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15 September 2026
Grand Haven Man Gets Prison for Internet ThreatsRead the Press Release
Defendant threatened to use chemical weapons against ICE agents
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey today announced that Christopher Ray Plyler, 43, of Grand Haven, Michigan was sentenced to 12 months in prison for communicating an interstate threat, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). During sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou said, “As an American, you have an absolute right to speak out, but there’s a line you can’t cross,” and “threats will not be tolerated.”
Between November 2025 and January 2026, Plyler posted a dozen threatening comments in response to YouTube videos about civil unrest in Minneapolis. In one message, Plyler discussed using chemical gas to attack Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Federal agents found that Plyler used Google to search for instructions on making hazardous chemical gases. He had also searched for the home address of a former Secretary of Homeland Security. In May 2026, Plyler pled guilty to posting a message that read, “Let them come I’m ready to kill ICE Nazis and make them pay with their lives the war is on.”
U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey said, “Threatening federal officers for doing their job will not be tolerated in this district. Our immigration laws were enacted by our representatives in Congress and they will be enforced. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have been given this job, and it is unreasonable for anyone to direct their anger towards them for doing it. Nobody gets to veto federal law by making threats against these officers, and anyone who tries will be prosecuted by my office.”
“There is a clear line between expressing an opinion and threatening to kill federal law enforcement officers. Crossing that line has consequences,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “I am grateful for the outstanding work of our FBI Grand Rapids Resident Agency Joint Terrorism Task Force and the United States Secret Service. Their diligence, coordination, and commitment helped disrupt a potential threat before it could be carried out.”
“Today’s sentence underscores that threatening government officials is a serious federal crime with significant consequences,” said David Dobb, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Grand Rapids Resident Office. “The U.S. Secret Service will continue to work with our partners to investigate threats, support successful prosecutions, and ensure those who target public officials are held accountable.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service.
Gainesville Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Production and Distribution of Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – Trinity Joy Johnson, 26, of Gainesville, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of sexual exploitation of children producing child pornography, fifteen counts of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the outstanding investigative work by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, my office was able to aggressively prosecute this defendant to ensure she is held fully accountable for her disgusting crimes victimizing an innocent child.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant used her cell phone to take sexually explicit photographs of a toddler that she was supposed to be taking care of. The defendant then shared those photos, and other files of child pornography, online with strangers while discussing sexually explicit topics. A search of the defendant’s phone revealed over 100 files that depicted child sex abuse material.
As to each count of production of child pornography, Johnson faces a minimum term of fifteen years’ imprisonment and a maximum term of thirty years’ imprisonment. As to each count for distribution of child pornography, Johnson faces a minimum term of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum term of twenty years’ imprisonment. As to the sole count of possession of child pornography, Johnson faces a maximum term of twenty years’ imprisonment.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida before Chief United States District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
The case was investigated by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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.
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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Former Middleton Police Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on September 10, 2026, Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach sentenced Myles S. Schumaker (age 26), to 60 months’ imprisonment following his conviction for Attempted Transportation of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252A(a)(1) and 2252A(b)(1).
According to court documents and arguments presented in court, in November 2025, Schumaker, who was at that time a City of Middleton, Wisconsin, police officer and Marine reservist, used the internet to communicate with a minor located in Winnebago County, Wisconsin. The communications were sexual in nature and resulted in Schumaker traveling to a park and ride lot to meet the minor victim. He then proceeded to sexually assault the child in his vehicle. He continued to communicate with the minor and requested sexually explicit images and videos from the child, which would have constituted child sexual abuse material (child pornography).
Judge Griesbach described the defendant’s crime as a serious criminal offense. He noted that the defendant’s actions were particularly alarming given his position in law enforcement. He cited a need to deter Schumaker and others from engaging in similar criminal behavior in the future. Judge Griesbach determined that a sentence of 5 years of imprisonment was an appropriate sentence. Following his release from federal prison, Schumaker will spend 5 years on supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For further information contact:
Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
Steven.caballero@usdoj.gov
Follow us on XFormer Federal Prison Employee Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Two InmatesRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A former employee of the Federal Correctional Institute in Thomson, Ill., has been sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for sexually abusing two inmates.
DANNY L. SPYKER, 42, a corrections officer who was working as a cook supervisor, knowingly engaged in sexual acts with two inmates, which is a federal crime. At the time of the abuse in March 2024, both victims were in official detention in the prison and under the custodial, supervisory, and disciplinary authority of prison employees, including Spyker.
A jury in U.S. District Court in Rockford earlier this year convicted Spyker of two counts of knowingly engaging in sexual acts with inmates. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Sunil R. Harjani sentenced Spyker to three years and five months in federal prison.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Matt Loux, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Midwest Regional Office of the Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General.
“Defendant’s criminal conduct was not the result of a one-time mistake or a momentary lapse of judgment,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Kim argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “He used his knowledge and position as a corrections officer/cook supervisor for his own sexual gratification. When a correctional officer abuses his power and harms an inmate, it is not only a violation of federal law—it is a betrayal of the trust that the community places in our penal institutions.”
“Today’s sentencing shows the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ commitment to protecting the people in our custody and holding anyone who breaks the law accountable,” said William K. Marshall III, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to keep every BOP facility safe, secure, and worthy of the public’s trust.”
Former Falls Church youth minister indicted for sexual abuse of childrenRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former youth minister for a Northern Virginia church was arrested and made an initial appearance in court yesterday on charges of enticement of minors for illegal sexual activity and traveling with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with minors.
According to court documents, Jeffrey Turner Taylor, 66, now of Milford, Ohio, served as a youth minister at The Falls Church from 1990 to 2002. Taylor allegedly sexually groomed multiple boys under the guise of spiritual guidance. His alleged grooming behaviors included sexual horseplay, probing inquiries into the sexual secrets and habits of boys, and detailed revelations about his own sexual experiences. On multiple occasions, Taylor traveled with the alleged intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct by taking boys with him to ministry events in another state or country. On several occasions, Taylor allegedly engaged or attempted to engage in sexual molestation of multiple boys.
According to court documents, Taylor served as a youth minister at two other churches in Atlanta, where he allegedly groomed and sexually abused a boy in his ministry there. Of the conduct known to investigators, Taylor’s alleged sexual grooming and abuse spanned from at least 1990 until 2008.
Anyone with information not yet provided to this investigation or who may have been a victim of Jeffrey Taylor is encouraged to contact the FBI Washington Field Office at this link.
Taylor is scheduled for arraignment in the Eastern District of Virginia on Sept. 24. If convicted, Taylor faces up to 105 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeffrey L. Tyler, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division, made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa K. Strobbe is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio provided substantial assistance with this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Court documents may be obtained through PACER for the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, under Case Nos. 1:26-mj-750 and 1:26-mj-737.
Former Employee of Child Advocacy Nonprofit Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Almost $100,000 of Program FundsRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Jennifer O’Neal, a former program specialist for a nonprofit corporation serving abused and neglected children, pled guilty today to stealing nearly $100,000 from the organization.
“O’Neal violated her company’s core values, stealing tens of thousands of dollars meant to support the most vulnerable members of our community – abused and neglected children,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We are thankful for the cooperation of our state and local law enforcement partners who helped uncover and investigate this reprehensible conduct.”
“This was not a one-time, spur of the moment decision. Jennifer O’Neal frequently and repeatedly stole from her company for her own personal gain,” said Mitchell Jackson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent in FBI Atlanta’s Cartersville Office. “The FBI is committed to uncovering and bringing to justice those who commit criminal actions like these.”
“Organizations that serve vulnerable individuals depend on their employees to uphold the highest standards of integrity. O’Neal violated that trust for her own personal gain, stealing funds intended to serve abused and neglected children,” said Chris Hosey, Director, Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “The GBI remains committed to working alongside our local, state, and federal partners to hold accountable those who abuse positions of trust.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Court Appointed Special Advocates of Polk & Haralson, Inc. (“CASA of Polk & Haralson” or “CASA”) is a nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports citizen-volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in courts and the community. It also helps volunteers establish consistent, one-on-one relationships with foster children.
CASA of Polk & Haralson employed O’Neal as a program specialist in charge of processing payroll and expense reimbursements for staff and volunteers. From 2018 to 2022, O’Neal issued frequent fraudulent payments to herself and others from CASA’s bank accounts that were not for legitimate CASA expenses.
Some of the improper payments were disguised as mileage payments for travel to court appearances or conferences, or expense reimbursements for restaurants, groceries, utilities, and clothes purportedly for volunteers, staff, and children. However, the mileage charges were inflated or were based on travel that did not occur, and the restaurant, grocery, utilities, and clothes reimbursements were made for O’Neal’s personal expenses. For example, O’Neal used CASA funds to pay for her own power, water/sewage, and cell phone bills. Some payments covered charges at a Six Flags amusement park, a Netflix subscription, and purchases of softball gear and lingerie. O’Neal also issued payments purportedly for office supplies but used to purchase home theater equipment that she installed at her residence.
In total, O’Neal embezzled $96,713 from CASA of Polk & Haralson.
Jennifer O’Neal, 63, of Cedartown, Georgia, pled guilty to a criminal information charging theft of federal program funds. Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. before United States District Judge William M. Ray, II.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Garrett L. Bradford and Calvin A. Leipold, III are prosecuting the case. The Tallapoosa Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office referred the case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former Church Elder in Alaska Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Dwight Chris John, 74, a former church elder in Ketchikan, Alaska, pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting a minor under the age of 12.
“Dwight Chris John repeatedly exploited a vulnerable child in Mexico and engaged in the exploitation of children online in Alaska,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “Yesterday’s guilty plea is an important step toward justice for these children. We will hold U.S. citizens accountable wherever they exploit children.”
“Demonstrated by his reprehensible pattern of conduct involving online child exploitation, Mr. John posed a significant threat to children in Alaska and abroad,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Schlegel of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Protecting children is one of the FBI’s highest priorities. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to pursue and hold accountable anyone who exploits our most vulnerable.”
According to court documents, in May 2024, John’s relatives contacted the Ketchikan Police Department after they found a USB drive containing what they thought was CSAM. At the time of discovery, John was serving a sentence in an Alaska state prison for sexually abusing a minor.
A law enforcement officer reviewed the photos on the USB drive and found numerous sexually explicit images of a young girl known to John through an institution located in Mexico. Law enforcement officers searched John’s cell phones and laptop computer, where they discovered dozens of sexually explicit photos of the minor victim and over 1,000 images of CSAM depicting prepubescent minors, including infants and toddlers.
John admitted to producing sexually explicit photographs of the minor victim during his trips to Mexico in 2018 and 2019.
John was charged through Operation Relentless Justice in late 2025, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 16 and faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office, Juneau Resident Agency investigated the case, with assistance from the Ketchikan Police Department, as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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.
Former Bullard High School teacher pleads guilty to child exploitation offensesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ray Anthony Waller, 39, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to sexual exploitation of a child, receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and sending obscene material to a minor, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between November 2024 and February 2025, Waller communicated with a minor by sending text, voice, and iMessages enticing the minor create and transmit to Waller images of CSAM. During this time Waller was a teacher at Bullard High School. Waller sent obscene images of himself to the victim and convinced the victim to reciprocate with images of the victim engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation, specifically the Fresno Police Department with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa is prosecuting the case.
Waller is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff on Dec. 14, 2026. Waller faces a prison term of between 15-30 years and a potential $250,000 fine for the child exploitation charge. For receipt of child sexual abuse images, he faces a prison term of between 5-20 years and a potential $250,000 fine. For transmitting obscene material to a minor, he faces a prison term of up to 10 years and a potential $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Florida Man Indicted for Defrauding Columbia HBCU of $3M in Football Stadium SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned a four-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Lamonica “Monti” Valrie, 66, of Hollywood, Florida, for wire fraud and money laundering in a scheme that defrauded Allen University (AU), the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church (AU’s parent organization), and other victims of over $6 million.
The indictment alleges that Valrie devised a scheme to defraud Allen University and the AME Church through his business entity “50 Plus 1 L.L.C.” In August 2023, Valrie partnered with AU and promised to build a football stadium at no cost to AU. Valrie did not have sufficient funding sources to develop, construct, or build a stadium. In January 2024, he secured an amendment to the agreement obligating AU to pay him up to $3 million to expedite the construction of the stadium and to provide a playable field by the start of the 2024 football season. The agreement explicitly required Valrie to use the expedite fee to advance the project. Valrie secured a $500,000 lump sum from AU, plus $70,000 per month from AU to expedite the construction of the stadium. The indictment further alleges that Valrie defrauded the AME Church of approximately $154,000 in other stadium related funds. No stadium was ever built.
Instead, Valrie spent the funds on personal luxury purchases including exotic supercars, jewelry, luxury goods, a Yacht charter, and a high-end rental home in south Florida.
Valrie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. He was arrested in Florida and made an initial appearance in federal court in the Southern District of Florida. He will have a future court appearance in the District of South Carolina.
The case was investigated by FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. DeWayne Pearson is prosecuting the case.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.###
Five Defendants Charged with Defrauding and Exploiting H-2A Visa Program to Smuggle Aliens into the United StatesRead the Press Release
A superseding indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Georgia charging five defendants for their roles in a scheme to exploit a nonimmigrant visa worker program to fraudulently obtain worker visas and smuggle aliens into the United States.
According to court documents, Martha Aquino, also known as “Martha Patricia Resendez Sanchez,” or “Marta,” 61, Evangelina Aquino De Galvan, 49, and Julio Cervantes, 38, all of Alma, Georgia, as well as Marco Cervantes, also known as “Chiquilin,” 41, of Rowlett, Georgia, and Juan Felipe Romero-Lopez, 31, an illegal alien from Mexico, conspired to exploit the H-2A visa program by fraudulently obtaining temporary visas to bring workers into the United States. They lied about where the workers would work and reside and did not comply with the laws and rules governing the visa program, specifically by demanding and receiving improper payments from the workers before the workers could seek H-2A visas or begin working in the United States. The conspirators confiscated and withheld the workers’ identification documents, including passports, and at times threatened or used violence against the workers to deter them from leaving or failing to work. After the workers’ visas had expired, the conspirators enabled them to remain in the United States and even offered to transport them elsewhere in the United States in exchange for additional improper payments.
“The H-2A is specifically designed to help farmers fill temporary or seasonal jobs when there is a shortage of domestic labor,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Instead of helping American farmers, these defendants allegedly concocted a scheme to enrich themselves by manipulating the program and smuggling aliens into the country for profit.”
“Those who exploit immigrant workers and abuse the H-2A visa program for their own financial gain will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret E. “Meg” Heap for the Southern District of Georgia. “We will continue to partner with our federal, state and local agencies to protect these workers, safeguard the integrity of the H-2A program and prosecute those who turn a lawful employment program into a vehicle for profit and abuse.”
“Exploiting a lawful worker visa program to profit from vulnerable individuals undermines our immigration system, harms legitimate employers, and puts workers at risk,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ellen Johnson of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Georgia and Alabama. “HSI will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to identify and dismantle criminal networks that use fraud, coercion, and violence to facilitate human smuggling and trafficking.”
“The H-2A program exists to meet critical U.S. labor needs through lawful employment, not to facilitate fraud or exploitation,” said Deputy Assistant Director William Ferrari of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Office of Investigations. “Working closely with Homeland Security Investigations, and alongside the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, DSS jointly investigated this case. Through our global presence and expertise in visa fraud investigations, DSS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to identify abuses of U.S. visa programs and hold alleged offenders accountable.”
“The defendants allegedly used fraud and intimidation to exploit vulnerable workers and undermine the H-2A visa program, a system designed to meet legitimate agricultural labor needs,” said Inspector General Anthony P. D’Esposito of the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. “Their egregious conduct included demanding improper payments, confiscating workers’ identification documents, and using threats or violence to maintain control. The Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will aggressively investigate those who exploit labor programs and workers for profit. We will continue working with our law-enforcement partners to ensure these individuals are held fully accountable.”
Aquino, Julio Cervantes, and Marco Cervantes were arrested this week. Aquino De Galvan remains at large. Romero-Lopez has been detained after being originally charged in May 2026 for unlawful possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, and Julio Cervantes are charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud, visa fraud, and encouraging and inducing aliens to enter the United States illegally for commercial advantage and private gain. Marco Cervantes is charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud and visa fraud. Juan Felipe Romero-Lopez is charged with conspiring to commit visa fraud and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. If convicted, Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, Julio Cervantes, Marco Cervantes, and Romero-Lopez each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for visa fraud conspiracy; Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, Julio Cervantes, and Marco Cervantes each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for visa fraud; Aquino, Aquino De Galvan, and Julio Cervantes each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for encouraging and inducing illegal entry; and Romero-Lopez faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
HSI Savannah, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and Custom and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force also assisted with the investigation.
Trial Attorney Sean F. Mulryne of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marcela C. Mateo and Makeia R. Jonese for the Southern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.
The indictment announced today was 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 prosecutors 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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement/HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection/Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 458 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 408 U.S. convictions; and more than 357 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal prosecutors crack down on illegal voting: Seven non-citizens charged in sweeping federal election integrity operationRead the Press Release
FORT WORTH, Texas — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced that seven non‑citizens have been charged for unlawfully voting in federal elections or falsely claiming United States citizenship.
Six defendants were indicted on Sept. 10, while the seventh was charged by criminal complaint on Sept. 11. Federal agents arrested one defendant on Sept. 11 and five defendants on Sept.14. One fugitive defendant surrendered to federal authorities today.
“Federal elections belong to American citizens—period,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “When individuals who are not citizens cast ballots or falsely claim citizenship, they violate federal law, undermine the integrity of our electoral process and erode the public’s confidence in the fairness of our elections. These charges send a clear message: We will enforce the law. We will hold offenders accountable. And we will safeguard the voting process for the citizens it is meant to serve.”
“Election integrity is a national security priority, and HSI will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to investigate violations that threaten public confidence in our electoral process,” said HSI Dallas acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Judy Pardo. “These charges reflect HSI’s commitment to enforcing federal law, protecting the rights of U.S. citizens, and ensuring that only those legally eligible participate in American elections.”
“Americans have a right to expect free and fair elections. This includes ensuring that the only people who vote in our elections are in fact eligible to vote,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to thoroughly investigate any allegation of voter fraud or other election crimes.”
The seven non-citizens are charged with the following offenses:
- Helen Sayen Adams, is a 67-year-old citizen of Nigeria and lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) since May 2024, is charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. Adams allegedly falsely claimed U.S. citizenship on a Texas Voter Registration Application in June 2024 and voted in the November 2024 general election in Tarrant County. She later admitted she was not a U.S. citizen.
- Joshua Nmelichukwu Akpom, is a 27-year-old citizen of Nigeria and lawful permanent resident since 2016, charged with false statements in relation to naturalization. As alleged, Akpom falsely denied on his 2026 naturalization application that he had ever claimed U.S. citizenship, registered to vote, or voted, despite registering in 2017 and voting in the 2018 general election. Due to the five‑year statute of limitations, prosecutors relied on the naturalization offense rather than the voting conduct.
- Carlos Salas Barrios, is a 41-year-old Mexican citizen and lawful permanent resident since 2018, charged by complaint with allegedly voting by an Alien in a Federal Election. Barrios unlawfully cast a provisional ballot in Tarrant County in the November 2024 general election despite not being a U.S. citizen and not being registered. Although the ballot was ultimately rejected, casting it was still unlawful under Texas and federal law.
- Khalwinder Singh Bhengura, is a 69-year-old citizen of India and lawful permanent resident since 2022, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. Bhengura falsely claimed U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in January 2024 and again when applying for a Texas driver license later that year in August. He voted in the November 2024 general election and later admitted he knew he was not a citizen. He was arrested on Sept. 11.
- Celestin Katubadi, is a 20-year-old citizen of the Democratic Republic of Congo and lawful permanent resident, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to vote. Katubadi cast a provisional ballot in Tarrant County during the November 2024 general election after falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on an affidavit of provisional voter. Although his ballot was rejected, casting it was still unlawful Texas and federal law.
- Rocio Thrasher, is a 38-year-old Mexican citizen and lawful permanent resident since 2017, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. According to the indictment, Thrasher allegedly falsely declared U.S. citizenship when registering in June 2024 and voted in the November 2024 general election. She later admitted knowing she was not a citizen.
- Moises Anwar Arellano‑Alba, is a 36-year-old illegal alien from Mexico ordered deported in July, charged with voting by an alien in a federal election and false statement of citizenship in order to register to vote. He allegedly falsely claimed U.S. citizenship when applying for a Texas driver license in 2023 and voted early in the 2024 general election in Dallas County despite being a non‑citizen and convicted felon. He admitted in immigration proceedings that he had voted. Arellano‑Alba was a fugitive until this morning when he surrendered himself to federal agents.
These are not isolated incidents in North Texas. On the same day these several noncitizens were indicted, Eliseo Morales-Tapia, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for aggravated identity theft, identity theft, voting by an alien in a federal election and false statements of citizenship.
HSI and FBI Dallas field offices conducted the investigations with assistance from the Election Integrity Unit of the Texas Office of the Attorney General and the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Capoccia from the Fort Worth Division is prosecution the case.
Indictments and complaints are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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FBI Seizes DDoS-for-Hire Domains as Part of Continuing District of Alaska Crackdown on ‘Booter’ and ‘Stresser’ DDoS ServicesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Justice Department today announced the court-authorized seizure of internet domains associated with one of the world’s longest running Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) for-hire services known as “NightmareStresser.”
Federal law enforcement has seized websites maintained by criminal service providers that allow paying customers to launch powerful DDoS attacks targeting victims in the District of Alaska and worldwide as part of coordinated actions to disrupt so called “Booter” or “Stresser” operators.
Booter services such as those named in this action allegedly facilitate attacks on a wide array of victims in the United States and abroad, including educational institutions, government agencies, gaming platforms and millions of people. In addition to affecting targeted victims, these attacks can significantly degrade internet services and can completely disrupt internet connections.
According to the seizure warrant affidavit, the NightmareStresser Booter service targeted in this operation was used to launch hundreds of thousands of actual or attempted DDoS attacks targeting victims worldwide since 2022.
This operation, in coordination with other international law enforcement actions, is intended to disrupt the infrastructure used by the NightmareStresser service to facilitate attacks on victims in the District of Alaska and across the United States.
In recent years, booter services have continued to proliferate as they offer a low barrier to entry for users looking to engage in cybercriminal activity. These types of DDoS attacks are so named because they result in the “booting” or dropping of the targeted computer from the internet. For additional information on booter and stresser services and the harm that they cause, please visit: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/anchorage/fbi-intensify-efforts-to-combat-illegal-ddos-attacks.
The seizures announced today were performed by the FBI Anchorage Field Office in coordination with The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Federal Policing Northwest Region.
These law enforcement actions were taken in conjunction with Operation PowerOFF, an ongoing, coordinated effort among international law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling criminal DDoS-for-hire infrastructures worldwide, and holding accountable the administrators and users of these illegal services.
In previous law enforcement actions involving prosecutors and investigators in Anchorage and Los Angeles over the last eight years, the Justice Department charged twelve defendants who facilitated DDoS-for hire services and seized more than 100 internet domains associated with DDoS-for-hire services. The multi-prong investigation announced today builds on the success of the prior cases by targeting all known booter sites, shutting down as many as possible, and undertaking a public education campaign.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Alaska Adam Alexander and Ainsley McNerney are prosecuting this matter.
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Dual Resident of California and Virginia Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Scott Keith Baldwin Jr., 58, a dual resident of San Jose, California, and Reston, Virginia, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, Baldwin Jr. was an active member of an invite-only online group on an encrypted messaging platform dedicated to sharing live links and files of CSAM. Around July 2024, following an online investigation into the group where law enforcement agents identified Baldwin as a member, agents executed a residential search warrant at Baldwin’s home in San Jose. A hard drive seized from this residence was found to contain images and videos from over 150 known child exploitation series, including images of prepubescent minors.
Baldwin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute CSAM. Sentencing is set for Jan. 12, 2027. Baldwin faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian for the Northern District of California; and FBI Assistant Director Heith Janke of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris for the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit investigated the case, with substantial assistance from both the FBI Washington, D.C. and San Francisco Field Offices.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Dual Resident of California and Virginia Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE- Today, Scott Keith Baldwin, Jr., a dual resident of San Jose, California and Reston, Virginia, pleaded guilty to Count One of an Information filed against him on February 3, 2026, charging him with conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, Scott Keith Baldwin, Jr., 58, was an active member of an invite-only online group dedicated to sharing and/or posting live links, as well as saved files, containing child sexual abuse material. In July of 2024, following an online investigation into the group, law enforcement agents executed a residential search warrant at Baldwin’s home in San Jose. A hard drive seized from this residence was found to contain images and videos from over 150 known child exploitation series, including images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of prepubescent minors and toddlers.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement.Baldwin is currently in federal custody. Baldwin’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2027, at 9:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Beth L. Freeman. Baldwin faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, a special assessment of up to $35,000, and must pay restitution to his victims. Any sentence will be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris of the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit investigated the case, with substantial assistance from both the FBI Washington, DC and FBI San Francisco Field Offices.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Drug Trafficker Engaged in Armed Robbery Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington — First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on September 14, 2026, Jackson Wyatt Brown, age 40, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Pennell to 120 months of incarceration to be followed by 5 years of supervised release stemming from his conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
In May 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Moses Lake Police Department were conducting a crime reduction emphasis in the Grant County, Washington, area. Brown was identified as a subject trafficking in both methamphetamine and fentanyl. Brown ultimately had sold a confidential informant and undercover agent quantities of each drug during recorded transactions. During an unrelated investigation into firearm trafficking in the Grant County area, Brown unexpectedly arrived at a co-conspirator’s residence with a firearm and robbed the confidential informant, who he said owed him a drug debt from several years prior. Law enforcement who had been conducting surveillance on the exterior of the residence attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Brown’s vehicle. While eluding law enforcement, Brown’s vehicle became disabled in a high sand mound and, after briefly physically resisting, Brown submitted to his arrest. A search warrant executed on his vehicle revealed approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine and a realistic firearm replica. Brown received enhancements to his sentencing range based upon his threats of violence and use of a firearm against the informant.
“This case underscores the serious danger posed by individuals who traffic in methamphetamine and fentanyl while engaging in violent and reckless criminal conduct. Brown put the community at significant risk, and I am grateful to our federal and state partners who were able to arrest Brown after he fled. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to holding those, like Brown, who endanger public safety accountable and to protecting our community from the harms associated with violent drug trafficking,” said Serrano.
“Today’s sentence is a measure of accountability for a defendant who chose to prey upon our community and use violence to advance his criminal objectives. There is simply no excuse for putting profit ahead of human life and public safety,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Mr. Brown’s conduct was calculated, dangerous, and a grave threat to our Eastern Washington neighborhoods. If you choose violence, firearms, and sinister drugs as your path to profit, ATF and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners will bring the full might of the justice system to your doorstep.”
“The Moses Lake Police Department extends our sincere appreciation to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for its steadfast partnership and unwavering support,” stated Chief Sands. “The collaborative efforts between our agencies and our other federal partners, strengthen our ability to protect the public, enhance the effectiveness of complex investigations, and uphold the rule of law. We value this continued commitment to coordinated enforcement and look forward to advancing our shared mission through our enduring partnership.”
For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington.
2:25-CR-0095-RLP
Downtown L.A. Residents Arrested on Federal Complaint Alleging Possession of More Than 42 Kilograms of Fentanyl, Small Alligator in Stash HouseRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A man and woman living in a luxury downtown Los Angeles apartment that law enforcement believes was a stash house have been arrested for allegedly possessing more than 42 kilograms of fentanyl, more than seven kilograms of cocaine, firearms, drug-making materials, and a small alligator, the Justice Department announced today.
Marvin Angelito, 27, and Susan Gonzalez, 26, were arrested on September 10 and are charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Both defendants made their initial appearances on Monday in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. United States Magistrate Judge Karen L. Stevenson ordered Angelito detained and ordered Gonzalez released on $15,000 bond. Angelito’s arraignment is scheduled for October 2, and Gonzalez’s arraignment is scheduled for October 9. No pleas were taken on Monday.
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, the apartment was a known drug trafficking location. On September 10, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Angelito and Gonzalez’s apartment. The search resulted in the seizure of approximately 42.6 kilograms (93.9 pounds) of fentanyl pills and powder, approximately one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of heroin, 7.2 kilograms (15.9 pounds) of cocaine, laboratory equipment such as beakers, mixers, stirrers, and torches, and a hydraulic press.
Law enforcement also seized an AR-15 rifle with ammunition located in a hallway closet, a gold-plated Desert Eagle .50-caliber pistol with ammunition located on the kitchen counter, a police radio, and a small alligator, which U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents seized.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
FBI New Haven Homeland Security Task Force, FBI Los Angeles Regional Narcotics Suppression Program, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating this matter.
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.
Assistant United States Attorney Lloyd Masson of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
District of Oregon’s COVID Fraud Task Force Secures More Than $314 million in Restitution, Forfeitures, and Civil RecoveriesRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford is pleased to announce a series of criminal and civil enforcement actions to combat fraud involving federal pandemic relief funds. Since June 2026, the District of Oregon’s Covid Fraud Task Force has brought 12 enforcement actions involving more than $29 million in losses and thus far resulting in more than $8.6 million in recovery. Since 2020, the District’s COVID Fraud Task Force recovered more than $314 million and held fraudsters accountable through similar efforts.
The District’s COVID Fraud Task Force brings together investigators and Assistant U.S. Attorneys from a dozen agencies to combat fraud involving pandemic-relief programs in Oregon and across the country through an integrated, multi-agency approach that coordinates criminal prosecution, civil enforcement, and asset recovery. Its work has focused on schemes targeting the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and other federal relief programs. This task force has set a national standard for combating pandemic-relief fraud.
“These criminals exploited pandemic programs meant to keep honest small businesses alive. By aggressively pursuing pandemic‑related fraud, we’re protecting the local businesses that follow the law, serve our communities, and drive our economy. Our small, dedicated multi‑agency team delivers an exceptional return for the American taxpayer—holding offenders accountable and recovering hundreds of millions in settlements, seizures, and restitution. And when possible, we work cooperatively with companies to return improperly obtained taxpayer funds. Fraud, waste, and abuse don’t stand a chance,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
“Intentional misrepresentation to gain access to SBA program funds intended for the nation’s small businesses is reprehensible,” said SBA Office of Inspector General’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Timothy Larson. “Our Office will remain relentless in the pursuit of fraudsters who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
The following cases highlight the COVID Fraud Task Force’s work over the past few months:
U.S. v Benjamin Young, David Starling, and Adam Starling
On June 9, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Benjamin Young and David Starling with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and Young with 12 counts of wire fraud. Adam Starling previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States.
The indictment alleges, and Adam Starling admitted in his plea agreement, that participants in the conspiracy fabricated employee and wage records to obtain Employee Retention Credits and Qualified Sick and Family Leave Credits. Co-conspirators listed relatives as employees of one another’s businesses even though those relatives performed little to no work. The purported employees included one co-conspirator’s two-year-old twins. The wages were reported and filed with the IRS, seeking over $3 million in COVID-19 related tax credits. The scheme also used fabricated IRS records to support PPP loan applications to the SBA that were later forgiven based on false information.
The indictment further alleges that Young fraudulently obtained approximately $1.6 million in PPP loan forgiveness in the name of a victim nonprofit organization and used fabricated records to obtain a $2.5 million SBA-guaranteed business loan. Young allegedly misappropriated the loan proceeds and used them to acquire real property. In November 2025, the United States seized properties owned by Young, including this one, that allegedly were purchased with proceeds of the schemes.
U.S. v Melissa Fireside
On September 1, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Melissa Fireside, a former Clackamas County Commissioner, with two counts of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Fireside sought PPP and EIDL loans, totaling more than $300,000, for a business that did not exist in the name of an adult for whom she provided care. The applications included false statements about the non-existent business, including employees and gross revenues. Fireside also included fabricated supporting documentation including tax documents and bank records. Fireside diverted the PPP loan proceeds for personal use. Fireside has since fled the United States and is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v K’Lum Strickland
On September 1, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging K’Lum Strickland with one count of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Strickland stole almost $70,000 through the PPP and EIDL programs. To obtain the loans, Strickland submitted applications with false information, including non-existent businesses, false gross revenues, and false IRS documents. Strickland spent all of the loan proceeds for personal expenses.
U.S. v Beniamin Lucescu
On September 11, 2026, a federal jury convicted Beniamin Lucescu of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering for a scheme through which he defrauded the government out of approximately $487,000 in EIDL proceeds. As proven at trial, Lucescu claimed he was obtaining the loans for Rose City Senior Care, a home senior care business he operated with his wife. Lucescu falsely certified the proceeds would be used for business working capital and to address economic injury caused by the pandemic while he actually intended to, and did, use the funds to pay personal tax debt and make speculative cryptocurrency investments.
U.S. v Kenneth Burns
Kenneth Burns pleaded guilty to bank fraud for defrauding the government out of more than $230,000 in PPP loan proceeds. According to court documents, Burns submitted a loan application containing false information, including IRS documents and information about the business.
On July 7, 2026, Burns failed to appear for his scheduled sentencing hearing, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest as a wanted fugitive from justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District of Oregon United State Marshals Service Office, the United State Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using USMS Tips.
U.S. v Joel Caswell
On August 21, 2026, Joel Caswell was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for fraud, tax violations, and identity theft. He was also ordered to pay $1,198,799.83 in restitution to the government. According to court records, Caswell executed multiple fraud schemes that involved
submitting fabricated financial records to a bank, a private lender, and the SBA to secure loans. Caswell used the fraudulently obtained loans for personal expenses.
On September 1, 2026, another individual was charged for defrauding the SBA’s PPP and EIDL loan programs for over $760,000. This case remains under seal.
Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc.
On July 6, 2026, Emerald Green Lawn Service, Inc., executed a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement to repay $71,485.19 of EIDL loan proceeds for knowingly submitting false applications to obtain EIDL loans.
Ramzy Hattar; and Zedan Outdoors, LLC d/b/a Talyor’s Bar & Grill
On September 11, 2026, the United States filed a complaint against Ramzy Hattar and his associated business Zedan Outdoors, LLC, dba Taylor’s Bar & Grill for filing false claims in applications to obtain more than $350,000 in PPP and EIDL loans. According to the complaint, Taylor’s Bar & Grill was not operating at the time it obtained the loans. The complaint further alleges that Hattar misused the loan proceeds.
Microtec Inc., formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc.
On August 27, 2026, Microtec Inc., which was formerly known as Lucidyne Technologies, Inc. agreed to pay the United States $1,554,137 to resolve an investigation into whether Lucidyne Technologies improperly certified its eligibility for a PPP loan. Microtec Inc. cooperated upon being contacted and resolved the issue.
Additional Civil Case Pending Execution:
On September 4, 2026, the United States reached a False Claims Act Civil Settlement Agreement in a sealed qui tam action with a company that improperly obtained PPP loans, recovering approximately $1.6 million.
The COVID Fraud Task Force continues to pursue criminal and civil enforcement actions aggressively with forthcoming matters on the horizon.
Criminal Illegal Alien from Honduras, Previously Deported 7 Times, Sent to Federal Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Gainesville, Florida – Osman Antonio Guerrero-Torres, 47, of Honduras, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry into the United States. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Americans deserve to live in a country with secure borders and a government willing to enforce our laws to keep them safe. Fortunately, President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche are committed to fulfilling both of those promises to our citizens, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these brazen violators of our nation’s immigration laws to keep our communities safe.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant, a citizen of Honduras, was removed from the United States on seven prior occasions. The defendant has one prior conviction for illegal reentry into the United States. Additionally, the defendant was previously convicted of Vehicular Assault, where an officer conducted a traffic stop, and the defendant tried to flee, and almost struck an officer. The defendant was also previously convicted of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing a peace officer, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, and possession of cocaine.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Tyler Fleming prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Court Rejects Challenge to Army Corps Permit for Johnson Tract Mineral Exploration ProjectRead the Press Release
Yesterday, The U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska rejected a challenge to a Clean Water Act permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Johnson Tract mineral exploration project in South Central Alaska. The court granted summary judgment to the United States on every claim and left the permit in place. The permit allows JT Mining to build an access road and upgrade an existing airstrip serving an exploratory drilling site on private land the company owns inside Lake Clark National Park.
“This decision protects responsible mineral exploration on private land,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The court’s decision reaffirms that federal agencies are entitled to deference when they make scientific and predictive judgments, and it keeps an important Alaska project moving forward.”
The Johnson Tract is a 20,942-acre private inholding at the headwaters of the Johnson River. JT Mining applied for a Section 404 permit in 2023 to build access to an upland exploratory drilling site. The Corps solicited and reviewed public comment, consulted several Alaska Native Tribes, and issued the permit in September 2024. The permit authorizes the discharge of 67,800 cubic yards of general embankment fill and 5,200 cubic yards of surfacing material into 5.14 acres of waters of the United States to construct a 2.3-mile access road and to realign and expand the existing airstrip to 5,000 feet. Fill will be sourced locally from material sites located in uplands, avoiding wetland and stream fill.
Plaintiffs argued principally that the Corps violated Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act by defining the action area too narrowly and declining to consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service about the endangered Cook Inlet beluga whale. The whale’s designated critical habitat includes Tuxedni Bay, roughly ten miles east of the project area.
The court rejected that claim. It held the Corps reasonably defined the action area to reach the project footprint, a 300-foot buffer marking the outer limit of detectable noise disturbance, and three miles of downstream aquatic environment, and that the agency gave a reasoned explanation for those boundaries. The court noted that the permit authorizes the discharge of fill, not flights, and that it conveys no right to fly aircraft over Tuxedni Bay; air traffic over the national park is regulated by the National Park Service. The court further held the Corps acted reasonably in treating a future mine, and any flights a mine might generate, as speculative. Because no listed species or critical habitat is present in the action area, no consultation was required.
The court likewise upheld the Corps’ work under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act, rejecting arguments that the agency failed to verify the applicant’s acid rock drainage and metals leaching data and failed to resolve uncertainty about jurisdictional waters at the material sites. Quoting the Supreme Court’s decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, the court reiterated that “[t]he bedrock principle of judicial review in NEPA cases can be stated in a word: Deference.”
Trial attorneys from ENRD's Wildlife and Marine Resources Section, Natural Resources Section, and Environmental Defense Section handled this matter, with support from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Alaska.
Convicted Felon Guilty of Illegally Possessing Gun, Drugs in MaconRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A federal jury convicted a Georgia man with a criminal history for illegally possessing a firearm and attempting to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine in Central Georgia resulting from a Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation.
“Armed repeat offenders who threaten public safety will be brought to justice in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “This case highlights the strong partnership between federal and local law enforcement to quickly apprehend and bring to justice convicted felons with guns who continually violate the law.”
“Repeat offenders who possess illegal drugs and firearms pose a serious threat to our communities,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “This conviction reflects the commitment of DEA and our law enforcement partners to work together, disrupt criminal activity, and ensure those who repeatedly break the law are held accountable.”
“This conviction sends a clear message that those who bring illegal drugs and firearms into our community will be held accountable. Every gun and quantity of dangerous drugs we remove from the streets represents an opportunity to prevent another crime, another tragedy, and another family from being harmed,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis. “I’m proud of the work of our Special Investigative Unit and grateful for the strong partnership we share with our federal and local law enforcement partners. By working together, we are not only enforcing the law—we are protecting lives and helping make our community safer for everyone.”
Jason Ronald Harvey, 53, of Laurens County, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Harvey faces a maximum of life in prison.
The trial began on Monday, September 14, and concluded on Tuesday, September 15, before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell in Macon. The Court will schedule the sentencing hearing for a later date. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to the filed indictment, court documents, and statements made in court, investigators received information from a confidential source on July 31, 2024, that Harvey was at the Super 8 Motel on Chambers Road in Macon, with methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. Harvey had outstanding arrest warrants for aggravated assault from Laurens County and for probation violation from Henry County.
A firearm and drugs seized in Case 5:25-cr-00046 in U.S. v. Harvey.
Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office conducted surveillance and located Harvey at Walmart on Harrison Road in Macon. Investigators arrested Harvey as he exited the store and took him into custody. At his arrest, Harvey was in possession of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and a handgun. Harvey has a prior felony drug conviction in Georgia; it is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) Special Investigative Unit (SIU), and the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tyler Morris and Monica Brown are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Conscientious Objector Who Faked Vietnam Combat and Medals Pleads Guilty to Defrauding VARead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo. man, who defrauded the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by claiming false combat service and medals, pleaded guilty in federal court.
James Lyon, 80, pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining $124,262 in disability‑related payments from the VA.
In connection with his guilty plea, Lyon admitted to repeatedly lying about his military service, including falsely claiming he earned prestigious combat decorations and submitting fraudulent documents to the VA. This plea is one of many federal fraud cases pursued under the leadership of President Donald Trump and through the establishment of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
“Veterans’ benefits represent a sacred national promise that is rooted in our gratitude to the men and women who have sacrificed and served our country,” said R. Matthew Price, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri. “When individuals fraudulently obtain these benefits for their own personal gain, they undermine the integrity of these vital programs and divert resources from the veterans who earned them and need them most. That is unacceptable. We will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to defraud programs intended to honor and support our nation’s veterans.”
“Engaging in stolen valor—whether it involves stealing a veteran’s identity or making false claims about military service and awards—not only undermines the sacrifices made by those who have genuinely served but also dishonors the veterans who have rightfully earned their benefits,” said Inspector General Cheryl L. Mason, Department of Veterans Affairs. “At VA OIG, we are deeply committed to holding these individuals accountable and will work closely with our partners at the Department of Justice to ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Protecting the honor and benefits of veterans remains a top priority for us.”
Lyon admitted that although he refused Marine Corps training in 1966 as a conscientious objector, he falsely claimed he had completed three separate periods of Marine Corps service, including combat during the Vietnam War. Lyon also admitted to falsely claiming high‑level combat awards, including the Bronze Star and Silver Star, despite never having served in combat.
Lyon further admitted to lying to the VA about being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Lyon used fabricated medical records to seek disability compensation based on that false diagnosis.
By lying about his service, claiming unearned combat decorations, and submitting false medical paperwork, Lyon received more than $124,000 to which he was not entitled.
Under federal statutes, Lyon is subject to a sentence of up to ten years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James Kirkpatrick and was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
National Fraud Enforcement Division
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.
Chicago Man Who Smuggled Five Firearms into Mexico Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison; Two of the Firearms Were Allegedly Straw Purchased by Chicago Police OfficerRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A Chicago man who smuggled five firearms and more than 1,700 rounds of ammunition into Mexico has been sentenced to three years in federal prison. Two of the smuggled firearms were allegedly “straw purchased” by a Chicago Police Officer.
In the fall of 2024, DIEGO VALDEZ and Chicago Police Officer KEVIN RODRIGUEZ schemed for Rodriguez to purchase an AR-15 style rifle on Valdez’s behalf from a firearms dealer in Indiana. A few days later, Rodriguez purchased a handgun for Valdez in Illinois. Valdez had identified which firearms he wanted and paid Rodriguez to buy them.
Valdez then smuggled the straw-purchased firearms and three other guns, along with the ammunition, into Mexico, with the intention of selling them on the streets. Mexican police stopped Valdez and others in December 2025 while they were traveling to the Mexican state of Michoacan.
Valdez, 26, of Chicago, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of unlawfully receiving a firearm. On Sept. 8, 2026, U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. sentenced Valdez to three years in federal prison.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
The investigation was conducted in coordination with ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago. The CGIC is a centralized law enforcement partnership that focuses exclusively on investigating and prosecuting violent offenders who utilize firearms in commission of their crimes in Chicago and throughout northern Illinois. Every firearm-related case in Chicago is processed through the CGIC on a daily basis.
“Gun trafficking is a scourge on both our local community and the international community,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Elie Zenner argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “It is important to send a message to the individuals that might traffic guns to Mexico for money that there are serious consequences for doing so.”
Rodriguez, 29, of Chicago, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and firearm charges. A change-of-plea hearing has been scheduled for Oct. 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before Judge Tharp.
Career offender sentenced to over 21 years in prison for federal drug and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Petersburg man was sentenced today to 21 years and 10 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on Oct. 25, 2023, authorities searched the residences of Alonzo Lee Bonner Jr., 39, in Dinwiddie and Petersburg. When authorities ordered Bonner to exit his residence, Bonner refused, and a stand-off lasting approximately an hour ensued. During that stand-off, Bonner flushed several ounces of cocaine down his toilet.
At the Dinwiddie property, authorities searched both the residence and several vehicles owned and used by Bonner. Investigators recovered, among other things, $4,001, 348.3 grams of cannabis, 11.83 grams of cocaine, two handguns, a semiautomatic rifle, high-capacity magazines and ammunition, glass measuring devices containing cocaine residue, 101.82 grams of marijuana; and a digital scale.
At the Petersburg property, investigators recovered, among other things, 1,588.79 grams of marijuana, over a kilogram of crystal methamphetamine, 17.46 grams of cocaine, a handgun, and ammunition.
When Bonner was arrested on Jan. 3, 2024, in Chesterfield, authorities recovered $3,252, approximately 36 grams of cocaine, approximately 39 grams of marijuana, digital scales, and a spoon with cocaine residue.
Bonner was previously convicted of, among other offenses, being an accessory after the fact to a willful and deliberate murder, failure to appear, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, eluding police with endangerment, distribution of cocaine, possession of a schedule I or II controlled substance, resisting arrest, and possession of a firearm by a felon. As a convicted felon, Bonner cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Eric Weindorf, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C.; and Shane Todd, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne. The Chesterfield County Police Department assisted in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Miller and Janet Jin Ah Lee prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:26-cr-30.
Butler County Man Charged with Receiving a Firearm and Ammunition with Intent to Commit Terrorism on Behalf of ISISRead the Press Release
Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). FBI agents interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.
“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”
“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS — engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric — all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started — as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTO’s. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”
“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”
“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our communities from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”
“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.”
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, his ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”
On Sept. 12, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter.
Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants on Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here.
Kramer made his initial appearance on Sept. 14. The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.
The FBI, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Butler County Man Charged with Receiving a Firearm and Ammunition with Intent to Commit Terrorism on Behalf of ISISRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Jonathan Hunter Kramer, 21, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with receiving a firearm and ammunition, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the firearm and ammunition would be used to commit a felony or a Federal crime of terrorism, including providing, attempting to provide, and conspiring to provide material support or resources to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) interdicted Kramer this weekend as he returned to a hotel in possession of three 30-round capacity rifle magazines and five boxes of rifle ammunition. The FBI then executed search warrants, seized a semiautomatic rifle and ammunition from his hotel room, and arrested him.
“As Americans observed the 25th anniversary of 9/11, our law enforcement partners were working to protect our country from the continued threat of terrorism,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost. The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”
“As alleged in the complaint, Jonathan’s Kramer’s words and actions during recent months have been profoundly concerning,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “We commend our partners at the FBI and other law enforcement agencies for the speed and precision with which they intervened and detained Kramer when it became clear that he was moving forward with his radical ideology and posed an increased, clear threat to our community. We will continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our law enforcement partners at all levels to preserve the safety of our community from individuals seeking to inflict harm on behalf of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.”
“FBI Pittsburgh and our local, state, and federal partners continue to face an elevated threat environment across the region from a variety of terrorism actors,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Richard Evanchec. “An extremely alarming threat to our community exists when an individual reportedly pledges allegiance to a foreign terrorist organization, seeks to turn that ideology into action, and makes final preparations for an attack. FBI Pittsburgh and our partners will continue to move swiftly and decisively to counter any individual’s mobilization to violence in the name of a Foreign Terrorist Organization to ensure the safety of our community.”
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Kramer has been known to the FBI since an earlier investigation in 2023, which resulted in Kramer, then a minor, being charged and adjudicated delinquent by Pennsylvania state authorities for his role in a plot to commit a mass casualty incident and for possessing child sexual abuse material. On March 19, 2026, following Kramer’s release from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility, an anonymous individual made an online tip to the FBI reporting a return to troubling behavior by Kramer, including, among other activities, the defendant’s ordering of “mysterious” packages and “talking to his friends from before” his juvenile adjudication. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Kramer had been using the online persona of “Hamza Al Rashid” who claimed affiliation with ISIS, offered to share explosive manuals with others, and expressed his intent to prepare for his “mission” and that he was just missing a “weapon.”
On September 12, 2026, the FBI observed Kramer quickly depart his residence while carrying a bag, and travel via rideshare to a retail store, where he purchased a disposable phone. After exiting the store, he met an individual in the parking lot and acquired a long black bag from the trunk of a vehicle. Kramer then traveled to a hotel in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, where he paid cash to book a room. Witnesses from both the store and hotel noted Kramer’s bag making a metallic clicking sound when he placed it down. After checking into his room, Kramer traveled to a sporting goods store and was observed by the FBI at the gun counter.
Upon returning to the hotel’s parking lot, FBI agents approached Kramer while he carried two bags containing the contents of his purchase from the sporting goods store. Kramer agreed to speak with the agents and placed the bags on the ground. The FBI then executed federal search warrants upon Kramer’s person, hotel room, and residence. Agents seized a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines (two loaded and the other three each offering a 30-round capacity), a rifle bipod and scope, a total of 190 rounds of rifle ammunition, an entrenchment tool, a prayer rug, pepper spray, and approximately 30 knives, along with a handwritten note stating “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]” Read the full affidavit in support of the criminal complaint here.
“This FBI continues to move more effectively than we ever have stopping terrorists before they harm the American people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The subject in this case was allegedly plotting a violent attack in support of ISIS – engaging with ISIS propaganda online, building attack concepts, and repeatedly expressing extremist rhetoric – all while acquiring weapons believed to be in preparation of the attack. He has been charged with Receipt of a Firearm Knowing or Having Reasonable Cause to Believe that Such Firearm Will Be Used to Commit a Federal Crime of Terrorism. Once again, results like these are exactly why we made changes to this FBI and the way it runs – to save lives before would-be criminals can act. It’s why this FBI has disrupted 1,097 terrorists, 20% more the last 18 months before the Trump administration started – as well as executing 42% more Foreign Terrorist Organization-related arrests and dismantling 96% more FTOs. Outstanding job by FBI Pittsburgh and our partners.”
“Kramer was taken into custody just as he appeared to be preparing for a mass shooting that could have taken many lives, having already secured a rifle and approximately 190 rounds of ammunition for what he called his ‘mission,’” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg. “His apparent ISIS inspiration and escalation toward violence show how close this country came to a devastating attack. This arrest prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy.”
The United States has requested detention of the defendant and that he be held without bond pending trial, asserting that he is a danger to the community. During his initial appearance on September 14, 2026, Kramer waived a detention hearing but requested a preliminary examination hearing on the complaint, which is scheduled for September 16, 2026.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorneys Andrew Briggs and Matthew Hracho of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from numerous state and local counterparts, conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint.
A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Bronx Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sexually Assaulting Two Minors and Production and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that JILDO ARMANDO MARIN was sentenced to 25 years in prison by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl for his sexual exploitation of two minor victims and possession of child sexual abuse material. MARIN previously pled guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of possession of child pornography.
“Today’s sentence reflects the Office’s unwavering commitment to protect children and prosecute those who prey on them,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Our Office has held Jildo Armando Marin accountable for the profound and lasting harm he inflicted on these children. For nearly a decade, Marin sexually abused two minor victims, who were his own family members. He abused these children, and, when confronted with possible exposure, threatened his victims and forced them to maintain their silence. He compounded that abuse by creating and possessing a horrific collection of images and videos depicting the abuse of one of his victims, as well as showing the exploitation of other children. Marin will now deservedly spend lengthy time in prison.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in public court proceedings:
Beginning when Minor Victim-1, a female member of the defendant’s family, was approximately seven or eight years old and continuing until approximately January 2025, when Minor Victim-1 was approximately 13, MARIN sexually assaulted Minor Victim-1 on multiple occasions in the Bronx, New York, and during trips to Honduras. MARIN would lock the door, remove Minor Victim-1’s clothing, and photograph and record the abuse using his cellphone. MARIN touched Minor Victim-1’s vagina and buttocks with his hands, digitally penetrated her, and anally penetrated her with his penis on multiple occasions, including while she slept. In December 2024, MARIN used his cellphone to photograph Minor Victim-1’s genitals, and he subsequently transported that cellphone, and the images on it, out of the state of New York when he traveled abroad.
MARIN also repeatedly sexually assaulted a second minor victim, Minor Victim-2, a male member of the defendant’s family, over the course of approximately 10 years, beginning when Minor Victim-2 was approximately eight years old and continuing until Minor Victim-2 was approximately 18. On at least one occasion, MARIN checked whether Minor Victim-2 was asleep, carried him to another room, and anally penetrated him with his penis. When Minor Victim-2 attempted to disclose the abuse, MARIN told him that Child Protective Services could remove him from his home and that his mother could get in trouble.
On June 13, 2025, MARIN was stopped for a customs inspection at John F. Kennedy International Airport upon his return from an international trip. A search of his cellphone revealed sexually explicit images of Minor Victim-1. A subsequent forensic examination of MARIN’s cellphone revealed at least 85 sexually explicit images and videos of minors, including images depicting prepubescent children as young as approximately five years old subjected to sadistic sexual acts.
* * *
In addition to the prison term, MARIN, 34, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced to a 10-year term of supervised release.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding work of Homeland Security Investigations.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Zabel is in charge of the prosecution.
Boston Man Sentenced for Distributing Counterfeit Meth-Laced PillsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced on Sept. 8, 2026 in federal court in Boston for felony narcotics charges.
Michael Lagasse, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun to time-served (approximately 10 months) followed by three years of supervised release. The government recommended a sentence of 40 months in prison. In July 2024, Lagasse pleaded guilty to six counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
On six occasions, between January and July 2021, Lagasse sold counterfeit Adderall pills to an undercover law enforcement officer. The pills were illegally manufactured and laced with methamphetamine. Combined, Lagasse sold approximately 2400 pills with a net weight of roughly 800 grams.United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Tolkoff of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
Agents seize 18 kilograms of suspected cocaine and a large amount of currency during a significant law enforcement operation in LubbockRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK, Texas — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced today that Paul Rene Rocha, Jr., 36, of Lubbock, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute cocaine following his arrest on Sept. 8, 2026.
“Drug traffickers present a direct and destabilizing threat to the safety and security of our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “This activity fuels violence erodes community trust and endangers families across Lubbock. Protecting the public requires unified action, and this case reflects the critical importance of partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement. Together, we will continue to aggressively pursue those who profit from harming our communities and ensure they are held fully accountable under federal law.”
According to the complaint, narcotics agents in Lubbock discovered that Rocha was allegedly a major drug trafficker in the area and identified a storage building he visited frequently. On Tuesday, Sept. 8, agents observed Rocha entering and leaving the unit. After watching him meet with another individual in what appeared to be a drug transaction, agents stopped that person and recovered several ounces of cocaine. They then obtained a search warrant for the storage building.
Inside, they located a firearm and approximately 18 kilograms of suspected cocaine:
Agents also obtained a warrant to search Rocha’s residence in Lubbock. Inside, they located another firearm and approximately $56,000 in currency hidden in an appliance.
The full seizure is depicted below:
Rocha is currently in custody and will make his initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
This investigation was carried out by the Caprock Division of the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and the Texas Anti-Gang initiatives with the collaboration of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Lubbock Police Department; Lubbock County Sherriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Lubbock Division are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Abbeville Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Production of Child Pornography; Broussard Man Sentenced to over 8 Years for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On September 10, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Christopher Michael Ahlers, 54, of Abbeville, to 360 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 11, 2026, to Production of Child Pornography. On the same day, Judge Hicks also sentenced Shannon David Miller, 52, of Broussard, to 97 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 13, 2026, to Possession of Child Pornography.
“Partnering with state and federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute child sex predators is one of this Office’s most sacred and core missions,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “There is sadly no undoing the harm that this vile conduct causes, and the cases we prosecute unfortunately reach as far as minor children’s homes and schools, with people they trust preying upon them. But the case against Mr. Ahlers shows the same thing as other recent cases we’ve prosecuted against teachers, parents, and pastors: we will never relent in our effort to remove these predators from our society, and we will find them no matter where they are.”
Ahlers
According to court documents, the investigation into Ahlers began on May 31, 2025, when deputies with the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office (VPSO) were contacted by Ahlers’s wife, who had discovered a concealed recording device in the ceiling of a bathroom inside their residence. The device contained multiple recordings of her two minor children. Ahlers was arrested on June 4, 2025, on related state charges. After being released on bond, evidence showed Ahlers attempted to hide additional evidence by asking an acquaintance to hold an external hard drive for him. Instead, the acquaintance turned the device over to law enforcement at which time investigators discovered approximately 90 illicit videos involving one of Ahlers’s minor stepchildren. Investigators determined that Ahlers had retained these recordings for several years.
Miller
According to court documents, Miller became known to federal authorities in October 2025 when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) issued a cybertip regarding the possible possession and distribution of illegal child‑exploitation material linked to a Google account. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) identified Miller as the user associated with the uploads. Investigators reviewed two videos referenced in the cybertip and discovered they contained illicit content. Agents then obtained a search warrant for Miller’s residence at which time multiple digital devices were seized. Forensic examiners identified more than 1,000 graphic videos involving prepubescent children. Miller admitted he had been accessing illegal content for approximately 20 years and possessed roughly 100 gigabytes of illicit video files stored on several devices.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
HSI, LBI, and VPSO conducted the investigations. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Bordelon with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more at https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.
You may find a copy of this press releases (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Numbers 6:25 cr 00255 (Ahlers) and 6:25 cr 00317 (Miller).
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CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
14 September 2026
Woman Sentenced in Cross-Border Identity Theft and Immigration Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Kassandra Sanchez was sentenced in federal court today to 12 and a half months in prison for aiding and abetting her boyfriend in stealing the identity of her brother to commit a variety of federal crimes in the United States. This included smuggling an alien through the San Ysidro Port of Entry and fraudulently obtaining public benefits such as Medi-Cal and CalFresh.
U.S. District Judge Barry T. Moskowitz ordered Sanchez to pay $8,690.69 in restitution to J.D.S., Medi-Cal, and the California Department of Social Services.
According to the indictment, Luis Enrique Villegas Brownell, a Mexican citizen without legal status in the United States, and Sanchez, a U.S. citizen, conspired to steal identification documents belonging to Sanchez’s brother, identified in court records as J.D.S. Villegas then used those documents to falsely pose as a U.S. citizen and apply for entry into the United States.
Once in the United States, Villegas and Sanchez went to the California DMV and provided false information under penalty of perjury to obtain a state ID card in the name of J.D.S. but bearing Villegas’s photo and thumbprint. He and Sanchez then used the fraudulent ID to impersonate J.D.S. and cross the border unlawfully for more than a year. They crossed together into the United States from Mexico more than 50 times in a 17-month period, often with Sanchez driving to the port of entry and presenting the fraudulent ID to border officers. Port-of-entry video shows Sanchez lying to officers about Villegas’s birthplace and concealing his true identity.
According to the United States’ sentencing memorandum, during a border crossing on May 21, 2025, Sanchez falsely the told a border officer that her front seat passenger, Villegas, does not really talk and offered to show the officer his U.S. birth certificate to prove he was born in the United States. Moments later, Sanchez handed her cell phone to the officer displaying an image of J.D.S.’s birth certificate.
Still shot from the port-of-entry video on May 21, 2025 of Sanchez showing an image of J.D.S.’s U.S. birth certificate on her cell phone to the border officer
Sanchez committed the offense while on supervised release for a prior federal conviction in the Southern District of California relating to an arrest for smuggling methamphetamine into the United States. According to the United States’ sentencing memorandum, the port-of-entry video from the May 21, 2025 crossing captured Sanchez admitting to the border officer that she knew she had been on probation for more than a year. She described her mindset regarding her probation as “chill.”
According to court documents, the real J.D.S. applied for entry to the United States at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in April 2025 but was unable to cross due to the theft of his identity. During that encounter, J.D.S. reported to border officers that his sister, Sanchez, asked for his identity documents to smuggle her Mexican boyfriend into the United States. When he declined, she took them without his consent. According to court records, J.D.S. has lost work and money as a result of the offense and now has a felony alien smuggling arrest committed by Villegas associated with his name.
“The defendants thought a stolen identity was a ticket to a new life. Turns out it was a ticket to prison,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon.
“Identity theft and benefits fraud are serious crimes that undermine public trust and victimize innocent people, including U.S. citizens whose documents are misused,” said Kevin Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI San Diego. “This case demonstrates our commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who abuse identity documents and benefits systems for personal gain.”
Villegas pleaded guilty to charges of false personation, false claim to U.S. citizenship, and aggravated identity theft in 25-cr-3286-BTM-1. Villegas is scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Barry T. Moskowitz for sentencing on October 1, 2026.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick C. Swan.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 25-cr-3286-BTM-2
Kassandra Sanchez Age: 24 San Diego, California
SUMMARY OF CHARGE
False Personation in Immigration Matter – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 1546(a) and 2
Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Homeland Security Investigations
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Wolf Point woman sentenced to more than 11 years for her part in beating a man to deathRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point woman, who was part of group that beat a man to death last year, was sentenced today to 11 years and four months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Abrianne Lillian Deserly, 26, pleaded guilty in August 2026 to voluntary manslaughter.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Deserly was part of group that beat a man to death in an abandoned house on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
The victim was found dead on Feb. 26, 2025, on the second floor of a house in Wolf Point, described by area residents as a local “flop house” where people occasionally went to drink and sleep. Investigators found that Deserly and others, after a night of drinking, had gone in the house in the early morning hours of Feb. 26 and found the victim asleep on the second floor. With Deserly were Calvin Florin Lester, 37, and Dillon Demery Wetsit, 41.
Lester was sentenced on Sept. 3 to nearly 11 years in prison for his role in the man’s death. Wetsit pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in June; he will be sentenced on Oct. 15.
The assault happened after an argument broke out and Deserly, along with Lester and Wetsit, began to hit the victim. Things escalated and they beat him severely. A witness described seeing Deserly kick the victim in the face. At one point, the victim was placed in a chokehold while other members of the group hit him. A medical examination showed the victim died from “homicidal violence” with neck compression and blunt injuries to the head.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Fort Peck Tribes Criminal Investigation and FBI conducted the investigation.
Winter Garden Woman Sentenced to 30 Months for COVID Relief Fraud and Failure to File Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – Verlynn Horne has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Julie S. Sneed to two years and six months in federal prison for wire fraud and willful failure to file tax returns. Horne pleaded guilty on April 7, 2026. As part of her sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $2,517,930, the proceeds of the wire fraud scheme and for Horne’s real property located in Winter Garden. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, between June and August 2020, Horne fraudulently applied for and obtained COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans on behalf of non-operational businesses she controlled, which received $337,915. She also helped prepare and submit fraudulent COVID-19 loan applications on behalf of at least 35 other entities and individuals, who received $4,476,437. In exchange for her services, Horne received a portion of the other individuals’ loan proceeds. As a result of her scheme, Horne received $2,517,930 and used a portion of those funds to purchase a residence in Winter Garden. Despite receiving COVID-19 loan funds, Horne failed to file federal tax returns for herself or her businesses for the years 2020 and 2021. For those two years, she owed $766,707.20 to the Internal Revenue Service.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Diane S. Hu and Megan Testerman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko.
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.
Whiterocks Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing a Firearm and Ammunition as a Previously Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A previously convicted felon was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release after he possessed a firearm and ammunition as a restricted person.
The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Ted Stewart, comes after Nathaniel Jonas Accawanna, 38, of Whiterocks, Utah, pleaded guilty on June 3, 2026, to felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents and statements made at Accawanna’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, on May 30, 2025, law enforcement responded to a “shots fired” report in the Whiterocks area of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation. Upon arrival, law enforcement observed Accawanna struggling with and manipulating a firearm with a partially obliterated serial number. Law enforcement ordered him to stop, but Accawanna did not comply and fled. He threw the firearm away from himself and law enforcement pursued Accawanna who was ultimately arrested. Law enforcement recovered a jammed firearm, magazine, and ammunition from the scene. Accawanna has a violent criminal history that includes multiple felony convictions.
United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office’s Vernal Resident Agency.
Assistant United States Attorney Sam Pead of The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Western District of Washington joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA and SBA-OIG in Surge Takedown exceeding $245 million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Seattle –The Western District of Washington today announced the plea and sentencing in two cases as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
The Western District of Washington was a key participant in this surge effort. From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“Every dollar that went to fraud is a dollar that was not available to help our small businesses who struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. “Our office will prioritize holding fraudsters accountable for the harm they cause in our communities.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
In the Western District of Washington First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd highlighted that two defendants pleaded guilty to PPP-related fraud involving approximately $1.3 million in alleged losses.
- In July, Rahim Kassamali was sentenced to a year and a day in prison for fraudulently obtaining nearly $1.2 million in PPP and Economic Injury Disaster Loans for four companies. Kassamali created fake tax documents and submitted a dozen false loan applications. He paid no payroll but instead used the money for stock purchases and living expenses.
- Tyler Lee Berens pleaded guilty in July to fraudulently applying for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits in 19 states and collecting $148,206. Berens also applied for $17,500 in a PPP loan but was not successful in this fraud. He is scheduled for sentencing October 5, 2026.
The Kassamali case was investigated by the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Grace Zoller.
The Berens case was investigated by the FBI, the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG). The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica M. Ly. Ms. Ly is an attorney with the Social Security Administration specially designated to prosecute fraud cases in federal court.
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.
Western District of Oklahoma Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-Era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
40 U.S. Attorney’s Offices, along with 20 federal and state investigative agencies, participate in two-month enforcement surge
OKLAHOMA CITY – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma today announced charges against five defendants as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Western District of Oklahoma was a key participant in this surge effort.
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“Those who exploited pandemic relief programs stole resources intended for legitimate businesses struggling to keep their doors open,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “The cases brought in the Western District of Oklahoma demonstrate that fraud committed years ago will not simply be forgotten. Our office will continue to follow the evidence, pursue those who abused these programs, and seek justice on behalf of the American taxpayers who funded them.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
In the Western District of Oklahoma, the following defendants have been charged:
- Leroy Sha-Ron Thompson, Jr., 34, of Georgia; Emily Witty, 31, of Texas; and Mark Parnell, 32, of Texas: From March 2021 through January 2022, Thompson, Witty, and Parnell conspired with each other and others to submit fraudulent PPP loan applications supported by false documents, including bank statements and tax records. In total, the defendants assisted in creating more than 100 fraudulent PPP loan applications. All three defendants pleaded guilty in June 2026 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and face up to 30 years in federal prison and fines of up to $1,000,000.00 at sentencing.
- Olabode Nurudeen Jimoh, 54, of Yukon, Oklahoma: Beginning in April 2020, Jimoh submitted fraudulent applications for one EIDL and five PPP loans by making false statements about his businesses’ income, payroll, and number of employees, and falsely certifying that the proceeds would be used for authorized business purposes. As a result, Jimoh fraudulently obtained $484,266 in EIDL and PPP loan proceeds, which he instead used for personal expenses. Jimoh pleaded guilty to wire fraud and was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $484,266 in restitution.
- Kingsley Tazinya, 40, of Oklahoma City: In May 2020, Tazinya submitted a fraudulent PPP loan application to MidFirst Bank in which he falsely claimed his business had 13 employees and an average monthly payroll of more than $99,000. Based on the fraudulent application, Tazinya obtained approximately $249,600 in PPP loan proceeds that were transferred to a bank account he controlled. Tazinya pleaded guilty to bank fraud and was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $564,500 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys D.H. Dilbeck, Danielle London, and Jackson D. Eldridge are prosecuting the cases.
As part of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force, this investigation was conducted by Manager Steve Hanson. The PRAC promotes transparency and supports oversight of the funds provided by the CARES Act, other emergency coronavirus-related spending bills, and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The PRAC and its member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, including in spending in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s advanced data analytics center, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.
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.
Washington County Man Pleads Guilty in CARES Act FraudRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Washington County, Virginia man, who conspired with others to file false claims for pandemic unemployment benefits authorized by the CARES Act, pled guilty today. The CARES Act is a federal law, enacted in March of 2020, that was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Richard David Michael Bland, 62, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and commit an offense against the United States by filing fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits as authorized by federal law.
According to court documents, from July 2020 through May 2021 Bland, along with co-conspirators Martha Sue Buffy Davis and Robert Walter Neely, and others, conspired to file false and fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits. To perpetuate the scheme, Bland, along with other members of the conspiracy, invented non-existent businesses for the purpose of listing them on their applications for benefits with the Virginia Employment Commission. Bland worked with Davis to file an application claiming to be employed at “Bland’s Odd’s and Ends,” a business law enforcement determined did not exist. Bland subsequently recertified, or conspired to have recertified, his employment at the nonexistent business more than 75 times.
Bland, along with co-defendants Davis, Neely, and Jessie Miller, are scheduled for sentencing in December 2026 and January 2027.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Department of Labor, and the Virginia Employment Commission investigated the case.
First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Ian Kaufmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Stone and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Suzanne Kerney-Quillen, a Virginia Office of the Attorney General Senior Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Major Crimes and Emerging Threats Section, are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
WDKY Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky today announced an indictment, guilty plea, and a sentencing as part of a nationwide Enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Western District of Kentucky was a key participant in this surge effort.
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Americans expect and demand their federal programs assist needy recipients rather than line the pockets of fraudsters. We are charged with being good stewards of Americans’ tax dollars. Our office will never sit idly on the sidelines while fraudsters steal from our citizens. We will aggressively investigate and prosecute those fraudsters undermining the viability of important federal programs.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
In the Western District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner announced that four defendants have been charged with, pleaded guilty to, or were sentenced for PPP-related fraud involving approximately $1.3 million in alleged losses.
According to the indictment, charging documents, and/or court records:
According to court documents, on July 15, 2026, Travis Brackens, 46, was sentenced to 7 years and 10 months incarceration and ordered to pay $592,048.05 in restitution for engaging in a scheme to fraudulently obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, by making fraudulent statements on the applications, either in his own name, through entities he created, or by using stolen identities. Brackens also conspired with Elizabeth Wester and Reginald Turner to file fraudulent PPP applications in their names, to which they were not entitled. Brackens was compensated for filing the loans in the names of Wester and Turner by keeping a portion of the loan proceeds for himself. Each application was fraudulent in that it was for a business that did not exist or over inflated minimal business activity. As a result, Brackens and others obtained PPP loan proceeds to which they were not entitled. This case was investigated by TIGTA and IRS CI.
According to court documents, on September 1, 2026, John N. Kohnen III, 46, pleaded guilty to charges related to filing a fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) application and a fraudulent application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, resulting in the theft of almost $100,000. According to the Information, between March 30, 2020, and May 5, 2021, Kohnen used the entity Metro Mechanical LLC, d/b/a Ridgetop Mechanical Contractors, a Kentucky Limited Liability Company, to file the applications. In the EIDL application, Kohnen exaggerated the number of employees, gross revenue, and cost of goods sold. In the PPP application, he exaggerated the number of employees and average monthly payroll expenses. The total maximum potential penalties are not more than 90 years’ incarceration, not more than a $3,000,000 fine, or both, and not more than 5 years of supervised release. This case is being investigated by FBI and USPIS.
On August 12, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment, which charges two individuals, Brandon Curry, 41, and Tamala Curry, 43, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, and charges Brandon Curry with money laundering, all related to fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 financial assistance program funds. According to the Indictment, between March 20 and September 2021, Brandon Curry and Tamala Curry filed at least four fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications and two fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, resulting in the theft of approximately $700,000. Brandon Curry and Tamala Curry used the entities Curry Electric, C&C Systems, and C&C Network Systems, to file the applications. They submitted the applications for COVID-19 relief funds in the names of all three entities, using different EINs and/or social security numbers, giving the appearance that they were all independent entities, when they were all related and did not operate independently of one another. In the EIDL applications, Brandon Curry and Tamala Curry falsely exaggerated the number of employees, gross revenue, and cost of goods sold. In the PPP application, they exaggerated the number of employees and average monthly payroll expenses. The total maximum potential penalties for Brandon Curry are not more than 190 years’ incarceration, not more than a $6,250,000 fine, or both, and not more than 5 years of supervised release. The total maximum potential penalties for Tamala Curry are not more than 180 years’ incarceration, not more than a $6,000,000 fine, or both, and not more than 5 years of supervised release. This case is being investigated by Department of Homeland Security-OIG, FBI, and USPIS.
These Western District of Kentucky cases were investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Great Lakes Field Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service Pittsburgh Division, and the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, Covid Fraud Unit.
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.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Moore Capito announced a guilty plea today as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Southern District of West Virginia was a key participant in this surge effort.
From June 12 to September 1, 2026, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“The whole-of-government crackdown on fraud is delivering decisive results, and the SBA surge demonstrates that our commitment is only strengthening,” Capito said. “Our office has secured 33 criminal convictions for COVID-19 fraud and more than $5.1 million in restitution. We will continue to root out pandemic-era fraud wherever it exists, hold every offender accountable, and bring those responsible to justice.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns — not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications — but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
Capito announced that Nicholas Kind, 30, of Charleston, pleaded guilty on August 3, 2026, to theft of public money, property, or records. According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 1, 2021, a PPP loan application was submitted on Kind’s behalf. As part of his guilty plea, Kind admitted that the PPP loan application falsely stated that he had a business, that it was eligible for PPP funds, and that his gross income was $106,000 for the 2019 tax year. On March 2, 2021, the PPP loan application was approved and $20,000 in loan proceeds was deposited in Kind’s personal bank account. Kind admitted that he knew there was no legitimate reason for him to receive the $20,000 in PPP loan proceeds, and that he converted the money for his personal use. Kind is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Kind also owes $20,000 in restitution.
This case was investigated by the West Virginia State Police, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Office of Inspector General (NASA OIG).
“We are proud to be part of this collaboration with the Department of Justice, SBA OIG, and our law enforcement partners,” said Robert Steinau, Senior Official at the NASA Office of Inspector General. “This summer surge underscores our unwavering commitment to tracking down the bad actors who exploited vital COVID-19 relief programs for personal gain. Holding these fraudsters accountable is paramount; every stolen PPP loan represents taxpayer money taken directly from the honest Americans it was meant to help.”
NASA OIG is an active member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.
On April 7, 2026, 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:26-cr-81.
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United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
DETROIT, MI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan today announced charges, pleas and sentences as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Eastern District of Michigan was a key participant in this surge effort.
From June 12 to September 1, 2026, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“With every fraud against the government, these criminals steal from the pockets of the American taxpayer. With every prosecution, we bring justice and return money to those same Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder‑to‑shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
U.S. Attorney Gorgon Jr. announced that six defendants were included in the takedown involving approximately $8,200,000 in alleged losses. The takedown included the following cases:
United States v. Valente and United States v. Toma (26-cr-20534 and 26-cr-20385)
Peter Valente, and his then wife, Angela Toma, were indicted and charged with offenses involving a scheme to defraud the SBA. Using inactive companies to perpetrate the fraud, Valente and Toma successfully defrauded the SBA and other lenders of over $2,600,000. On June 30, 2026, Toma pleaded guilty Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, and she is awaiting sentencing. On August 19, 2026, Valente was indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, multiple counts of Wire Fraud, Money Laundering Conspiracy, and Tampering with Documents and Proceedings. Both Toma and Valente are facing up to 30 years’ imprisonment.
United States v. Patrick McNulty et al. (26-cr-20507)
Patrick McNulty and Joseph Gastorf were charged in an Information with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud. The object of the conspiracy was to cause the SBA and other third-party lenders to issue improper PPP loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) through false and fraudulent representations, then divert those proceeds for their own personal use. The defendants are alleged to have submitted 36 fraudulent PPP and EIDL loan applications for several companies, obtaining a total of 18 fraudulent loans for 9 different companies. The Information alleges over $2,700,000 in losses.
United States v. Tauheed Wilder (25-cr-20779)
Wilder executed a scheme that caused the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Company to issue unemployment insurance benefits based on false applications he filed or caused to be filed using the names and social security numbers of individuals without their consent or knowledge. In the span of approximately six months during height of the pandemic, Wilder submitted approximately 150 fraudulent unemployment insurance claims using the stolen Personally Identifiable Information, many using the same fraudulent tax form. During the same period, Wilder obtained two fraudulent PPP loans from the SBA. Wilder’s action resulted in a total loss of approximately $1,959,281. Following his guilty plea to Wire Fraud in April 2026, Wilder was sentenced on July 30, 2026, to 72 months’ in federal prison. He was also ordered to pay restitution as follows: $1,875,149.00 to the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency, and $84,132.00 to the U.S. Small Business Administration.
United States v. Karl Fultz (25-cr-20358)
In this case, defendant Karl Fultz made false misrepresentations to induce the SBA and lenders to issue an improper PPP loan in the amount of $866,688 for a business Fultz owned called Wheel Effects. In the application, Fultz made or caused to be made false and fraudulent claims that Wheel Effects had 41 employees and an average monthly payroll of nearly $350,000. Both figures were inflated to fraudulently increase the loan amount that Wheel Effects was eligible to receive. Fultz later used the ill-gotten gains for personal expenditures. On July 28, 2026, Fultz pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and faces a statutory maximum penalty of up to 30 years’ imprisonment.
These cases are being investigated by multiple agencies including Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan Particka, Andrew Yahkind, and K. Craig Welkener.
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.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of lawU.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Announcing Enforcement Surge That Exceeded $245 Million in Covid-Related Loan FraudRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, today announced a criminal indictment and a guilty plea as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
From June 12, 2026, to Sept. 1, 2026, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning more than 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million in intended loss to American taxpayers. Consistent with the Administration’s priorities to identify, investigate, and prosecute criminal fraud in the federal government entitlement and benefit programs, the Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office for the past year and a half has been taking a fresh look at Covid-related fraud.
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications—but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“When individuals exploit government programs for personal gain, they do more than steal taxpayer dollars—they undermine public trust and divert resources from the people who need them the most,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “Prosecuting Covid‑related fraud is an important way to preserve the integrity of government assistance programs and ensure that relief funds reach their intended recipients. The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to holding accountable those who sought to profit from the pandemic, protecting both taxpayers and the vital institutions that support our communities.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and Covid EIDL activity,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic. With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
In the Northern District of Illinois, COSETTE DEAL, 37, of Oak Park, Ill., was indicted on federal wire fraud charges. The indictment accuses Deal of submitting fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of businesses purportedly owned and operated by Deal and others, including purported sole proprietorships in the performing arts. The applications contained materially false statements and misrepresentations concerning, among other things, the purported entities’ number of employees, gross income, payroll, and existence of ongoing operations, the indictment states. Deal allegedly caused a loss of at least approximately $440,000. Deal has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is awaiting trial. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward A. Liva, Jr. of the Northern District of Illinois is prosecuting the case. The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Deal is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
In another case in the Northern District of Illinois, WILLIAM FREDERICK REED, of Hazel Crest, Ill., pleaded guilty to false statement and tax offenses. Reed admitted in a plea agreement that he submitted fraudulent PPP loans on behalf of his sole proprietorship, Off Duty Security. Among other things, Reed falsified his business’s payroll numbers, gross receipts, and net profits so that the business would appear as eligible to receive PPP loans, even though Reed knew it would otherwise not have been eligible. Reed caused a loss of $17,584. Reed’s sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hayley Altabef and Elie Zenner of the Northern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement 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. In the Northern District of Illinois, Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincenza Tomlinson serves as District Fraud Counsel for the Fraud Division.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of North Carolina today announced criminal prosecutions as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG) targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“The point of pandemic relief funds was to keep businesses afloat and people employed during the COVID pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “As you can see from this extraordinary coordination among law enforcement agencies to identify and hold these fraudsters accountable, we will stop at nothing to protect taxpayer dollars.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
In Western North Carolina, U.S. Attorney Ferguson announced that the following defendants have pleaded guilty or have been sentenced for PPP and other pandemic-related fraud:
U.S. vs. Robert Dailey – Dailey, 54, of Charlotte and a former resident of Fort Mill, South Carolina, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering for defrauding the SBA and SBA-approved lenders of more than $4.6 million in PPP and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) funds. From 2020 to 2023, Dailey submitted materially false and fraudulent loan applications on behalf of himself and other businesses. Dailey owned and controlled RemeDy Financial Services, LLC (RemeDy Financial), as well as Roma Capital LLC (Roma Capital). Roma Capital served as an agent and consultant to assist clients in obtaining relief funds. As part of the scheme, Dailey obtained almost $2 million in fraudulently obtained relief funds by submitting PPP and EIDL loan applications and supporting documentation for RemeDy Financial and other businesses that he had a personal association with that contained materially false statements and misrepresentations. In addition, Dailey received loan preparation fees for submitting fraudulent PPP loan and EIDL applications and supporting documents on behalf of other clients. This resulted in at least $2.7 million in fraudulently obtained relief funds to be disbursed to Dailey’s clients.
U.S. v. Glynn Hubbard, Jr. – Hubbard, Jr., 49, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money laundering for obtaining more than $1.2 million in fraudulent COVID-19 relief funds for himself and his customers. From March to August 2020, Hubbard, Jr. submitted fraudulent PPP and EIDL loan applications to the SBA and SBA-approved lenders, seeking to obtain relief funds for himself and for his customers’ businesses. To obtain the relief funds, Hubbard, Jr. falsified the loan applications and supporting documentation by including false financial information, fake employment data, and fraudulent tax returns. Of the $1.2 million in relief funds disbursed as a result of the scheme, Hubbard, Jr. received more than $570,000 for himself, and over $660,000 was disbursed to his customers. Hubbard, Jr. promoted the fraudulent scheme through personal referrals and in social media posts where he advertised that he was a PPP loan/EIDL consultant. Hubbard, Jr. received improper loan preparer fees for his consulting services totaling more than $150,000.
U.S. vs. Marquise Highsmith and Tatiana Vazquez - A couple formerly living in Midland, N.C., has been sentenced to prison for stealing millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds by defrauding the SBA and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after pleading guilty to wire fraud conspiracy affecting a financial institution and conspiracy to defraud the government. Marquise Highsmith, 42, was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $2,329,497.94 in restitution. Tatiana Vazquez, 39, was ordered to serve 18 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release and to pay $1,379,425.28 in restitution. From May 2020 to January 2022, Highsmith and Vazquez submitted multiple fraudulent applications to financial institutions and to the SBA to obtain PPP and EIDL loans for several purported businesses that they or other co-conspirators controlled. These applications contained fraudulent information related to the businesses’ tax filings, number of employees, and other fabricated financial information. As a result, Highsmith and Vazquez personally received hundreds of thousands of dollars in relief funds. After receiving the funds, the defendants filed loan forgiveness applications that also contained misrepresentations, and as a result some of the loans were subsequently forgiven. In addition, from July 2022 to February 2023, Highsmith and Vazquez engaged in a separate but related conspiracy to fraudulently obtain COVID-19 relief funds through other federal programs administered by the IRS, including the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) program and the Sick Leave and Family Leave Credit (SFLC) program. The defendants and their coconspirators defrauded the IRS by preparing and filing fraudulent forms that falsely millions of dollars in tax credits and other corresponding tax refunds. As a result, the defendants and their coconspirators improperly received more than $1 million in relief funds. (Ryan/Bozin)
U.S. vs. Richard Metz – Metz, 59, of Charlotte, was ordered to pay $520,832 in restitution and sentenced to 14 months of probation with 12 months to be served in home detention, after pleading guilty to wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining $520,832 in pandemic relief funds. According to court records, in August 2021, Metz submitted a PPP loan application that contained materially false and fraudulent representations regarding his purported business’s revenues and other information. Metz obtained $20,832 in PPP funds as a result of the fraudulent application. In addition, in September 2020, Metz and another individual submitted a fraudulent EIDL loan application for another company that contained fraudulent information. Based on the false financial information and fraudulent loan application, Metz obtained $500,000 in EIDL funds.
In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson credited the agencies that investigated the cases, including the SBA, SBA-OIG, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caryn Finley, William Bozin, Daniel Ryan, and Graham Billings.
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.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa – U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces criminal charges, pleadings, and sentencings as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)and its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. The Middle District of Florida was a key participant in this surge effort.
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to America taxpayers.
“Middle District of Florida prosecutors, investigators, and law enforcement partners are part of an integrated team dedicated to protecting our citizens and their hard-earned dollars from criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “When individuals set out to deliberately defraud government programs for personal gain and profit, they compromise the solvency of programs and services designed to provide critical assistance to legitimate businesses and individuals in times of need. This criminal activity will not be tolerated.”
“Pandemic load relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns – not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications – but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relieve programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast ever day – standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners – to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
The following cases are being prosecuted in the Middle District of Florida as part of the national surge:
Jared Eakes (34, Jacksonville) pleaded guilty to wire fraud and bank fraud and was sentenced to six years and six months in federal prison. He was also ordered to forfeit $7,340,742.20 and pay restitution to victims in the total amount of $5,101,200.92. According to court documents, between January 2019 and February 2020, Eakes portrayed himself as an investment advisor and stole approximately $2.7 million from victim investors’ retirement and investment accounts by withdrawing the funds in cash, using investor funds to pay personal expenses, transferring investor funds to a Las Vegas-based casino company, and by engaging in unauthorized options trading in a personal brokerage account. Additionally, between March 2020 and November 2021, Eakes fraudulently obtained four PPP loans totaling $4,752,270 for different shell companies he controlled, including two of the entities involved in the scheme to defraud investors. Once he obtained the PPP loans, Eakes used the funds to engage in options trading or withdrew them in cash. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint J. Locke.
Shawn Michael Simmerer (50, Winter Haven) was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Simmerer and his co-conspirator, Seth Downes (31, Portland, MI), submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of multiple companies, including Simmerer’s “leadership training” company, claiming nonexistent employees, payroll, and falsified tax records. They obtained more than $344,000 in PPP loan proceeds and later secured forgiveness of those loans using additional false documentation. Simmerer also filed fraudulent tax returns seeking COVID-related Employee Retention Credits and Sick and Family Leave Credits, ultimately obtaining more than $680,000 in IRS refunds. Simmerer was ordered to forfeit $334,300 and pay more than $1 million in restitution. Downes received three years of probation and was ordered to forfeit $194,000 and pay more than $195,000 in restitution. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Richard Varadan and Noah P. Dorman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Andrejko.
Michael Harvey (43, Tampa) has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, between March and June 2020, Harvey engaged in a scheme to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan for himself and EIDL loans for his company from the SBA. Harvey caused PPP and EIDL applications to be submitted that overstated gross monthly payroll, gross monthly income, gross annual revenues, and the number of employees. These misstatements, and others, fraudulently induced the SBA and PPP lenders to fund the loans. Harvey obtained $679,487 in proceeds from his illegal scheme, which he used for his own personal enrichment, including the purchase of a home in Tampa. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ross Roberts. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
Earlisha Louis (45, Newnan, GA) and her husband Somoza Louis (46, Newnan, GA) were sentenced to 37 months and 24 months of imprisonment, respectively, for their roles in attempting to steal more than $2 million in COVID relief funds. Additionally, the court entered a final order of forfeiture for their residence. According to court records, the Louises filed over 22 fraudulent loan applications for businesses they claimed to own and operate during the COVID pandemic. However, every application they submitted contained false information regarding the number of employees, payroll costs, and business operating expenses. Instead of using the funds for their intended purpose, the Louises spent the majority of the funds gambling at casinos and towards the purchase of a new house. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench.
Rashard Hutcherson (32 Wimauma), Chevell Hallback (55, Plant City), and Antonio Tinsley (47, Riverview) were each sentenced to probation for fraudulently receiving a PPP loan in the amount of $20,832. According to court records, Hutcherson, Hallback, and Tinsley were United States Postal Service employees at the time they submitted a false PPP loan application claiming to be a sole proprietor of a business. However, none of them actually owned the businesses they claimed on their applications and they spent all of the funds on personal expenses. These cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture for each case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
Neil Bryant (46, Winter Haven) pleaded guilty to fraudulently receiving a $52,500 EIDL for his business BOE Entertainment. Bryant’s application fraudulently claimed that BOE was a legitimate business with 12 employees, and that he would use the funds to keep his business open during the pandemic. Bryant spent the funds on paying off a car loan, paying for dental procedures, purchasing jewelry, and cash withdrawals. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
Raymond Carvil (61, Miami) pleaded guilty to fraudulently receiving a PPP loan in the amount of $97,500. According to court records, Carvil, with the help of others, submitted a fraudulent application for his business E & S Security. His application not only included false information, but also altered bank statements to make it appear his business was profitable. Once Carvil received his loan, he kicked back a portion of the funds to the co-conspirator that had helped him submit the application. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
Edward Malone (52, Jacksonville) has been charged with two counts of wire fraud affecting a financial institution. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison on each count. According to court documents, Malone completed fake rental agreements in order to obtain money from the federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), a program designed to help struggling renters pay their rent during the COVID pandemic. Malone allegedly filled out nine fraudulent landlord applications directly, or through his company Rags II Riches Consulting Inc., which resulted in payment of approximately $54,100 in ERAP funds. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint J. Locke.
Marcus Eichelberger (47, Jacksonville), formerly a church pastor, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and aiding and abetting wire fraud. According to court records, between March 2021 and February 2022, Eichelberger directed another individual, who was a congregant at Eichelberger’s church, to fraudulently complete and submit applications for PPP loans, purportedly on behalf of a catering business that did not exist. Eichelberger, in conjunction with the other individual, then fraudulently applied for forgiveness of the loans causing $49,999 in loss. Eichelberger and the individual retained the proceeds for their personal use. In addition, Eichelberger, in conjunction with another former church congregant, fraudulently applied for an EIDL, resulting in another $129,900 in loss. Eichelberger used the second congregant’s information to fraudulently apply for an additional EIDL to which he was not entitled, leading to another $129,900 in loss. In total, Eichelberger’s actions resulted in over $300,000 in loss. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney. The assert forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint Locke.
Justin Burns (36, formerly of Jacksonville) pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aiding and abetting wire fraud. Burns, in conjunction with another individual, fraudulently applied for an EIDL and an EIDL advance, purportedly on behalf of a business which did not exist. Ultimately, the EIDL was charged off by the SBA due to non-repayment, resulting in a total loss of $129,900. Burns and the individual retained the proceeds for their personal use. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney. The assert forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint Locke.
The Middle District of Florida worked with the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Surge: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, the Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, the City of Jacksonville Office of Inspector General, and the Tampa Police Department.
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.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Report Fraud:
Contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or online at TIPS.FBI.GOV.
If you are reporting cyber-enabled crime, to include online scams, email hoaxes, or other internet-enabled crimes, please submit a tip to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.GOV.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for Western District of Pennsylvania Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania today announced the conviction of two defendants as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“Small Business Administration-related fraud harms not only U.S. taxpayers, but the many small businesses and owners who play by the rules and are legitimately entitled to these funds,” said United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “As demonstrated by this nationwide enforcement surge, this type of fraudulent activity was prevalent and is still being uncovered and prosecuted years after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that this extremely serious criminal conduct continues to be prosecuted to the fullest extent in our district.”
“Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications—but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
In the Western District of Pennsylvania, United States Attorney Rivetti announced that two defendants have been convicted—one by jury trial—for PPP-related fraud during the takedown period, involving a total of nearly $1 million in alleged losses.
On July 8, 2026, April Jones-Munnerlyn, 51, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, with the help of a co-conspirator, Jones-Munnerlyn caused the filing of false employment tax returns for her business and a business owned by her husband. The returns falsely reported that the businesses paid wages to employees when they did not, and that the businesses were accordingly entitled to the employee retention credit, even though they were not. As a result, the defendant received more than $400,000 in fraudulently obtained refunds.
Jones-Munnerlyn also caused the submission of a false and fraudulent PPP loan application on behalf of her business, in response to which she received $20,833 to which she was not actually entitled. The defendant faces a sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine, or both, and agreed-upon restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of $411,731.18 and to the SBA of $20,833. The IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones-Munnerlyn.
On August 28, 2026, Jason Youngdahl, 44, of Brockway, Pennsylvania, was convicted on all charges—two counts of wire fraud, two counts of money laundering, and one count of theft of government money—by a federal jury in the Western District of Pennsylvania pertaining to his pandemic fraud. The evidence presented during the two-day trial established that Youngdahl fraudulently obtained more than $540,000 from the United States SBA in Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were funds intended to provide small businesses with relief from the COVID-19 pandemic. Youngdahl fraudulently obtained loan funds on five different occasions, each time representing that he would use the money for the small business he operated when, in fact, he planned to and did use the funds for personal purchases, including a personal vehicle and residence. The defendant faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Youngdahl.
“This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.”
“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.”
“Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.”
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.
U.S. Attorney Seeks Forfeiture of $61 Million in Cryptocurrency from the Iranian Military’s Black-Market Oil SalesRead the Press Release
Deputy United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Sean S. Buckley, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the FBI, James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced the filing of a civil forfeiture Complaint against approximately $61 million in cryptocurrency as the proceeds of black-market sales of sanctioned Iranian crude oil and petroleum products, intended to finance the Government of Iran and Iranian military components, including Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (“IRGC”), a designated terrorist organization.
“Today’s action demonstrates our determination to deprive the Government of Iran and its terrorist proxies of the illegal money they rely on to threaten the lives and safety of the citizens of the United States and elsewhere,” said Deputy U.S. Attorney Sean S. Buckley. “The Government of Iran relies on black-market sales of sanctioned crude oil to fund its military and foster terrorism in the Middle East and around the world, along with other malign efforts to develop a nuclear program and ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear payloads. As alleged in the complaint filed today, the Government of Iran used a network of cryptocurrency actors in China and elsewhere to launder more than $1.5 billion in illicit oil money intended to benefit the Iranian military and the terror-designated IRGC. Today we are seizing and seeking to forfeit more than $61 million of the Government of Iran’s money, which otherwise would have promoted hostile military action and terrorist attacks against the U.S. and our allies.”
“Today’s complaint demonstrates the FBI’s ability to follow the money, root out illicit schemes, and halt the stream of cryptocurrency to any government attempting to evade sanctions or committing terrorist activities,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “By cutting off funds raised by the black-market sale of crude oil, the Iranian military and terrorists are weakened. The FBI will not relent in its resolve to drain the funds from dangerous foreign actors.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint:(1)
Two Chinese companies, Blessed Trust and Hexa Whale, used trading accounts at the UAE-based cryptocurrency exchange Binance to launder the proceeds of black-market sales of Iranian oil, funneling the illicit funds to the Government of Iran, its agents, and/or its proxies, where they were used to finance terrorist and other activities of the Iranian government. Though Blessed Trust represents itself to financial services and cryptocurrency services providers as a wealth management or virtual asset custodial services firm, in fact it received and transferred the proceeds of sales of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products and provided “on-ramp” services to convert fiat currency into cryptocurrency, including through the use of U.S.-based cryptocurrency issuers. Hexa Whale similarly holds itself out as a commodities brokering company, but in fact provided similar services as Blessed Trust, working in concert with Blessed Trust and its affiliates. Blessed Trust and Hexa Whale’s clients include companies in China’s petroleum and petroleum products sector.
A series of interrelated unhosted cryptocurrency addresses, termed the “Entity A” addresses, have received and distributed more than approximately $1.5 billion of proceeds of the illicit sale of Iranian oil. Entity A has funneled Iranian oil money to IRGC-related money services businesses, IRGC-related cryptocurrency addresses, and an Iranian cryptocurrency exchange. These transfers of Iranian oil proceeds were facilitated in large part by Blessed Trust, Hexa Whale, and individuals associated with those entities, through transactions and cryptocurrency addresses designed and executed to obfuscate the nature, source, and ownership of the funds involved. Blessed Trust and Hexa Whale have also used the U.S. financial system to send or receive tens of millions of dollars as part of this scheme.
* * *
Mr. Buckley praised the outstanding work of the FBI New York Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. Mr. Buckley also thanked the Counterterrorism Section and the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Money Laundering, Narcotics, and Forfeiture Section of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division for their assistance and support for the investigation and today’s forfeiture action.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit and National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Brumwell, Jane Chong, David Markewitz, and Juliana N. Murray are in charge of the prosecution.
A civil forfeiture complaint is merely an allegation that money or property was involved in or represents the proceeds of a crime. These allegations are not proven until a court awards a judgment in favor of the United States.
^
As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey Inducted into West Virginia Boys and Girls Club Hall of FameRead the Press Release
MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has been named a West Virginia Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame recipient for 2026.
U.S. Attorney Harvey was selected because of his contributions to Clubs in the Eastern Panhandle and his previous work with the West Virginia First Foundation, which has awarded grant funding to Clubs across the state. He served on the Boys & Girls Club of the Eastern Panhandle’s Board of Directors from 2012–2016, assisting the chapter in its work with children across the region.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by this recognition,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “Thousands of children benefit from the services the Boys & Girls Club provides every year. They are making a true difference, shaping future generations in the Mountain State.”
The West Virginia Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame is in its fifth year, honoring Board Members and Alumni who have made an impact on Clubs across West Virginia. Recipients from the Eastern Panhandle include Board Members U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey, Gail Shade, and Andy DiMagno; Alumni Vicky Bullett; and Alumni Pat Murphy, who founded and volunteered with the photography program for more than 50 years.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America is a national nonprofit that delivers evidence-informed programs supporting academic success, character and leadership development, health and well-being, and workforce readiness. The organization operates through a network of more than 5,500 local Clubs reaching more than 4 million young people annually. Clubs nationwide offer after-school and summer programs for youth ages 6–18 and also support community engagement and college scholarships.
The ceremony was held in Morgantown, West Virginia, on September 10, 2026.
Two New Yorkers, Who Are Chinese Nationals, Plead Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy Involving the Interstate Transportation of Stolen Used Cooking OilRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Two New York men who are Chinese Nationals have pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and money laundering.
As alleged in the Indictment, 19 Defendants were charged with charges involving the theft of used cooking oil, which can be refined into biodiesel fuel and re-sold. Defendants drove trucks to restaurants and stole and attempted to steal used cooking oil from oil collection tanks located at restaurants throughout Iowa, Tennessee, Minnesota, Indiana, Ohio, Alabama, Illinois, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kentucky. Defendants then collected the stolen used cooking oil to warehouses throughout the United States including:
- Nevada and Ankeny, Iowa;
- Lewisburg, Tennessee;
- Dora, Alabama; and
- Tipp City, Ohio;
- Decatur, Illinois
Defendants subsequently sold the stolen used cooking oil, which was transported across state lines, and proceeds were laundered.
On September 9, 2026, Tianzhu Chen, 33, of Flushing, New York, and a Chinese National, pleaded guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy and Money Laundering and Yong Chen, 33, of Brooklyn, New York and a Chinese National, pleaded guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy. Sentencing is set for January 29, 2027. Each offense carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
Trial for the remainder of the defendants is scheduled to begin on April 12, 2027.
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Central Iowa Gang Task Force of the FBI Des Moines Resident Agency of the Omaha Field Office is investigating this case, with assistance from the: Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Story County Sheriff’s Office; Des Moines Police Department; West Des Moines Police Department; Iowa Department of Public Safety; Iowa Department of Transportation; Tennessee Bureau of Investigations; Gahanna, Ohio Police Department; Cullman, Alabama Police Department; Springfield, Illinois, Police Department; 18th Judicial District Drug Task Force in Tennessee; FBI Dayton Resident Agency of the Cincinnati Field Office; FBI Lexington Resident Agency of the Springfield Field Office; FBI Oklahoma City Field Office; FBI New York City Field Office; FBI Birmingham Field Office; FBI Amarillo Resident Agency of the Dallas Field Office; FBI Language Services; and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Two Indicted in Webster Parish Scheme for False Voter Registration and Alien VotingRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On September 9, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Bridget Johnson, 53, of Cotton Valley, with Fraudulent Voter Registration and Voting by an Alien, and Michael Wedderburn, 52, of Jamaica, with Voting by an Alien. If convicted, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and Wedderburn faces a maximum penalty of one year, along with additional financial penalties.
“Protecting the integrity of Louisiana’s elections—and our national elections—is essential to protecting our constitutional republic,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “The right to vote is sacred. When individuals undermine that process through fraud or abuse, they threaten the public’s confidence in a fair and lawful election system. Our Office will continue to safeguard the sanctity of the vote and hold accountable those who violate our laws.”
According to court documents, Johnson was a resident of Webster Parish and a candidate in the 2024 election for mayor of Cotton Valley. Wedderburn is a non‑citizen alien in the United States and was ineligible to vote in Louisiana elections.
On July 14, 2024, Johnson allegedly completed and electronically submitted a Louisiana voter registration application in Wedderburn’s name, falsely stating that he was a United States citizen. The indictment also alleges that Wedderburn went on to vote illegally in the November 5, 2024, election for a federal office, and in the Cotton Valley mayoral race.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case with assistance from the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth D. Reeg and Alexandra Porubsky with assistance from Legal Assistant Ginger Green.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
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(337) 262-6704Two Companies Agree to Pay $3.9 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Glow Networks, Inc. (“Glow Networks”), a Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in Texas, and Secova, Inc. (“Secova”), a Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in New Jersey, have agreed to pay $3,869,102.68 to resolve allegations that they improperly obtained Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) for which they were not eligible.
PPP was an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, and administered by the SBA. The program was created to support small businesses and to help them continue to pay employees and meet other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A second round of loans was authorized in early 2021. To be eligible for these Second Draw PPP loans, a business was required to certify that it had no more than 300 employees, including employees of all domestic and foreign affiliates.
Glow Networks applied for a $2,000,000 Second Draw PPP loan. Secova applied for a $184,097 Second Draw PPP loan. On their respective Second Draw loan applications, Glow Networks and Secova certified that they, together with their affiliates, had fewer than 300 employees. Glow Networks and Secova subsequently applied for (and ultimately received) forgiveness of their Second Draw loans. However, Glow Networks and Secova, together with their domestic and foreign affiliates, had more than 300 employees.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the settlement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare handled the case.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. In this case, the relator will receive a share of the settlement.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The settlement agreement is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cv-513-GBW.
The claims resolved by the settlement are merely allegations. There has been no determination of liability.
secova_settlement_agreement.pdfTwo Canadian men plead guilty to attempting to illegally export firearms from the U.S. to Dubai and ColumbiaRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Guy Deland a/k/a Mark a/k/a Security Prime, 68, and Charan Singh, 56, both from Quebec, Canada, pleaded guilty before U.S. District judge Richard J. Arcara to conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Between November 2016 and April 2017, Deland and Singh conspired with others, including Aydan Sin, to export defense articles on the United States Munitions List (USML) in violation of United States law.
In November 2016, Singh began communicating with an undercover law enforcement agent (UCA), inquiring about whether the UCA could export firearms from the United States to the United Arab Emirates. During the communications, Singh, Deland, and Sin were advised by the UCA that a license was required from the United States Department of State in order to legally export the firearms. The defendants acknowledged the illegality of the attempted exports, provided an encrypted Blackberry device to the UCA for the purpose of secure, covert communications, and wired approximately $70,000 USD from Canada to the United States as a 50% down payment for the export of the goods.
On December 7, 2016, Sin, through telephone and email, requested the gun order include 9mm handguns and Uzi machine guns. On December 9, 2016, Sin told the UCA that rather than get an export license, he wanted the UCA to export the firearms “the wrong way.”
Subsequently, on January 10, 2017, the UCA emailed two revised invoices to Deland and Sin. One invoice was for the export to Dubai of three new Glock 9mm firearms, six magazines, two used Mini Uzi submachine guns, two suppressors, and 1,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition for the firearms, for a total cost of $20,575. The second invoice was for the export to Colombia (thru Panama) of 37 new Glock 9mm firearms, 74 magazines, 13 used Mini Uzi submachine guns, 13 suppressors, and 3,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition for the firearms, for a total cost of $121,175. Both invoices contained language stating that exporting these products was prohibited by law without an export license. On February 6 and 7, 2017, an undercover bank account, located in the Western District of New York, received two bank wire transfers from a bank account in Canada, each in the amount of $34,990 USD, representing 50% of the total purchase price of the firearms, suppressors, and ammunition.
On March 10, 2017, Sin contacted the UCA and asked if the shipment of guns to Columbia would occur in a few days. On March 20, 2017, the UCA used existing sea freight shipment tracking numbers and told Sin and Deland that the firearms, suppressors, and ammunition were shipped to Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, and the shipment of guns to Columbia would occur on March 29, 2017. The UCA also provided them with tracking information.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango and Trial Attorney Beaudre Barnes from the Counterintelligence & Export Control Section of the National Security Division at the Department of Justice. The pleas are the result of an investigation by Homeland Security investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone. Additional assistance was provided by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Deland is scheduled to be sentenced on December 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., Singh on January 16, 2027, at 11:00 a.m., both before Judge Arcara.
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Truck driver transporting more than 4,700 pounds of methamphetamine sentenced to 15 years and 8 months in prisonRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ruben Saenz, 38, of Los Angeles, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 15 years and eight months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, Saenz played a central role in a Mexico‑based drug‑trafficking organization responsible for moving thousands of pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl into the United States. The FBI dismantled the network in June 2024 during “Operation Toxic Waste.”
The organization transported powdered and liquid methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl—both pills and powder—across the border using cars and semitrucks. Drugs were stashed in gas tanks, tucked inside projectors and batteries, and buried among produce. The traffickers tracked their shipments with GPS devices hidden in the loads.
Saenz served as a key player in the group’s semitruck operation. As early as February 2023, he purchased vegetable boxes later packed with narcotics destined for transport across the border. On September 22, 2023, he helped facilitate one of the organization’s largest shipments: a semitruck loaded with methamphetamine. After meeting the truck with a rented Penske vehicle, Saenz oversaw the transfer of the hidden cargo. Just after midnight, law enforcement stopped the Penske truck he was driving and discovered more than 4,700 pounds of methamphetamine inside.
Saenz pleaded guilty on March 16, 2026.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Marshals Service, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team, the Merced Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Los Angeles Strike Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Cody S. Chapple are 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. The Central Valley HSTF comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.