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1 December 2025
Delano Man Sentenced to 6 Years and 8 Months in Prison for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
Omar Vayas Duran, 45, of Delano, was sentenced today to six years and eight months in prison by U.S. District Judge Edward J. Davila for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between Sept. 23, 2020, and June 29, 2021, Duran conspired with Jesus Manuel Morfin Villa, 31, of Delano, and others to acquire and distribute fentanyl. On one occasion in June 2021, Duran supplied Morfin Villa with approximately 2,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to sell.
On Aug. 14, 2023, Morfin Villa was sentenced to 14 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamine and fentanyl.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly A. Sanchez and Cody S. Chapple prosecuted the case.
Court Sentences Mobile County Man to 14 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – On December 1, 2025, United States District Court Chief Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock sentenced Charlie Alexander Hall to 168 months’ imprisonment for Conspiracy to Traffic Methamphetamine after Hall agreed to sell undercover agents approximately 8.5 ounces of methamphetamine for $2000 in May 2024.
Court documents show that law enforcement surveilled Hall at his home in Semmes, Alabama, where he placed a 5-gallon bucket containing the methamphetamine he was planning to sell in his vehicle. Surveillance continued after Hall left his residence with the methamphetamine. Officers attempted to stop Hall for a traffic infraction, and he accelerated, driving through a residential area at speeds greater than 100 MPH. Hall threw the 5-gallon bucket containing the methamphetamine out of his car and the bucket opened, spreading the methamphetamine across the road.
The chase continued at speeds over 100 MPH until Hall stopped and was apprehended with the assistance of a canine. Law enforcement recovered the bucket and approximately 1,275 grams of methamphetamine from the roadway. The same day, law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Hall’s home and recovered approximately 1 more kilogram of methamphetamine in a similar 5-gallon bucket behind the home.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, and the Mobile County Sherriff’s Office - Narcotics Unit investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys George May prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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.
Clint Man Gets Nearly a Decade in Federal Prison for Transporting AliensRead the Press Release
EL PASO, Texas – A Clint man was sentenced in a federal court in El Paso today to 115 months in prison for conspiracy to transport aliens.
According to court documents, Jesus David Escareno aka El Gerver, 19, acted as the leader of an alien smuggling cell operating in the Western District of Texas and the District of New Mexico. From July 2024 through February 2025, Escareno conspired with dozens of drivers to pick up and transport aliens in furtherance of their illegal entry into the United States. In total, he was directly involved in the transportation of more than 100 aliens.
Escareno was arrested April 7 and pleaded guilty on Sept. 9. U.S. District Judge Leon Schydlower presided over the case.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mathew Engelbaum 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
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Crawfordville Woman Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lisa M. Ezell, Jr., 39, of Crawfordville, Florida, was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners are committed to eradicating drug traffickers from our communities, and my office will continue to back up excellent investigations like this one with successful prosecutions to send these peddlers of poisonous drugs to federal prison. The residents of the Northern District of Florida deserve safe streets and drug-free communities, and that is exactly what we will deliver.”
According to court records, the defendant sold narcotics from her residence in Crawfordville, Florida. Law enforcement executed a search warrant in July 2025 at the defendant’s residence and located more than 400 grams of methamphetamine, 18 firearms, and over $7,000 in cash. The defendant had a prior federal conviction in the Northern District of Florida for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“This sentence underscores the strong partnership between the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Agencies, and Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office. Methamphetamine and the unlawful possession of firearms while trafficking drugs harm individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods. We remain committed to protecting our community and fostering a safer future for everyone.”
“This conviction sends a clear message: those who choose to traffic dangerous drugs while possessing illegal firearms will be held fully accountable,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas G. Ingegno. “The combination of methamphetamine distribution and an arsenal of more than a dozen firearms posed a serious threat to the safety of the community. Thanks to the thorough work of the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, HSI, and the Northern District of Florida United States Attorney’s Office, we have removed both a criminal element and a dangerous narcotics and weapons from our streets.”
The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possession of a MacHine Gun and Other Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – James Wiley Kelley, Jr., 51, of Altha, Florida, pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act weapon, possession of a machinegun, and possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case demonstrates the unified commitment of our state and federal law enforcement officers to use the full force of the law to keep our communities safe. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute offenders, like this defendant, to the fullest extent as a warning to criminals that violating our nation’s laws in the Northern District of Florida is a one-way ticket to federal prison.”
Court documents reflect that United States Customs Border Protection Agents identified a parcel bearing a fictitious name and an Altha, Florida, address while inspecting packages from a flight originating in China. Examination of the parcel revealed a small box titled “In-Car Vent Mount” which contained black plastic vent mounts for a smart phone, and three silver metal component parts comprising a machine gun conversion device (MCD). Following a controlled delivery of the MCD, agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence, resulting in the seizure of pistols, rifles, shotguns and ammunition of various calibers, as well as methamphetamine. Further investigation confirmed the defendant’s acceptance of firearms as payment for methamphetamine. The defendant is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to prior felony convictions for Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Marked Police Car and Possession of a Controlled Substance.
The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jason R. Coody is prosecuting the case.
Sentencing is set for February 5, 2026, at 11:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.
The defendant faces a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment for possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act weapon, an identical penalty for possession of a machinegun, and a maximum of fifteen years’ imprisonment for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, in addition to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Broome County Man Sentenced to 19 Years for Drug Trafficking, Firearm Offenses, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Corey Jordon Green, age 33, of Vestal, New York, was sentenced on October 3, 2025 to 19 years in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy spanning the United States. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York, made the announcement.
As part of his previously-entered guilty plea to a seven-count superseding information, Jordon Green admitted that from at least January 2022 through November 2023 he possessed with intent to distribute, distributed, and conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and heroin in and around Broome County. Jordon Green and his co-conspirators obtained these drugs from sources of supply in California and elsewhere. The Court also found Jordon Green responsible for distribution of methamphetamine. As part of his plea, Jordon Green also admitted to possessing five firearms—three handguns and two AK-47 style weapons—to further his drug-trafficking activities, all while being prohibited from possessing firearms due to having been previously convicted of multiple felonies. Green also admitted to conspiring with others to launder his drug-trafficking proceeds.
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes imposed a 19 year prison term, concurrent 3 and 5-year terms of post-release supervision, and a money judgment of over $185,000 of unrecovered proceeds from his drug trafficking.
Co-conspirator Michael Jacobs, age 35, of Endicott, New York, was previously sentenced by Chief Judge Sannes in December 2024 to a 130-month (10 years and 10 months) term of imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy. Chief Judge Sannes also imposed on Jacobs a 5-year term of post-release supervision.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine are a scourge on our communities. Coupled with unlawful firearms possession, the danger is multiplied exponentially. This substantial sentence holds the defendant responsible for the serious harm he caused to the Broome County community, protects the public from his dangerous actions for many years and should serve as a strong deterrent for others engaging in the same conduct. Let this significant prison sentence be a warning to others that if you engage in this unlawful conduct, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Keegan stated: “Today's sentencing reflects the gravity of the defendant's crimes and underscores the critical importance of dismantling these dangerous networks, which continue to place the often-unsuspecting public at risk. Drug trafficking, particularly involving fentanyl, devastates our communities, claims countless lives, and fuels addiction. As demonstrated today, HSI Syracuse, together with our law enforcement partners, is unwaveringly committed to protecting New Yorkers and holding accountable those who profit from poisoning our neighborhoods.”
IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Chavis stated: “Jordon-Green operated a multi-layered criminal enterprise that included weapons possession, narcotics trafficking and movement of those illicit funds through various banks and money apps. IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to working in lock-step with our law enforcement partners to make sure dangerous criminals like Jordon-Green are put behind bars for their greed and continued threat to their own community.”
New York State Superintendent Steven G. James stated: “The New York State Police will continue to work with our federal partners to hold those who traffic in fentanyl, heroin, and other dangerous drugs accountable. This investigation shows how coordinated enforcement can remove violent offenders, illegal weapons, and narcotics from our communities. I want to thank HSI, IRS-CI, the DEA, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and our VGNET members for their dedication to protecting the people of Broome County and the surrounding region.”
This case was investigated by HSI, IRS-CI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the New York State Police VGNET. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristen Grabowski and Ben Gillis prosecuted this 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.
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Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
CONCORD – Jeison Eulogio Dume-Calderone, 28, formerly of Boston, pleaded guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and 400 grams of fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on two occasions in March 2023, Dume-Calderone sold a total of 667 grams of methamphetamine to a United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) confidential source in Seabrook, New Hampshire. Later the same month, DEA agents arrested Dume-Calderone after he sold approximately 8.5 kilograms of methamphetamine and 498 grams of fentanyl to the same confidential source at a different Seabrook location.
A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment on March 26, 2025. Dume-Calderone remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending his sentencing. The charges carry a maximum term of life. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Court scheduled sentencing in this matter for March 12, 2026. The Department of Homeland Security has determined that Dume-Calderon is a citizen of the Dominican Republic who is present in the United States unlawfully.
“Today’s guilty plea underscores our office’s commitment to combatting the flow of methamphetamine and fentanyl into our communities. This defendant chose to traffic in highly addictive and dangerous drugs and now will be held accountable. We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the public and dismantle drug trafficking networks,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan.
“The state of New Hampshire continues to be faced with a drug crisis unlike ever before and the DEA stands committed to work to keep highly addictive drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine out of the Granite State,” said Jarod Forget, DEA Special Agent in Charge, New England Field Division. “Those responsible for distributing lethal drugs and contributing to the loss of life for those battling addiction need to be held responsible for their actions. DEA and its local, state and federal partners are committed to bringing to justice those that distribute these poisons.”
The investigation was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennfer C. Davis is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Bay Area Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Stockton Drug BuyRead the Press Release
Robert Godinez, 53, of Hayward, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd to 13 years in prison for possessing methamphetamine and heroin with the intent to distribute, and for using a cellphone to facilitate drug trafficking offenses, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on Aug. 30, 2019, law enforcement officers pulled over Godinez on a traffic stop after he purchased methamphetamine and heroin from a drug dealer in Stockton. A search of Godinez’s vehicle resulted in the discovery of 2 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately a half pound of heroin. Additionally, during the prosecution of this case, Godinez submitted false declarations to the district court and lied to the assigned probation officer, resulting in the application of an obstruction of justice sentencing enhancement.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the San Joaquin County Probation Department, the Stockton Police Department, and the Tracy Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Lee and Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Sacramento comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Northern California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
Acting U.S. Attorney Welcomes Special Assistant U.S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Since October, Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III has sworn in seven Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs) as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys (SAUSAs).
SAUSAs are able to prosecute cases in federal court under the supervision of the U.S. Attorney’s Office while remaining employed as ADAs. The ADAs recently sworn in as SAUSAs include: First ADA Michael T. Johnson (Herkimer County); Chief ADA J. Sam Rodgers (Madison County); ADAs Manpreet Kaur and Kathleen Hofmann (Montgomery County); and Chief ADA Christopher Bednarski and Senior ADAs Sara Fitzpatrick and Alphonse L. Williams III (Onondaga County).
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “One of my top goals as the Acting U.S. Attorney is to strengthen the partnerships among federal, state and local law enforcement organizations. When we work seamlessly together, more criminals are taken off the street, more weapons are taken out of their hands, and our communities are safer. I am proud to welcome more ADAs as SAUSAs, and I thank District Attorneys Jeffrey S. Carpenter, Christina Pearson, William Fitzpatrick, and Robert A. Mascari for their partnership in this important endeavor.”
Herkimer County DA Jeffrey S. Carpenter stated: “Herkimer County First Assistant District Attorney, Michael Johnson, was recently sworn in by Acting US Attorney John Sarcone as a Special Assistant US Attorney. This honor, the first in Herkimer County’s history, exemplifies the commitment by AUSA Sarcone to ensure the continued safety of the residents of Herkimer County through a joint partnership between our two agencies.”
Montgomery County DA Christina Pearson stated: “This is an exciting opportunity for my office and for the people of Montgomery County, and I thank Acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone for his continued partnership. I am confident ADAs Kaur and Hofmann will represent Montgomery County with integrity and distinction.”
Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick stated: “I want to personally thank my friend US Attorney John Sarcone for following through on his initial promise to work cooperatively with all 32 DAs Offices within the jurisdiction of the Northern District of New York. Through his cross designations of members of my office as Special Assistant US Attorneys, I look forward to working with John on crimes involving gun trafficking, gang violence, child pornography and human trafficking, and narcotic sales all in an effort to keep Onondaga County one of the safest places to live in New York State.”
Acting Madison County DA Robert A. Mascari stated: “The opportunity provided by Acting United States Attorney John Sarcone to have my Chief Assistant District Attorney Sam Rodgers appointed as a Special Assistant United States Attorney is greatly appreciated. Reaching out to counties like Madison in this way speaks volumes to the willingness of Mr. Sarcone and the federal agencies to work closely with Madison County on matters of mutual concern. I know Sam is the perfect person for this appointment and being our connection to the United States Attorney’s Office. We look forward to working with Mr. Sarcone and his staff to improve and promote public safety throughout Central New York.”
Pictured above (left to right):
Herkimer County District Attorney Jeffrey Carpenter, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Herkimer County First Assistant District Attorney Michael Johnson, his wife, Andrea, and daughters, Emma and Lily.
Pictured above (left to right)
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Madison County Chief Assistant District Attorney J. Sam Rodgers.
Pictured above (left to right):
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Manpreet Kaur, Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney Kathleen Hofmann, and Montgomery County District Attorney Christina Pearson.
Pictured above (left to right):
Daniel LaDuke, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Diane Fitzpatrick, Onondaga County Senior Assistant District Attorney Sara Fitzpatrick, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, and Sean Fitzpatrick.
Pictured above (left to right):
Pictured above: Onondaga County First Chief Assistant District Attorney Joseph Coolican, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Chief Assistant District Attorney Christopher Bednarski and his wife, Maria.
Pictured above (left to right):
Onondaga County Senior Assistant District Attorney Alphonse L. Williams III, Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick, and Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Meets with Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector GeneralRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – On October 7, 2025, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III had an introductory meeting with Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Sean P. Roberts of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
DOL OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan Mellone stated: “The Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General greatly values its partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York. Their commitment to pursuing justice is essential to our mission of safeguarding the integrity of DOL programs and protecting America’s workers. Through our collaborative efforts, we will continue to hold accountable those who defraud federal programs, exploit workers, or compromise workplace safety. This partnership enhances our ability to build strong cases and reinforces the public’s trust in government programs.”
Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Today’s meeting underscores the strong and essential partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General. We remain committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to safeguard federal programs, protect workers, and ensure that those who engage in fraud or exploitation are held fully accountable. I look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to uphold the rule of law and strengthen public trust throughout the Northern District of New York.”
Pictured above (from left to right):
U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Chief Karen Lesperance, U.S. Department of Labor OIG Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Sean P. Roberts, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, and U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Chief Cyrus Rieck.
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28 November 2025
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the three-day period ending November 26, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 29 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 6 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 54 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 4 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for drug trafficking and domestic violence.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
The United States Announces Agreement with Northwestern UniversityRead the Press Release
Today, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reached an agreement with Northwestern University (Northwestern) to safeguard its students, employees, and faculty from unlawful discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin, including race-based admissions practices and a hostile educational environment directed toward Jewish students.
As part of the agreement, Northwestern University will pay $75 million to the United States through 2028. Northwestern agrees to adhere to federal anti-discrimination laws, ensuring that the university does not preference individuals based on race, color, or national origin in admissions, scholarships, hiring, or promotion. Northwestern shall maintain clear policies and procedures relating to demonstrations, protests, displays, and other expressive activities, as well as implement mandatory antisemitism training for all students, faculty, and staff.
Northwestern’s President and Chair of the Board of Trustees shall each certify under penalty of perjury each quarter the university’s full compliance with the agreement. The United States shall close pending investigations and treat Northwestern as eligible for future grants, contracts, and awards.
“Today’s settlement marks another victory in the Trump Administration’s fight to ensure that American educational institutions protect Jewish students and put merit first,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Institutions that accept federal funds are obligated to follow civil rights law — we are grateful to Northwestern for negotiating this historic deal.”
“Universities that receive federal funding have a responsibility to comply with the law, including protecting against racial discrimination and antisemitism,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate the significant improvements Northwestern has made and are gratified to reach an agreement that safeguards of rights of all the university’s applicants, students, and employees.”
“The Northwestern agreement is a huge win for current and future Northwestern students, alumni, faculty, and for the future of American higher education,” U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “The deal cements policy changes that ‘will protect students and other members of the campus from harassment and discrimination,’ and it recommits the school to merit-based hiring and admissions. The reforms reflect bold leadership at Northwestern, and they are a roadmap for institutional leaders around the country that will help rebuild public trust in our colleges and universities. Congrats to Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon and all those involved in negotiating this landmark deal!”
Tallahassee Man Sentenced to a Decade in Federal Prison for Attempting to Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jelani Amari Petersen, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity after federal jury previously found him guilty. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I am proud of the great work by my office and our state and federal law enforcement partners to take this sex offender off our streets. This case exemplifies the mission set forth by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pamela Bondi: protect America’s children against predators like this defendant. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute such offenses to keep our most vulnerable members of the community safe from the predations of these sick individuals.”
Evidence presented at trial and court records show that in September 2024, federal, state, and local law enforcement executed Operation Lifeguard, an undercover operation designed to apprehend individuals who use the Internet to sexually exploit children online. During the operation, the defendant communicated with an undercover officer who he believed to be a minor female and expressed interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child in exchange for money. When the defendant arrived at a pre-arranged meeting location, law enforcement arrested him and searched his car. A subsequent search of his cellular phone confirmed the defendant’s communication with the undercover officers.
“Child exploitation is one of the most heinous crimes we investigate,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “This sentencing should be a message to others who try to engage in criminal sexual activity and steal the innocence of our children. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will stop at nothing to find you, arrest you and make sure you can’t victimize anyone again.”
“This ten-year sentence reflects the seriousness of attempting to entice a minor into unlawful sexual activity,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas G. Ingegno. “Crimes targeting children – whether committed online or in person – inflict profound harm, and we remain steadfast in our mission to protect the most vulnerable. The dedicated work of law enforcement and prosecutors ensured that this individual was brought to justice, and the outcome sends a clear message: those who attempt to victimize minors will face significant consequences.”
Petersen’s imprisonment will be followed by a five-year term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Meredith Steer.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Tallahassee Man Pleads Guilty to Making a False Statement to a Federal AgencyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Norman John Horner, II, 43, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty to false statement to a federal agency. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Court documents reflect that on July 13, 2024, a United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Officer requested the defendant’s name and date of birth for purposes of issuing him a citation. The defendant provided the officer another individual’s identity. A citation was issued based on the information given. On September 6, 2024, the defendant’s false statement was revealed when the individual whose identity was used appeared in court in response to the citation. After further investigation, law enforcement confirmed the defendant had falsely identified himself to the officer.
Horner is scheduled for sentencing before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor on January 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Tallahassee, Florida. Horner faces a term of up to five years’ imprisonment.
The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Miami Man Pleads Guilty to Making Online Threats Against U.S. SenatorRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A Miami man pleaded guilty on Oct. 2 to making online threats against a U.S. Senator.
According to court documents, on June 9, Walter George Bechtel, III, 39, used an X (formerly Twitter) account to post a threatening message directed at a U.S. Senator. The post stated, in part:
“You used to hate millionaires when you first started and then began to hate billionaires once you yourself became a millionaire through shady backroom deals. I will kill you personally old man. (Smiling Halo Emoji)”
When confronted by law enforcement, Bechtel admitted to sending the communication and reaffirmed his desire to harm the Senator.
Bechtel pleaded guilty to the interstate transmission of threatening communications. A sentencing hearing is set for Dec. 18. Bechtel faces up to 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida and Chief Michael G. Sullivan of the U.S. Capitol Police made the announcement.
The U.S. Capitol Police Threat Assessment Section is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc Anton is prosecuting the case.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20327.
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Gainesville Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Thousands of Images and Videos of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Daniel Reginald Hanna, II, 38, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to receipt and 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: “I deeply appreciate the commitment of our state and federal law enforcement partners to keeping our children safe from predators like this defendant by zealously investigating these crimes. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute these sick individuals to the fullest extent to ensure they face significant prison time.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant maintained a significant and disturbing collection of child pornography. While executing a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in March 2025, law enforcement located numerous electronic devices that contained child sex abuse material, including 163 videos in a folder entitled “Kids,” and over 2,500 images of child pornography on two cell phones.
Hanna faces a minimum of five years’ imprisonment and up to forty years total. Following his release, Hanna will have to register as a sex offender and will be on supervised release for at least five years.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Gainesville Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm in Gainesville, Florida, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Former Guyanese Presidential Candidate and Businessman Charged in $50 Million Tax Evasion and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury in Miami returned an indictment on Oct. 2 charging two Guyanese nationals with participating in a multi-year scheme to evade millions of dollars in taxes and royalties owed to the Government of Guyana through fraudulent gold export practices and related money laundering activities.
According to court documents, Nazar Mohamed, 72, and Azruddin Mohamed, 38, were owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise, a gold wholesaler and exporter in Guyana that sold gold to buyers in Miami and Dubai. Guyanese authorities impose approximately a seven-percent tax and duty on exported gold. From about 2017 through at least 2024, the pair allegedly enriched themselves and defrauded the Government of Guyana by concealing the true quantity and value of gold exported by their company.
The indictment alleges that the couple devised a system in which Mohamed’s Enterprise paid taxes and royalties on one shipment of gold to obtain official government seals, then reused those same seals on subsequent shipments to avoid paying additional taxes and royalties. To further their scheme, they allegedly shipped empty boxes bearing Guyanese government seals from Dubai through Miami to Guyana and paid bribes to customs and other government officials to facilitate the illegal shipments.
In total, the pair allegedly exported at least 10,000 kilograms of gold through Miami, causing an estimated loss of approximately $50 million to the Government of Guyana.
Nazar Mohamed is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and mail fraud. Azruddin Mohamed is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud. The indictment also alleges that Azruddin Mohamed engaged in a separate scheme to evade over $1 million in Guyanese taxes in connection with the shipment of a Lamborghini from Miami to Guyana. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of approximately $5.3 million in gold bars shipped by Mohamed’s Enterprise that were seized at Miami International Airport on June 11, 2024.
Both were sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control in June 2024. Azruddin Mohamed, who unsuccessfully ran for president of Guyana in September 2025, is an incoming member of Guyana’s parliament.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Criminal Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa and Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami and New York, made the announcement.
This case was investigated by HSI Miami and New York, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, and Customs and Border Protection.
Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger and Trial Attorney Jil Simon of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. Deputy Chief Josh Paster is handling asset forfeiture.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20441.
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Former Tallahassee Man Pleads Guilty in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – John Kuhlmann, 78, of Daytona Beach, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to identify and dismantle this fraud scheme. My office will to continue to aggressively prosecute fraudsters to hold them accountable for their crimes and to secure restitution for the victims they exploited.”
Court documents reflect that beginning in November 2018, the defendant opened two corporations in Florida, “Seminole Services, Inc.” and “QB Accounting Services,” which purportedly were in business to provide computer technical support services. Neither business was registered as required by law as a money transmitting service. The investigation revealed the defendant opened the businesses in order to receive money from victims and then wired those funds to his co-conspirators who were located in foreign countries. The co-conspirators used a variety of tactics on victims—including convincing them that their computers had been infected with viruses, had been hacked, or their financial information was otherwise at risk of being stolen—to fraudulently convince them to pay as much as $150,000 for computer repair services. Over the course of his involvement in the fraud scheme, the defendant transferred approximately $3.5 million dollars in victim funds through his business bank accounts.
Kuhlmann faces up to five years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He has agreed to pay over $1 million in restitution to the victims.
The case involved a joint investigation by the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith L. Steer and Justin M. Keen.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2025, at 3:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark Walker.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.
More information about the department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints can be filed with the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, at www.ovc.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit theU.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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Convicted Human Trafficker from Nicaragua Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the CountryRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Edwin Joel Martinez-Cruz, also known as “Edwin Joel Ibarras-Ardon” and “Edwin Ibarra,” 38, of Nicaragua, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry into the United States. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal illegal alien thought he could repeatedly violate our nation’s laws without consequence. Wrong. My office stands ready to aggressively prosecute serial offenders, like this defendant, to ensure he is kept off our streets, fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the criminal illegal aliens who threaten the safety of our communities.”
Court documents reflect that the defendant departed the United States in 2022 after an Immigration Judge entered an Order of Removal. He illegally returned to the United States less than a year later and was convicted for human trafficking of a child. Rodriguez now faces up to two years in prison followed by removal from the United States.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke DiSalvo is prosecuting the case.
Martinez-Cruz’s sentencing is scheduled for January 15, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Albuquerque Serial Rapist Sentenced for Kidnappings and Sexual AssaultsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A serial rapist who terrorized women in Albuquerque between 2017 and 2018, was sentenced to life in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system. As a result, a sentence of lifetime incarceration is served without parole.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, beginning in 2017, Timothy Bachicha, 43, abducted at least four women, holding them captive for hours while repeatedly strangling and sexually assaulting them. These assaults occurred in October 2017, April 2018, September 2018, and October 2018.
During these attacks, Bachicha forced the victims to perform sexual acts and strangled them to the point of unconsciousness multiple times. Bachicha held and assaulted the women for lengthy periods of time, ranging from 4 hours up to 20 hours. At the time of the assaults in September and October 2018, Bachicha was on state pretrial release and wearing an ankle monitor. Investigators confirmed his presence at the last two crime scenes through GPS data from his ankle monitor. In addition to this data, the evidence against Bachicha included surveillance footage and physical evidence, including DNA.
A federal grand jury first issued an indictment against Bachicha on July 25, 2019, charging the violation from October 2018. Then, on January 29, 2020, a federal grand jury added Count 2, which covered the violation from September 2018.
Trial was held from December 11-15, 2023. According to evidence presented at trial and other publicly available court records, on October 30, 2018, Bachicha forcibly abducted Jane Doe 1, pulling her into his vehicle by her neck. Once in the vehicle, Bachicha drove to a dirt lot near the UNM Cancer Center just east of Interstate 25. There, Bachicha held Jane Doe 1 for 20 hours while he strangled and sexually assaulted her. He released her the early afternoon of October 31, 2018, after receiving alerts that the battery on his court-ordered GPS monitor was dying.
Following news coverage of this crime, Jane Doe 2 came forward to disclose that, weeks earlier, she had been held for 16 hours by Bachicha in a semi-truck in Albuquerque near Interstate 25 and Comanche Road. During the attack, Bachicha strangled Jane Doe 2 and sexually assaulted her. Bachicha’s GPS monitor confirmed his presence at the location and time described by Jane Doe 2.
Both women fought Bachicha during their attacks, and both testified against him in trial. The jury also heard from two other women who suffered similar attacks by Bachicha in October 2017 and April 2018.
On December 15, 2023, after two and a half hours of deliberation, a federal jury convicted Bachicha of two counts of kidnapping with intent to commit a sexual assault, following detailed testimony from four of the victims, describing how he abducted, strangled, and sexually assaulted them over prolonged periods, leaving them physically injured and traumatized. At sentencing, Bachicha faced up to two life sentences, with no mandatory statutory minimum. The court sentenced Bachicha to a life sentence for each of the two kidnapping convictions, to run concurrently with one another, for a total sentence of lifetime incarceration.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office adopted and continued the investigation of this case following extensive investigation by the Albuquerque Police Department, with assistance from the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office and the New Mexico State Probation and Parole Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah J. Mease prosecuted the case.
51 illegal aliens locked in trailer among 235 new cases filed in relation to the Southern District’s continuing efforts to secure borderRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of 235 more individuals have been charged in immigration and border security-related matters from Nov. 21-27, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The filed cases include 17 people allegedly involved in human smuggling. Another 70 are charged with illegally entering the country, while 146 more face charges of felony reentry after prior removal. Most of those individuals have prior felonies such as narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes and more. Other relevant cases charged this week relate to firearms and other immigration crime.
One notable case involves Greibein Alexis Pinot-Duarte, a Honduran national who allegedly smuggled more than four dozen illegal aliens in a refrigerated tractor-trailer near Freer. According to the complaint, he appeared nervous, and a K-9 alerted to the rear doors. The charges allege a further inspection of the 55-degree trailer led to the discovery of 51 illegal aliens concealed in a cramped compartment beneath boxes of produce with limited means of escape. If convicted, Pinot-Duarte could receive up to 10 years in federal prison.
Criminal complaints also allege several illegal aliens unlawfully reentered the country without authorization. One is Christian Omar Amezquita-Munoz, a Mexican male found near Donna, according to charges. He allegedly has a prior conviction for possession with intent to distribute 14 kilograms of cocaine and was sentenced to 100 months in prison before his removal in 2022.
Authorities also allegedly found another Mexican male near Hidalgo this week. Oscar Enrique Govea-Acuna has a conviction for evading arrest with a vehicle and was subsequently removed in 2018, according to the charges.
Both of these men could receive up to 20 years in federal prison, upon conviction.
These and other cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
26 November 2025
Venezuelan National Sentenced to Prison for Bank and Passport FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza has sentenced Nerio Alberto Ortega Delgado (45, Kissimmee) to 33 months in federal prison for bank fraud and passport fraud. Ortega Delgado pleaded guilty on September 4, 2025.
According to court documents, Ortega Delgado engaged in a bank fraud scheme in which he deposited fake checks into bank accounts and then withdrew or attempted to withdraw the funds before the bank detected the fraud. As part of the scheme, Ortega Delgado manufactured fake checks, obtained a false identity via a counterfeit foreign passport and other identification documents, used the false identity to create a shell company and fraudulent bank accounts, and paid other individuals to use their bank accounts to perpetrate the fraud. In total, Ortega Delgado attempted to steal over $867,000.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Del Mastro.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors AUSA Mary V. “Jena” King and Legal Assistant Niurka “Nikki” Machin on Their RetirementRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida proudly celebrated the retirements of Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary V. “Jena” King and Legal Assistant Niurka “Nikki” Machin during a clap-out ceremony honoring their decades of dedicated federal service.
Jena King has been a steady and respected presence in this Office for more than 36-years. Her career stands as a model of integrity, professionalism, and devotion to justice that has shaped generations of prosecutors and staff. She has served this community faithfully in defense of the rule of law with the grace, judgment, and compassion throughout her time in the Southern District of Florida.
“Jena’s family’s legacy of public service is woven into the very fabric of our community. Every day, we walk through the doors of the King Federal Justice Building—a powerful reminder of her father’s enduring contributions to the bench and to this District. Jena has carried that same spirit forward in her own distinguished service, leaving behind a record of excellence that will continue to inspire those who follow.” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida.
Nikki Machin has served the Office for nearly 20 years, primarily supporting the Narcotics Section. She is known for her discipline, reliability, and her ability to manage complex and demanding casework with calm and care. Prosecutors relied on her judgment and steady presence. Her work strengthened this Office’s mission and contributed to some of the most significant prosecutions in the District.
“Nikki was a constant source of support for our Narcotics Section. She kept demanding cases on track and brought order and professionalism to the most complex cases. She made our mission stronger, and we are deeply grateful for the service she gave this Office and the people of South Florida.” – U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones
The clap-out ceremony brought together colleagues and leadership to recognize King and Machin as they concluded their federal careers and embarked on the next chapter of their lives. Their legacy of excellence, professionalism, and service will remain an enduring part of the Office’s history. The Office extends its thanks to City of Miami Chief of Police Manny Morales for his continued support and for his officers joining the Office in recognizing the distinguished service of both honorees.
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Two women sentenced to prison for Hampton Roads drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Two women were sentenced to prison for their roles in a vast Hampton Roads-based drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, federal law enforcement opened an investigation into large-scale drug trafficking activity at Lux Auto in Newport News around June 2021. The conspirators used the business as a base of operations, storing illegal drugs in vehicles throughout the parking lot of Lux Auto. Thirty-seven defendants were charged in a 127-count superseding indictment returned on Sept. 11, 2023.
Amanda Bell, 24, was a courier and a distributer of drugs and narcotics for the organization, selling marijuana and fentanyl pills. Over the multiple controlled transactions conducted by law enforcement, Bell sold more than 40 grams of fentanyl. Bell also served as a money courier for the organization, travelling between Virginia and California with large quantities of money related to drug trafficking. On March 3, 2022, Bell and a companion were intercepted in route to California with a suitcase containing more than $35,000 intended as part of the organization’s marijuana trafficking activities.
Bell pled guilty on April 26 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. Bell was sentenced Nov. 25 to five years and 10 months in prison.
Farrah Fair, aka 10K Fay, 26, was a courier for the organization, transporting marijuana in checked suitcases on commercial flights between the supplier in California and her co-conspirators in Virginia. Fair pled guilty on Jan. 14 to use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking. Fair was sentenced Nov. 25 to two years and six months in prison.
Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric M. Hurt, Alyson C. Yates, and Luke Bresnahan 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 protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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. 4:23-cr-54.
Two Armed Carjackers Sentenced to over 8 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentencings of two Memphis men for a 2024 carjacking.
According to information presented in court, on September 2, 2024, Martez Banks, 32, and Marcus Pledge, 37, followed an Acura to an apartment complex after an alleged minor car accident. When the driver of the Acura stopped, Banks and Pledge forced the driver out of the vehicle at gunpoint. After patting down the victim, one of them struck the victim in the head with a firearm. Banks and Pledge then drove off in the Acura and their vehicle. Officers from the Memphis Police Department caught Banks in the Acura two days later. Pledge was arrested by members of the Memphis Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit shortly thereafter.
Both Banks and Pledge were indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024 on charges of carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. This case was assigned to Chief District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman of the Western District of Tennessee.
On March 5, 2025, Banks pled guilty as charged and was sentenced on June 20, 2025 to 105 months in federal prison for his offenses. Pledge pled guilty as charged on August 12, 2025 and was sentenced to 105 months in federal prison on November 20, 2025.
There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Armed carjacking is a cowardly act involving short-sighted gain with long term consequences for both victims and offenders. When violent criminals act impulsively, we will respond deliberately with the full weight and force of federal sanctions to suppress, punish, and incapacitate."
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Memphis Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit.
Assistant United States Attorney Greg Wagner prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Township Supervisor Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – A Pennsylvania woman was sentenced today to 12 months plus a day in prison for evading her income taxes and committing bank fraud.
According to the United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Linda Tarlecki, age 63, of Aristes, Pennsylvania, was formerly a township supervisor for Conyngham Township in Columbia County from 2006 through 2018. In July 2025, Tarlecki entered a guilty plea before Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann to tax evasion and bank fraud. At her guilty plea hearing, Tarlecki admitted that from 2013 through 2017, she misappropriated funds from Conyngham Township by drafting duplicate payroll checks for herself and reimbursing herself for mileage and supplies that did not exist. In total, Tarlecki misappropriated over $147,000 from the township. Additionally, Tarlecki failed to pay income taxes on the fraudulent income resulting in a loss to the Internal Revenue Service of over $38,000.
“No matter what the source of income, all income is taxable,” stated Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, Chief Judge Brann ordered Tarlecki to serve two years of supervised release and to pay $187,427 in restitution to the United States.
The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania State Ethics Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur prosecuted the case.
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Three indicted for burglary conspiracy involving Puget Sound area post officesRead the Press Release
Tacoma – Three residents of the South Sound region face federal charges for their post office burglary scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. Justin Tate, 36, most recently of Tacoma, Gregory Foster, 58, of Port Orchard, Washington, and Paula Gamboa, 37 of Federal Way, Washington, were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 21, 2025. Tate was sentenced for an unrelated crime in Kitsap County yesterday and transferred to federal custody, where he will appear for arraignment in Tacoma at 1:30 PM. His co-defendants were previously arraigned.
According to the indictment, Tate led a burglary crew that targeted post offices in the Puget Sound region. The break-ins spanned Kitsap, Thurston, Pierce, King, and Island Counties. The thieves kept cash and other valuables from the stolen mail. Tate went on to allegedly use identity and financial documents obtained from victims’ mail to commit bank fraud. The specific burglaries are these:
- July 4, 2024, Tate and Foster allegedly break into the Olalla Post Office wearing face masks to obscure their identities.
- July 8, 2024, Tate and Foster allegedly attempt to enter the restricted area of the Littlerock Post Office – they disconnect the security camera but cannot breach a metal shutter into the restricted area.
- July 9, 2024, Tate and Gamboa allegedly enter the Fox Island Post Office and steal mail from various post office boxes.
- July 15, 2024, Foster allegedly breaks a window and enters the Anderson Island Contract Post Office and steal $3,000 in stamps, $100 in cash and about 100 postal money orders.
- July 24, 2024, Tate allegedly enters the Vashon Island Post Office and steals mail from multiple post office boxes.
- July 27, 2024, Tate and Foster allegedly force their way through the back door of the Snoqualmie Post Office and steal mail.
- July 30, 2024, Tate and Gamboa allegedly steal mail from boxes inside the Preston Post Office.
- July 31, 2024, Tate and Gamboa break into the Clinton Post Office on Whidbey Island and steal mail from post boxes and from a mail drop box.
The indictment charges Justin Tate with two counts of bank fraud and lists various transactions that constitute the bank fraud charges. Tate opened a bank account in the name of one of the victims and then transferred or attempted to transfer more than $3,500 for his own use. He attempted to deposit more than $13,000 in fraudulent checks. Tate also ran up $7,200 in point-of-sale charges with a stolen debit card.
Tate is also charged with two counts of Aggravated Identity Theft for his use of the identities of his victims in the bank fraud scheme.
Conspiracy is punishable by up to five years in prison. Bank fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Aggravated Identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum two years in prison to run consecutive to any other prison term imposed in the case.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Victoria Cantore.
Three Philadelphia Men Charged in Connection with a String of Summer CarjackingsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Rasheen Harvey-Fields, 18, Tavon Fry, 20, and Saair Steele, 21, all of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were charged by superseding indictment with conspiring to commit, and committing, multiple carjackings, and related firearms offenses.
Harvey-Fields and Fry made their initial appearances in federal court in Philadelphia this week and Steele made his initial appearance last week. All three are detained in federal custody.
The superseding indictment alleges that, from approximately June 25, 2025, until at least July 11, 2025, the defendants and others conspired to steal at gunpoint numerous vehicles, often using the vehicles they carjacked to commit other crimes, including robbery, aggravated assault, and more carjackings.
As further alleged, the defendants sometimes used the pretense of buying or selling marijuana to mislead their victims and facilitate the carjackings, and other times targeted individuals who were exiting their vehicles.
The three defendants are charged with conspiring to commit a total of 11 carjackings, all in Philadelphia, with the alleged participants in each carjacking noted:
June 25, 2025 – 1400 block of Bouvier Street (Harvey-Fields and others)
June 28, 2025 – 3100 block of West Arizona Street (Harvey-Fields and others)
June 29, 2025 – 3100 block of West Arizona Street (Harvey-Fields, Fry, and others)
July 1, 2025 – 11th and Wallace streets (Harvey-Fields and others)
July 3, 2025 – 1700 block of North 60th Street (Harvey-Fields, Steele, and others)
July 3, 2025 – 700 block of South 55th Street (Harvey-Fields, Steele, and others)
July 3, 2025 – 6000 block of North 5th Street (Harvey-Fields and others)
July 6, 2025 – 6100 block of West Girard Avenue (Harvey-Fields and others)
July 6, 2025 – 600 block of West Cumberland Street (Harvey-Fields, Steele, and others)
July 7, 2025 – 3100 block of West Arizona Street (Harvey-Fields and others)
July 7, 2025 – 2100 block of Natrona Street (Harvey-Fields and others)
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Branwen McNabb O’Donnell and Shannon Zabel.
The charges and allegations contained in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Three Mexican Nationals Convicted for Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Crescencio Diaz-Diaz, 36, Marcelo Perez-Santiz, 33, and Roman Gomez-Diaz, 32, all of the country of Mexico, pleaded guilty and were sentenced by a federal judge. Diaz-Diaz and Perez-Santiz pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a removed alien, and all three defendants pleaded guilty to possession and use of fraudulent employment documents. The pleas and sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “These criminal aliens tried to lie, cheat, and steal their way into this country by illegally crossing our borders and presenting false documentation. I deeply appreciate the close collaboration between our state and federal law enforcement partners that enabled these successful prosecutions, which continue to deliver on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America by robustly enforcing our national immigration laws.”
Various court documents reflect that Diaz-Diaz, Perez-Santiz, and Gomez-Diaz were arrested following the execution of federal criminal search warrants at a Navarre business, Emerald Coast Lawns, and an adjacent residence in July 2025. During the search, law enforcement found employment records showing that each defendant presented a Social Security card and a permanent resident card (sometimes referred to as a “green card”) bearing their names and/or photographs that were all determined to be fraudulent. Immigration files showed that none of the defendants had record of legal entry into the country, and that both Diaz-Diaz and Perez-Santiz had been previously deported. All three defendants were sentenced to time served and will be deported.
“These convictions underscore our commitment to protecting the integrity of our nation’s employment systems,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas G. Ingegno. “Using fraudulent work not only undermines lawful hiring practices but also exposes our communities to significant risks. The successful prosecution of these three illegal aliens reflects the diligent work of HSI and out partners. We will continue to enforce federal law and hold accountable those who engage in document fraud.”
“This case highlights our ongoing efforts to identify, arrest and remove people who violate federal immigration laws,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “FBI Jacksonville will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue those who undermine lawful immigration and ensure the security of our borders and communities.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Florida Highway Patrol, United States Marshals Service and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Tallahassee Man Found Guilty of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession of a MacHine GunRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Sincere M. Perkins, 25, of Tallahassee, Florida, was found guilty by a federal jury of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a machine gun. The guilty verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin: “Thanks to the outstanding collaboration between our local and federal law enforcement partners to investigate this case, and this successful prosecution by my office, our community will be made safer while this violent felon finds himself in federal prison. With this conviction, we take yet another step toward fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the perpetrators of violent crime who have plagued our streets for far too long.”
Evidence at trial demonstrated that members of the United States Marshals Task Force located the defendant at an apartment in Tallahassee because of an outstanding warrant for his arrest. A subsequent search of the apartment found multiple firearms, including a pistol that had been modified to fire as a machinegun.
Ballistics from two of the recovered firearms matched shell casings from a prior shooting in Quincy, Florida. The defendant’s DNA was found on both firearms that had been used in the shooting, and a recorded jail call revealed that the defendant was knowingly in possession of the firearms despite his status as a previously convicted felon.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 9, 2026, at 2:30 pm. at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.
This conviction was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Quincy Police Department, and the Tallahassee Police Department, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain 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.
As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Sioux City Man on Parole Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man who was on parole for a Woodbury County, Iowa burglary, was sentenced September 29, 2025, to more than 5 years in federal prison.
Mchennlley Mutsuo, age 40, from Sioux City, received the prison term after a May 7, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon and drug user.
Mutsuo was serving his term of parole for a March 1, 2021, conviction of second-degree burglary when Iowa parole officers were conducting a home visit. Upon entering his property, officers located a plate with drug paraphernalia and a white crystalline substance. Sioux City Police were informed, and an Iowa search warrant was obtained, where officers located two semi-automatic pistols and a revolver, along with 132 grams of methamphetamine.
Mutsuo was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 69 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Mutsuo is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by Sioux City, Iowa Police Department and the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tabaco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4063.
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San Diego Woman Admits Hiding Father-In-Law’s Death in Philippines to Collect His Retirement BenefitsRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO –Josephine Guinauli Aquino of San Diego admitted in federal court today that she hid her father-in-law’s overseas death to illegally collect more than $175,000 in retirement benefits that should have stopped when he died.
In her plea agreement, Aquino, 64, admitted that at the time of her father-in-law’s death in 2019, she knew that he was a veteran receiving monthly retirement benefits from both the Defense Finance Accounting Service and the Social Security Administration. Aquino knew that these benefits would immediately cease when the government became aware of her father-in-law’s death, , but because he died in The Philippines, the U.S. government was not automatically informed. Instead, Aquino admitted that she concealed his death from both the government and the bank where her father-in-law’s benefits were deposited each month. As a result, the United States continued to deposit these funds each month through October 2025.
After his death in August 2019, Aquino admitted, she used her father-in-law’s checkbook to forge at least 150 checks drawn on his bank account. In addition, Aquino admitted that she received monthly pension checks from the Nestle Corporation that were mailed to her father-in-law’s last address in the United States, which Aquino fraudulently endorsed and deposited into his bank account, using his bank card.
Aquino admitted that by concealing the death of her father-in-law, she caused an additional loss to the U.S. Department of Treasury for three economic impact payments issued during the COVID-19 pandemic, which were intended for her father-in-law’s benefit but converted to Aquino’s use.
As a part of her plea agreement, Aquino has agreed to make full restitution to the Defense Finance Accounting Service, the Social Security Administration, the Treasury Department and the Nestle Corporation. Aquino was released pending her sentencing on February 13, 2026, before District Judge Janis L. Sammartino.
“By stealing benefits that did not belong to her, this defendant took money away from other veterans and elderly Americans in need,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “This office is committed to prosecuting those who defraud these important government programs.”
“Ms. Aquino’s guilty plea is an acknowledgement of her six-year fraud scheme in which she benefited financially to the detriment of the American taxpayer by unlawfully obtaining Department of Defense and Social Security benefits,” said John E. Helsing, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office. “DCIS, along with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice, will continue to aggressively investigate those who seek to enrich themselves through fraudulent schemes targeting the U.S. government.”
“Ms. Aquino’s deliberate decision to conceal her father-in-law’s death abroad and steal Social Security benefits for her own benefit represents a serious violation of the law,” said Christian Assaad, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, San Francisco Field Division, Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. “Safeguarding the integrity of Social Security programs is central to our mission, and we will continue to ensure that those who misuse these benefits are held accountable.” This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey D. Hill.
DEFENDANT Case Number 25-CR-4282-JLS
Josephine Guinauli Aquino Age: 64 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Receipt, Concealment, and Retention of Stolen Public Money – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 641
Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison and a $357,623.00 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Department of Defense – Office of Inspector General
Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Court Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death. The sentencing took place on November 24, 2025.
Anthony Sorensen, 37, was sentenced to life in federal prison, followed by six years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Sorensen was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He was found guilty after a three-day jury trial in March 2025.
The indictment stemmed from a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in Rapid City on June 5, 2023. During the investigation, law enforcement obtained messages between Sorensen and the victim that indicated Sorensen had agreed to sell the victim a fentanyl pill in the early morning hours of June 5, 2023. Security camera footage from nearby businesses showed the victim arrive at the apartment that Sorensen was living in at the time. The victim was found unresponsive approximately one block from Sorensen’s home just a few hours after the victim had been seen arriving at Sorensen’s residence. An autopsy later confirmed that the victim consumed a lethal amount of fentanyl.
“So much death, misery, and pain has been caused by fentanyl dealers,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “I am so grateful to our law enforcement partners that this dealer is now out of business for good.”
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, which is comprised of investigators from the Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the National Guard Counter-Drug Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Sorensen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Quincy Felon Returned to Federal Prison for Thirteen YearsRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Zanntayfey Yohoun Bennett, 42, of Quincy, Florida was sentenced to a total of 157 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and marijuana, and for violation of the terms of his supervised release for 2019 federal convictions for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and organized dog fighting. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, this repeat offender has been removed from our streets and will serve a lengthy sentence in federal prison. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to Take Back America from the drug traffickers and career criminals who have terrorized our communities for far too long, and this successful prosecution is yet another step toward achieving that goal.”
According to court records, in February 2025, law enforcement developed information indicating that the defendant, who is a multi-convicted felon serving a five-year term of federal supervised release, was involved in drug trafficking. After a series of controlled operations, during which illegal drugs were purchased from the defendant, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence. During the search, law enforcement seized cocaine base, also known as “crack” cocaine, suspected synthetic cathinones, and marijuana. The defendant had multiple prior federal and state felony drug trafficking convictions, which qualified him as a career offender under federal sentencing rules.
“I’m proud of the great work our agents and local police officers did to remove this career criminal and multiple-time felon from North Florida streets,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “This effort will greatly benefit the communities in and around Tallahassee.”
The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Poplar man sentenced to over 5 years in prison for aggravated sexual abuse on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Poplar man who previously pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual abuse on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced yesterday to 68 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Chucho Cruzito Garfield, 40, pleaded guilty in June 2025 to one count of aggravated sexual abuse.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on June 14, 2022, law enforcement responded to a report of drunk juveniles fighting at a residence in Poplar, Montana. When the officers arrived, one of them talked with Jane Doe’s brother who told the officer Doe was inside the home. He claimed Garfield held a knife to Doe’s throat and prevented her from leaving a backroom of the house.
An officer saw Doe inside the house, was familiar with her from previous interactions, and was aware that the Fort Peck Tribal Court had issued a “pick up and hold” for her. After confirming with dispatch that the “pick up and hold” for Doe was still active, the officer went into the house and arrested Doe. Garfield was also arrested after Doe reported he had given her a black eye the day before—and a bruise was visible beneath her eye—and he had prevented her from leaving the house by holding a knife to her throat.
Ultimately, Doe reported Garfield walked her from her house to his house on June 14. While outside the house, Doe’s brother confronted Garfield about the black eye. Garfield grabbed Doe by her arm and jerked her inside the house. Doe told Garfield she wanted to go home, but Garfield told Doe she had to have sex with him and let him slap her around before she could go home. Garfield then forced Doe to perform oral sex on him, and he held a black pocketknife to her throat and chest during the assault.
Garfield initially denied striking or sexually abused Doe but eventually admitted Doe was telling the truth: he had forced her to perform oral sex on him.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice conducted the investigation.
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Placer County Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing Nearly $1.5 million in COVID-Relief Loans to Fund Lavish LifestyleRead the Press Release
Jedrek Upton, 45, of Lincoln, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, between January 2021 and May 2022, Upton repeatedly lied on applications for COVID-19 disaster relief funds that he submitted on behalf of his businesses. The misrepresentations included false statements regarding the number of employees or payroll and that he would spend the money to alleviate economic injury caused by COVID-19. In support of these applications, Upton also submitted falsified IRS documents.
In reality, some of the businesses had no employees or payroll, and Upton spent much of the money received on personal expenses. Upton received nearly $1.5 million in ill-gotten loans from the United States, a large portion of which was ultimately forgiven after Upton falsely claimed that he had spent it on payroll. Instead of legitimate business expenses, the money that Upton received allowed him to fund a lavish lifestyle. He paid off personal credit cards, transferred money to other people, leased a Ferrari and a Lamborghini, and made a large down payment on a $2.7 million, 10-acre property.
In addition to pleading guilty, Upton agreed to forfeit his interest in the property he purchased and pay nearly $1.5 million in restitution to the United States.
This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma is prosecuting the case.
Upton is scheduled to be sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on March 24, 2026. Upton faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the wire fraud count, and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the money laundering count. 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.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Jeffrey Hernandez, 40, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 120 months in prison, the statutory maximum sentence allowed by law, and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Wendy Beetlestone for illegal possession of a firearm by felon.
Hernandez was charged by superseding information and pleaded guilty in August of this year.
As detailed in case filings and admitted to by the defendant, Hernandez possessed a 9mm semiautomatic pistol loaded with 30 live rounds of ammunition, despite knowing that he was not permitted to possess a firearm given his status as a convicted felon.
As further detailed in court documents and hearings, Hernandez was found in possession of the firearm after the FBI and Philadelphia police received credible information that the defendant and three other men were on their way to kill someone in retaliation for an earlier shooting.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the Philadelphia Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Martin and Special Assistant United States Attorney Meagan Gordon.
Pensacola Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Donavon Idris Ellis, 27, of Pensacola, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office is committed to supporting the work of our brave local, state, and federal law enforcement partners who keep our communities safe. We will continue to aggressively prosecute all violations of our laws and hold offenders accountable.”
Court documents reflect that a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence in March 2024, during which law enforcement found and seized two loaded firearms, boxes of bulk ammunition, and multiple magazines, including a large capacity drum magazine. The defendant admitted to law enforcement that the two firearms were his. In 2021, the defendant was federally convicted of three counts of distribution of carfentanil,
The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Pensacola Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Forbes.
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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Nigerian Man Convicted in Federal Trial of Fraud and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal jury convicted Saheed Sunday Owolabi, 34, from Nigeria on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering for his role in several cyber fraud schemes.
“Fraud schemes like this drain millions from hardworking people in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “We will continue to work with our federal partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who abuse the anonymity of the internet to enrich themselves by stealing from our citizens.”
According to court records and trial evidence, Owolabi pretended to be a woman to build online relationships with men in the United States, a scheme known as a romance scam. He and his co-conspirators used these fake relationships to convince victims to send money and personal information. Owolabi and others used bank accounts provided by the victims to launder money from other fraudulent operations. Owolabi joined a scheme that stole and laundered more than $120,000 from a victim in the Eastern District of North Carolina and defrauded hundreds of others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, fraudsters gained unauthorized access to information about a pending home closing and sent spoofed emails instructing the victim to transfer funds to a bank account they controlled. When the victim complied, the money went to accounts linked to Owolabi and his associates. Owolabi then directed others on how to move and distribute the money, including sending portions to himself. Investigators recovered chat messages in which Owolabi admitted he was running a romance scam until he realized he was actually communicating with another fraudster. That individual mocked Owolabi’s efforts and told him to “learn how to do a clean job.”
Owolabi faces up to 40 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release when sentenced in January 2026.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad DeVoe is prosecuting the case, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-CR-137-M.
New York City Based Drug Supplier Pleads Guilty for Role in Ulster County Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Defendant, Cecilio Wareham, age 48 of Queens, New York, pled guilty in October to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York; and Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa, whose office leads the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement Narcotics Team (URGENT).
In April 2025, ten defendants, including Wareham, were indicted for their roles in drug trafficking organizations that distributed large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine in and around Kingston, New York and other areas of Ulster County. The organizations are alleged to have distributed over 11 kilograms of cocaine and hundreds of grams of cocaine base. Through the execution of search warrants in Ulster County and additional enforcement actions, law enforcement seized over five kilograms of cocaine and 270 grams of cocaine base.
As part of his guilty plea, Wareham admitted to supplying his co-conspirator, Greg Tejada, with quantities of cocaine for redistribution, including over 2 kilograms of cocaine that were seized from Tejada in October 2024.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “This guilty plea sends a clear and unequivocal message: we will aggressively dismantle the drug-trafficking networks that threaten the safety of our communities. Our work is far from finished, but this case proves that those who choose to spread dangerous narcotics will face decisive accountability. I strongly commend our federal, state, and local partners for their unwavering dedication and coordination throughout this investigation.”
HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel stated: “This plea is the result of a sustained, collaborative investigation aimed at dismantling criminal networks that traffic dangerous drugs into our communities. HSI New York and our law enforcement partners will continue to target the supply chains, distributors, and organizations responsible for fueling addiction and violence. Our efforts will remain relentless as we work to safeguard the public.”
Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa stated: “URGENT and our partnering agencies remain committed to protecting Ulster County from the destructive impact of narcotics trafficking. This case highlights the strength of interagency cooperation and the dedication of our investigators. We will continue to pursue those who bring illegal drugs into our neighborhoods and ensure they are brought before the justice system.”
Sentencing is scheduled for February 26, 2026, before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. Wareham faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life, a fine of up to $10 million, and a supervised release term of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The remaining defendants, all of whom are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, would face the following minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment upon conviction:
NameAgeResidenceMinimum Term of ImprisonmentMaximum Term of ImprisonmentDamon Dunn, aka “Moe”48Tilson, New York10 yearsLifeGreg Tejada, aka “Bear,48Highland Lakes, New Jersey10 yearsLifeRichard Johnson35New York, New York10 yearsLifeKevin Dunn52New York, New York5 years40 yearsAidan White23Kingston, New York5 years40 yearsKristine Scibelli41Middletown, New York5 years40 yearsXavier Patterson, aka “Xay”28New York, New York5 years40 yearsAllen McGraw, aka “Snoop”44Utica, New YorkNone20 yearsRaymond Robinson53Kingston, New YorkNone20 yearsAdditionally, Damon Dunn, Raymond Robinson, Greg Tejada, Kristine Scibelli, Xavier Patterson, and Richard Johnson are charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance, and Aidan White and Damon Dunn are charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
The charges in the indictments are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by HSI; the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with URGENT (the Ulster Regional Gang Enforcement and Narcotics Team); Federal Bureau of Investigation, and New York State Police Special Investigations Unit, Valhalla.
Assistant United States Attorney Ashlyn Miranda is prosecuting the case.
These prosecutions are 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.
New Jersey Doctor Charged with Unlawfully Distributing Adderall and XanaxRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A New Jersey doctor was arrested on November 4, 2025, for unlawfully prescribing Adderall, a Schedule II controlled substance, and Xanax, a Schedule IV controlled substance, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba announced.
David Holbrook, 70, of Bloomsbury, New Jersey was charged by Indictment with nine counts of unlawfully distributing and dispensing controlled substances, each in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). Holbrook appeared on November 4, 2025, for his initial appearance and arraignment in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa. The defendant was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On nine occasions between or around January 2021 and September 2022, Holbrook, a licensed psychiatrist, prescribed Adderall and Xanax to multiple patients outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. If convicted, Holbrook faces a statutory maximum sentence of twenty years in prison and a $1 million fine on each count.
Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Habba credited special agents, task force officers, and diversion investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz in Newark, New Jersey, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake A. Nasar of the Office’s Health Care Fraud and Opioid Enforcement Unit.
Victims with any information regarding Dr. David Holbrook may contact the DEA New Jersey Field Division at 571-362-3700.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel: Jay Surgent, Esq.
holbrook.indictment.pdfMonmouth County Man Sentenced to 63 Months’ Imprisonment for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Monmouth County man was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment for armed bank robbery, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba announced.
Jeffrey L. Kniffin, 51, of Wall Township, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi in Trenton federal court on July 22, 2025, to a one-count Information charging him with armed bank robbery. U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi imposed the sentence on November 24, 2025 in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On October 23, 2024, Kniffin entered a bank in Wall Township, New Jersey armed with a loaded handgun, approached a bank teller, and demanded cash from the teller. After demanding the money, Kniffin removed the handgun from his pocket and displayed it towards the teller. During his interaction with the teller, Kniffin instructed multiple times, “Don’t do anything stupid.” Kniffin received approximately $27,072 in cash from the teller and then fled the bank. He was apprehended and arrested by law enforcement several minutes later. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement recovered from Kniffin and his immediate surroundings a loaded handgun and more than $25,000 in cash.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Quraishi sentenced Kniffin to three years of supervised release following Kniffin’s term of imprisonment, ordered forfeiture of Kniffin’s robbery proceeds and crime gun, and ordered restitution in the amount of $1,938.
Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Habba credited task force officers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark, with the investigation leading to the sentencing. She also thanked the Wall Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean O’Halloran, and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, for their assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
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Defense counsel: John M. Holliday, Esq.
Mexican Nationals Arrested and Charged in Million-Dollar Real Estate SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO –Victor Hugo Villalobos Almazan and Nayeli Noemi Montoya Rodriguez, both Mexican nationals, were arrested by federal agents Tuesday and charged with fraudulently selling properties they did not own.
The defendants were taken into custody upon their arrival at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston after arriving from Mexico. They appeared in federal court in Houston today to face wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft charges. An identity and detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday in Houston.
According to the complaint, the defendants pretended to be the owners of vacant or undeveloped plots of real estate and sold the properties to unwitting third parties by forging signatures of notaries and wiring the proceeds abroad to bank accounts in Mexico and Jordan. According to the complaint, the defendants netted nearly $1 million from two illegal real estate sales.
The complaint alleges that between March and April 2023, Villalobos impersonated the recorded owner of a parcel of vacant land in San Diego for purposes of selling the property and collecting the proceeds. Villalobos allegedly opened a bank account in his own name, with the indication that he was “doing business as” the entity that was the recorded owner of the real property. Villalobos then directed the escrow company to wire the proceeds from the sale into his bank account and then wired nearly all of the illicit proceeds to bank accounts in foreign countries.
Photo evidence shows Villalobos dropping off forms necessary to complete the fraudulent sale of the real property at the escrow company responsible for facilitating the sale.
According to the complaint, Montoya executed a similar scheme in March 2023. She impersonated the recorded owner of real estate with a vacant structure, selling it for approximately $400,000. The complaint said she opened a bank account in her own name, “doing business as” the recorded owner of the property, and directed the proceeds of the sale into that account. Once the proceeds were deposited, Montoya wired most of the money into foreign bank accounts within days. She also withdrew several thousand dollars of the money at various ATMs in San Diego. She was seen on bank surveillance cameras withdrawing money from the account, both alone and with Villalobos.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Beeler and David Kete.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 25-mj-6506-AHG
Victor Hugo Villalobos Almazan Age: 48 Mexico
Nayeli Noemi Montoya Rodriguez Age: 48 Mexico
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Wire Fraud Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Aggravated Identity Theft – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1028A
Maximum penalty: Two years in prison, consecutive to the underlying felony
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Homeland Security Investigations
Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mexican Man Charged with Entering United States Illegally and Eluding Examination by Immigration OfficersRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Vicente De La Cruz-Rodriguez, 28, of Mexico, has been charged by criminal complaint with illegal entry into the United States and eluding examination by immigration officers.
On November 24, 2025, Rodriguez appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Rodriguez be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, Rodriguez illegally entered the United States from Mexico via Texas in October 2022. Thereafter, Rodriguez travelled to and lived in Addison County, Vermont. On November 10, 2025, Rodriguez was convicted of first degree aggravated domestic assault in Vermont Superior Court, Addison County, and sentenced to 59 to 60 days’ imprisonment. On November 21, 2025, special agents of Homeland Security Investigations arrested Rodriguez in Rutland, Vermont. At no time did Rodriguez present himself for examination or inspection by an immigration officer as required by federal law.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Rodriguez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Rodriguez faces up to six months’ imprisonment and a $5,000 fine if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Special Assistant United States Attorney Craig S. Nolan. Rodriguez is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles N. Curlett, Jr.
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.
Memphis Company Sentenced for Violations of the Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Memphis company that specialized in repairing diesel engines was sentenced to pay a fine in the amount of $150,000 for violations of the Clean Air Act. P.T. Services, Inc. entered a guilty plea to the violations in September. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court at the plea hearing, between June 2023 and August 2024, P.T. Services, Inc. modified and deleted emissions control monitoring devices from diesel engines. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, it is a crime to falsify, tamper with and render inaccurate emissions control monitoring devices.
The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Mark S. Norris on November 25, 2025. In addition to the $150,000 fine, as part of the plea agreement, the company was ordered to participate in a compliance program and be subject to unannounced inspections by the Environmental Protection Agency.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "The U.S. Attorney’s Office is a full-service federal prosecution office, and we have the ability and intention to charge any violations of federal law, no matter where or how they occur in the Western District of Tennessee. This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to upholding the rule of law, and to pursuing any cases that harm and impact our air quality and environment."
“This sentence should send a clear message that companies who break environmental laws will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Modifying and deleting emissions control monitoring devices from diesel engines can lead to poor air quality and health risks. The FBI and our partners will continue to work together to hold accountable individuals who disregard health and environmental laws designed to protect our communities.”
The case was investigated by agents with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. André III.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Mason City Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution and Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Darius Stackhouse, age 33, from Mason City, Iowa, was sentenced October 1, 2025, to 25 years in federal prison after a March 12, 2025, jury verdict where he was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, four counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Evidence at trial showed that between June 2021 and March 2023, Stackhouse was part of an ongoing drug conspiracy based in Mason City, Iowa to distribute methamphetamine. Stackhouse sold more than 40 pounds of methamphetamine throughout the conspiracy and three pounds to sources working with law enforcement. During the execution of several search warrants, more than $30,000 cash was located in Stackhouse’s residence, as well as additional methamphetamine, other controlled substances, and a firearm.
Stackhouse was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 300 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Stackhouse is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3001.
Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Man from Ecuador charged with being an alien in possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Victor Jose Marino Pullo, 24, a native and citizen of Ecuador, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with being an alien in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, late in the morning on November 25, 2025, Custom and Border Protection (CBP) officers encountered Marino Pullo at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry as he operated a U-Haul box truck. Marino Pullo and another individual were moving from Connecticut to Buffalo. Marino Pullo was following a Global positioning system (GPS) and was directed on to the Peace Bridge. Marino Pullo did not enter Canada, however. Instead, Marino Pullo turned around on the bridge, where he was inspected by CBP officers. Marino Pullo and his companion were sent to secondary inspection for not having proper immigration documents. During secondary inspection, an officer discovered pictures of Marino Pullo holding a pistol on his cell phone. During a search of the U-Haul truck, officers recovered the loaded pistol in a cardboard box filled with clothes. Record checks reveal that Marino Pullo was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol on four previous occasions and was removed from the United States.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Man Living in Ochelata Sentenced for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A man living in Ochelata was sentenced today for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Ramey Joe-Dawn Dill, 38, to 24 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.
Court records show that Dill raped an unconscious girl and was convicted of second-degree rape in 2007 in State court. He was sentenced to 12 years, with 9 years being suspended, and is required to register as a sex offender. Dill’s criminal history includes 15 convictions over the last 19 years. His convictions include rape, DUI, malicious injury, burglary, and failing to register as a sex offender.
In 2023, Dill was convicted in federal court for failing to register as a sex offender. After being released in 2025, Dill failed again to keep his address up to date with the sex offender registry.
Dill has used several aliases over the years. Court records show that he has gone by Ramey Joedon Dill and Ramey Joe-Don Dill. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons and is still required to register as a sex offender.
The United States Marshal Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michele Hulgaard and Charles Greenough prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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.
Local Man Sentenced to over 20 Years in Federal Prison for Multiple CarjackingsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Derrion Turner, 20, of Memphis, was sentenced in federal court after being convicted of two carjackings, an attempted carjacking, and related firearm offenses. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, on August 25, 2023, Turner took a 2016 Ford Mustang from a victim that was in the parking lot of a Circle K located on Highway 64. Turner pointed a handgun at the victim’s chest and demanded the victim’s wallet and keys.
On August 31, 2023, Turner took a 2018 Nissan Rogue inside of an apartment complex near Steel Manor Drive. After Turner snatched the victim’s iPhone from her hand, he then pressed a handgun against her head and told her to move away from the vehicle.
On September 3, 2023, Turner approached a male while holding a gun at a service station located on Third Street and demanded his 2022 Dodge Charger. When Turner turned his head for a moment, the victim fought Turner over the gun. During the struggle, a shot was fired. The victim was able to take the gun from Turner and subdue him until police arrived. Turner later confessed to both robberies and the attempted robbery and plead guilty earlier in the year.
On November 17, 2025, United States District Court Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Turner to 246 months' imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Our office is continuing to coordinate with our federal and local law enforcement partners to prioritize and target carjacking cases for aggressive federal prosecution. This 20-year sentence confirms that there is a significant consequence for sowing lawlessness and violence in our communities, and Turner will now reap a long prison sentence for his brazen and dangerous behavior that victimized innocent citizens."
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the Memphis Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Leader of Colombian Money Laundering Organization Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Laundering Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
A Colombian national was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for conspiring to launder drug proceeds. He was also ordered to forfeit $1.2 million.
According to court documents, Michael Nunez Daza, also known as “Luky,” 49, led a transnational money laundering organization operating in Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. Nunez Daza orchestrated bulk cash pickups involving drug trafficking proceeds from Mexico across multiple U.S. cities. After the bulk cash was picked up, Nunez Daza arranged for the illicit funds to be deposited into U.S. bank accounts registered in the names of other individuals and companies before they were further transferred to Colombia. Within days of the bulk cash being delivered and deposited in the United States, corresponding bulk cash in the form of Colombian pesos was delivered in Cali, Colombia, directly to Nunez Daza and his couriers. In just eight months in 2017 and 2018, Nunez Daza laundered at least $1.2 million for his Mexico-based co-conspirators. Nunez Daza was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and was deported to his native country Colombia in 2004.
Nunez Daza was indicted on the money laundering charges in January 2023 and extradited to the United States in April 2025. Nunez Daza pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering conspiracy on Aug. 14, 2025.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy of the FBI Newark Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case.
The Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section prosecuted the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida provided significant assistance. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá, Colombia, worked with law enforcement partners in Colombia to secure the arrest and extradition of Nunez Daza.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Homeland Security Task Force and Project Safe Neighborhoods.