immigration system and endanger the American public.”
“Anyone who seeks to profit through the abuse and exploitation of other people – especially children – will be held fully accountable,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “Today’s guilty plea is the result of the NYPD’s unwavering commitment to bring human traffickers to justice. I commend and thank our NYPD investigators, as well as our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, for their dedicated work in this case.”
Gohari is a naturalized United States citizen from Iran who resided in Roslyn, New York, and traveled frequently to Iran. From at least December 2020 up to his arrest in May 2025, Gohari solicited and received payments from Iranian nationals and others seeking to enter the United States unlawfully in exchange for arranging and facilitating their entry, primarily through Mexico. Among other things, Gohari helped these individuals obtain travel visas at the Mexican embassy in Iran and helped arrange their travel to and through Mexico and into the United States in large groups. Some passed through Central and South American countries with Gohari’s assistance. Gohari worked with a network of associates in Iran and elsewhere and charged thousands of dollars per client for these services.
At least one Iranian national Gohari aided had ties to the IRGC. Specifically, in early 2021, Gohari facilitated the travel of an individual from Iran to Turkey, from Turkey to Mexico, and from Mexico into the United States, where the individual was detained by border patrol officers. The individual ultimately confessed to law enforcement that he had previously carried out tasks in Iran and Malaysia for the IRGC.
During the investigation into Gohari’s alien smuggling activities, federal agents discovered that Gohari received and stored CSAM on his phone, including multiple videos depicting the rape of children apparently as young as five years old. In chat communications following his receipt of the videos, Gohari stated his intention to seek out sexual partners in a high school. Agents also found on Gohari’s devices hundreds of photos and videos of what appeared to be women in various public places throughout New York City, including on trains and at cafes, who did not seem to be aware that they were being photographed or recorded. Some of the photos and videos appeared to be taken at close range, including several photos that were angled in an apparent attempt to see under the women’s skirts or other garments. Other photos and videos depicted the same women in multiple locations, indicating that the women had been followed. Gohari sent some of these photos and videos to an Iranian-based account from which he received CSAM, among other Iranian-based accounts.
For the child sex abuse material charge, Gohari faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison, and a mandatory minimum of three years in prison for alien smuggling and up to 10 years in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Reich is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Trial Attorney Kevin Nunnally of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Paralegal Specialist Wayne Colon.
The Defendant:
SHARON GOHARI
Age: 48
Roslyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-183 (S-1) (AMD)
New York-Based Iranian National Pleads Guilty to Alien Smuggling and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Earlier today in federal court in Brooklyn, Iranian national Sharon Gohari pleaded guilty to unlawfully smuggling aliens into the United States and intentionally receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
For years, Gohari, who is a naturalized U.S. citizen and resided alternately in Iran and Nassau County, New York, solicited and received payments from Iranian nationals and others seeking to enter the United States unlawfully in exchange for arranging and facilitating their entry. At least one individual whom Gohari aided had associations with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has been designated by the United States Department of State as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). During the investigation into Gohari’s illegal activities, law enforcement discovered that Gohari received and stored multiple videos on his phone depicting the rape of children, as well as hundreds of photos and videos reflecting the stalking and surreptitious recording of women throughout New York City. Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge Ann M. Donnelly.
“As this case illustrates, we cannot protect our national security without a secure border,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Gohari made a business of smuggling aliens into the United States, at least one of whom had ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a designated foreign terrorist organization. I applaud the investigators and prosecutors who made possible today’s plea, taking this defendant off our streets.”
“The defendant exploited and endangered vulnerable individuals for profit, over and over again,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. for the Eastern District of New York. “In doing so, he also put our national security at risk and circumvented the vital procedures that are in place to vet those entering our country. Our Office will continue to aggressively pursue transnational criminal schemes operating here in the United States, especially when they involve terrorist groups like the IRGC that seek to do us harm. And we will always prosecute the sexual exploitation of children to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The defendant admits to helping people illegally enter the United States -- including someone associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – which endangers our country’s national security,” said Assistant Director Donald Holstead of the FBI's Counterterrorism Division. “It is essential to protect our borders, and the FBI works closely with our interagency partners to prevent anyone from being smuggled in, especially those connected to our adversaries. This individual will now face justice not just for that crime but also for sexually exploiting children, the most vulnerable members of our society.”
“Sharon Gohari threatened our national security by selling illegal entry into the United States – including a client with ties to a designated terrorist organization. With our federal and local law enforcement partners, the FBI is committed to holding accountable criminals seeking to exploit our country’s border and our citizens,” said Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI New York Field Office.
“Anyone who seeks to profit through the abuse and exploitation of other people – especially children – will be held fully accountable,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “Today’s guilty plea is the result of the NYPD’s unwavering commitment to bring human traffickers to justice. I commend and thank our NYPD investigators, as well as our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, for their dedicated work in this case.”
Gohari is a naturalized United States citizen from Iran who resided in Roslyn, New York, and traveled frequently to Iran. From at least December 2020 up to his arrest in May 2025, Gohari solicited and received payments from Iranian nationals and others seeking to enter the United States unlawfully in exchange for arranging and facilitating their entry, primarily through Mexico. Among other things, Gohari helped these individuals obtain travel visas at the Mexican embassy in Iran and helped arrange their travel to and through Mexico and into the United States in large groups. Some passed through Central and South American countries with Gohari’s assistance. Gohari worked with a network of associates in Iran and elsewhere and charged thousands of dollars per client for these services.
At least one Iranian national Gohari aided had ties to the IRGC. Specifically, in early 2021, Gohari facilitated the travel of an individual from Iran to Turkey, from Turkey to Mexico, and from Mexico into the United States, where the individual was detained by border patrol officers. The individual ultimately confessed to law enforcement that he had previously carried out tasks in Iran and Malaysia for the IRGC.
During the investigation into Gohari’s alien smuggling activities, federal agents discovered that Gohari received and stored CSAM on his phone, including multiple videos depicting the rape of children apparently as young as five years old. In chat communications following his receipt of the videos, Gohari stated his intention to seek out sexual partners in a high school. Agents also found on Gohari’s devices hundreds of photos and videos of what appeared to be women in various public places throughout New York City, including on trains and at cafes, who did not seem to be aware that they were being photographed or recorded. Some of the photos and videos appeared to be taken at close range, including several photos that were angled in an apparent attempt to see under the women’s skirts or other garments. Other photos and videos depicted the same women in multiple locations, indicating that the women had been followed. Gohari sent some of these photos and videos to an Iranian-based account from which he received CSAM, among other Iranian-based accounts.
For the child sex abuse material charge, Gohari faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison, and a mandatory minimum of three years in prison for alien smuggling and up to 10 years in prison.
Mr. Nocella praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which consists of investigators and analysts from the FBI, the New York City Police Department, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies, as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, for their crucial assistance.
Mr. Nocella also thanked the Homeland Security Task Force, 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.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew D. Reich is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Trial Attorney Kevin Nunnally of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Paralegal Specialist Wayne Colon.
New York Physical Therapist Admits Participating in Health Care Fraud Scheme Targeting AmtrakRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A New York physical therapist today admitted participating in a health care fraud scheme to defraud Amtrak, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Jaekwan Lee, 41, of Flushing, New York, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court to an Indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From January 2022 through June 2022, Lee and his co-conspirators agreed to engage in a scheme to bill the Amtrak health care plan for fraudulent claims for services that never were provided and were medically unnecessary. Lee, a licensed physical therapist, allowed his license and business bank accounts to be used in the fraudulent billing scheme, in return for a portion of the proceeds. Other members of the conspiracy recruited Amtrak employees to participate in the scheme by paying them cash, in return for allowing the conspirators to use their personal and insurance information to submit false and fraudulent claims.
The conspiracy involved dozens of Amtrak employees and multiple health care providers, who paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash kickbacks to Amtrak employees over the course of the scheme. In total, the Amtrak health care plan paid over $11 million in fraudulent claims associated with providers connected to the scheme. The Amtrak health care plan paid out over $800,000 for claims associated with Lee. The investigation has resulted in the prosecution of nineteen individuals, including Lee. All have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
The health care fraud conspiracy charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for October 8, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James Harper, the Amtrak Police Department, under the direction of Acting Chief of Police James Cook, and special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III in New York, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine M. Romano, Co-Chief of the General Crimes Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary of the Health Care Fraud and Opioids Enforcement Unit.
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Defense counsel: Megan Rha, Esq.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – BLAKE ANTHONY BACHEMIN (“BACHEMIN”), age 28, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on May 7, 2026 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(C). U.S. District Judge Barry Ashe scheduled sentencing for August 6, 2026. At sentencing, BACHEMIN faces up to twenty years imprisonment followed by at least three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, BACHEMIN had a pending felony arrest warrant for possession of methamphetamine when he was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department near the 500 block of Esplanade Avenue. A search incident to arrest led to the discovery of multiple plastic baggies of methamphetamine on BACHEMIN’s person. BACHEMIN possessed these baggies of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute them in the French Quarter area of New Orleans.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – YUAN BUGGAGE (“BUGGAGE”), age 25, of New Orleans, pled guilty on May 12, 2026 before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to a six-count indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances, and Gun Control Acts, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
BUGGAGE was charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, Tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846. BUGGAGE was charged in Count 2 with possession with intent to distribute those substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D). In Count 3, BUGGAGE was charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). BUGGAGE was charged in Count 4 with being a felon in possession of a felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
As to the drug trafficking conspiracy charge in Count 1, BUGGAGE faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to the drug distribution charge in Count 2, BUGGAGE faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to the charge of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in Count 3, BUGGAGE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. As to the felon in possession charge in Count 4, BUGGAGE faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The sentencing is set for August 13, 2026, before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Orleans Police Department, and St. Bernard Parish Sherrif’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell, I.V., of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Press release updated for accuracy.
Mexican National Sentenced to Prison in Vast Alien Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Mexican national was sentenced yesterday to 41 months in prison for her involvement in a massive international alien smuggling organization.
“We take seriously organized human smugglers who seek to undermine the integrity and security of our borders and our immigration laws for their ill-gotten gains,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Even criminal smugglers who live outside of our nation’s borders will face the justice of our courts when they violate our laws designed to keep our borders safe and secure.”
“Alien Smuggling Organizations do not care about your hopes and dreams; they care only about your money,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “This sentencing represents a major blow to a complex criminal organization that has been successfully dismantled thanks to the work of our AUSAs and law enforcement partners. My office is incredibly proud to work alongside Homeland Security Investigations and other Department of Homeland Security components to continue picking apart these alien smuggling organizations and hitting them where it hurts: in the pocketbook.”
According to court documents, from on or about Nov. 13, 2020, and continuing to March 7, 2023, Monica Hernandez-Palma, 34, and others, were part of an international alien smuggling organization (ASO) that illegally brought thousands of aliens from Afghanistan, Yemen, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Columbia, Guatemala, Honduras, and Ecuador into the United States from Mexico. The ASO operated stash houses in Monterrey, Mexico, and Piedras Negras, Mexico. Hernandez-Palma operated the stash house in Piedras Negras and coordinated with other members of the ASO to transport aliens to the stash house and then into the U.S. illegally. Hernandez-Palma worked with others to house aliens, after which the aliens would meet foot guides who led them across the U.S.-Mexico border by crossing the Rio Grande River.
Hernandez-Palma worked with co-conspirator and San Antonio, Texas-based smuggler, Enil Edil Mejia-Zuniga, who facilitated travel of the aliens from South America to the United States. Mejia-Zuniga directed operations, as well as paid armed “coyotes,” load drivers, and stash house operators. To facilitate their operation, the ASO operated stash houses in Monterrey, Mexico, and Piedras Negras, Mexico. According to court documents, Mejia-Zuniga admitted that the ASO smuggled between 2,500 to 3,000 aliens into the United States in just two years. Mejia-Zuniga stated that the organization charged between $6,500 to $12,000 per alien, totaling approximately $16 to $30 million in financial gain for the ASO.
Enil Edil Mejia-Zuniga was sentenced to ten years in prison on July 9, 2025.
Hernandez-Palma pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and aiding and abetting bringing an alien to the United States for financial gain.
HSI Del Rio led U.S. investigative efforts, working in concert with the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, and U.S. Border Patrol. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Hernandez-Palma.
Trial Attorney Bethany Allen of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions section, on detail from the Office of International Affairs, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Duarte II, for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The investigation and indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 455 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 400 U.S. convictions; and more than 350 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
Mexican National Sentenced for Unlawfully Residing in the United StatesRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Mexican national was sentenced today for Unlawful Reentry of the United States after previously being removed twice, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante sentenced Juan Carlos Nunez Reyes, 34, to 18 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Upon completion of his sentence, Nunez Reyes is expected to face removal proceedings.
According to court documents, Nunez Reyes was banned in 2023 from a casino after passing a counterfeit check and having drug paraphernalia in his hotel room. In 2025, Nunez Reyes entered the same casino, attempting to hide his face with a mask. Nunez Reyes was approached by security and law enforcement and provided a false name and date of birth. He eventually provided his correct identifiers and was arrested. When officers searched Nunez Reyes, they found his Mexican citizen identification and marijuana.
While booking Nunez Reyes, agents discovered that he had been removed from the United States in 2012 and 2021. Court dockets show that Nunez Reyes has been convicted of unlawfully possessing an unregistered short-barreled rifle and driving without a license.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Brandon prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Convicted of Preparing False Tax Returns for ClientsRead the Press Release
DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Nancy Maldonado Alvarez, 43, a Mexican national, was convicted on 37 counts of aiding or assisting in the preparation of false tax returns for clients.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Alvarez owned and operated a tax preparation business in Denver that she used to prepare false tax returns claiming refunds her clients were not entitled to receive. Alvarez carried out her tax fraud scheme by fabricating business losses, often for non-existent businesses, and by seeking the paid sick and family leave credit, which Congress created to aid struggling businesses and others during the COVID-19 global pandemic, even though many of her clients did not qualify for the credit. She also collected preparation fees that sometimes exceeded $2,000 per return, often unbeknownst to her clients. In total, Alvarez caused a loss to the United States exceeding $150,000.
Alvarez is scheduled to be sentenced in August.
Senior United States District Judge John L. Kane presided over the trial.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Neff for the District of Colorado and Trial Attorney Daniel R. Glenn of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section handled the prosecution.
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.
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Members and Associates of Transnational Criminal Organization Based Out of Añasco, Puerto Rico, Indicted for Violating the RICO Act as part of Homeland Security Task Force InitiativeRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A federal indictment was unsealed today in the District of Puerto Rico charging six defendants with 23 counts of racketeering—murder, drug trafficking, money laundering, and firearms violations, committed in furtherance of a transnational criminal organization based out of Añasco, Puerto Rico, that engaged in large-scale drug trafficking in coordination with Venezuela, Colombia, and Dominican Republic sources of supply, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
“This indictment not only alleges crimes of violence but also alleges that these offenses were committed openly and brazenly, and innocent members of the community were killed,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “These crimes have no place in our society, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners are fully committed to bringing perpetrators to justice and making our communities safer.”
“This operation demonstrates the relentless commitment of the Homeland Security Task Force, and our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent transnational criminal organizations operating in Puerto Rico and beyond,” said Rebecca González-Ramos, HSI San Juan Special Agent in Charge. “This fourth phase of the operation builds on years of investigative work to ensure that dangerous criminal leaders, including Rodríguez-Cumba and his associates, remain behind bars while HSI and its partners continue targeting the drug trafficking, violence, and money laundering networks threatening our communities.”
“This organization operated through violence, intimidation, and the false confidence that they were beyond accountability,” said Carlos R. Goris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. “Today’s operation demonstrates that no criminal network is untouchable when law enforcement components work together with focus, persistence, and a shared commitment to protecting the people. The FBI and our Homeland Security Task Force partners remain committed to identifying, disrupting, and dismantling the individuals and financial networks that enable this violence to persist in Puerto Rico.”
According to the indictment, the transnational criminal organization (hereinafter the Enterprise) was involved in narcotics trafficking and money laundering. The Enterprise also committed and attempted to commit violent acts, including murder and assault. To further their narcotics trafficking operation, the Enterprise used boats to import multi-kilogram shipments of cocaine from Colombia, Venezuela and the Dominican Republic into Puerto Rico and subsequently into the continental United States. In order to promote the Enterprise, they laundered and used the drug proceeds to purchase weapons and ammunition, purchased real estate properties, rented properties for the purposes of storing narcotics, purchased vessels, and motor vehicles, amongst other things.
Also, according to the indictment, members of the organization committed acts of violence to further the objectives of the Enterprise. These acts of violence served to promote and enhance the prestige, reputation and position of the Enterprise amongst rival criminal organizations; protect members and associates from law enforcement and rival drug trafficking organizations and preserve and protect their operation. The following murders are part of the charged racketeering acts:
On or about April 15, 2020, [1] Manuel Antonio Valentín-Vega was kidnapped by rival drug traffickers for a ransom. Valentín-Vega was eventually released by the kidnappers. Afterwards, Valentín-Vega sought to murder those that he believed were responsible for the kidnapping, including F.S.C.V. and J.M.S.R, by putting out contracts for their murder.
- On or about May 21, 2020, in Añasco, PR, believing that F.S.C.V. was in an identified vehicle, J.A.A.F. (deceased) drove two other members of the Enterprise (not charged herein), who fired upon the vehicle, killing Y.M.H.R. (the consensual partner of F.S.C.V.) and R.T.H. (Y.M.H.R.’s eight-year-old daughter).
- On or about October 9, 2020, in Mayagüez, PR, two members of the Enterprise (not indicted herein) shot and killed E.F.S.O. (the neighbor of F.S.C.V.).
- On or about October 15, 2020, in Mayagüez, PR, members of the Enterprise (not charged herein) shot and killed F.S.C.V. and E.S.C. (an individual staying in the same residence as F.S.C.V.)
- After the murder of Y.M.H.R. and R.T.H., J.A.A.F. began to cooperate with Commonwealth of Puerto Rico authorities in the homicide prosecutions of members of the Enterprise. Cooperating Witness J.A.A.F. also identified [2] Rafael Ángel Ruiz-Garcés as one of the individuals who participated in the murders of Y.M.H.R. and R.T.H. Upon learning of J.A.A.F.’s cooperation with authorities, [1] Valentín-Vega put a contract out for the murder of J.A.A.F. On October 5, 2021, J.A.A.F. was shot and killed.
- O.D.R. was a member of the Enterprise and a rival within the Enterprise of [5] Luis J. Irizarry-Zapata. [5] Irizarry-Zapata told another member of the Enterprise (not charged herein) that O.D.R. wanted to kill [1] Valentín-Vega and [2] Ruiz-Garcés. [5] Irizarry-Zapata then ordered a member of the Enterprise to kill O.D.R. On March 31, 2022, that member of the Enterprise shot and killed O.D.R.
- On or about April 14, 2022, in the Middle District of Florida, at the direction of [5] Irizarry-Zapata, a member of the Enterprise (not charged herein) shot and killed J.M.S.R. (one of the kidnappers of [1] Valentín-Vega).
In addition to the murders listed above, the indictment includes several racketeering acts, to wit: conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, importation of cocaine into the United States, attempted importation of cocaine into the United States, witness retaliation conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy.
The indictment also charges 22 additional counts, including: racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, importation of cocaine into the United States, attempted importation of cocaine into the United States, murders in-aid-of racketeering, witness retaliation conspiracy,possession firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, money laundering conspiracy, and unlawful monetary transactions over $10,000.
The charged defendants occupied different roles in the Enterprise, to wit, principal leaders, lieutenants, money launderers, transporters, and enforces. The defendants are:
[1] Manuel Antonio Valentín-Vega, a.k.a. “Nano/El Viejo”, (Counts 1-16, 17-19, and 21)
[2] Rafael Ángel Ruiz-Garcés, a.k.a. “Pito Rancho/Pito/El Flaco”, (Counts 1-4, 7, 18, and 19)
[3] César E. Carrero-Martínez, a.k.a. “Waldy”, (Counts 1-9, 18, 20, 22, and 23)
[4] Jonathan Hernández-Ruiz, a.k.a. “Tan”, (Counts 1-4, 6, 9, and 18)
[5] Luis J. Irizarry-Zapata, a.k.a. “Luijo”, (Counts 1, 2, 4, 17, and 18)
[6] Luis F. Rivera-Quiñonez, a.k.a. “Nino”, (Counts 3, 4, and 6)
The defendants are facing racketeering and narcotics forfeiture allegations that include the potential forfeiture of the following assets:
- “Game Changer” - a 2002 Viking, 55-foot vessel
- “Kay” - a 2020 Boston Whaler, 38-foot vessel
- Property located in Guayabo Ward of the municipality of Aguada
- Property located at Caracol Ward of the municipality of Añasco
- Property located at Piñales Ward of Añasco
- Property located at Boquerón Ward, El Combate Sector, in the municipality of Cabo Rojo
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Antonio L. Pérez-Alonso and Ryan McCabe from the Asset Recovery, Money Laundering, and Transnational Organized Crime Section are in charge of the prosecution of the case. If convicted, the defendants face up to life in prison. Defendants [1] Manuel Antonio Valentín-Vega and [5] Luis J. Irizarry-Zapata are eligible for the death penalty.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
HSTF San Juan comprises agents and officers from the following federal partners: FBI, ICE-HSI, CBP (OFO, AMO and Border Patrol), the U.S. Marshals Service for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, DEA, ATF, IRS, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of State, and the U.S. Secret Service, the Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands HIDTA, TSA, FAA, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The HSTF also has the following state and local law enforcement partners as participating agencies: the Puerto Rico Police Department; the San Juan, Carolina, Guaynabo, Barceloneta, and Ponce Municipal Police Departments, the Puerto Rico National Guard – Counter Drug Program; the Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the Puerto Rico Internal Revenue Service (Hacienda); the Puerto Rico Port Authority; and the Virgin Islands Police Department.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Member of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios Pleads Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios pleaded guilty today to racketeering charges, including his participation in two attempted murders.
Westyn Lantigua, a/k/a “Wes,” a/k/a “Muddy,” 25, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. U.S. Senior District Court Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2026. Lantigua was arrested and charged in February 2025.
The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to organize and execute violence, and undertake extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members.
During today’s court proceeding, Westyn Lantigua admitted to his membership in the gang. Photographs and videos recovered in the investigation showed Lantigua wearing Trinitarios beaded necklaces, making Trinitarios gang signs with his hands and associating with other members and leaders.
Lantigua also admitted to his participation in a June 2022 shooting outside of a fast-food restaurant in Lynn. Court documents describe Lantigua’s white Mercedes driving past the drive-thru lane of the restaurant, where a gray vehicle believed to be used by rival gang members was in line. The gray vehicle was, in fact, occupied by two innocent female victims. Surveillance video showed Lantigua’s white Mercedes parked across the street from the exit of the parking lot, waiting for the gray vehicle to leave.
As the gray vehicle left the fast-food restaurant parking lot, surveillance video showed Lantigua exit the white Mercedes and discharge numerous rounds from a fully automatic firearm at the gray vehicle. Responding officers found that both female victims occupants were hit by gunfire and survived, and the gray vehicle had 10 bullet holes. Officers also recovered 15 9mm casings. Review of Lantigua’s cellular phones, showed photographs and videos of him possessing a fully automatic handgun around the time of the shooting. Additional review showed Lantigua in possession of distribution quantities of drugs.
Lastly, Lantigua participated in the Trinitarios conspiracy to conduct burglaries of convenience stores in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Through these burglaries, the Trinitarios stole lottery tickets that they would cash in shortly after they were stolen. Lantigua participated in multiple such break-ins and was captured on video redeeming stolen tickets with other members of the Trinitarios.
In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multijurisdictional investigation, dubbed Operation Paper Machetes, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members. In March 2025, a Lynn member of the Trinitarios was sentenced to 10 years in prison. In June 2025, two members of the Trinitarios were charged with kidnapping a drug supplier. In July 2025, the leader of the Lynn Chapter was sentenced to 14 years in prison. In December 2025, two members of the Lynn Chapter, Michael Miliano and James Jimenez pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy. In April 2026, Luis Enrique Santana pleaded guilty. Lantigua is the tenth Defendant to plead guilty in the case.
The charge of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, also known as “racketeering conspiracy” or “RICO conspiracy,” provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting 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.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Member of Waterloo Hybrid Criminal Street Gang Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who officers identified as a member of a hybrid criminal street gang in Waterloo, Iowa, was sentenced May 13, 2026, to more than three years in federal prison.
Dearion Deshawn Newman, age 22, from Waterloo, received the prison term after a December 17, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by felon.
Evidence at sentencing showed that on May 11, 2025, Newman was in a car with three other people, including two juveniles. Law enforcement officers identified the people in the car as members of a hybrid criminal street gang in Waterloo. Newman was sitting in the passenger seat of the car. Officers recovered four guns in and around the car. At the plea hearing, Newman admitted possessing a loaded gun that was found under the car. Newman’s DNA was found on the gun. The gun also had an extended magazine and a laser sight attached to it. Newman was on state probation for possession of a firearm by a felon and interference with official acts with a firearm. That probation sentence was revoked in October 2025. The sentence in this case will run consecutive to the sentence in state court.
Newman was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Newman was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Newman is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and was investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-cr-2047.
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Massachusetts Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Charlton, Mass. woman pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to fraudulently obtaining Social Security benefits and pension payments.
Gina M. Cummings, 61, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2026. In December 2025, Cummings was arrested and charged.
From January 2020 through July 2025, Cummings fraudulently obtained approximately $110,428 in Social Security benefits, private pension payments and COVID Economic Impact Payments. Cummings had access to the checkbook of a Social Security beneficiary and pensioner who died in August 2019. She failed to report the beneficiary’s death to the Social Security Administration, the pension plan and the bank where the funds were deposited. Instead, Cummings accessed the improperly paid funds by forging the deceased beneficiary’s name on 84 checks and regularly depleted the account funds through recurring bill payments.
The charge of bank fraud provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $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 and 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.
Maryland Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking and Related OffensesRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned a six-count indictment today charging Brandon Sartor, 33, of Hyattsville, Maryland, with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and related charges.
According to court documents, Sartor compelled two adult women to perform commercial sex acts in Miami and elsewhere for his financial benefit from December 2024 until April 2025 and transported these two victims across state lines with the intent that they engage in prostitution.
Sartor is charged with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; using a facility of interstate commerce to facilitate the promotion of a prostitution business enterprise; transporting individuals across state lines with the intent that they engage in prostitution or other criminal sexual activities; and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison along with mandatory restitution.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida made the announcement.
FBI Miami and the Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office in Maryland are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne Williams for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Elizabeth Hutson of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case.
Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 26-cr-20188.
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Maryland Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking and Related OffensesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned a six-count indictment today charging Brandon Sartor, 33, of Hyattsville, Maryland, with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and related charges.
According to court documents, Sartor compelled two adult women to perform commercial sex acts in Miami and elsewhere for his financial benefit from December 2024 until April 2025 and transported these two victims across state lines with the intent that they engage in prostitution.
Sartor is charged with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; using a facility of interstate commerce to facilitate the promotion of a prostitution business enterprise; transporting individuals across state lines with the intent that they engage in prostitution or other criminal sexual activities; and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison along with mandatory restitution.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida made the announcement.
FBI Miami and the Anne Arundel County Police Department in Maryland are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Elizabeth Hutson of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne Williams for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Madison Man Sentenced to More Than 4 Years for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Marcus Brinkley, 23, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced last week by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 54 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. Brinkley’s prison term will be followed by three years of supervised release. Brinkley pleaded guilty to this charge on February 27, 2026.
Brinkley was arrested following a controlled delivery of narcotics. In Brinkley’s motel room, law enforcement recovered a loaded handgun on the nightstand. Brinkley is prohibited from legally possessing firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson commented on the nature of Brinkley’s prior convictions and his conduct in this case to highlight the danger Brinkley posed to the public. To arrive at the sentence, Judge Peterson balanced these aggravating factors with the defendant’s young age.
The charge against Brinkley was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, which is comprised of federal agents from ATF and task force officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Glinzak prosecuted this case.
Federal prosecutions by the U.S. Department of Justice involving drugs and guns are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Years-Long Drug Money Laundering Conspiracy and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 8 years in federal prison for an extensive drug money laundering conspiracy, conducting transactions with drug proceeds, and obstructing a federal investigation and asset forfeiture proceeding.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation made the announcement.
According to court documents, Joseph E. Lanham, 43, of Louisville, was sentenced to 8 years in prison, followed by 3 years supervised, for engaging in a money laundering conspiracy to conceal the proceeds of his own drug trafficking activity from April 2016 to May 2023 and for obstruction of justice. During the indictment period, Lanham conspired with others to hide his drug proceeds and acquired real estate, vehicles, and a luxury speedboat with funds generated through drug trafficking. Court documents also show that Lanham submitted falsified documents to federal authorities in September 2023 in order to obstruct a federal criminal investigation and asset forfeiture proceedings. Lanham has also been ordered to pay a $40,000 fine and several houses acquired through his criminal conduct are subject to asset forfeiture.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner said, “This significant sentence is a testament to the IRS-Criminal Investigation’s substantial role in combating drug trafficking across the Western District of Kentucky. Through a significant financial investigation, and working hand-in-hand with AUSAs Corinne Keel and Erin McKenzie to develop their case, IRS-CI compiled a mountain of evidence proving that Joseph Lanham laundered money he acquired from drug trafficking over more than 7 years and lied to the government about his conduct in an effort to thwart justice. He will now serve 8 years in federal prison for his conduct, and he will have to do without the items of luxury he purchased using illicit drug proceeds, all of which were forfeited as a part of his sentence.”
Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Keel said, “This result comes from the years-long effort of a hardworking team and is an excellent example of justice through collaboration between local and federal law enforcement.”
“The sentencing of Joseph Lanham for leading the money laundering operation that tried to hide its roots in real estate and splashy luxury items is a victory for the American public and a defeat to drug traffickers everywhere. The special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation continue in their mission to disrupt the flow of ill-gotten gains that is the life-blood for these criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “We will continue to be relentless in our mission to dismantle these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Louisville Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office, with assistance from the Jeffersontown Police Department and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne E. Keel and Erin G. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Lexington Man Convicted of Several Drug Trafficking and Firearms Charges.Read the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.- A Lexington man, Kevin Sanders, 48, was convicted on Friday by a federal jury in Lexington for four counts of distributing fentanyl, three counts of distributing methamphetamine, three counts of possessing with intent to distribute 600 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual). He was also convicted of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Sanders was convicted following a 3-day trial.
According to testimony at trial, beginning in February 2025, law enforcement officers with the HIDTA Task Force, began an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Kevin D. Sanders. During the investigation, law enforcement officers purchased 49 grams of fentanyl and 83 grams of methamphetamine from Sanders. In April 2025, a search warrant was obtained for his residence and law enforcement seized 3,705 grams of pure methamphetamine, 608 grams of fentanyl, and 500 grams of cocaine. Additionally, officers located and seized five firearms. Sanders has a prior conviction for Attempt First Degree Murder from Cook County, Illinois.
Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police; and Chief Rodney Richardson, Richmond Police Department, jointly announced the conviction.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF, KSP, and Richmond Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
Sanders will appear for sentencing on September 10.
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Largest Methamphetamine Seizure in New Jersey HistoryRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two men were charged under the New Jersey Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) with conspiring to distribute over 260 pounds of methamphetamine into New Jersey, which represents the largest seizure of methamphetamine in the state’s history, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
“By preventing hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine from hitting the streets, this historic seizure has made New Jersey a safer place. And it has also sent an unmistakable message to drug traffickers who plan to enter the Garden State: stay out. We will find you and you will answer for any attempt to bring poison into our communities. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their tireless work in this case and for putting themselves at risk for the benefit of public safety every day.”
- U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer
“Seizing 260 pounds of methamphetamine, the largest seizure in New Jersey, is a critical step in preventing these deadly drugs from reaching our neighborhoods,” stated DEA New Jersey Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James. “This success highlights the power of collaboration between DEA and our law-enforcement partners at every level. By working together, we are making our community safer and holding drug traffickers accountable.”
“This seizure and the resulting charges are a tremendous demonstration of partnerships at work, with members of the Homeland Security Task Force bringing these drug traffickers to justice. Over six million dollars of methamphetamine was seized, but what is priceless is the number of lives potentially saved by the extraordinary efforts of law enforcement in New Jersey,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy.
“This seizure represents a decisive blow against a large‑scale drug trafficking organization that sought to move an extraordinary volume of methamphetamine into our state,” stated Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office. “This case reflects the dedication and cooperation of every agency involved, and together we will continue to safeguard the residents of New Jersey by pursuing those who finance and facilitate the distribution of dangerous narcotics.”
“Our communities are safer today as a result of the unwavering partnership between Homeland Security Investigations, the DEA, and our federal counterparts,” said HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy. “This operation underscores our collective dedication to disrupting transnational criminal organizations and safeguarding the public from the threats posed by illicit drugs.”
Marcos Cesar Acosta, 47, most recently of Chicago, Illinois, and Carlos H. Cordero-Guiterrez, 53, a citizen and national of Mexico, were charged by criminal complaint with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Acosta and Cordero-Guiterrez made their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth A. Pascal on April 29, 2026 and were detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On April 28, 2026, Acosta traveled to New Jersey to supervise the delivery of hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine by a truck driven by Cordero-Guiterrez. That evening, after the truck arrived in New Jersey loaded with the methamphetamine, law enforcement officers arrested Acosta and Cordero-Guiterrez. Law enforcement seized three black storage boxes, one duffel bag, and a garbage bag from the truck cab, all of which contained methamphetamine. Collectively, the seized methamphetamine weighed over 260 pounds.
The conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) MOPOD Enforcement Group 11 and the DEA Camden Resident Office under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James, for the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark, and IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, for their assistance in the investigation.
This operation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. The HSTF is a United States government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, transnational gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) worldwide. This initiative identifies TCOs engaged in a wide range of criminal schemes that violate federal law, while dismantling cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks that fuel violence and instability that threatens the safety and security of the United States and its global partners.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
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Defense counsel: Marcos Cesar Acosta: Margaret M. Grasso, Esq.
Carlos H. Cordero-Gutierrez: James P. Maguire, Esq., Federal Public Defenders.
Kapaa Woman Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison and Ordered to Pay over 126 Thousand Dollars for Scheme to Defraud COVID-19 Pandemic Rental and Utility Assistance ProgramRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that on May 11, 2026, United States District Judge Jill A. Otake sentenced Kaiaulani C. Kaiawe, 47, of Kapaa, Hawaii to 40 months in prison for defrauding the Kauai Coronavirus Rental and Utility Assistance (CRUA) program. Judge Otake also sentenced Kaiawe to a term of supervised release of three years following her imprisonment, along with $126,026.10 in restitution to the State of Hawaii. In connection with the fraud scheme, Kaiawe had pled guilty to two counts each of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft on October 9, 2025.
According to court documents, in 2021, Congress authorized the creation of Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) programs within the Department of the Treasury to fund rent, utility, and other housing-related expense assistance to households that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the State of Hawaii, the County of Kauai used ERA funds to establish the CRUA program. The County of Kauai contracted with a local credit union to administer the CRUA program.
As part of her guilty plea, Kaiawe admitted to committing wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud the CRUA program to obtain benefit payments that she was not eligible to receive. The CRUA program required eligible claimants to submit an application electronically, using its website, and to provide certain personal information of the claimant, including his or her name and date of birth, as well as a landlord or property manager contact, before certifying that the representations made in the claim were true and accurate. If the credit union approved the claim, rental payments for the claimant were sent directly to the claimant’s landlord or property manager, and utility payments were sent directly to his or her utility company.
Kaiawe admitted to submitting a false CRUA claim on her own behalf, using her former name, Coty Duhaylongsod, as the claimant, and entering her then-current name, Kaiawe, as her own landlord to improperly receive a CRUA benefit payment. Kaiawe then submitted multiple other false CRUA claims using the personal information of others as claimants, without their knowledge and consent, and then falsely listed herself or others as the landlord or property manager to obtain additional benefit payments that she was not entitled to receive. In addition, Kaiawe admitted that she provided false and altered documentation to support each CRUA claim that she submitted. In total, Kaiawe fraudulently obtained $126,026.10 in CRUA benefit payments.
“Motivated by greed, Kaiawe defrauded the government of more than $100,000, which were critical resources intended to provide a lifeline to unemployed workers of Hawaii during the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Through the work of the National Fraud Enforcement Division, we are focused more than ever on pursuing and prosecuting those who steal from public coffers through fraud and dishonesty, and we pledge to bring to justice those who seek to pilfer the public trust for their own greed.”
“These pandemic assistance programs were designed to provide a lifeline to members of our island communities in dire need,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Ms. Kaiawe did more than just break the law—she diverted critical resources away from our neighbors when they needed it most. The FBI and our partners remain committed to identifying and holding accountable those who deceive and steal taxpayer dollars for their own purposes.”
The FBI and Kauai Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Paris Yates prosecuted the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Kansas City Man Sentenced to 115 Months for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, multi-caliber pistol with a 30-round magazine.
Tyron Young, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, to 115 months in prison without parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On Nov. 20, 2024, officers with the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department were called to an apartment complex on a report of suspicious activity. A police helicopter observed Young, wearing all black, walking through the complex holding what appeared to be a rifle. The helicopter then observed Young running eastbound through the complex and tossing the firearm underneath a vehicle. Thereafter, officers detained Young and recovered the firearm which was loaded with 27 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition in the magazine and one round in the chamber.
Officers spoke with the reporting party and witnesses who said an unknown male banged on the window of their residence and said, “You wanna fight, come outside.” The parties reported that the male was holding a gun to the ground and described it as a “black long gun possibly an AR pistol.”
Young, who is a convicted felon, had been found guilty of three prior felony offenses before today’s hearing. Those offenses were attempted robbery in the second degree, felon in possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Justice Department Secures $30M Settlement with PayPal over DEI Investment ProgramRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department announced a settlement with PayPal Inc. to resolve a fair lending investigation into a discriminatory investment program created for black and minority-owned businesses. The settlement requires PayPal to launch a new Small Business Initiative that excludes criteria based on race, national origin, or other protected characteristics. As part of the initiative, PayPal will waive processing fees for $1 billion of transactions – a value of approximately $30 million – for eligible American small businesses that are veteran-owned or engaged in farming, manufacturing, or technology.
“This Department of Justice is delivering on President Trump’s vow to root out illegal DEI from every corner of corporate America,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “American corporations are on notice: you will face our aggressive enforcement if you use race or national origin to discriminate against qualified Americans.”
“With this settlement, PayPal agrees that race and national origin should play no part in determining which small businesses deserve its investment and financial support,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department will use the full range of its enforcement authorities to eliminate discrimination and ensure that all Americans have an equal opportunity to grow their small businesses.”
In addition to fee waivers, as part of the settlement PayPal will designate a director of the Small Business Initiative, conduct an assessment of the needs of American small businesses and determine how PayPal can best support them, submit plans and proposals for the initiative to the United States, provide training to employees on the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and report on the initiative annually.
PayPal announced the discriminatory Economic Opportunity Fund in 2020 to invest in black and minority-owned businesses. While the program gave a preference to businesses based on race, color, and national origin, it was not implemented to remediate any specific instances of past discrimination.
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits creditors from discriminating against credit applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, because an applicant receives income from a public assistance program, or because an applicant has in good faith exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
Jury convicts prior felon for unlawful possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – Following a two-day trial, a jury found a prior felon guilty of federal charges for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
On May 6, 2026, a federal jury convicted Anthony D. Bradley, Jr., 37, of one count for possession of a firearm by a felon. Indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2024, Bradley was observed by officers to possess a firearm on October 28, 2024, during a proactive crime suppression detail that included the John De Shields housing complex in East St. Louis, Illinois.
According to court documents, Bradley was previously convicted of state charges for second degree murder and multiple state and federal charges involving illegal firearm possession. Bradley stipulated prior to trial that he was a convicted felon and that he knew he was a convicted felon at the time of the offense conduct.
“Convicted felons, like Anthony Bradley, who unlawfully possess firearms contribute to the plague of gun violence threatening our local communities,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The jury’s verdict holds Bradley accountable for his wrongful possession and supports our office’s commitment to ensure the safety of southern Illinois. I commend the effort of ISP’s Public Safety Enforcement Group for their continued efforts in bringing these offenders to justice.”
The evidence presented at trial proved Bradley unlawfully possessed a firearm in East St. Louis. Following trial, Bradley entered a stipulation and consent to forfeit the firearm to the United States. The jury deliberated for approximately two hours and twenty minutes.
“This guilty verdict holds a felon who repeatedly broke the law accountable and is a big win for the Metro East community,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Officers in our Public Safety Enforcement Group and Statewide Antiviolence Enforcement unit are committed to making communities safer and ISP will continue to dedicate resources to get criminals out of our neighborhoods.”
Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2026 at 10:30 AM in the East St. Louis Courthouse. The Illinois State Police led this investigation with assistance from its Public Safety Enforcement Group and Firearms Investigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Arshi and Ali Burns prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, which is a 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.
Jefferson County Businessman Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Failing to Pay Taxes on Behalf of EmployeesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Zachary M. Bluestone on Tuesday sentenced a Jefferson County businessman to 18 months in prison for failing to pay 10 years of employment taxes totaling $774,081.
Judge Bluestone also ordered Danny L. Nickelson Jr., 54, to pay the back taxes in restitution to the IRS and imposed a fine of $18,684.
Nickelson owned General Physiotherapy, a manufacturer and distributor of massage and percussion devices used in medicine and physical therapy. For tax years 2013 through 2022, Nickelson withheld Social Security and Medicare taxes and federal income taxes from employees’ pay but did not pay that to the IRS. He also did not match the withheld taxes and pay that amount, as required. Nickelson did the same thing for tax years 2013-2015 for Tomichi Industries, a small plastic distributor and supplier for General Physiotherapy. Nickelson was sole shareholder of Tomichi.
Nickelson used the tax money for the operating expenses of the business and personal expenditures including food, travel, retail purchases and credit card bills.
Nickelson “put at risk his employees’ tax liabilities and future federal benefits” and stole “money from the U.S. tax system that funds the federal government and the social safety net,” a sentencing memorandum by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow says.
Nickelson pleaded guilty in February to two counts of failure to pay over trust fund taxes.
The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow prosecuted the case.
Indictment Charges Four District Men in Spree of Convenience Store ATM Robberies Using Jaws of LifeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A 27-count Indictment was unsealed today in U.S. District Court charging four men in connection with a conspiracy that used the “Jaws of Life” to commit robberies of convenience store ATMs in Maryland and the District, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Jeff Crews, 35, David Walker, 40, Maurice Roots, 35, and Kevin Bing, 31 – all residents of the District of Columbia – are charged with Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) and an array of other counts relating to stolen vehicles.
“Violent, organized crews who treat our neighborhoods as targets and use rescue tools designed to save lives to instead tear open ATMs and terrorize businesses will be met with relentless prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “This indictment reflects a sustained law enforcement effort to dismantle a coordinated robbery ring that endangered employees, destroyed property, and repeatedly struck communities across Maryland and the District of Columbia.”
According to the Indictment, the conspiracy operated during the first three months of 2025. Members of the conspiracy acquired a “Jaws of Life” – the powerful hydraulic rescue tool typically used by first responders to extract victims from the wreckage of car crashes – and used it to tear open automated teller machines and steal the cash inside them.
The men acquired stolen vehicles, wore masks, and executed most of the robberies during the early-morning hours. They would meet at a predetermined location, transfer their robbery tools into the robbery vehicle, and drive to the targeted convenience store. After arriving at the convenience store, members divided up tasks. One member sometimes remained in the vehicle as a getaway driver. At least one other member was tasked with subduing the store employees, as another attempted to destroy the store’s surveillance video and network equipment. Another used the “Jaws of Life” tool or other levering tool to rip open the ATM and remove its cassettes containing the cash.
On Jan. 3, 2025, members of the conspiracy robbed an ATM on the 9900 block of Greenbelt Road, Lanham. On Jan. 4, 2025, members of the conspiracy robbed stores on the 6000 block of Sandy Spring Road, in Laurel, and the 900 block of Chillum Road, Hyattsville. On Jan. 7, 2025, members robbed a store on the 7700 block of Crain Highway, Upper Marlboro. On Jan. 8, 2025, members of the conspiracy attempted to rob an ATM on Route 3 in Gambrills. On Jan. 12, 2025, members of the conspiracy ignited and burned a black Lexus sedan, which had been used to facilitate a robbery.
On Jan. 22, 2025, members robbed an ATM in a store on the 7400 block of Annapolis Road, Hyattsville. On Jan. 29, 2025, members robbed a store on the 11000 block of Cherry Hill Road, Beltsville, and robbed an ATM inside a store on the unit block of Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro.
On Feb. 1, 2025, members robbed an ATM within a store on the 7900 block of Good Luck Road, Lanham. On Feb. 6, 2025, members robbed an ATM on the 6100 block of Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill. On Feb. 19, 2025, members robbed an ATM in a store on the 11000 block of Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, On Feb. 22, 2025, members robbed an ATM in a store on the 9400 block of Lanham Severn Road, Lanham.
On Feb. 28, 2025, members robbed an ATM on the 1000 block of Crain Hwy N, Gambrills, and robbed another ATM on the 600 block of University Boulevard, Silver Spring. On March 11, 2025, members robbed a store on the 6500 block of Coventry Way, Clinton, and struck another ATM the same day on the 8900 block of Rhode Island Avenue, College Park.
On March 19, 2025, members of the conspiracy attempted to rob an ATM at a store on the 9500 block of Ruby Lockhart Boulevard, Bowie, before they robbed an ATM on the 5200 block of 3rd St. NE, Washington D.C. Later that day, members burned a silver Lexus sedan which had been used to facilitate a robbery.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office, the Prince George’s County Police Department, the Montgomery County Police Department, the Anne Arundel County Police Department, the Greenbelt Police Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Levy for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
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Illinois Resident Pleads Guilty to Fraud and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Oluyomi Omobolanle Bombata, a/k/a Bola, a/k/a Bola Flexx, a/k/a Bobo Chicago, age 27, of Chicago, Illinois, entered a guilty plea to one count of Wire Fraud Conspiracy, punishable by up to 27 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, one count of Wire Fraud, punishable by up to 27 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Money Laundering Conspiracy, punishable by up to 27 years in prison and the greater of either a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction.
The Second Superseding Indictment alleged that beginning in June 2023 and continuing through September 2023, Bombata and other co-conspirators devised and executed a scheme to defraud and deceive victims by using “spoofed” emails and websites with falsely registered domain names to convince victims to wire funds to bank accounts fraudulently established and controlled by Bombata and his co-conspirators. The Indictment further alleged that beginning in June 2023 and continuing through October 2023, Bombata conspired with others to conduct financial transactions to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds of the fraud.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Bombata will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced for Distribution of Child Pornography via Facebook MessengerRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS– U.S. Attorney Scott Leary and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) announced today that a Mexican national, illegally in the United States, was sentenced to 121 months in prison, five years supervised release and $14,000 in restitution for knowingly distributing and receiving visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct through the popular internet application Facebook Messenger. He had previously pled guilty to these charges.
According to court documents, Adolfo Raul Vasquez-Santana, 32, of Southaven, Mississippi, downloaded and shared violent videos that depicted the sexual abuse of children.
Vasquez-Santana was investigated by the Southaven Police Department responding to a tip that the agency received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. HSI determined Vasquez-Santana was illegally present in the United States and pursued federal charges.
Senior U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Vasquez-Santana including requiring him to pay $14,000 to the victims for restitution.
Officials with ICE have placed an immigration detainer on the defendant, to result in his removal from the United States following the conclusion of his federal sentence.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “Child pornography is a plague. Children are victimized not only through the production of obscene material, but through its continual distribution. Somehow, this debauchery has gained a foothold in our society. We need the public’s help. Please, when you see something troubling, let law enforcement know – we will respond. A heartfelt thanks goes to the Southaven Police Department and HSI investigators. Federal and state law enforcement working together to get these perpetrators off the streets is what the public expects us to do. Well done! Again, the Northern District of Mississippi has the best child exploitation prosecutors in the nation, and Julie Addison is one of them.”
“HSI is committed to protecting children from predators who use technology to exploit them. When we received information about Vasquez-Santana, our agents acted quickly to investigate, arrest and bring this individual to justice. We remain vigilant against child predators and will continue to pursue these offenders wherever they operate,” said Matt Wright, acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI New Orleans. “Our partners at Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) will ensure that once the defendant completes his federal sentence, he is removed from the United States and unable to pose further risk to our communities.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison 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.
Additionally, this case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Homeland Security Task Force Operation Concludes with 19th Defendant Pleading GuiltyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – Harold Cook, 55, of Fort Worth, Texas, pleaded guilty today after a federal jury was selected. This concludes a major Homeland Security Task Force operation involving 19 defendants, more than 25 kilograms of cocaine and $150,000 in drug proceeds and multiple vehicles seized.
According to court documents, Harold Cook and his co-defendants were charged in an indictment including cocaine conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession with intent to distribute cocaine. His co-defendants include:
- Roy Ramirez (sentenced to 54 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Juan Carlos Mercado (sentenced to 46 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Javier Cardenas (sentenced to 54 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Thalmus Pace (sentenced to 60 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Willie B. Hayes (awaiting sentencing)
- Christopher Lomax (awaiting sentencing)
- Michael Hughes (awaiting sentencing)
- Derek Mosley (awaiting sentencing)
- Edyee Rascon-Mendoza (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Vinton Maclin (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Alyrone Green (awaiting sentencing)
- Jerry Moody (awaiting sentencing)
- Andre Rawls (sentenced to 110 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Marvin Hilliard (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Orlando McKinney (sentenced to 18 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Dewayne Smith (sentenced to 120 months, 3 years supervised release)
Harold Cook will be sentenced at a later date by Chief United States District Judge Debra M. Brown. Cook was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following his plea of guilty.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “We are all aware of the devastation that drug trafficking and violent gangs have visited on our communities. Liberating neighborhoods from the scourge of violent crime is not only a national priority, it is the top priority for the Northern District of Mississippi. The Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative was established by Executive Order in 2025. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, human smuggling and drug trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. This HSTF investigation typifies the interagency collaboration envisioned by our law enforcement community. State and Federal agents, working together, convicted over a dozen defendants and seized over 25 kilograms of cocaine. By dismantling this drug trafficking organization, hundreds of pounds of drugs will be taken off our streets and lives will be saved. Awesome job by the Desoto County Sheriff’s Department, without your help this case would not have been possible. Likewise, DEA-Oxford, Mississippi worked closely with DEA-El Paso, DEA-Fairview Heights (Illinois) and the United States Marshal’s Service to bring this case home. Well done all!”
"This operation is a testament to what we can achieve when federal, state, and local law enforcement stand together as a united front,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer. “We are sending a clear message that criminal organizations have no place in Mississippi. Through the HSTF, we will continue to use every resource available to protect our citizens and uphold the rule of law across the Northern District."
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Stringfellow and Julie Addison.
Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Leads to Indictment of Four Illegal Aliens from South America in Million Dollar Multistate Burglary RingRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 12, 2026, a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Wisconsin returned an indictment charging Chilean nationals Luciano Alexis Silva Cifuentes, Enjerbet Alejandro Rojas Silva, and Leandro Felipe Pino Uribe, and Venezuelan national Nobuaki Jesus Lara Watay with violations of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 (conspiracy to violate the laws of the United States), 2314 (interstate and foreign transportation of stolen property), and 1956(h) (conspiracy to launder criminal proceeds).
According to publicly filed criminal complaints that preceded today’s indictment, this case arises out of an investigation initially commenced by the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office and joined by the Milwaukee area Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF). The HSTF is led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security–Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).
The investigation led to charges against a group of Chilean nationals who are in the U.S. illegally and allegedly traveled from South America to commit burglaries across the United States. This South American theft group is allegedly tied to more than a dozen completed and attempted residential burglaries in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Florida, with a total loss of approximately $1,000,000 worth of U.S. currency, jewelry, firearms, precious metals, and rare coins. The Chilean burglars are alleged to have repeatedly traveled from Florida to Wisconsin and Minnesota by rental car, with the support of Watay, who is living in the U.S. illegally in Florida, and who reserved Airbnb rentals for the burglary crew, posted their bail when needed, and conducted financial transactions on the group’s behalf.
The crimes with which the defendants have been charged carry maximum penalties of up to five years in prison for conspiring to violate the laws of the United States, up to ten years in prison for transporting stolen property across state or foreign boundaries, and up to twenty years in prison for conspiring to launder criminal proceeds.
This indictment 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.
This investigation was led by the Milwaukee Homeland Security Task Force 414, composed of members from the FBI, HSI, IRS–CI, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office, with significant support from the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office, Mequon Police Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Department, Brown County Sheriff’s Department, Mendota Heights (MN) Police Department, Orono (MN) Police Department, Edina (MN) Police Department, Plantation (FL) Police Department, and the North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
The prosecution is being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove them guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Haysville husband and wife admit to possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
WICHITA – A Kansas couple admitted culpability in crimes related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, Addilynn Jean Onuffer, 22, of Haysville was sentenced to 160 months in prison after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography.
Her husband and co-defendant Gavin Onuffer, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. He is scheduled to be sentenced August 3, 2026.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a cyber tip about CSAM from an IP address connected to the home of Gavin and Addilynn Onuffer. Investigators obtained a search warrant for Gavin’s cell phone and found files containing images of prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Evidence showed his wife sent him the images.
“In her plea agreement, Addilynn said she sent her husband CSAM images simply because he wanted them,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We all have a duty to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Instead of holding each other accountable and stopping perverse activity, this couple engaged in their prurient interests together. There is no excuse for this behavior.”
The Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and Wichita Police Department investigated the case.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.###
Gardner Woman Pleads Guilty to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Gardner woman pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to fraudulently receiving Social Security disability benefits.
Leidy E. Otero, 43, pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of stolen government money or property and one count of Social Security fraud – concealment. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Aug. 27, 2026. Otero was charged in April 2026.
In 2011, Otero applied for and began receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) as the representative payee for two other individuals based on Otero’s limited income and resources. In assessing a married individual’s eligibility for SSI, the income and resources of the applicant’s spouse is considered if they live together. If an applicant is awarded SSI, they have a continuing obligation to notify SSA of any changes in their marital status, living arrangements and household income and resources.
In July 2014, Otero reported to SSA that she was married, but stated that she did not live with her husband. After that July 2014 report, Otero’s husband became part of the household and Otero did not notify SSA as required. At all times during the charged period, Otero’s husband’s income exceeded the SSI limits. Had Otero accurately reported her living arrangements, her husband’s income would have made her ineligible for SSI when they lived together.
The charge of receipt of stolen government money or property 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. The charge of Social Security fraud – concealment provides for a sentence of up to five 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 statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
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 and 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.
Gainesville Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – DaMorie Lamontay Miles, 19, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and one count of receipt, possession, transfer, or production of a firearm which is not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the guilty plea.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Running with drugs and illegal firearms in the Northern District of Florida is a one-way ticket to federal prison, and my office is more than happy to send this felon on his way. Operation Take Back America is a promise to U.S. citizens that the Department of Justice will devote maximum resources toward keeping our streets safe and drug-free, and my office will continue to deliver on that promise with successful prosecutions like this one.”
Court records reflect that the defendant was communicating via text message and social media with others to buy and sell marijuana and to obtain a machine gun conversion device (MCD). The defendant was arrested after a search warrant of his residence produced over 600 grams of marijuana and the MCD.
If convicted on all counts, Miles faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
The case is being jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Gainesville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt.
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.
Founder of Punjabi Devils Motorcycle Club Stockton Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Unlawfully Dealing in Firearms and Possessing a Machine GunRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —Jashanpreet Singh, 27, of Lodi, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd to five years and four months in prison for unlawful dealing of firearms and unlawful possession of a machine gun, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Singh was the founder of the “Punjabi Devils” Motorcycle Club, a Stockton-based outlaw motorcycle gang associated with the Hells Angels. On June 6, 2025, Singh attempted to sell several weapons to an undercover officer, including a short-barreled rifle, three assault weapons, three machine gun conversion devices, and a revolver. A search of Singh’s residence resulted in the discovery of additional firearms, including a machine gun, another machine gun conversion device, and a silencer.
Firearms (including machine guns and a short-barreled rifle), firearms parts (including a silencer and high-capacity drum magazines), and other items seized from Singh’s vehicle and residence on June 6, 2025.
Officers also discovered a single pineapple-style capped and fused hand grenade, as well as what law enforcement believed was a military electronic capped claymore mine. The Explosives Ordinance Detail of the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department bomb team destroyed these items at the scene.
Singh initially faced state charges in San Joaquin County related to these offenses. On July 21, 2025, he failed to appear in court, and the state court issued a bench warrant for his arrest. On July 23, 2025, the FBI received an alert from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection that Singh had booked a ticket to India and was scheduled to depart from the San Francisco International Airport on July 26, 2025. On that date, officers located and arrested Singh at the airport before he could flee. Singh remains in federal custody. Singh pleaded guilty on Feb. 2, 2026.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations; Homeland Security Investigations; the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office; the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, Explosive Ordinance Detail; the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, Special Investigations Unit; the Stockton Police Department; and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella 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.
Former Shelby County Division of Corrections Investigator Sentenced to Federal Prison for BriberyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Deon Scott, 41, a former Internal Affairs Investigator for the Office of Professional Standards for the Shelby County Divisions of Corrections to federal prison for bribery. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Scott smuggled contraband into the Shelby County Divisions of Corrections, a facility which houses federal inmates, while employed as an Internal Affairs Investigator at the facility. Scott received at least $3,200 as payment for his unlawful conduct. Scott was immediately terminated from his position.
On November 17, 2025, Scott pled guilty to a one count information alleging that as a public official, he accepted money in exchange for smuggling contraband items, including narcotics, into the Shelby County Division of Corrections. On May 8, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Scott to a total of 18 months of federal imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Official misconduct and corruption by correctional officers in positions of trust and authority undermine the foundational integrity of our government institutions and compromise the safety and security of correctional facilities. This sentence will hopefully deter other corrupt behavior, restore the public’s faith in honest officers, and send a message that nobody is above the law."
The case was investigated by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), United States Marshals Service (USMS), and the United States Secret Service (USSS).
Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Crum and Greg Wagner and former Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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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.
Former Navy Officer Pleads Guilty to Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Douglas Engstrom, a former officer in the United States Navy, pleaded guilty to attempted interstate coercion and enticement of a minor. Additionally, as part of his plea agreement, Engstrom stipulated and admitted that he possessed and received over 600 images and videos of child sexual abuse material. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Nusrat J. Choudhury. When sentenced, Engstrom faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment and up to life in prison.
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, who was a member of the Navy when he committed his crimes, was convicted of preying on someone he believed to be an innocent 13-year-old girl,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “This prosecution demonstrates that we will use every law enforcement tool available to prosecute and punish to the fullest extent of the law predators, like the defendant, who exploit the most vulnerable among us: children.”
“Instead of honoring his oath to protect this country, former U.S. Navy officer Douglas Engstrom exploited some of our most vulnerable citizens – children – to satisfy his perverted desires. The FBI maintains its commitment to hold accountable sexual predators that prey upon children. We will never stop in our pursuit of justice for victims,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
As set forth in court filings and during today’s plea proceeding, Engstrom communicated online with an individual he believed to be a 13-year-old girl and attempted to meet this individual to engage in sexual activity. In his communications, Engstrom admitted that he was a 36-year-old man in the Navy and said that he wanted to have oral, anal, and vaginal sex with the girl, including while she was unconscious. He then agreed to meet the girl in Valley Stream, New York to have sex with her. In reality, this purported 13-year-old girl was an undercover officer.
After booking a flight and hotel room, Engstrom traveled from Maryland to New York. On December 16, 2023, officers arrested him at the Valley Stream, New York Long Island Railroad train station. At the time of his arrest, Engstrom was holding a large teddy bear, which the undercover officer had requested that he bring to the 13-year-old girl. Members of law enforcement subsequently reviewed Engstrom’s electronic devices pursuant to a judicially-authorized warrant and discovered a significant volume of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material.
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.
Anyone with information about sexual exploitation by the defendant is asked to contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 212-384-1000.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney James R. Simmons is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Adam Bernard and Legal Assistant Danielle Rompel.
The Defendant:
DOUGLAS ENGSTROM
Age: 38
Hanover, MarylandE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-12 (NJC)
Former Hellenic Orthodox priest accused of stealing hundreds of thousands of dollarsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Christos Christakis, 57, of Cincinnati, OH, was charged by criminal complaint with bank fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to the complaint, in March 2007, Christakis was hired to be the Priest at the Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation (HOCA) in Buffalo, NY. In 2011, Christakis inserted a provision into the HOCA by-laws, which resulted in Christakis having complete control over the Priest Discretionary Fund. Similar to a petty cash account, the fund is intended to allow the priest to provide small direct assistance payments and financial support to those in need. The fund at HOCA was overseen by the parish council and was subject to limits on how much money could be in the discretionary account at any given time, usually less than $1,500. In March 2025, a whistle-blower complaint was filed with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America about the financial irregularities occurring at HOCA, which prompted the Archdiocese to conduct an internal investigation into Christakis, during which he made admissions to using parish funds for his own personal benefit between 2018 and 2025.
Investigators analyzed the HOCA Priest Discretionary Fund. According to the complaint, between January 2018 and July 31, 2025, approximately 725 checks were deposited into the fund, of which only 11 were specifically designated for donation into the fund. At least one $7,000 check was written from the fund to pay Christakis’s personal American Express bill.
The investigation also included analysis of Christakis’s personal bank account held jointly with his spouse, along with Christakis’s children’s accounts. Cash deposits into these accounts were identified and compared to the amount and timing of cash withdrawals from the Priest Discretionary Fund. The analysis found approximately $338,660 of cash deposited into the joint account. Christakis’s and his spouse’s known employment and lifestyle would not have generated this level of cash. In addition, an analysis of Christakis’s spending levels and bank accounts was conducted, which compared the primary sources and uses of funds each year, excluding cash deposits. The analysis revealed the non-cash sources of income were insufficient to support Christakis’s and his family’s lifestyle. Once cash deposits were added to their budget, the joint account was able to break even each year. Christakis is accused of stealing approximately $450,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Former Department of Labor Employee Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining over $40,000 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance BenefitsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former employee of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to fraudulently obtaining over $40,000 in pandemic unemployment assistance (PUA) benefits.
Mo Yuong Kang, 50, formerly of Woburn and Dracut, Mass., pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy scheduled sentencing for Aug. 11, 2026. In August 2025, Kang was indicted by a federal grand jury.
Kang worked as an Industrial Hygienist with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, an agency of the DOL, from June 2016 until July 2023. In 2020 and 2021, Kang was a full-time employee of the DOL and earned over $85,000 annually.
In April 2020, Kang submitted a false PUA application to the Division of Unemployment Assistance (DUA). In the application, Kang claimed under the penalty of perjury that he was “self-employed, an independent contractor, or a gig worker and COVID-19 has severely limited [his] ability to perform [his] normal work,” and that he had not earned more than $89 a week since March 8, 2020. The DUA approved Kang’s claim, and through September 2021 Kang subsequently submitted weekly certifications to the DUA claiming that he did not work and did not receive any income during those weekly periods. Based upon his application and weekly certifications, Kang received $45,868 in PUA benefits to which he was not entitled.
The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Christopher Silvestro, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina E. Barclay of the Public Corruption and Special Prosecutions Unit is prosecuting the case.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted in March 2020 and designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act created a new temporary federal unemployment insurance program called pandemic unemployment assistance (PUA), which provided unemployment benefits for individuals who were not eligible for standard unemployment benefits. To receive PUA benefits, Massachusetts claimants were required to certify in an initial registration and in weekly certifications whether or not they worked or received any income during the relevant time period. The PUA program was administered in Massachusetts by the Division of Unemployment Assistance (DUA).
Foreign Operators and Technical Superintendent of M/V Dali Indicted for Roles in Key Bridge CrashRead the Press Release
Two corporate entities and a shoreside superintendent face criminal charges in connection with the vessel crash that knocked down the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland.
A federal court unsealed an indictment today charging three defendants with conspiracy to defraud the United States and with causing the death of six construction workers on the bridge, among other charges.
On March 26, 2024, the Motor Vessel Dali, a 900-foot foreign flag container vessel, registered in Singapore, crashed into the bridge. The indictment alleges that the economic loss in this case is at least $5 billion.
Synergy Marine Pte Ltd, based in Singapore, and Synergy Maritime Pte Ltd, based in Chennai, India, along with Radhakrishnan Karthik Nair, 47, an Indian national who worked for both companies as the Technical Superintendent for the Dali, are charged with conspiracy, willfully failing to immediately inform the U.S. Coast Guard of a known hazardous condition, obstruction of an agency proceeding, and false statements. The two Synergy corporations are also charged with misdemeanor violations of the Clean Water Act, Oil Pollution Act, and Refuse Act for the discharge of pollutants into the Patapsco River, including shipping containers and their contents, oil, and the bridge itself.
“The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was a preventable tragedy of enormous consequence,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This indictment is a critical step toward holding accountable those whose reckless disregard for maritime safety regulations caused this disaster. Six construction workers lost their lives, critical infrastructure was destroyed, pollutants were released into the Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay, and the economic damage now exceeds five billion dollars. This Department is committed to securing justice for the victims and ensuring those responsible are held to account.”
“This indictment is the first step in our efforts to hold those accountable who caused the tragic deaths of six people and catastrophic damage to our region,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “The safety of our residents, ports, and infrastructure is of utmost importance to the prosperity of the District of Maryland. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will continue to pursue those who commit crimes that jeopardize those interests.”
“The indictment alleges criminal conduct that not only destroyed the Key Bridge but brought the regional economy to its knees and claimed the lives of six Maryland residents,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “Adherence to laws governing safe operation of commercial vessels is essential to doing business in our nation’s ports. We enforce these laws to protect the public from future disasters like this fatal crash.”
“The indictment reveals a pattern of deception and egregious violations that led to the unsafe operation of the Dali which recklessly endangered the public and resulted in the ship striking the bridge,” said Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “This indictment should send a message to all ship operators that circumventing safety requirements and breaking U.S. laws will not be tolerated. I am proud of FBI Baltimore’s investigative teams who worked diligently over the last two years to find the truth and to hold those responsible accountable.”
“The United States will not be a safe harbor for violators who pollute our nation’s waterways. Today’s indictment alleges that reckless cost-cutting by dishonest foreign corporations on a foreign-flagged vessel with a foreign crew carrying hazardous cargo resulted in death, disruption of our economy, and the discharge of oil and other chemicals into the Patapsco River and the Chesapeake Bay,” said Assistant Administrator Jeffrey A. Hall of EPA’s Office for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Such tragedy must not happen again. This EPA will ensure that foreign companies do not profit off of polluting American communities. The hard work of our criminal investigators, who were among the first aboard the wrecked ship, was critical for securing this indictment, and we look forward to working with the Department of Justice to prosecute this case.”
“At the core of the Coast Guard's mission is the protection of life and property and the facilitation of commerce,” said Acting Director Zinnia James of the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS). “The charges announced today reflect the Coast Guard Investigative Service’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of our nation's maritime transportation system. This indictment alleges a reckless disregard for U.S. maritime laws and safety regulations, which had devastating consequences, leading to the tragic loss of six lives and catastrophic environmental and economic damage. Let this be a clear message: CGIS, alongside our federal law enforcement partners, will vigorously investigate and hold accountable any individual or corporation that compromises the safety of our ports and waterways.”
According to the indictment, the Dali lost power twice in a four-minute span, as it navigated out to sea from the Port of Baltimore, causing it to crash into the Key Bridge. The indictment alleges that a loose wire in a high-voltage switchboard likely caused the first power loss. Critical systems on the Dali were originally designed with reliable redundancies and automatic restart capabilities, so the Dali could quickly regain power after a blackout. But shortly after the vessel regained power, it lost power again. According to the indictment, the defendants allegedly altered the ship and relied on a flushing pump to supply fuel to two of the Dali’s four generators. However, the flushing pump was not designed to automatically restart following a blackout, and the Dali’s generators could not operate without a fuel supply, so the ship ultimately experienced a second blackout. The indictment alleges that if the Dali used the proper fuel supply pumps, the vessel would have regained power in time to safely navigate under the Key Bridge.
Synergy and Nair are also charged with obstruction of an agency proceeding and providing false statements and documents to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as it conducted a casualty investigation. The obstruction charges relate to, among other things, Nair’s statements to the NTSB that he was unaware that that the Dali was using the flushing pump to provide fuel to the generators.
The FBI, CGIS, and the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Phelps, Bijon Mostoufi, and Kimberly Phillips for the District of Mayland and Trial Attorney Leigh Rendé with ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case. Richard Udell, formerly of the Environmental Crimes Section, also assisted in this matter.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Foreign Operators and Technical Superintendent of M/V Dali Indicted for Roles in Key Bridge CrashRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Two corporate entities and a shoreside superintendent face criminal charges in connection with the vessel crash that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
A federal court unsealed an indictment, today, charging three defendants with conspiracy to defraud the United States and with causing the death of six construction workers on the bridge, among other charges.
On March 26, 2024, the Motor Vessel Dali, a 900-foot foreign flag container vessel, registered in Singapore, crashed into the Maryland bridge. The indictment alleges that the economic loss in this case is at least $5 billion.
Synergy Marine Pte Ltd, based in Singapore, and Synergy Maritime Pte Ltd, based in Chennai, India, along with Radhakrishnan Karthik Nair, 47, an Indian national who worked for both companies as the Technical Superintendent for the Dali, are charged with conspiracy, willfully failing to immediately inform the U.S. Coast Guard of a known hazardous condition, obstruction of an agency proceeding, and false statements. The two Synergy corporations are also charged with misdemeanor violations of the Clean Water Act, Oil Pollution Act, and Refuse Act for the discharge of pollutants into the Patapsco River, including shipping containers and their contents, oil, and the bridge itself.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche; Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson, Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD); Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office; Acting Director Zinnia James, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS); and Assistant Administrator Jeffrey A. Hall, Environmental Protection Agency – Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID).
"The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was a preventable tragedy of enormous consequence," Blanche said. "This indictment is a critical step toward holding accountable those whose reckless disregard for maritime safety regulations caused this disaster. Six construction workers lost their lives, critical infrastructure was destroyed, pollutants were released into the Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay, and the economic damage now exceeds five billion dollars. This department is committed to securing justice for the victims and ensuring those responsible are held to account."
“This indictment is the first step in our efforts to hold those accountable who caused the tragic deaths of six people and catastrophic damage to our region,” Hayes said. “The safety of our residents, ports, and infrastructure is of utmost importance to the prosperity of the District of Maryland. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will continue to pursue those who commit crimes that jeopardize those interests.”
“The indictment alleges criminal conduct that led to the deaths of six Maryland residents, the destruction of the Key Bridge, and the discharge of pollution into the Patapsco River, causing billions of dollars of damage,” Gustafson said. “Following the laws for safe operation of commercial vessels is essential to doing business in our nation’s ports, especially the Port of Baltimore which sits on the Chesapeake Bay — our country’s largest estuary. Enforcing these laws is necessary to prevent disastrous consequences like the one that brought us here today.”
“The indictment reveals a pattern of deception and egregious violations that led to the unsafe operation of the Dali which recklessly endangered the public and resulted in the ship striking the bridge,” Paul said. “This indictment should send a message to all ship operators that circumventing safety requirements and breaking U.S. laws will not be tolerated. I am proud of FBI Baltimore’s investigative teams who worked diligently over the last two years to find the truth and to hold those responsible accountable.”
“At the core of the Coast Guard's mission is the protection of life and property and the facilitation of commerce,” James said. “The charges announced today reflect the Coast Guard Investigative Service's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of our nation's maritime transportation system. This indictment alleges a reckless disregard for U.S. maritime laws and safety regulations, which had devastating consequences, leading to the tragic loss of six lives and catastrophic environmental and economic damage. Let this be a clear message: CGIS, alongside our federal law enforcement partners, will vigorously investigate and hold accountable any individual or corporation that compromises the safety of our ports and waterways.”
“The United States will not be a safe harbor for violators who pollute our nation’s waterways. Today’s indictment alleges that reckless cost-cutting by dishonest foreign corporations on a foreign-flagged vessel with a foreign crew carrying hazardous cargo resulted in death, disruption of our economy, and the discharge of oil and other chemicals into the Patapsco River and the Chesapeake Bay,” Hall said. “Such tragedy must not happen again. This EPA will ensure that foreign companies do not profit off of polluting American communities. The hard work of our criminal investigators, who were among the first aboard the wrecked ship, was critical for securing this indictment, and we look forward to working with the Department of Justice to prosecute this case.”
According to the indictment, the Dali lost power twice in a four-minute span, as it navigated out to sea from the Port of Baltimore, causing it to crash into the Key Bridge. The indictment alleges that a loose wire in a high-voltage switchboard likely caused the first power loss. Critical systems on the Dali were originally designed with reliable redundancies and automatic restart capabilities so the Dali could quickly regain power after a blackout. But shortly after the vessel regained power, it lost power again. According to the indictment, the defendants allegedly altered the ship and relied on a flushing pump to supply fuel to two of the Dali’s four generators. However, the flushing pump was not designed to automatically restart following a blackout, and the Dali’s generators could not operate without a fuel supply, so the ship ultimately experienced a second blackout. The indictment alleges that if the Dali used the proper fuel supply pumps, the vessel would have regained power in time to safely navigate under the Key Bridge.
Synergy and Nair are also charged with obstruction of an agency proceeding and providing false statements and documents to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as it conducted a casualty investigation. The obstruction charges relate to, among other things, Nair’s statements to the NTSB that he did not know the Dali was using the flushing pump to provide fuel to two of the generators.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
If convicted, Synergy faces a maximum sentence of five years of probation for each felony count and a fine of up to twice the amount of the gross gain or loss caused by the allision. Nair faces a maximum of five years in federal prison for conspiracy; six years for each violation of the Ports & Waterways Safety Act; 10 years for each count of misconduct of or neglect of ship officers; five years for each count of obstructing an agency proceeding; and five years for each count of false statements.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, CGIS, and EPA-CID for their work in the investigation, along with the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Phelps, Bijon A. Mostoufi, and Kimberly Phillips, along with ENRD Trial Attorney Leigh Rende, who are prosecuting this federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Foreign National Drug Courier Sentenced for Conspiring with Cartel to Distribute Fentanyl in OklahomaRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A foreign national living in East Tulsa was sentenced for conspiring with the cartel to distribute fentanyl in Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Today, U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante sentenced Jose Amadeis Sanchez Sanchez, 34, a Mexican national, for Drug Conspiracy. He was ordered to serve 37 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.
In 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics began investigating a Mexico-based cartel operating in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Agents identified Sanchez as a courier in February 2025. After completing two purchases of fentanyl, agents followed Sanchez and found that he stayed at two separate drug houses in East Tulsa. Agents executed search warrants at both locations. They found $38,000 in cash, multiple cell phones, scales, a drug ledger, and nearly 2.5 pounds of fentanyl. Sanchez was present during the search of one of the homes and was detained.
When interviewed by agents, Sanchez admitted to crossing the border in 2024. Sanchez was removed from the United States after a drug house was raided in Texas, prior to coming to Tulsa. After returning to the United States, he continued to work for the cartel. Court documents allege that Sanchez believed he was coming to the United States to legally work. Instead, he was “informed” by the cartel that he would be a courier to repay the $25,000 “fee” for being smuggled into the United States. Sanchez explained to agents that he would obtain large quantities of fentanyl and would break it down into smaller quantities for distribution. Additionally, Sanchez would collect cash and provide it to a separate courier for transportation back to Mexico.
During this investigation, agents have seized approximately 30 kilograms of fentanyl, 11 kilograms of methamphetamine, 4 kilograms of heroin, and $250,000 in bulk currency. More than 35 individuals have been arrested and are linked to the same cartel.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, one kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. Removing thirty kilograms of fentanyl from the United States has the potential to save millions of people from overdosing or being poisoned.
Sanchez will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.
The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris 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.
Five Charged in Connection with Alien Smuggling Interdiction Off the Coast of Miami-Dade CountyRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A grand jury in Miami returned an indictment Wednesday charging five illegal aliens for their roles in an attempted smuggling venture that sought to bring dozens of undocumented migrants into the U.S. aboard a small, overloaded vessel off the coast of Miami-Dade County.
According to court records, Verdant Roosevelt Scott, 38, of The Bahamas; Zamfir Nitu, 50, of Romania; Donald Coote, 37, of Jamaica; Sergio Alejandro Correa Ramirez, 30, of Colombia; and Gheorghe Ion Chiperi, 43, of Moldova, made their initial appearances in federal court on April 30 and May 1.
Law enforcement detected the suspect vessel on radar traveling west toward Miami-Dade County. Shortly after midnight on April 26, a law enforcement vessel interdicted the boat approximately five miles offshore.
When law enforcement approached, the vessel was operating without navigation lights. After law enforcement activated their lights and sirens, the vessel slowed and ultimately stopped. Roosevelt, who was operating the vessel, was taken into custody.
Agents identified 25 aliens onboard the small center-console vessel, including Roosevelt. All were transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter WINSLOW GRIESSER for biometric screening and records checks.
Those checks revealed that Coote, Correa Ramirez, Nitu, and Chiperi had previously been deported from the U.S.
Roosevelt is charged with 24 counts of encouraging and inducing aliens to enter the U.S. and two counts of aiding or assisting certain aliens to enter based on his role as the vessel’s operator. The remaining four defendants are charged with illegal reentry of a deported alien. If convicted, Roosevelt faces up to 10 years in prison. Zitu and Coote face up to 20 years in prison because of their prior aggravated felony convictions and Correa Ramirez, and Chiperi face up to two years in prison.
The remaining 20 aliens were not charged and were repatriated to The Bahamas.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement.
HSI Miami is investigating the case, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and the USCG.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner Stiehl is prosecuting the case.
An indictment/complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.sdfl.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.sdfl.uscourts.gov, under case number 26-cr-20178.
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Fentanyl, Heroin, Cocaine, Meth, Illegal Firearm and Dirty Money Seized Thanks to Homeland Security Task Force OperationRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – Two Louisville men have been sentenced today. Aaron Hughes, 33, and Warren Goss, 58, were convicted of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, despropionyl fentanyl and heroin. Hughes was also convicted of a firearms offense.
Hughes was sentenced on March 24, 2026, to 108 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release. Goss was sentenced on May 12, 2026, to 70 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release. Both were sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock.
These convictions resulted from a Homeland Security Task Force operation conducted by the FBI, HSI and Louisville, Mississippi Police Department.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “The Homeland Security Task Force has allowed the relationships we have always had with our federal and local law enforcement partners to do more to keep our citizens safe in this district. The full might of our United States is behind us to make sure we identify, investigate and prosecute crimes such as these. We have zero tolerance for fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and illegal firearms. We will continue to work to make sure any and all individuals are put away, where they belong, if they bring these dangerous drugs and firearms into our communities.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, “the FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting our communities from the devastating impact of violent crime and illegal drugs. Hughes and Warren have been held accountable, and their case serves as a strong warning to anyone engaged in similar criminal activity. The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue those who threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.”
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, our partnerships continue to make a meaningful difference in protecting the people of Mississippi and the broader HSTF Core 15 Region,” said Matt Wright, Acting Special Agent in Charge, HSI New Orleans. “This case demonstrates how collaboration yields stronger outcomes, and the sentencing of Hughes and Goss is a clear reminder that offenders who harm our communities will be held accountable.”
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Stringfellow and Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
Federal Prisoner Sentenced to Additional Two Years of Incarceration for Racketeering Activity at Cambria County PrisonRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A former inmate at the Cambria County Prison was sentenced in federal court to 24 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of conducting and participating in the affairs of an enterprise through racketeering activity, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendant is among 10 individuals charged through an Indictment unsealed in July 2025 with racketeering charges related to the Cambria County Prison (read the Indictment news release here).
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Mikal Davis, 48, who was previously sentenced in July 2025 to 180 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of a mixture of heroin, five kilograms or more of a mixture of cocaine, 400 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and 28 grams or more of a mixture of cocaine base. Judge Haines ordered today’s sentence to be served consecutively to the sentence imposed for the 2025 conviction.
According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2023 to in and around December 2023, while incarcerated at the Cambria County Prison, Davis conducted and participated in the affairs of an enterprise through racketeering activity. Specifically, Davis bribed correctional officers and medical staff to smuggle contraband into the prison, namely Suboxone, which was then sold to other inmates for a substantial profit. Davis directed the bribe payments and accepted payments of drug proceeds to further facilitate the racketeering activity.
To date, four of the 10 defendants in the case have pleaded guilty, with Davis the first to be sentenced.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, and the Cambria County Prison for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Davis.
Federal Jury Returns Guilty Verdict Against Hardin County Man for Multiple Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A federal jury has returned a guilty verdict against Christopher Peyton Stricklin, 19, of Savannah, Tennessee, for committing three sexual exploitation offenses against a minor in August 2025. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the verdict today.
Evidence presented in court established that Stricklin used a cell phone to videotape himself sexually molesting a minor female and then sent the video to another minor on the same cell phone. Stricklin was charged in a three-count indictment with production and distribution of child pornography, and with transferring obscene material to a person under age 16. Following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court J. Daniel Breen, Stricklin was convicted of all three counts. His sentencing will be held in August of this year.
Stricklin is facing a 15-year mandatory-minimum prison sentence and a maximum sentence of 30 years' imprisonment on the production count, a 5-year mandatory-minimum sentence and a maximum sentence of 20 years on the distribution count, and a maximum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment on the transferring obscene material count.
Judge Breen will determine the sentence to impose on Stricklin after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “With the proliferation of cell phones and social media, predators are increasingly committing disturbing crimes against vulnerable victims, including child sexual abuse. As offenders keep committing these heinous crimes against children, our office will keep convicting and severely punishing them.”
This case was investigated by members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), the Savannah Police Department, the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, and the District Attorney’s Office for the 24th Judicial District in Tennessee.
Assistant United States Attorneys Josh Morrow and Caroline Parish are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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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.
El Salvadoran Illegal Alien Sentenced for Role in MS-13 Gang Murder HSTF CaseRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – An El Salvadoran illegal alien, who resided in Frederick, Maryland, received a prison term in federal court, today, for his role in the murder of a minor.
U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Jose Ramos Lopez, 26, to seven years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise in connection with murdering Victim 1. As an MS-13 member, Ramos Lopez typically received and sold marijuana and then provided the proceeds to gang leadership. He also collected extortion money from area brothels that the clique leveraged to raise money for the gang.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Interim Chief Kevin Meyer, Frederick Police Department (FPD).
According to the guilty plea, on February 24, 2023, MS-13 gang members, including Victim 1, gathered outside of a Frederick apartment complex. Gang members then lured Victim 1 to a wooded area to smoke marijuana. While in the wooded area, gang members stabbed Victim 1 with knives and slashed him with a machete until he died.
Following the murder, Ramos Lopez came to the murder site to assist gang members with cleaning up and disposing of evidence from the murder of the victim, including weapons and clothing. Gang members additionally dismembered Victim 1’s body, transported it to another wooded area, and then buried it in two clandestine graves.
Subsequently, law enforcement found the area where the MS-13 gang killed Victim 1. They identified a wooded area with a blood trail leading from a chair down the hill to a creek. Law enforcement discovered blood along the creek, blood on rocks, and a white plastic bag with blood.
Then law enforcement uncovered a black trash bag with items covered in blood, including two hats, two coats, and two pairs of pants in a nearby dumpster, along with a grocery bag with blood inside, and a knife.
Law enforcement later recovered portions of Victim 1’s dismembered body from two clandestine graves near Mink Farm Road in Thurmont, Maryland.
The Homeland Security Task Force (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 Baltimore comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.
This case is also 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.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and FPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth S. Clark and Jared M. Beim who are prosecuting this federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Eagle Butte Man Convicted of Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a jury has convicted Emanual Semon, age 24, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, of Sexual Abuse Without Consent and Sexual Abuse of a Minor, following a three-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on May 7, 2026.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of any term of years up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Semon was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2024.
The convictions stem from an incident that occurred at a residence in the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in July 2024. At trial, the evidence established that on the afternoon of July 3, 2024, Semon engaged in sexual activity with a juvenile female without her consent. Semon stopped when an adult entered the room and interrupted him.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
A presentence investigation was ordered and sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. Semon was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.