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8 October 2025
Portland Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore. – A Portland, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today after robbing a KeyBank branch with a loaded gun.
James Michael Wallace, 55, is a career offender and was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $6,437 for losses associated with this and other robberies.
According to court documents, on February 28, 2025, Wallace entered the KeyBank branch located on Woodstock Avenue in Portland. Wallace approached a teller and pressed a loaded gun to the teller’s torso demanding the teller open the cash drawer. Wallace left the bank with $856 in cash, leaving behind his gun. At the time of the robbery, Wallace was on federal supervision for a prior federal bank robbery conviction.
On August 27, 2025, Wallace pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with Armed Bank Robbery.
This case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine A. Rykken.
Pittsburg County Resident Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Sammy Monroe Ebarb, Jr., age 40, of Longtown, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The Indictment alleged that Ebarb was convicted of First Degree Rape in the District Court of Latimer County, Oklahoma, on May 20, 2003, and was required to register as a sex offender, and that from November 2024 to February 2025, Ebarb failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force and the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Ebarb will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.
McCurtain County Resident Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Anna Marie Scoles, age 38, of Valliant, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
On April 2, 2025, Scoles pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on August 4, 2024, a trooper conducting a traffic stop on Old Golden Highway in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, discovered Scoles in possession of a large bag of white crystalline substance. In total, Scoles possessed over 76 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, which she intended to distribute.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Scoles will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Lorenz represented the United States.
Man Admits Making Threats to St. Louis Office of the NAACPRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A Warrenton, Missouri man on Wednesday admitted making threats directed at the St. Louis office of the NAACP.
Darryl Jaspering, 62, of Warrenton, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with federally protected activities. Jaspering admitted writing a racist, profane and threatening message on the NAACP’s online contact page, including threats to “blow your… head off” and “bust you… with a… Hatchet and make you bleed….”
Jaspering is scheduled to be sentenced on February 5.
"Darryl Jaspering’s guilty plea should send a clear message that the FBI is serious about investigating hate crimes. Threats and acts of violence against any group, especially those based on race, religion, or any other characteristic, will not be tolerated," warned Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker. "We are committed to ensuring all members of our community can live and work without fear of being targeted for who they are. FBI St. Louis stands as a strong partner in protecting the rights and safety of everyone in our region."
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug is prosecuting the case.
This press release was posted November 19, after the end of the federal government shutdown.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jaime Yair Arellano-Perez, age 37, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a one count Felony Information of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The Information alleged that on October 1, 2025, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on June 25, 2012, October 16, 2014, and August 26, 2015.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Arellano-Perez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dak T. Cohen represented the United States.
Hinsdale Man Indicted for Stealing Approximately $345,000 from His EmployerRead the Press Release
Hinsdale Man Indicted for Stealing Approximately $345,000 From His Employer
CONCORD – A Hinsdale man was indicted for embezzling almost $345,000 from his employer, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Michael Darcy, 48, was charged with five counts of Bank Fraud.
According to the indictment, Darcy was the Operations Manager for his employer. As Operations Manager, Darcy oversaw the day-to-day work of the company and had access to the company checkbook. Beginning in December 2019, and continuing through December 2024, Darcy forged the owner’s signature to draft dozens of unauthorized checks on the company’s checking account. Darcy concealed the purpose of the payments by entering them under false headings in accounting records. He sometimes also listed false entries in the memo line on the checks. For example, on December 7, 2023, Darcy drafted a $5,722 check payable to himself for “Stamps.” Overall, Darcy is alleged to have embezzled $344,874.47 from his employer.
The charging statute provides a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 Hinsdale Police Department, FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigations led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Garvin County Resident Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Walter James Morris, age 38, of Stratford, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a one-count Information of Misdemeanor Theft of Government Property, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, and up to a $100,000.00 fine.
The Information alleged that on July 10, 2025, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Morris knowingly stole a Personal Identity Verification card belonging to the United States Department of Justice with a value not exceeding $1,000.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.
Gang members receive additional sentences for assaulting federal officersRead the Press Release
Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.
McALLEN, Texas – Three additional Pasia gang members have been sentenced for their roles in the assault of two federal correctional officers, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Mexican national Oscar Ambrocio Hernandez, 25, pleaded guilty in April, while Ruben Gonzalez-Balderas, 29, also of Mexico, and Roger Emmanuel Lemus, 42, Guatemala, entered their pleas in July.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now imposed a 137-month term of imprisonment for Gonzalez-Balderas, while Lemus and Hernandez received 126 and 57 months, respectively. Not U.S. citizens, all are expected to face removal proceedings following their imprisonment. In handing down the sentences, the court noted surveillance footage of the assault as well as photos displaying each inmate assaulting the officers. At the hearing, the court heard about a drug trafficking conviction for Lemus as well as Gonzalez’s extensive criminal history which includes a conviction for burglary and alien smuggling.
“Federal correctional officers are essential to protecting the public,” said Ganjei. “They perform the critical and difficult task of ensuring that those in custody remain behind bars. The Southern District of Texas will seek severe punishment for criminals or detainees who do them harm.”
In January, 12 inmates at the East Hidalgo Detention Center assaulted two federal correctional officers. The inmates, who were already in custody pending federal immigration charges, outnumbered the officers and repeatedly punched and kicked them. They were housed in a gang-designated unit within the facility. One inmate wielded a sock with a bar of soap as a weapon during the assault. One correctional officer sustained injuries that resulted in multiple staples in his forehead.
Bryan Hernandez-Ruiz, 25, Francisco Antonio Hernandez-Mora, 27, Adrian David Guzman-Salas, 28, David Ramirez-Bautista, 21, Roberto Fabian Garza-Castaneda, 49, Jose Alberto Resendez-Hernandez, 27, and Jose Ramos-Lerma, 45, all of Mexico, also pleaded guilty and were previously sentenced Sept. 10 to terms ranging from 48-114 months.
All have been and will remain in custody.
The FBI and U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Garcia and Avery Benitez prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Former Gastonia Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Straw Purchasing A FirearmRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – On October 8, 2025, Xana Dayanae Dove, 28, and a former Gastonia police officer, appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty to straw purchasing a firearm, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, and Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to filed plea documents and the court hearing, on May 25, 2023, Dove purchased a Springfield Hellcat Pro, 9mm pistol from Shooters Express, a licensed firearms dealer located in Belmont, North Carolina. As Dove admitted in court, in completing the purchase, she made a false and fictitious written statement when she falsely stated on ATF’s Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 that she was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm when the defendant knew this statement was false and fictitious.
Dove was released on bond following the plea hearing. At sentencing, she faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing date for Dove has not been set.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended the FBI and ATF for their work on the investigation, and thanked Homeland Security Investigations, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction’s Community Supervision, and the Gastonia Police Department for their assistance with Dove’s apprehension.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dana Washington with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte 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).
Florida Man Arrested on Federal Criminal Complaint Alleging He Maliciously Started What Became the Palisades FireRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A former Pacific Palisades resident now living in Florida has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging him with maliciously starting what eventually became the Palisades Fire of January 2025, one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles history, the Justice Department announced today.
Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, a.k.a. “Jonathan Rinder,” and “Jon Rinder,” of Melbourne, Florida, is charged with destruction of property by means of fire. He was arrested Tuesday and is expected to make his initial appearance today in United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.
“The complaint alleges that a single person’s recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “While we cannot bring back what victims lost, we hope this criminal case brings some measure of justice to those affected by this horrific tragedy.”
“At the request of state and local authorities, ATF took the lead in this complex investigation utilizing techniques unique to our agency's capabilities,” said Special Agent in Charge Kenny Cooper of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles Field Division. “The horrific loss of life and property was significantly felt by ATF members, and we are honored to utilize our expertise to provide answers to this community. We remain committed to serving with integrity and distinction.”
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, law enforcement determined that the Palisades Fire was a “holdover” fire – a continuation of the Lachman Fire that began early in the morning on New Year’s Day 2025. Although firefighters quickly suppressed the Lachman Fire, unbeknownst to anyone the fire continued to smolder and burn underground within the root structure of dense vegetation.
On January 7, heavy winds caused the underground fire to surface and spread above ground in what became known as the Palisades Fire, which caused widespread damage in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Law enforcement determined – using witness statements, video surveillance, cellphone data, and analysis of fire dynamics and patterns at the scene, among other things – that Rinderknecht maliciously set the Lachman Fire just after midnight on January 1 on land owned by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA), an organization that received federal funding. A week later, the same fire – then known as the Palisades Fire – burned federal property.
On the evening of December 31, 2024, Rinderknecht was working as an Uber driver. Two passengers that he drove on separate trips between 10:15 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. that night later told law enforcement they remembered that Rinderknecht appeared agitated and angry.
After dropping off a passenger in Pacific Palisades, Rinderknecht – who once lived in that neighborhood – drove towards Skull Rock Trailhead, parked his car, attempted to contact a former friend, and walked up the trail. He then used his iPhone to take videos at a nearby hilltop area and listened to a rap song – to which he had listened repeatedly in previous days – whose music video included things being lit on fire.
At 12:12 a.m. on January 1, 2025, environmental sensing platforms indicated the Lachman Fire had begun. During the next five minutes, Rinderknecht called 911 several times, but didn’t get through because his iPhone was out of cellphone range. When he finally connected with 911, he was at the bottom of the hiking trail and reported the fire. By that point, a nearby resident already had reported the fire to authorities.
Rinderknecht then fled in his car, passing fire engines driving in the opposite direction. He then turned around and followed the fire engines to the scene, driving at a high rate of speed. Rinderknecht walked up the same trail from earlier that night to watch the fire and the firefighters. At approximately 1:02 a.m., he used his iPhone to take more videos of the scene.
During an interview with law enforcement on January 24, 2025, Rinderknecht lied about where he was when he first saw the Lachman Fire. He claimed he was near the bottom of a hiking trail when he first saw the fire and called 911, but geolocation data from his iPhone carrier showed that he was standing in a clearing 30 feet from the fire as it rapidly grew.
A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
If convicted, Rinderknecht would face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
ATF is investigating this matter, with substantial assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department and the United States Forest Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mark A. Williams, Matthew W. O’Brien, and Danbee C. Kim of the Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection Section, and Assistant United States Attorney Laura A. Alexander of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section are prosecuting this case.
If you are a victim of the Palisades Fire, updates about this criminal case can be found on this website:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/united-states-v-jonathan-rinderknecht
Fleeing illegal alien accused of murdering woman in custody after manhunt, charged with federal weapons violationRead the Press Release
VICTORIA, Texas – A 41-year-old illegal alien from Cambodia has been charged with unlawfully possessing a weapon following the shooting death of a woman in Victoria, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Savin Seng aka “Two-Face” had illegally resided in Victoria and is now in federal custody pending a detention hearing set for Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. At his initial appearance, the court heard that he is an admitted gang member.
According to the criminal complaint, a shooting incident occurred at a residence in the Telferner community outside Victoria Oct. 3. Authorities had allegedly found a female victim deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. The charges allege the shooter had left his cell phone and fled the scene.
An image on the phone showed a man holding a Glock pistol with an extended magazine, according to the charges. The criminal complaint alleges the man was Seng, whom a witness had identified as the murder suspect.
Court documents allege Seng also had an active arrest warrant from 2022 for another homicide in Los Angeles, California.
Law enforcement allegedly located Seng less than a mile from the scene of the shooting and took him into custody. At the time of his arrest, he had a loaded Glock 17, 9mm pistol in his shorts along with a loaded 31-round extended magazine, according to the allegations.
The charges allege Seng had illegally entered the United States as a child and never held lawful immigration status in the country. Court documents allege he had been ordered removed as an aggravated felon in April 2016 but had not been physically removed. He has been in custody in California, Georgia and Louisiana, according to court records.
The criminal complaint further alleges Seng has had possession of several guns while remaining in the United States illegally.
“The presence of armed, illegal-alien gang members in our midst is a threat to public safety,” Ganjei said. “The Southern District of Texas is determined to remove each and every one of them from our streets.”
If convicted, Seng faces up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Victoria County Sheriff’s Office and Los Angeles, California, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth 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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Eufaula Resident Sentenced for Second Degree Murder in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that William Clayton Brown, age 42, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 300 months in prison for one count of Murder in Indian Country—Second Degree. The Court ordered the sentence to be served consecutive to a life sentence Brown is serving for one count of Murder in Indian Country—First Degree in a separate case.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Eufaula Police Department, the District 25 Violent Crime Task Force, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On July 11, 2025, Brown pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on September 15, 2017, Brown fatally stabbed the victim in the head and back with a knife, then attempted to hide the body in a field.
The crime occurred in McIntosh County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable David C. Joseph, U.S. District Court Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Brown will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney T. Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
Concord Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Concord Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for
Role in Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl
CONCORD – A Concord man was sentenced on October 8, 2025, for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Alton Ryan, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven McAuliffe to 125 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release. On March 11, 2025, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
“Despite prior drug trafficking convictions, Alton Ryan continued to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, this time with weapons readily available,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “Repeat offenders who endanger our communities by pushing dangerous drugs while armed will face significant consequences for their crimes.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, between 2022 and 2023, the defendant distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine, culminating in a high-speed chase where the defendant possessed a distribution level quantity of cocaine, guns, and other weapons.
“Alton Ryan was a significant danger to the people of New Hampshire,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “This career criminal demonstrated a blatant disregard for public safety – not only by distributing large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Granite State communities, but also by leading law enforcement on high-speed chase in a vehicle stashed with multiple firearms, a machete, and body armor as he attempted to evade officers during a traffic stop. The FBI remains committed to working with our state and local partners to remove violent criminals peddling lethal drugs from our streets.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Major Offender Task Force in partnership with the New Hampshire State Police led the investigation. The Concord Police Department, Franklin Police Department, and New Hampton Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Cherniske 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 Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Bryan County Resident Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dock Lee Shoemaker, age 61, of Calera, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service.
On June 3, 2025, Shoemaker pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, Shoemaker was convicted of Sexual Battery in the State of Oklahoma on February 3, 2016, and was required to register as a sex offender. From August 2020 until April 16, 2025, Shoemaker failed to register and update his registration while entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Shoemaker will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Pippin represented the United States.
7 October 2025
Warm Springs Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for using online social media and messaging platforms to coerce and sexually exploit a 15-year-old minor victim.
Leonard Polk, 25, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, in December 2024, Polk met the minor victim through Snapchat, an online messaging application. Using Snapchat and Facebook Messenger, Polk persuaded the minor victim to send sexually explicit images. Polk then picked up the minor victim and brought her to his house on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, where he sexually abused her on multiple occasions.
Polk was arrested in Washington on January 21, 2025, and the minor victim was rescued, after the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) received information that Polk had brought the minor victim from Oregon to Washington.
“Protecting children remains our highest priority. This case serves as a stark reminder of the very real dangers that exist on social media and the predators who use these platforms to exploit our youth,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Let there be no doubt: if you target children in our community, we will use every resource at our disposal to protect them and ensure you are held fully accountable.”
On February 11, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 2-count indictment charging Polk with sexual abuse of a minor and sexual abuse – incapable victim.
On July 14, 2025, Polk pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor.
This case was investigated by the FBI Portland’s Bend Resident Agency and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Three Mexican men arrested, charged with illegal reentryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Erasmo Perez Luiz, 30, Luis Gerardo Perez Lopez, 28, and Ismael Ivan Perez Lopez, 27, all citizens and nationals of Mexico, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with illegal reentry, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on September 30, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol agents attempted to stop a vehicle that the defendants were riding in, in Amherst, NY. As agents approached the vehicle with emergency lights and sirens activated, the driver, Erasmo Perez Ruiz, fled at a high rate of speed, crossing a median, and nearly striking both agent and civilian vehicles in the process. After a brief chase, the vehicle pulled into a retail parking lot and the three defendants exited the vehicle and ran into a wooded area but were quickly apprehended. All three were illegally present in the United States.
Further investigation determined that Erasmo Perez Ruiz was physically removed from the United States two times in April 2014, Luis Gerardo Perez Lopez was physically removed in May 2018, and Ismael Ivan Perez Lopez was physically removed in May 2017.
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 defendants made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and were detained.
The complaints are the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge David Banks.
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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Three Lancaster County Men Sentenced for Tax Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Antonios Mountis, 81, and Alexandros Mountis, 52, both of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Kostantinos Mountis, 50, of Lititz, Pa., were sentenced today by United States District Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. for tax offenses.
The defendants were charged by information in August of last year.
In October 2024, Antonios Mountis pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) and failure to pay employment taxes. He was sentenced by Judge Leeson to five years’ probation and $634,802.39 in restitution.
Sons Alexandros and Kostantinos Mountis pleaded guilty in October 2024 to conspiracy to defraud the IRS and tax evasion. Alexandros Mountis was sentenced by Judge Leeson to 12 months and one day in prison, three years of supervised release, and $711,847.19 in restitution, and Kostantinos Mountis to six months in prison, three years of supervised release, and $689,580.51 in restitution.
As detailed in court filings, Antonios Mountis was the president and sole owner of Mountis Enterprises, Inc. (“MEI”), doing business as the Conestoga Bar and Grill, and Antonios Mountis & Sons, Inc. (“AMSI”), doing business as the Neptune Diner, with both restaurants located in Lancaster, Pa.
Alexandros Mountis was the manager of the Conestoga Bar and Grill, and Kostantinos Mountis was the manager of the Neptune Diner. Other family members were also employed at the restaurants.
As further detailed in filings and admitted to by the defendants, from about January 2014 through January 2021, Antonios, Alexandros, and Kostantinos Mountis conspired to pay employees of the family’s restaurants a portion of their wages off the books, failed to withhold trust fund taxes from these wages, failed to properly report the employees’ wages to the IRS, and failed to pay over to the IRS the correct employment taxes for these employees.
The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terri Marinari.
Note: the posting of this press release was delayed, due to the federal government shutdown from October 1, 2025, to November 12, 2025.
Social Media Provocateurs Charged with Threatening to Harm Federal Agent and His WifeRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – A federal grand jury has charged two out-of-state men with knowingly transmitting threats to injure a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer and his wife.
“Federal agents deserve to perform their duties free of harassment from keyboard warriors and other agitators,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Threatening law enforcement officers and their families is not only illegal—it’s disgusting. My office will ensure that anyone who threatens a federal agent in North Georgia, or who hides behind a computer screen to intimidate that agent’s immediate family, is found, arrested, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
“Threats of violence against law enforcement officers and their families are not only reprehensible, but also a direct attack on the safety and integrity of our justice system,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “These charges serve as a clear reminder that threats of this nature will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Frank Andrew Waszut allegedly posted a video on Instagram that identified and displayed photographs of an ICE deportation officer who resides and works in the Northern District of Georgia. With those images on the screen, Waszut said: “And he’s an ICE agent. This is him unmasked . . . . So, go ahead and make him famous. And if you see this [expletive] out in public give him the cell block one treatment. You know, catch him when he’s alone.” “Cell block one treatment” allegedly refers to subjecting a detainee to physical violence.
Similarly, Anthony Patrick Noto allegedly posted a comment on Instagram under the picture of the same deportation officer’s wife, with Noto saying: “Anybody wanna test the sites [sic] on their new A-R? There’s a pretty good target right there!” “A-R” refers to a semiautomatic rifle.
Noto, 63, of Ronkonkoma, New York, was taken into federal custody and arraigned on his federal indictment. Waszut, 41, of Knoxville, Tennessee, is currently in the custody of state law enforcement officials in Texas, where he has been charged for making separate terroristic threats against Republican lawmakers there. Both defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 23, 2025.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictments only contain charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brent Alan Gray and Eric White are prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Portland Man Charged with Felony Assault of a Federal Law Enforcement Officer Near Local ICE OfficeRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man made his first appearance in federal court today after assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.
Alexander Jay Boyce, 38, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.
According to court documents, on the evening of October 5, 2025, Boyce was part of a group of individuals encroaching on the driveway of the ICE building in South Portland. Law enforcement officers gave multiple warnings to the group to stay off federal property and began to clear the driveway. Rather than comply as directed, Boyce spit on the officer’s helmet. Federal officers immediately arrested Boyce.
“Nobody spits on the brave men and women of federal law enforcement and gets away with it. If you spit on a federal law enforcement officer, you will be hit with federal charges,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 31 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.
Boyce made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.
Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for His Role in Violent Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Kysime Brown, 21, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison, five years’ supervised release, and $42,909 in restitution by United States District Judge Paul S. Diamond for taking part in a violent armed carjacking.
The defendant was charged by indictment in August 2023 with one count of carjacking and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both charges on March 12, 2024.
As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, in the early morning hours of July 11, 2023, Brown and two others carjacked a 26-year-old man who had just parked his car near his Northeast Philadelphia home, with the defendant and others pointing their semiautomatic pistols directly at the victim, at very close range. The carjackers then pistol-whipped the man, took his cell phone, and drove off in his Dodge Charger.
Philadelphia police officers soon located and followed the stolen vehicle. As Brown and his codefendants were trying to flee police in the Charger, they collided with another vehicle and crashed into a pole on Castor Avenue, where the stolen car caught fire and was destroyed. Police quickly apprehended all three carjackers after the crash.
Brown’s co-defendants Emmanuel Sia and Leevah Mills also pleaded guilty to the charges against them. Mills was sentenced in September to over 11 years in prison and Sia is scheduled to be sentenced on October 16.
The case was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.
Note: the posting of this press release was delayed, due to the federal government shutdown from October 1, 2025, to November 12, 2025.
Okmulgee Resident Sentenced for Robbery, Transporting A Stolen Vehicle, and Felony AssaultRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced Vincent Jerome May, age 37, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for one count of Robbery in Indian Country, 120 months in prison for one count of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Vehicle, and 60 months in prison for one count of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner, and Dating Partner in Indian Country. The terms were ordered to be served concurrently.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Okmulgee Police Department, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police Department, and the Denver (Colorado) Police Department.
On March 20, 2025, May pleaded guilty to the charges. According to investigators, on March 4, 2023, May violently assaulted a woman while she held an infant child, threatened to burn down her home and kill her, and stole her phone and keys to her pickup truck. May drove the truck to Colorado and damaged it.
The crimes occurred in Okmulgee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. May will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States at the sentencing hearing.
Okmulgee County Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Riccole Ladale Dixson, age 38, formerly residing in Dewar, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Ammunition.
The Indictment charged Dixson with knowingly possessing 30 rounds of ammunition on August 22, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and U.S. Probation Officers.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Dixson will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.
Oklahoma Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony AssaultRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Drake Ryan Allen, age 21, an Oklahoma resident, entered a guilty plea to one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country, punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on January 15, 2025, Allen assaulted the victim, resulting in serious bodily injury. The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Adair County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Allen was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tyson Gene Williams, age 45, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Williams with knowingly possessing two semi-automatic pistols and 27 rounds of ammunition on April 19, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Checotah Police Department.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Williams will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Local Leader of New York Capital Region Chamber of Commerce Charged with Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
Peter Bardunias, 59, of Clifton Park, New York, was charged today with attempting to entice a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
The criminal complaint filed today alleges that over the past two weeks, Bardunias, a Senior Vice President of Community Advancement for the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, sent messages to an individual he believed to be a 15 year-year-old girl during which he discussed subjecting the would-be minor to violent and sadistic sexual activity.
As alleged in the complaint, Bardunias told the individual—who was in fact an undercover law enforcement official—that he wanted to, among other things, “strangle[]” and “tortur[e]” the purported child while raping them. On October 6, 2025, Bardunias traveled to Warren County, New York, to meet the would-be minor and brought them candy to make them feel more comfortable. Bardunias was taken into custody shortly thereafter. The complaint also alleges that a federal search warrant executed at Bardunias’ residence revealed a box of sex toys which included restraints and a knife consistent with the materials used for the “torture chamber” Bardunias told the would-be child he was going to prepare to rape and torture them within.
“Parents need to be hyper-aware of conversations their children are having via text or online — predators often lurk behind screens,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man’s alleged crimes are shocking, and our prosecutors will ensure he faces severe consequences for his evil conduct towards an innocent child.”
“As alleged in the federal criminal complaint filed today, Peter Bardunias attempted to engage in what can only be described as heinous, unspeakable, and violent actions against a minor,” Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “I am thankful that the FBI intervened to ensure that he was unable to follow through in any of this horrific activity with a real minor, and our community is safer tonight because Bardunias is behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “As detailed in the criminal complaint, the allegations against Mr. Bardunias are truly horrific. His intentions were beyond disturbing and have resulted in serious federal charges. The FBI commends the brave individual who contacted us with information that immediately launched this investigation and put an end to these disturbingly sinister plans. We will continue to use every resource available to find and hold accountable any predator looking to victimize our most vulnerable, and we encourage anyone with additional information on Mr. Bardunias to contact our office.”
The charge filed against Bardunias carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between five years and 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.
Bardunias had an initial appearance today in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista, and was held in custody pending a detention hearing set for Friday, October 10, 2025.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Colonie Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Hartunian is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Local Leader of Chamber of Commerce Charged with Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Peter Bardunias, age 59, of Clifton Park, New York, was charged today with attempting to entice a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
The criminal complaint filed today alleges that over the past two weeks, Bardunias, a Senior Vice President of Community Advancement for the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, sent messages to an individual he believed to be a 15 year-year-old girl during which he discussed subjecting the would-be minor to violent and sadistic sexual activity.
As alleged in the complaint, Bardunias told the individual—who was in fact an undercover law enforcement official—that he wanted to, among other things, “strangle[]” and “tortur[e]” the purported child while raping them. On October 6, 2025, Bardunias traveled to Warren County, New York, to meet the would-be minor and brought them candy to make them feel more comfortable. Bardunias was taken into custody shortly thereafter. The complaint also alleges that a federal search warrant executed at Bardunias’ residence revealed a box of sex toys which included restraints and a knife consistent with the materials used for the “torture chamber” Bardunias told the would-be child he was going to prepare to rape and torture them within.
“Parents need to be hyper-aware of conversations their children are having via text or online — predators often lurk behind screens,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man’s alleged crimes are shocking, and our prosecutors will ensure he faces severe consequences for his evil conduct towards an innocent child.”
“As alleged in the federal criminal complaint filed today, Peter Bardunias attempted to engage in what can only be described as heinous, unspeakable, and violent actions against a minor,” Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “I am thankful that the FBI intervened to ensure that he was unable to follow through in any of this horrific activity with a real minor, and our community is safer tonight because Bardunias is behind bars.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “As detailed in the criminal complaint, the allegations against Mr. Bardunias are truly horrific. His intentions were beyond disturbing and have resulted in serious federal charges. The FBI commends the brave individual who contacted us with information that immediately launched this investigation and put an end to these disturbingly sinister plans. We will continue to use every resource available to find and hold accountable any predator looking to victimize our most vulnerable, and we encourage anyone with additional information on Mr. Bardunias to contact our office.”
The charge filed against Bardunias carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between five years and 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.
Bardunias had an initial appearance today in Albany, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Paul J. Evangelista, and was held in custody pending a detention hearing set for Friday, October 10, 2025.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Colonie Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph S. Hartunian is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Jury convicts truck driver of smuggling illegal aliensRead the Press Release
Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 47-year-old Seagoville resident has been found guilty of smuggling illegal aliens into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The jury deliberated for approximately an hour before convicting Jose Eduardo Rocha following a less than two-day trial.
On Feb. 10, Rocha drove a tractor trailer to the Border Patrol checkpoint near Falfurrias. He appeared nervous, looked around and avoided eye contact.
The jury heard that authorities shined a flashlight into the cab from outside and saw what appeared to be the back of a person’s head sticking out from a blanket on the top bunk.
Law enforcement attempted to open the side sleeper door, but it was locked. Testimony revealed Rocha claimed the door was broken.
Upon further inspection, an x-ray scan revealed anomalies inside the cab. Authorities discovered four illegal aliens hiding on the top bunk, the main bed behind the driver, inside the closet and under the bed. They were from the countries of El Salvador and Guatemala.
Testimony revealed Rocha told the illegal aliens to be quiet and to hide.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that Rocha not fleeing from or fighting the authorities meant he did not know the aliens were hidden in his tractor cab. They were not convinced and found Rocha guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over the trial and set sentencing for Jan. 6, 2026. At that time, Rocha faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Rocha was permitted to remain on bond pending sentencing.
Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley A. Pruitt and Young M. Burkett prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Hugo Resident Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Machine GunRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that John Thomas Worthy, age 51, of Hugo, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession of a Machine Gun, punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged that on January 21, 2025, Worthy knowingly possessed a firearm that had been modified to shoot more than one round of ammunition by a single function of the trigger without manual reloading.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Worthy will remain free on a personal recognizance bond pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Honduran man pleads guilty to, sentenced for resisting arrestRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jerson Castillo-Umanzor, 19, a citizen and national of Honduras, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer. He was then sentenced to time served and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who is handling the case, stated that on June 24, 2025, Castillo-Umanzor U.S. Border Patrol agents in Amherst, NY. Agents attempted to arrest an illegal alien in a parking lot, who was present with Castillo-Umanzor. The alien and Castillo-Umanzor ran in opposite directions fleeing the agents. After an agent caught Castillo-Umanzor and attempted to handcuff him, Castillo-Umanzor resisted by pulling away and not complying with commands to place his hands behind his back.
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 plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
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Georgia man pleads guilty to his role in fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Montez White, 39, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum of 30 years, and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Sasha Mascarenhas, who are handling the case, stated that between January and September 2022, White, along with co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones, Quentavious Price, and Ameer Clark, and others, conspired to defraud financial institutions. Members of the conspiracy would travel from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Western District of New York, and steal genuine checks from businesses. Using those checks, they would create fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of the businesses. Members of the conspiracy then recruited individuals to cash the fraudulent checks, buy clothes for the individuals to make them appear to be construction workers or laborers, and then drive them to area financial institutions and direct them to cash the fraudulent checks. If the checks were successfully cashed, the individuals received a small payment. Specifically:
- in January 2022, Price, Jones, and two others flew from Atlanta to Buffalo and drove an individual to various KeyBank branches to cash or attempt to cash fraudulent checks drawn on the KeyBank accounts of a business based in Elma, NY, and a second business based in Tonawanda, NY.
- in March 2022, Price and two others came to Buffalo from Atlanta and drove three individuals to M&T Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches to cash, or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of businesses based in Tonawanda, Clarence, NY, and Sanborn, NY.
- in September 2022, White, Clark, Price, and Jones flew from Atlanta to Rochester, NY, and drove six individuals to M&T Bank branches, KeyBank branches, Northwest Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches, to cash or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of two businesses based in Rochester, and one based in Alden, NY.
The total loss amount, including actual loss and intended loss, Is $64,979.67.
Co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones, Quentavious Price, and Ameer Clark were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 13, 2026, before Judge Vilardo.
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Convicted Bank Robber Charged with Murder for Killing Cherokee County Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes IIRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Kelvin Wayne Simmons, 49, is facing a federal charge of first-degree murder of an officer for killing Cherokee County Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes II, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. A grand jury sitting in Asheville returned the indictment on October 7, 2025, also charging Simmons with attempted carjacking resulting in death; escape; attempted carjacking; carjacking; use of a firearm in connection with a crime of violence; assaulting, resisting and impeding an officer; and possession of a firearm by a felon.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and R.E “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
The criminal bill of indictment alleges that, on June 30, 2025, Simmons did unlawfully kill Cherokee County Detention Officer Flattes while the officer engaged in the performance of his official duties and did so during the perpetration and attempted perpetration of an escape. The indictment also alleges that Simmons attempted to carjack a motor vehicle resulting in the death of Detention Officer Flattes. The indictment further alleges that Simmons, who was in federal custody awaiting sentencing for a federal bank robbery and attempted carjacking conviction, escaped from custody, and following his escape, Simmons then attempted to carjack an individual unsuccessfully. Simmons then allegedly carjacked another individual and used a firearm to commit the carjacking.
Simmons is in federal custody. The penalty for first degree murder is life in prison or death; the penalty for attempted carjacking resulting in death is any number of years up to life imprisonment, or death. The indictment includes a Notice of Special Sentencing Factors which could permit the United States to seek the death penalty. The Justice Department has not yet announced whether it will seek the death penalty. The remaining charges in the indictment carry maximum punishments ranging from five years to life imprisonment.
The charges against Simmons are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI and SBI for their investigation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville 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).
Citizen of Ghana pleads guilty to extortion chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Cross Abu Cole, 21, a citizen of Ghana, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to interstate communications with intent to extort, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on October 30, 2022, Cole improperly accessed an individual’s (Victim) Snapchat account and obtained nude photographs that the Victim had stored in his Snapchat account. Cole sent a text message to the Victim, utilizing a Google Voice telephone number, demanding payment of $200. If payment was not made, Cole threatened to damage the reputation of the Victim by releasing the nude photographs to family and friends of the Victim. An initial payment of $200 via CashApp was made by the Victim as instructed but then he cancelled the payment. Subsequently, the Victim learned that some of his Snapchat contacts had received the nude photographs.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 12, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Choctaw County Resident Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jimmy Dale Kelley, a/k/a Jimmy Dale Kelly, a/k/a Jimmy Dale Robinson, age 38, of Grant, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time served for one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office.
On May 27, 2025, Kelley pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on August 9, 2024, deputies responding to a reported shooting discovered Kelley in possession of a .357 Magnum revolver and spent rounds of ammunition. At the time of the incident, Kelley had been convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.
Cherokee Man Indicted for Murder in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – On October 7, 2025, a grand jury in Asheville returned a criminal indictment charging Derrick Alan Cucumber, 45, of Cherokee, N.C., with first degree murder in Indian country and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for killing Mario Sanchez Nino, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Carla Neadeau of the Cherokee Indian Police Department (CIPD) join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to allegations in filed charging documents, on November 9, 2024, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Cucumber drove to a relative’s residence in Indian Country within the Western District of North Carolina. It is alleged that, upon arriving at the residence, Cucumber, who is an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, approached the victim and another man as they sat near a firepit on the property. Cucumber pointed a gun at the victim and said, “I told you I was going to kill you.” Cucumber then allegedly shot Mario Sanchez Nino once in the face, killing him instantly. After shooting the victim, Cucumber left the scene. Court documents allege that Cherokee Indian Police Department officers responded to Cucumber’s residence and arrested him after a standoff that lasted approximately two hours.
Cucumber is currently in federal custody. If convicted, Cucumber faces a statutory sentence of life in prison for the first degree murder offense, and a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison for the firearm offense. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The charges against the Cucumber are merely allegations and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI and CIPD for their work on the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex M. Scott with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville is prosecuting the case.
Brockport woman going to prison for fraud and making false statementsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Patricia Hutchins, 53, of Brockport, NY, who was convicted of fraud and making a false statement, was sentenced to serve 16 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. Hutchins was also ordered to pay approximately $65,000 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in July 2021, U.S. Postal Inspectors executed a search warrant at Hutchins’ Greece residence and seized documents, cash, and electronic devices that were either used in or derived from various wire fraud schemes, including Unemployment Insurance fraud, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan fraud, and elder fraud. In October 2022, Hutchins was arrested on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. On May 1, 2024, she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and awaiting sentencing on that charge. As part of her plea agreement, Hutchins was required to pay restitution to two victims: $20,052.00 to reimburse a financial institution for a fraudulent PPP loan disbursement and $25,100.00 to an elderly individual who had been duped into “paying off a debt for a friend” by sending that money to Hutchins. Hutchins was in a position to make those restitution payment because she was about to gain a substantial sum from the sale of her home.
On October 16, 2024, Hutchins appeared in federal court for sentencing. At that time, she stated that she had invested the entire proceeds of her home sale in a retirement account and did not have any money for restitution. As a result, her sentencing was delayed, and she was ordered to withdraw the funds from the retirement account and use them to pay restitution to her victims. On December 4, 2024, Hutchins appeared once again for sentencing. This time, she advised the court that she used all her money to buy gift cards for an individual she claimed was Kenny Chesney. However, Hutchins had used that excuse with law enforcement two previous times when she was actually stealing money from victims and the government.
A review of Hutchins’ financial records confirmed that the proceeds from the sale of her residence—approximately $47,000—were deposited into her bank account one month before her scheduled sentencing on October 16, 2024. In the month leading up to the sentencing, she pulled approximately $15,000.00 out of the account by purchasing 80 $250.00 gift cards at merchants such as Walgreens, Tops, Wegman’s, Lowe’s, and Home Depot. After the original sentencing was adjourned, and she was directed by the Court to gather funds to pay restitution, Hutchins purchased another 40 gift cards totaling approximately $8,500.00. As of November 29, 2024, there was only approximately $1,000 left in her account and her victims had yet to receive any restitution.
While investigating Hutchins’ disbursement of the restitution funds, law enforcement discovered that she had engaged in even more credit card fraud than was originally discovered. For example, she had used a victim’s bank account to make 17 payments on her personal credit card totaling over $14,000. As a result, Hutchins was charged with making false statements related to her sentencing and wire fraud. She pleaded guilty to the charge and was required to pay restitution to the additional wire fraud victim, bringing her total restitution owed to approximately $65,000.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, Boston Division, and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan Mellone, Northeast Region.
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6 October 2025
Texas Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald James Yates, age 60, of Tyler, Texas, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, punishable by 10 years to life in prison and a $10,000,000.00 fine.
The Indictment alleged that on February 24, 2025, Yates knowingly and intentionally possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, intending to distribute it.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Yates will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Stillwell Resident Sentenced for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kimberly Dawn Ball-Gilbert, a/k/a Kimberly Dawn Gilbert, a/k/a Kimberly Ball, age 43, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 97 months in prison for one count of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country, to be followed by three years of Supervised Release.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, the Grant County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, and the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory.
On March 19, 2025, Ball-Gilbert pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on July 17, 2023, Ball-Gilbert joined Mose Adam Smith in beating the victim during a fight that left the victim with blunt force trauma and fatal injuries. Ball-Gilbert then stole the victim’s truck and fled the state with Smith. They were apprehended ten days later by law enforcement in Illinois. On April 10, 2025, Smith was found guilty of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country by a federal jury at trial. Smith was sentenced to 121 months in prison on September 17, 2025.
The crime occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Ball-Gilbert will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick M. Flanigan and Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.
Pharmacist arrested for illegal distribution of oxycodoneRead the Press Release
Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.
HOUSTON – A 65-year-old Sugar Land resident has been charged with illegal distributing over 800 oxycodone pills over the course of just a few days, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Kirti Ruxmohan made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray Oct. 6.
The 10-count indictment, returned Oct. 1 and unsealed upon his arrest, alleges Ruxmohan conspired with others to illegally distribute oxycodone from May to June. According to the indictment, the crew leaders paid individuals to pose as patients at Houston-area pill mill clinics to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances.
One leader allegedly worked with Ruxmohan to fill several fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions at his pharmacy. In just a few days in May, they dispensed approximately 810 oxycodone pills, according to the charges.
If convicted, Ruxmohan faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Olson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Luciano Rodriguez, age 45, a Mexican national, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession of Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The Indictment charged Rodriguez with knowingly and unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol from which the serial number had been removed, obliterated, or altered.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Adair County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Rodriguez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Man Charged with Providing a Machinegun Conversion Device to a Minor While Serving a Firearm and Drug SentenceRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Broken Arrow man was indicted for unlawfully possessing a firearm while under supervision of the State and allegedly sold a machinegun conversion device to a minor. Derrick Carl Andrew Chatman, 24, is charged with Possession of a Firearm by Person Under Indictment, Transfer or Possession of a Machinegun, and Firearms Trafficking.
The unsealed complaint alleges that in July, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was contacted by the Tulsa Police Department about recovering a firearm with an attached machinegun conversion device commonly known as a “switch.” A parent found the gun and ammunition in their juvenile’s bedroom. With the parents’ permission, the juvenile spoke with law enforcement and disclosed that he purchased the firearm at a gun show at the fairgrounds. While at the gun show, the juvenile met a man he could buy a switch from.
The complaint alleges that Chatman sold the switch to the juvenile. Video surveillance from the gun show also shows Chatman purchasing a firearm. During a search of Chatman’s home, law enforcement allegedly found a gun, several rounds of ammunition, and a box with a shipping label from China that contained firearm switches.
Further, court records show that Chatman was charged in July 2024 with two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm while committing a felony, and other crimes. In December 2024, Chatman pleaded guilty, was sentenced, and remains under the State's supervision.
The ATF and the Tulsa Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening U.S. SenatorRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – On October 6, 2025, Wyatt Austin Salus, 26, of Cullowee, N.C., appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge W. Carleton Metcalf and pleaded guilty to making interstate threats to kill and injure United States Senator Thom Tillis, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Michael G. Sullivan of the United States Capitol Police (USCP), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to filed plea documents and the plea hearing, on March 17, 2025, Salus called Senator Tillis’s office and left a message threatening to injure and kill Senator Tillis. In his message, Salus communicated a number of threats, including threatening to run over Senator Tillis with his car. Salus also said in his message that Senator Tillis “should not feel safe in North Carolina,” adding, “I will kill you if I see you.”
“Threats of violence against a United States Senator are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “We will continue to work with the FBI and our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable anyone who seeks to intimidate or harm a public official.”
“It is deplorable to make violent threats against anyone. But when threats are directed at elected officials, it can impact their ability to effectively serve their constituents. The FBI will not tolerate this type of intimidation, especially when threats are directed at those elected to lead our country,” said Special Agent in Charge Barnacle.
“This is just another example of how the United States Capitol Police work around the clock to hold people accountable for threatening the Members of Congress,” said USCP Chief Sullivan. “I am proud of our men and women who work with our partners to enforce our zero-tolerance stance against threats. Political violence must stop.”
The maximum penalty for the charge Salus pleaded guilty to is five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing date has not been set.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the United States Capitol Police. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville is prosecuting the case.
Indian Trail Man Sentenced to Prison for Committing Fraud Using Stolen Identities of Military Service MembersRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Shabazz Emmanuel McCarthan, 38, of Indian Trail, N.C., was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for committing fraud using the stolen identities of military service members, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, McCarthan was ordered to pay $175,544.45 in restitution to the victims.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in North Carolina joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, McCarthan and his co-conspirators engaged in an extensive identity fraud scheme whereby they obtained the personal identifying information (PII) of military service members and used the stolen PII to manufacture fictitious forms of identification in the victims’ names. Then, McCarthan used these fictitious forms of identification to fraudulently open bank accounts, lease apartment units, purchase furniture, and rent multiple vehicles. Court records also show that McCarthan generated income from the fraudulently leased apartments by subleasing them as short-term rentals, including using Airbnb. He also attempted to ship the rental vehicles overseas to Nigeria, the Togolese Republic in West Africa, and elsewhere. The loss amount associated with McCarthan’s fraud scheme exceeded $250,000 and his scheme damaged the credit of military members, including at least one service member who was deployed overseas.
McCarthan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and aggravated identity theft. He remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and will be transferred to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
iIn making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI for its investigation which led to the charges.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Savage and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
Illegal alien charged for throwing Texas law enforcement officer into fence during immigration arrestRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 36-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has been charged for assaulting an officer which resulted in deep head wounds, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Javier Cornelio Cruz-Nava is now in custody pending further criminal proceedings.
On Oct. 1, federal and state authorities were conducting immigration enforcement activities in Houston, according to the charges. They allegedly attempted to stop a vehicle Javier Cornelio Cruz-Nava was driving and activated their emergency lights, but he did not yield and began to evade. The charges allege they surrounded Cruz-Nava’s vehicle, at which time he jumped out and fled on foot.
An agent with the Texas Department of Public Safety in uniform began to chase Cruz-Nava, according to the allegations. The charges allege the agent eventually caught up with him and attempted to grab his shirt, but Cruz-Nava slid out of the garment and continued to flee. The agent then allegedly attempted to secure Cruz-Nava by wrapping his arms around him, but Cruz-Nava lunged and threw him into a wrought iron fence.
The charges allege Cruz-Nava fled again, but authorities soon took him into custody.
The agent was injured during the scuffle and sustained two deep head wounds, according to the complaint.
“Those who attack law enforcement officers are attacking the American system of justice,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas has a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who does so. The message is clear—comply with officer directives and keep your hands to yourself.”
If convicted of assaulting, resisting or impeding a person assisting a federal officer, Cruz-Nava faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and DPS. Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Ganz 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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Alain Sanchez-Lopez, a/k/a Enrique Sanchez-Malpicha, a/k/a Jesus Rico-Lopez, a/k/a Jesus Perez-Rico, a/k/a Alain De Jesus Sanchez-Lopez, age 39, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Muskogee County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office.
The Indictment alleged that on July 15, 2025, Sanchez-Lopez, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on November 6, 2015, February 14, 2016, March 29, 2016, and April 13, 2016.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Sanchez-Lopez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dak T. Cohen represented the United States.
Greenville Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing a Bank While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Greenville Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing a Bank While on Federal Supervised Release
CONCORD – A Greenville man pleaded guilty on October 6, 2025, to robbing a bank while on federal supervised release, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Eric Lord, 54, pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante scheduled sentencing for January 12, 2026.
Lord robbed the TD Bank in New Ipswich on April 2, 2025. He was on federal supervised release when he committed the robbery. Lord was previously convicted in federal court for robbing the same TD Bank in 2014. He committed the 2014 robbery one day after being paroled for burglary convictions.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
The New Ipswich Police Department and FBI led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is prosecuting the case.
Gervais Man Charged with Felony Assault of Federal Law Enforcement Officer Near Local ICE OfficeRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Gervais man made his first appearance in federal court today after assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.
Jairin Anzaldua-Ervin, 29, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.
According to court documents, on October 4, 2025, Anzaldua-Ervin was part of a group of individuals trespassing on the driveway of the ICE building in South Portland. Law enforcement officers gave multiple warnings to the group to clear the driveway. Rather than move as directed, Anzaldua-Ervin forcefully threw a water bottle at a law enforcement officer, hitting the officer in the chest. Anzaldua-Ervin was then taken into custody for assaulting a federal law enforcement officer.
“Throwing water bottles, or any object for that matter, at federal law enforcement officers is not protesting – it’s a crime – and perpetrators will be arrested and federally prosecuted,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “I thank the brave members of federal law enforcement who have protected federal employees and the ICE building for more than 110 consecutive nights.”
Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 30 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.
Anzaldua-Ervin made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.
Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Convicted felon illegal alien who assaulted police returns to prison for unlawfully reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.
HOUSTON - A 39-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally reentering the country without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Luis Adrian Torres-Tamayo pleaded guilty June 30.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now ordered Torres to serve 105 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
Torres was first removed in 2012 after sustaining a conviction for possession of a controlled substance. He illegally returned and in 2022, he assaulted two local law enforcement officers during a domestic violence dispute. He repeatedly attacked them, seizing their taser guns and striking them with a closed fist. He subsequently served three years imprisonment for assault of a public servant.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Celia Moyer and Amanda Alum prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Convicted Bank Robber Charged with Murder for Killing Cherokee County Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes IIRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Kelvin Wayne Simmons, 49, is facing a federal charge of first-degree murder of an officer for killing Cherokee County Detention Officer Francisco Paul Flattes II, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. A grand jury sitting in Asheville returned the indictment on October xx, 2025, also charging Simmons with attempted carjacking resulting in death; escape; attempted carjacking; carjacking; use of a firearm in connection with a crime of violence; assaulting, resisting and impeding an officer; and possession of a firearm by a felon.
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and R.E “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.
The criminal bill of indictment alleges that, on June 30, 2025, Simmons did unlawfully kill Cherokee County Detention Officer Flattes while the officer engaged in the performance of his official duties and did so during the perpetration and attempted perpetration of an escape. The indictment also alleges that Simmons attempted to carjack a motor vehicle resulting in the death of Detention Officer Flattes. The indictment further alleges that Simmons, who was in federal custody awaiting sentencing for a federal bank robbery and attempted carjacking conviction, escaped from custody, and following his escape, Simmons then attempted to carjack an individual unsuccessfully. Simmons then allegedly carjacked another individual and used a firearm to commit the carjacking.
Simmons remains in custody. He is scheduled to appear in federal court on xxx, 2025. The penalty for first degree murder is life in prison or death; the penalty for attempted carjacking resulting in death is any number of years up to life imprisonment, or death. The indictment includes a Notice of Special Sentencing Factors which could permit the United States to seek the death penalty. The Justice Department has not yet announced whether it will seek the death penalty. The remaining charges in the indictment carry maximum punishments ranging from five years to life imprisonment.
The charges against Simmons are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI and SBI for their investigation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville 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).
Charles Neil Floyd appointed interim U.S. Attorney for the Western District of WashingtonRead the Press Release
Tacoma – Charles Neil Floyd was sworn in today as interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Washington. Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo administered the oath of office. U.S. Attorney Floyd was appointed by Attorney General Pam Bondi on September 16, 2025.
“Like many Northwesterners, I first experienced the beauty and outdoor opportunities in Washington while stationed at JBLM in the late 1990’s as part of the legal staff on the base,” said U.S. Attorney Floyd. “In 2009, I was able to make Western Washington my home while continuing my legal service to my country as part of the Army JAG Corps, as an attorney with the Department of Homeland Security, and later as an Immigration Judge with the Department of Justice.”
U.S. Attorney Floyd will lead an office of approximately 85 attorneys and 70 support staff. Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) enforce the criminal laws of the United States by directing investigations and prosecuting cases developed by a network of federal law enforcement agencies. The office also fills a critical role as legal counsel for the United States government in civil litigation and affirmative civil enforcement.
U.S. Attorney Floyd is deeply familiar with the work of the Justice Department. Following law school and a judicial clerkship, U.S. Attorney Floyd served in various legal roles while on active duty with the U.S. Army. In 2004, Mr. Floyd joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, and for over five years handled a wide range of federal criminal matters including violent crime, white-collar crimes, health care fraud, mail and wire fraud, bank embezzlement, child exploitation, immigration violations, and identity theft.
In 2009, U.S. Attorney Floyd and his family returned to Western Washington, and he served as Assistant Chief Counsel for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In that role he handled detention and removal proceeding before the Immigration Court and worked closely with Federal and local law enforcement to provide training on criminal and Constitutional issues.
Even as he served his country with DHS and DOJ, Mr. Floyd continued to serve in the Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, as a reserve officer. In November 2015 he was deployed to Iraq for six months as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. He retired from the JAG Corps in 2023 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
In 2018, Mr. Floyd was appointed to be an Immigration Judge in the Executive Office of Immigration Review, presiding over asylum, removal, and bond hearings.
Most recently, in March 2025, U.S. Attorney Floyd was called back to Washington DC to serve as Special Counsel for Immigration Enforcement in the FBI Office of General Counsel. In that role he advised the General Counsel and FBI leadership on all aspects of immigration enforcement. Mr. Floyd coordinated with the Office of the Deputy Attorney General and all DOJ law enforcement components to provide guidance and training on the implementation of immigration enforcement priorities.
U.S. Attorney Floyd has a Masters of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, a law degree with honors from the University of Arkansas, and a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Harding University.
Bank Fraud Co-Conspirator Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Carlos Banegas-Contreras, age 46, entered a guilty plea to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
The Second Superseding Indictment alleged that in June 2023, Banegas-Contreras and others knowingly and willfully conspired to commit bank fraud. On June 23, 2023, Banegas-Contreras and other co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474 at five branches of the same local bank and three check cashing businesses in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance from: Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Lupa, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana; Homeland Security Investigations; the United States Secret Service; the Indiana State Police, the Benton County, Indiana Sheriff’s Department; the Benton County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office; the Poteau, Oklahoma Police Department; and the Houston, Texas Police Department.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Banegas-Contreras will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan W. Howanitz represented the United States.