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24 September 2025
Two Foreign Nationals Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After DeportationRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that two foreign nationals convicted separately of illegally reentering the United States after prior deportations were sentenced this week.
Dagoberto Herrera-Abreu, aka Roberto Rovira, 52, a Dominican national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mia Roberts Perez on Monday to 12 months and one day in prison for illegal reentry. Upon completing his prison sentence, he will be removed from the United States again.
Herrera-Abreu had previously been removed from the U.S. in September 2010, after serving a state prison sentence for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances in Philadelphia, plus additional prison time imposed after he absconded from a drug treatment facility.
In July 2024, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) task force executing a narcotics search warrant in Northeast Philadelphia encountered the defendant, who was subsequently charged in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas with a drug offense, to which he pleaded guilty. In February of this year, following Herrera-Abreu’s completion of his prison sentence, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers took him into federal custody. He was charged by indictment with illegal reentry the same month and pleaded guilty in April.
Claudio Reyes-Morales, 36, a Mexican national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Paul S. Diamond yesterday to time served, over two months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his sentence, he will be removed from the United States again.
Reyes-Morales had previously been removed from the U.S. in October 2011 and June 2012, following encounters with the U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona.
In February of this year, ICE learned that Reyes-Morales had been arrested by the Norristown (Pa.) Police Department. In July, while executing an unrelated search warrant, HSI and ICE officers encountered the defendant and took him into custody. Reyes-Morales was charged by information with illegal reentry in August and pleaded guilty this week, waiving prosecution by indictment.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
The cases were investigated by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and HSI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Schopf and Michael Miller.
Tulsa Man Arrested and Charged with Attempting to Provide Al-Qa’ida with WeaponsRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A complaint was unsealed today after a Tulsa man appeared before a federal judge for attempting to provide 3-D printed weapons to an individual he believed was receiving them on behalf of al-Qa’ida.
Andrew Scott Hastings, 25, is charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support or Resources to Designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Illegal Possession or Transfer of a Machinegun.
In June 2024, the FBI learned that Hastings was on a social media application discussing committing acts of violence against United States civilians, in furtherance of global jihad. Court records indicate that Hastings was enlisted in the United States Army National Guard (Guard) and worked as an aircraft powertrain repairer and held a national security clearance. While serving with the Guard, Hastings traveled outside of the United States and failed to report his travel, as required.
Allegedly, Hastings told others within the social media group that they needed to develop cyberspace skills and to start physical training. During months of discussions, Hastings offered to provide anyone interested with numerous pages of notes, as well as Army manuals related to tactics and the manufacture of weapons. Hastings further alleged that he could 3-D print firearms, was interested in creating a nuclear weapon, and discussed the advantages of using tunnels to protect armed militants, consistent with news reports about Hamas’s use of tunnels in Gaza.
Hastings began communicating with an undercover agent who claimed to have contacts with al-Qa’ida. They discussed 3-D printed firearms, machinegun conversion devices known as “switches,” and drones. Hastings eventually agreed to sell 3-D printed switches to the undercover agent, and believed the switches would be provided to al-Qa’ida members to use during terrorist attacks. Court documents show that Hastings was seen on surveillance footage twice arriving at a postal facility to ship boxes that contained 3-D printed switches and various handgun parts to be supplied to al-Qa’ida for use in terrorist attacks.
During the pendency of this investigation, on June 6, 2025, Hastings agreed to voluntarily discharge from the Guard.
The FBI Oklahoma City – Tulsa Resident Agency Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Army Counterintelligence Command, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tulsa Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan E. Michel, Matthew P. Cyran, and Christopher J. Nassar for the Northern District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case with support from Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tri-Cities Urgent Care Clinic Agrees to Pay $2.8 Million to Resolve Claims of Overbilling for Diagnostic TestsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that Health First Urgent Care, an urgent care clinic with locations in Richland and Pasco, Washington, has agreed to pay $2,807,729 to resolve claims that it fraudulently overbilled Medicare and Medicaid for diagnostic tests.
According to the settlement agreement, a False Claims Act (FCA) claim arose from allegations that Health First Urgent Care fraudulently billed for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) respiratory and urinary tract infection panel testing. These panel tests were a predetermined group of medical tests used to test for multiple pathogens from a single sample obtained from a patient.
The United States and State of Washington alleged that instead of billing for a single panel test, Health First Urgent Care improperly “unbundled” the panel test and billed for each individual test comprising the panel. This resulted in overbilling to Medicare and Medicaid programs. In addition, the State of Washington alleged that Health First Urgent Care improperly billed for panel tests that were more expensive and not medically necessary for individual patients, such as patients presenting with symptoms of Covid-19.
“Ensuring that healthcare providers comply with the requirements of Medicare and Medicaid not only maintains the integrity of these programs, but it also safeguards patients and results in better healthcare outcomes,” said Mr. Serrano. “I would like to express our appreciation for our collaboration with the Washington Medicaid Fraud Control Division and the exception investigative work performed by HHS-OIG. We will continue to ensure that fraud, waste, and abuse does not permeate federal healthcare programs.”
The settlement was the result of an investigation jointly conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Washington State Attorney General’s Office and the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
“Medicare and Medicaid exist to make sure families’ critical medical needs are met. It is vital that we protect the integrity of these programs,” Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown said. “This settlement will help ensure these funds are put to use as intended for Washingtonians.”
“It is critical for providers to bill Medicare, Medicaid, and other taxpayer-funded health care programs lawfully and accurately. The submission of false laboratory testing claims diverts key resources away from those who rely on them, including the elderly and low-income families,” said Jeffrey C. McIntosh, Acting Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to safeguard federal health care programs for the benefit of the American people.”
The United States Attorney’s Office’s investigation and prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob E. Brooks, and the Washington State Attorney General’s Office’s investigation and prosecution was handled by Assistant Attorney General Rachel Sterett.
Toombs County Man Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Filing a False Tax-Related DocumentRead the Press Release
Business Owner Failed to Report $266,048 in Income
STATESBORO, GA: Jonathan Mann (39) of Vidalia, Georgia, pled guilty in April 2025 to filing a false tax-related document for the 2018 tax year. On September 18, 2025, the Honorable J. Randal Hall, United States District Court Judge for the Southern District of Georgia, sentenced Mann to 12 months of imprisonment, followed by 1 year of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Mann was also ordered to pay $84,638 in restitution representing the amount of tax he owed on the unreported income.
As described in court documents and at sentencing, Mann failed to inform his tax preparer of $266,048 in income received by his construction business between 2017 and 2019. Instead, Mann deposited these checks in his bank account or cashed them at the bank upon which the check was drawn. Mann’s conduct resulted in him paying $84,638 less in federal income tax over that 3-year period.
“My office is committed to pursuing individuals that knowingly seek to avoid contributing their share of federal taxes and instead shifting to their fellow citizens the burden of keeping our government functioning,” said Margaret E. Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations Division and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant United States Attorney John P. Harper III.
Three Convicted for Roles in Nationwide Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three individuals—two from Arizona and one from Seattle, Washington—were convicted in federal court for violations of federal narcotics laws in relation to a transnational criminal organization (TCO), Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendants were among 35 individuals charged through a Second Superseding Indictment unsealed in January 2024 for their participation in a domestic and international narcotics and money laundering conspiracy involving substantial quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine (read the Second Superseding Indictment news release here).
Carlos Zamora, 29, of Phoenix, Arizona, and Bryce Hill, 28, of Seattle, Washington, were convicted by a jury following a two-and-a-half-week trial before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan. A third defendant, Jesus Ramirez, 28, of Phoenix, Arizona, pleaded guilty mid-trial.
“These convictions are a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement officers from multiple agencies throughout the country,” said Acting United States Attorney Rivetti. “Refusing to be bound by borders, law enforcement disrupted the deadly flow of fentanyl into western Pennsylvania by aggressively targeting conspirators in Phoenix, Seattle, Mexico, and elsewhere. This multi-year investigation enabled the seizure of millions of fentanyl tablets, the largest quantities ever obtained through an investigation based in western Pennsylvania.”
“These convictions send a clear message: those who think they can profit from the deadly flow of drugs and endanger lives in our community will be held accountable,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The dangerous reality of large-scale drug trafficking organizations isn’t just about peddling huge quantities of poison – it’s also the violence they bring. The FBI and our partners stand fully committed to fighting for the protection of our neighborhoods.”
“Today’s verdict affirms what our investigators have worked so hard to prove: those who smuggle poison like fentanyl into the United States, endanger our families, and bankroll violence will face swift and severe consequences,” said Deputy Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Nathan Abel. “While no verdict can replace the lives already lost to this crisis, it brings a measure of justice to the victims and a measure of safety to the public. HSI Philadelphia remains steadfast in pursuing every lead, freezing every illicit dollar, and bringing every offender to court until the flow of these deadly drugs is stopped.”
Evidence presented during the trial established that Hill and Zamora were both members of the Phoenix-based Monarrez Drug Trafficking Organization—a transnational criminal organization responsible for the distribution of millions of fentanyl pills, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, and dozens of kilograms of cocaine, from August 2021 to June 2023. The Monarrez TCO provided the drugs to a network of subordinate drug distributors, who redistributed the narcotics throughout the country, including into western Pennsylvania. Hill and Zamora were both intercepted over a federal wiretap obtaining hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills and kilograms of methamphetamine for redistribution. Additional evidence presented at trial included testimony regarding the execution of a search warrant on January 11, 2023, during which law enforcement seized 27 kilograms of fentanyl pills, multiple firearms, and $387,000 cash from Hill’s apartment; an intercepted call from January 9, 2023, in which Zamora discussed a drive-by shooting with one of the organization’s leaders; and the seizure of 28 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 7.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, three kilograms of cocaine, 48 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 20 firearms from a short-term rental property (pictured below) in Scottsdale, Arizona, on December 25, 2022.
The jury found that, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Hill and Zamora conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Ramirez pleaded guilty on September 17, 2025, to conspiring with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Sentencing hearings for Hill and Zamora have not yet been scheduled. Judge Ranjan scheduled the sentencing hearing for Ramirez for January 20, 2026. As to Hill and Zamora, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Ramirez faces a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of each defendant.
The three convictions follow those of 29 additional co-defendants.
Assistant United States Attorneys Arnold P. Bernard Jr., Tonya S. Goodman, and Katherine C. Jordan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies, including the Scottsdale, Arizona, Police Department.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, 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).
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Ron Ramirez, Jr. (24, Texas) today pleaded guilty to conspiracy, distribution of 500 grams or more of cocaine, and use of a communication facility in the commission of drug trafficking crimes. Ramirez faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5, up to 84 years, in federal prison.
According to the court documents, Ramirez handled logistics and communications for a drug trafficking organization. On behalf of his co-defendant, Esequiel Maldonado, Ramirez recruited and paid a courier, co-defendant Schuyler Jordan Thompson. Ramirez arranged for Thompson to fly to Polk County, Florida and get cocaine that was supplied by Los Chapitos, known to law enforcement as a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, and to deliver the cocaine to Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. in Lee County. Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. then distributed cocaine in the Middle District of Florida and arranged for drug proceeds to be paid back to Esequiel Maldonado.
The cases against Martin DeJesus Maldonado, Jr. and Esequiel Maldonado are pending trial.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
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).
Texas Man Guilty of Defrauding Georgia Church Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Texas man acting as an insurance adjuster who cheated an Albany church out of millions of dollars paid out by its insurance company to repair its facilities heavily damaged by Hurricane Michael in 2018 was sentenced to serve more than 19 years in prison and ordered to pay nearly $4 million in restitution to victims in several states.
Andrew Mitchell, formerly Andrew Aga, 46, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced to serve 235 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $2,895,903.01 in restitution to the Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company. In addition, Mitchell was ordered to pay $1,082,993.41 to other victims after he admitted in open court to similar crimes in Texas and Louisiana. Mitchell’s sentence will run concurrently to a prison sentence imposed in the 29th Judicial District Court of St. Charles Parish, Louisiana, in Case Number 2023-CR-26, at the conclusion of which he will continue to serve the remaining balance of 18 months imprisonment in this case. Mitchell previously pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud on March 27. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Andrew Mitchell will spend nearly two decades in prison for concocting a devious scheme to swindle insurance money from a historic downtown Albany church, a crime he’s committed in other communities after natural disasters,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Our office and law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue and prosecute these types of fraudsters who prey on people at their most vulnerable.”
“At a time when victims were still reeling from the devastation of Hurricane Michael, Andrew Mitchell took advantage of that vulnerability for his own personal gain,” said Georgia Insurance Commissioner John F. King. “I am proud of our investigators and their work in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect hardworking Georgia families and hold the defendant responsible for his actions.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church on Pine Avenue in Albany was damaged by Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 hurricane that made landfall near Mexico Beach, Florida, on Oct. 10, 2018. The storm’s eyewall struck the Albany community as a Category 3 hurricane with winds of up to 115 miles per hour and significant rainfall. Friendship Baptist Church sustained damage; an initial inspection revealed at least $216,000 in damages. The facility was insured by Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Brotherhood Mutual issued a check for $183,207.89 on Nov. 15, 2018, to Friendship Baptist to cover partial repairs, which was sent via the United States Postal Service (USPS) and was deposited.
In November 2018, a man identifying as Eric Goldberg and who claimed to be associated with Blue Key Construction, met with the church’s pastor, Carl White, to discuss serving as the contractor. A second meeting was held on Nov. 20, 2018, between Goldberg and White, along with Friendship Missionary Baptist Church’s Board of Directors Co-Chairperson Willie Thomas. Goldberg provided a contract authorizing Mitchell, aka “Aga,” to act as a public adjuster.
In December 2018, Mitchell began emailing Brotherhood Mutual representing himself as a Georgia public adjuster employed by International Consulting Group. He was reportedly associated with several corporate entities including but not limited to International Consulting Group; Texas Wind Consultants, LLC; and Loss Consultants of Texas, LLC d/b/a Texas Claim Consultants. In January 2019, Mitchell emailed Brotherhood Mutual an itemized estimate for repairs at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church totaling roughly $2.1 million on the letterhead of "Georgia Claim Consultants." In February 2019, Mitchell provided Brotherhood Mutual with a second repair estimate for approximately $5 million. On March 4, 2019, Mitchell emailed an adjustor with Syndicate Claims a proof of loss indicating that the damages to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church would cost $7.1 million to repair. On March 13, 2019, Mitchell emailed a follow-up proof of loss indicating the total repair cost was $6.1 million.
On July 10, 2019, the insurance company issued a check to the church and Mitchell for $3,376,102.18, mailed to Albany. Mitchell emailed asking the check be reissued and made jointly payable to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and Loss Consultants of Texas, LLC, d/b/a Texas Claim Consultants. On July 19, 2019, Brotherhood Mutual issued the check payable to the church and Mitchell, which was mailed to the church. On July 24, 2019, Mitchell emailed Brotherhood Mutual requesting that the payees be changed to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and Loss Consultants of Texas, LLC d/b/a Texas Claim Consultants. He also asked that the reissued check be mailed to an address in Lake Shores, Texas. On July 24, 2019, Brotherhood Mutual issued the check and mailed it as requested. An endorsement on behalf of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church was forged.
On July 30, 2019, C.W. received and negotiated a check for $50,000 from Texas Wind Consultants, LLC, which Mitchell hand-delivered to C.W. in Albany. On July 31, 2019, Blue Key Construction submitted an invoice totaling $2.4 million for works allegedly performed for Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. On Nov. 26, 2019, Mitchell submitted a proof of loss totaling $7.495 million.
On Dec. 11, 2019, the insurance company issued a check jointly payable to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Broad Avenue, Inc. and Loss Consultants of Texas, LLC d/b/a Texas Claim Consultants for $2,762,783.93. This check was mailed to Mitchell in Kemah, Texas. An endorsement on behalf of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church was forged.
On March 4, 2020, C.W. received and negotiated a check for $50,000 from Texas Wind Consultants, LLC, which Mitchell hand-delivered to C.W. in Albany. On June 19, 2020, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Broad Avenue, Inc. allegedly signed a contract with Blue Key Construction for $18.6 million. Pastor White denied knowledge of this contract or signing it on behalf of the Church. Representatives of Blue Key Construction denied ever having prepared, signed or entered into this contract.
On Nov. 20, 2020, Mitchell submitted an invoice from a heating and air company for $950,000. A heating and air company representative stated that they did not prepare the invoice. An inspection at the church revealed that the work represented in the invoice was not performed. Mitchell also submitted a certification of completion from Blue Key Construction stating that substantial completion would be reached on March 31, 2021, per a Dec. 19, 2019, contract for over $18 million in repairs.
On Jan. 6, 2021, Brotherhood Mutual issued a check jointly payable to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and Loss Consultants of Texas, LLC d/b/a Texas Claim Consultants for $544,512.80. This check was mailed to Mitchell in Kemah, Texas. An endorsement on behalf of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church was forged.
On Sept. 30, 2021, Mitchell emailed Brotherhood Mutual the fraudulent $18.6 million contract between Blue Key Construction and Friendship Missionary Baptist Church; the church received less than one-third of the proceeds paid out by Brotherhood Mutual for damages. Blue Key Construction did not fully repair the church facilities, and the company halted construction in Feb. 2021 after receiving approximately $150,000 from Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and approximately $2.3 million from Mitchell. Mitchell lied to Blue Key Construction representatives that the insurance company refused payment beyond approximately $2.5 million.
In June 2022, Mitchell met with Friendship Missionary Baptist Church representatives to voice their concerns about incomplete repairs; the defendant lied that Brotherhood Mutual was withholding further payments. In total, Brotherhood Mutual Insurance issued $6,866,606.80 in payments intended exclusively for the church’s hurricane repairs.
The case was investigated by the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Fire Safety.
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen prosecuted the case for the Government.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Guilty of Violating Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – RASHUN HUTCHINSON (“HUTCHINSON”), age 25 of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, plead guilty on September 11, 2025, to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control Acts before United States District Judge Barry Ashe, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
Specifically, HUTCHINSON plead guilty to Counts 1, 16, and 17 of the indictment against him. Count 1 charged HUTCHINSON with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); § 841(b)(1)(A); § 841(b)(1)(B); and 846. Count 16 charged HUTCHINSON with possession with intent to distribute four hundred grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(A). Count 17 charged HUTCHINSON with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
On Counts 1 and 16, HUTCHINSON faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release following imprisonment. On Count 17, HUTCHINSON faces a consecutive mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 5 years of supervised release. He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown, but continuing until at least September 10, 2024, HUTCHINSON, and seven other individuals, conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout the Tangipahoa Parish region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at http://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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.
Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.
St. Louis Man Admits a Series of FraudsRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A St. Louis man who was caught with the information of at least 10 different identity theft victims pleaded guilty Wednesday and admitted committing identity theft, check fraud and pandemic fraud.
Darryon M. Sutherlin, 29, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to two counts of identity theft. Sutherlin admitted using the stolen identity of a New Jersey resident to finance a $25,850 loan for a 2016 BMW 328i on May 26, 2022. Sutherlin used the New Jersey man’s name, Social Security number and a fake ID to obtain a personal loan of $8,500, which he spent. Sutherlin also obtained two credit cards in the victim’s name.
On Dec. 7, 2022, Sutherlin deposited two stolen U.S. Treasury checks, for $5,031 and $5,405, into his personal bank account. The checks had been altered to be made payable to Sutherlin. Sutherlin transferred $6,000 to another personal bank account and spent the check funds.
On Jan. 31, 2023, Sutherlin’s property manager conducted a welfare check at his St. Louis apartment because he was five months behind on rent and had disconnected his phone numbers. The property manager contacted police after seeing pounds of marijuana and driver’s licenses in different names but with Sutherlin’s photo. St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers obtained a court-approved search warrant and arrested Sutherlin the next day. At the time of his arrest, Sutherlin was in possession of stolen personal and U.S. Treasury checks (one of which was partially washed), additional unauthorized bank cards and additional false driver’s licenses, including the false New Jersey victim’s license. In Sutherlin’s apartment, police found additional unauthorized bank cards, additional false driver’s licenses, a large amount of bank paperwork and a large trash bag containing stolen, opened U.S. mail. The opened envelopes contained a large number of remittance slips that would be mailed with a personal check when paying a utility or cable bill. In total, police recovered about 23 unauthorized debit and credit cards, about 13 false driver’s licenses and 2 false Social Security cards, all of which bore the information of more than 10 different identity theft victims.
In addition to the identity theft crimes, Sutherlin admitted seeking a Paycheck Protection Program loan on March 23, 2021, by falsely claiming that he ran a construction business and by submitting a false Form 1040 Schedule C showing bogus gross earnings. After receiving a $20,833 PPP loan, Sutherlin immediately withdrew a large portion of the loan funds in cash and spent the remainder on personal expenses.
After he was indicted on May 15, 2024, Sutherlin obtained a loan of $8,500 from a credit union branch in Collinsville, Ill. by using the stolen identity of a Massachusetts man. Sutherlin immediately withdrew the money in two transactions after the loan was removed. Sutherlin has been in jail since the new offense was discovered.
Sutherlin is scheduled to be sentenced on January 26. Identity theft carries a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000 or both prison and a fine. He will be ordered to repay his victims.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow is prosecuting the case.
Springfield Man Sentenced to 50 Years for Sexual Exploitation of Two Child VictimsRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man who sexually exploited two child victims was sentenced in federal court yesterday.
Yevgeniy Dudko, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 50 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Dudko to a lifetime of supervised release following incarceration. Dudko will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.
On March 20, 2025, Dudko was found guilty of two counts of using minors, identified in court documents as Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2, to produce child pornography from Nov. 20, 2021, to March 14, 2023, and one count of receiving and distributing child pornography after a bench trial.
Investigators found approximately 1,000 images and videos of child pornography produced by the defendant involving Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Southfield Doctor Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Illegally Prescribing More Than 200,000 Opioid pills worth more than $5.2 millionRead the Press Release
DETROIT –Dr. Charise Valentine, 69, of Southfield, was sentenced today to six years in prison based on her conviction following a jury trial on charges of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute prescription opioids, including Oxycodone and Oxymorphone, and 10 counts of illegal distribution of Oxycodone and Oxymorphone, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Division, and Special Agent in Charge Mario Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Chicago Regional Office.
Valentine was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Terrence G. Berg, who presided over the trial. The charges on which she was convicted and sentenced stemmed from her role as one of two doctors at Orthopedic Medical Building who issued illegal opioid prescriptions. From November 2016 to July 2018, Valentine issued more than 3,000 prescriptions for more than 200,000 pills to supposed “patients” who did not have a legitimate medical need for the drugs. Her co-defendant, Dr. Michele Ritter, also illegally issued thousands of opioid prescriptions.
Most “patients” were brought to the clinic by “patient recruiters/marketers.” Orthopedic Medical Building, a sham clinic that operated out of a warehouse in Oak Park, Michigan, was a cash-only “clinic,” and charged patients $200-500 per prescription, but did not charge anything if the patient didn’t receive an opioid prescription. As is common in illegal cash-only clinics, the prices were not based on the supposed service provided, but instead based on the quantity, type, and dosage of prescription opioids that the “patient” received, usually Oxycodone 30mg or Oxymorphone 40mg, two of the most addictive prescription opioids. These prescription drugs are also among the most highly diverted prescription opioids due to their high street value. The clinic also charged cash for the creation of fraudulent medical records for the supposed “patients.”
Dr. Valentine was paid about 50% of the clinic’s proceeds – more than $500,000 in cash over about 19 months – and she was paid only if she wrote an opioid prescription to a patient, not based on any supposed “medical care.” She received an envelope of thousands in cash each day she worked.
The other defendants charged in the case, including clinic operator Iris Winchester, Dr. Michele Ritter, and recruiter Joyce Robinson previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison.
“Doctors take an oath to heal, not poison. As a doctor, this defendant knew better than anyone the devastating harm that opioid addiction causes to people. There is no place in our community for corrupt doctors,” said Gorgon.
“Dr. Valentine’s sentencing sends a clear message that the FBI will not tolerate any medical professional who stands to gain personally from abusing their position and endangering the public by illegally prescribing opioids,” said Reuben Coleman, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We are grateful for our strong partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General throughout the entire investigation, and we remain in lockstep with our partners on pursuing these fraudulent medical schemes to save countless lives.”
“As today’s sentencing demonstrates, physicians who endanger patients and engage in the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Our agency will continue to work in concert with our law enforcement partners to protect patients and the integrity of our federal health care programs.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew J. Lievense and Wayne F. Pratt. The Eastern District of Michigan is one of the twelve districts included in the Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection Unit, a Department of Justice initiative that uses data to target and prosecute individuals that are contributing to the nation’s opioid crisis.
The case was investigated by special agents and task force officers of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General.
Six Non-Profits Agree to Pay over $3 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Involving Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The United States Attorney for the District of Columbia announced on September 23, 2025, that it has reached civil settlement agreements with six different non-profit organizations to resolve allegations that the organizations violated the False Claims Act when they applied for and received loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES Act”) was created to provide emergency financial support to Americans suffering economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized billions of dollars in potentially forgivable loans to small businesses and other entities struggling to pay employees and other business expenses during the pandemic, but the Act also contained important limitations on loan eligibility. For example, the CARES Act permitted certain nonprofit organizations to obtain PPP loans, but organizations organized under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code were never eligible for such loans. Similarly, Congress prohibited from “second draw” PPP loans those entities primarily engaged in political or lobbying activities, including those entities organized for research or for engaging in public policy advocacy or political strategy or publicly referring to themselves as “think tanks.” The non-profit organizations that entered settled agreements with our Office were alleged to have falsely certified their eligibility for the PPP loans.
“You don’t steal money from the federal government, especially when that money should be going to more deserving individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“The favorable settlements are the product of enhanced efforts by the Small Business Administration’s Office of General Counsel, working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other Federal law enforcement agencies to investigate and recover monies improperly obtained from the Paycheck Protection Program, as well as penalties,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.
Our Office has entered into settlement agreements with the following organizations.
Armenian National Committee of America Inc. (the “Committee”) is a Section 501(c)(4) non-profit organization that represents the views of Armenian-Americans on various public policy matters. In April 2020, the Committee applied for and received a PPP loan in the amount of $92,340.91, and the Committee later sought and received forgiveness of that loan. The Committee has agreed to pay $184,681.82 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining a PPP loan for which it was not eligible.
Center for Immigration Studies (the “Center”) is a Section 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that describes itself as a think tank devoted to the research of U.S. immigration policy. In April 2021, the Center applied for a “second draw” PPP loan in the amount of $366,160 and subsequently received forgiveness of that loan. The Center has agreed to pay $401,299.15 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining a PPP loan for which it was not eligible.
Diplomatic and Consular Officers Retired, Inc. (“DACOR”) is a Section 501(c)(4) non-profit organization of foreign affairs professionals that describes itself as fostering a public understanding of international affairs and diplomacy. In April 2020, DACOR applied for and received a PPP loan in the amount of $203,032, and the organization later sought and received forgiveness of that loan. DACOR has agreed to pay $355,306. to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining this loan for which it was not eligible.
National Organization for Women (“NOW”) is a Section 501(c)(4) non-profit organization that calls itself the largest organization of feminist grassroots activists in the United States. In April 2020, NOW applied for and received a PPP loan in the amount of $90,339, and the organization later sought and received forgiveness of that loan. NOW has agreed to pay $180,678 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining this loan for which it was not eligible.
National Women’s Political Caucus Inc. (“NWPC”) is a Section 501(c)(4) non-profit organization that represents itself as dedicated to recruiting and supporting women candidates for elected and appointed office. NWPC applied for two PPP loans, one for $9,582 in April 2020, and one for $7,895 around January 2021. NWPC subsequently applied for and received forgiveness of those loans. NWPC has agreed to pay $34,954 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining loans for which it was not eligible.
Third Way is a Section 501(c)(4) non-profit organization that calls itself a national think tank and advocacy organization for certain public policies. In April 2020, Third Way applied for and received a PPP loan in the amount of $974,771, and the organization later sought and received forgiveness of that loan. Third Way has agreed to pay $1,949,542 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by obtaining this loan for which it was not eligible.
The civil settlements resulted from investigations by Assistant United States Attorney Sean M. Tepe and Auditor Timothy C. Hurley. The United States Attorney further wishes to commend Attorney Caitlin J. Kelly of the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of the General Counsel for her assistance in the investigations.
Tips and complaint regarding potential fraud affecting COVID-19 government relief programs can be reported by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or by submitting a NCDF Web Complaint form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The claims resolved by the civil settlements are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Sioux City Man Tied to Mexican Drug Cartel Sentenced to More Than 28 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man was sentenced today to more than 28 years in federal prison.
Freddie Summerville, age 56, from Sioux City, received the prison term after a March 11, 2025, guilty plea to two counts of a six-count Indictment.
Count 1 charged conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and Count 6 charged possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of drug trafficking.
One of Summerville’s known co-conspirators, Ramon Serrano, 31, of San Bernardino, California, was sentenced on December 12, 2024, to 151 months’ imprisonment. Another co-conspirator, Adrian Ibarra-Manzo, 29, of San Diego, California was sentenced on November 14, 2024, to 132 months’ imprisonment.
Evidence in the case revealed Summerville was part of a conspiracy based in Mexico and California that was responsible for distributing approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine and at least a pound of fentanyl in the Sioux City area. On January 3, 2024, Summerville was the subject of a traffic stop, where officers located methamphetamine, approximately 70 pills containing fentanyl, as well as drug paraphernalia, drug ledgers, cash and a loaded firearm. Summerville admitted to law enforcement that he had received 100 pounds of methamphetamine and an unknown quantity of fentanyl from his source of supply in Mexico.
Summerville was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 340 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Summerville is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
These cases were investigated by the DEA Tri-State Drug Task Force and the Sioux City Police Department and were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 24-4028 and 24-4022.
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Santa Clara Woman Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Fraudulently Obtaining More Than $2.8 Million in Pandemic Relief FundsRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – Cassie Will-Darnall was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for fraudulently obtaining more than $2.8 million in pandemic relief funds. U.S. District Judge P. Casey Pitts handed down the sentence.
Will-Darnall, 53, of Santa Clara, pleaded guilty on Jan. 15, 2025, to one count of bank fraud and one count of wire fraud arising out of two Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans she obtained. The PPP was administered by the SBA as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, a federal law enacted in March 2020 to provide billions of dollars in emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The PPP provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other qualified business expenses. PPP funds were disbursed by SBA-approved third-party lenders.
In connection with pleading guilty, Will-Darnall admitted that in May 2020, she fraudulently submitted a PPP application to Lender 1 as the sole partner of Alternative Health Services Inc., falsely stating that the company had 10 employees and an average monthly payroll of $387,595.67, when it had no employees and no payroll. Based on the false information, Lender 1 approved and funded the PPP loan in the amount of $968,989.
In July 2020, Will-Darnall submitted a PPP application to Lender 2 as the CEO of Rosswood Properties LLC, falsely stating that the company had 35 employees and an average monthly payroll of $816,551, when it had no employees and no payroll. Based on the false information, Lender 2 approved and funded the PPP loan in the amount of $1,864,565.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Cobo, and SBA Office of Inspector General (OIG) Western Region Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Huang made the announcement.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Pitts also sentenced the defendant to a three-year period of supervised release. Judge Pitts set a hearing on forfeiture on Oct. 14, 2025, and a hearing on restitution on Dec. 3, 2025. The defendant will begin serving the sentence on Jan. 7, 2026.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Griswold and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny E. James Jr. prosecuted the case with the assistance of Veronica Hernandez, Lynette Dixon, and Elise Etter. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and SBA-OIG.
Sanostee Man Sentenced for Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man was sentenced to 72 months in prison for a violent assault that left a woman seriously injured.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, between December 2 and December 3, 2023, Nathan Mescale, 36, assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
Upon his release from prison, Mescale will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mia Ulibarri-Rubin prosecuted the case.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Firearm Possession and Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
Gabriel Erasmo Cabrera, 22, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Tuesday to being a felon in possession of a firearm and to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
According to court documents, on March 28, 2025, during a parole search of Cabrera’s home, agents discovered a firearm and fentanyl that Cabrera had hidden in another resident’s bedroom. Agents also discovered drug paraphernalia and a drug sales ledger in Cabrera’s room. On Cabrera’s cellphone, officers discovered a video of Cabrera holding the same firearm and many messages between Cabrera and other individuals discussing Cabrera’s fentanyl sales. Cabrera is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions for offenses including sale of a controlled substance, infliction of corporal injury on a spouse, and willfully discharging a firearm with gross negligence.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Harman is prosecuting the case.
Cabrera is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on March 24, 2026. Cabrera faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Cabrera faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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 U.S. Department of Justice 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.
Roofing Contractor Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced ANGELO DELMARO, 48, of Farmington, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, since at least 2012, Delmaro has owned and operated commercial roofing businesses in Connecticut, initially doing business as “Value Roofing,” then “Roofing Services of New England,” and most recently as “Roofing Services.” The businesses also provided paving services. None of Delmaro’s companies registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State or had a federal Taxpayer Identification Number. From 2012 to 2022, Delmaro’s companies earned approximately $12.7 million in customer receipts, but Delmaro paid his workers in cash, never filed income or payroll tax returns for himself or the business, and took several steps to conceal income and operating expenses from the IRS.
As part of his tax evasion scheme, Delmaro and others associated with his business cashed checks from customers at various check cashing businesses instead of depositing them into bank accounts. Delmaro provided the check cashers with addresses associated with UPS mailboxes rather than his home address. When the check cashers filed Currency Transaction Reports (“CTRs”), the IRS only had a UPS mailbox location to try to identify source of income.
Delmaro also had customers file false Forms 1099 made out to a family member, rather than his business, or made out to Delmaro himself, making income attribution more difficult. At times, when a customer requested that Delmaro provide a completed Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, Form W-9, Delmaro worked with his father to prepare a false W-9 that included the name and social security number of his father and a UPS mailbox address. Delmaro sometimes provided customers with W-9 forms using false identities, such as “Harvey Rubino” or “Tony Stano,” which the customers used on the 1099. Delmaro’s father used an alias, which differed from the name and information Delmaro provided to the customer.
Delmaro has agreed to pay restitution of $630,869 to the IRS.
Judge Nagala scheduled sentencing for January 21.
Delmaro is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Reno Doctor Arrested and Indicted for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
RENO – An OB-GYN in Reno made his initial court appearance today for allegedly defrauding health care benefit programs by submitting false claims for unnecessary gynecologic tests and surgical procedures, some resulting in serious medical complications.
According to court documents, Dr. Samuel R. Chacon was the owner of Women’s Health Center of Reno and previously held surgical privileges at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center and Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. As alleged in the indictment, from January 1, 2017 to November 22, 2022, Dr. Chacon submitted false claims to Medicaid, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Healthcare Solutions, Health Plan of Nevada, Molina Healthcare of Nevada, Silversummit Healthplan, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nevada, Cigna Healthcare, and other health care benefit programs for procedures and tests that were not medically necessary, including hysterectomies, anterior and/or posterior repairs, enterocele repairs, vaginal vault suspensions, bladder sling procedures, urodynamic studies, physical therapy, and ultrasounds.
In furtherance of the alleged scheme, Dr. Chacon routinely falsified patients’ medical records to include symptoms and complaints that patients did not report, and he made false representations to patients about their diagnoses and need for gynecologic procedures and tests. Some of the unnecessary procedures are alleged to have resulted in serious bodily injury to his patients.
“FBI Las Vegas is determined to hold bad actors in healthcare accountable for exploiting our healthcare programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Those who commit illegal acts such as false claims and fraudulent services, prioritizing greed over the well-being of others, will face the full force of the law. The overwhelming fraud uncovered in this investigation reveals a blatant disregard for America's critical healthcare program, Medicaid. The FBI is committed to pursuing justice relentlessly on behalf of the victim patients and taxpayers, ensuring that anyone who abuses the healthcare system for personal gain will be held accountable.”
A grand jury returned an indictment charging Dr. Chacon with one-count of health care fraud and eight-counts of false statements related to health care matters. He was arrested today. A jury trial has been scheduled for November 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne R. Traum.
If convicted, Dr. Chacon faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson is prosecuting the case.
If you believe that you were victimized by Dr. Samuel Chacon or that you have information pertinent to this investigation, please fill out this short form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Romanian National Pleads Guilty in ATM Skimming SchemeRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Daniel Balan, 46, of Bacau, Romania, pleaded guilty in federal court to five counts of bank fraud, five counts of aggravated identity theft, and one count of possessing 15 or more access devices, in connection with an ATM “skimming” scheme. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This offender exploited numerous innocent victims for his own financial gain, but thanks to the outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners he will enjoy an extended stay behind bars. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute these crimes to vindicate the victims exploited by these offenses and hold the fraudsters accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Court documents reflect that beginning on January 28, 2025, the defendant placed “skimming” devices and cameras on multiple ATMs in the Tallahassee, Florida area. The devices and cameras were used to capture customer account and access device information. Then, between February 8 and 9, 2025, the defendant used the stolen information to fraudulently obtain $56,340 in customer funds. At the time of arrest, law enforcement found 28 gift cards in the defendant’s pocket that had been encoded with stolen account information and labeled with a corresponding PIN.
Balan faces up to thirty years’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release on each bank fraud count, up to ten years’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release on the possession of 15 or more access devices count, and a consecutive two years’ imprisonment and one-year of supervised release on each aggravated identity theft count when he is sentenced.
The case involved a joint investigation by the U.S. Customers and Immigration Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Eric W. Welch.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark Walker.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit theU.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Poplar man sentenced to more than 4 years in prison for sexual abuse of a minorRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Poplar man who sexually abused a minor was sentenced today to 54 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Jonathan Robert Walking Eagle, 23, pleaded guilty in May 2025 to two counts of sexual abuse of a minor.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on January 24 and 25, 2023, Walking Eagle, then 20 years old, sexually abused a 14-year-old girl on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, in both Poplar and Wolf Point.
The first incident occurred on January 24, 2023, in Poplar. The victim went with Walking Eagle to his mother’s house, and they unprotected sex. The second incident occurred the next day, in Wolf Point. A friend of Walking Eagle’s picked up Walking Eagle and the victim and drove them to Wolf Point, where the victim used marijuana and vaped. She became lightheaded and Walking Eagle removed her clothes and sexually assaulted her.
A SANE exam was completed on the victim and saliva samples were obtained from Walking Eagle. There was very strong support that his DNA was present in the samples obtained from the victim during her exam.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribal Police, and Wolf Point Police Department, with assistance from the Williston Police Department.
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.
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Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to More Than Five and a Half Years in Prison for Possession of Multiple Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 70 months of imprisonment for violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Morisee Williams, 41, of the Knoxville neighborhood of Pittsburgh.
According to information presented to the Court, in May 2024, the FBI executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence and recovered four firearms (two of which were stolen), approximately seven ammunition magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and a firearm mount and rifle grip. As a previously convicted felon, Williams is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition.Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Williams.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pensacola Man Charged with Federal Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tre’Veonce Ezekiel Sanders, 19, of Pensacola, was indicted by a federal grand jury this week charging him with possession of a machinegun, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.
Sanders appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho on September 23, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for November 3, 2025, before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
If convicted, Sanders faces up to ten years’ imprisonment for each of the firearms offenses and up to five years’ imprisonment for the drug crime.
The case was joint investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 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 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Pensacola Felon Charged with Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Marcel Kamill Mickles, 49, of Pensacola, was indicted by a federal grand jury this week on charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.
Mickles appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho on September 23, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for November 3, 2025, before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
If convicted, Mickles faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment for the drug trafficking crime and up to 15 years for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a consecutive five-year term with a maximum of life imprisonment.
The case was a joint investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 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 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Owner of Local Restaurant Pleads Guilty to Laundering Covid FundsRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Bryan Ochoa Diaz, 32, a resident of Tigard, Oregon, pleaded guilty today to money laundering related to proceeds of a government loan issued to his family-owned restaurant.
According to court documents, Ochoa Diaz, acting on behalf of Casa Colima Vancouver, Inc., applied for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan of $350,000. The loan was part of a Covid era relief program offered by the federal government. The terms of the loan required that funds be used solely as working capital for the company to alleviate economic injury caused by the disaster and that none of the funds would be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.
On August 16, 2021, the SBA transferred $350,000 into Casa Colima’s bank account. The next day, Ochoa Diaz misappropriated some of the funds by transferring $100,000 into his parents’ personal bank account. Later that same day, Ochoa Diaz wired the $100,000 to a mortgage company to apply to a mortgage his parents had on their home.
Ochoa Diaz is a reserve officer with the U.S. Coast Guard. He was charged by information with one count of money laundering. He made his initial appearance on September 5, 2025, and waived indictment by a grand jury. He pleaded guilty to that charge today and paid $350,000 in full restitution to the SBA.
Ochoa Diaz faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He will be sentenced on December 15, 2025, before a U.S. District Court Judge.
This case was investigated by the SBA, Office of Inspector General, and the Coast Guard Investigative Service. It is being prosecuted by Chris Cardani and Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Omaha Man Sentenced to More Than 8 Years for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Micah J. Cornell, 27, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 17, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for one count of transportation of child pornography. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Cornell to 97 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Cornell’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Cornell was additionally ordered to pay $6,000 which will contribute to funds established for victims of these types of cases.
The investigation of this case began with a CyberTip received in November 2023. The CyberTip included one child pornography file which was uploaded to an online platform. A search warrant was executed on that account which revealed approximately 150 child pornography videos, including videos of prepubescent children with ages varying from infant to twelve years of age.
After further investigation, a search warrant was executed at Cornell’s residence on June 5, 2024. During the execution of the search warrant, investigators seized Cornell’s devices and Cornell was interviewed. Cornell admitted he was the owner of the subject email address and account. Upon a review of Cornell’s cellphone, 77 image files and 33 videos containing child pornography were located by law enforcement on that device.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.
Olathe Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing 41 Firearms and Transporting Child Pornography into the United StatesRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Olathe, Ks., man pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to stealing 41 firearms from a gun store in Raytown, Mo., and for transporting child pornography on his cell phone into the United States from Mexico.
Frank Guereca, 23, pleaded guilty today to one count of stealing firearms from a federal firearms licensee and one count of transportation of child pornography.
On June 16, 2023, Guereca and two others backed a stolen U-Haul truck into the store of a federally licensed firearms dealer, located in Raytown, Mo., creating a hole in the front of the business. Thereafter Guereca and the others entered through the hole and took 41 firearms from the business. One of the stolen pistols was recovered in Tracy, Ca., on Nov. 14, 2023. A second stolen pistol was recovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, on Dec. 19, 2023. A third stolen pistol was recovered in Juarez, Mexico, on Feb. 6, 2024.
Guereca was arrested on April 25, 2024, as he attempted to cross back into the United States from Mexico. Guereca had in his possession a Samsung Galaxy cell phone, which was seized by law enforcement. Subsequent review of the contents of the phone pursuant to a federal search warrant revealed at least approximately 250 images and 70 videos depicting child pornography, which Guereca transported into the United States from Mexico.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection records, Guereca had previously crossed the border approximately 20 times since the burglary and theft on June 16, 2023.
Under federal statutes, Guereca is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in prison without parole for the firearm theft, and up to 20 years in prison without parole for the transportation of child pornography. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Alison D. Dunning. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Raytown, Mo., Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
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).
Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murdering Checotah WomanRead the Press Release
David Deval Martin, 40, of McIntosh County, Oklahoma, was sentenced — for a second time — to life in prison for the vicious 2013 murder of a Checotah woman.
“The defendant in this case brutally murdered his victim in cold blood,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. “By retrying the case and securing a life sentence for the Defendant, the Department of Justice has demonstrated our commitment to seeking justice for the victims of violent crime in Indian Country.”
“The defendant’s heinous crime was deserving of the life sentence imposed by the Court,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “I am grateful for the thorough work of investigators and the skilled presentation of the evidence by colleagues from the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. Their collective efforts were vital in securing justice for the victim’s family.”
“Thanks to the work of the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS), the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and FBI Oklahoma City, this depraved and merciless killer has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in federal prison,” said Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “Today’s sentencing underscores the FBI’s dedication to working with our partners and achieving justice for victims of violent crimes in Indian Country.”
In 2016, Martin was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole after a state jury trial held in the District Court of McIntosh County, Oklahoma. On appeal, the Supreme Court of the United States required the Department of Justice to indict and prosecute Martin in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. A federal jury found Martin guilty on one count of murder in Indian Country in October 2024.
According to court documents, on Nov. 7, 2013, Martin viciously beat and stabbed the victim — whom he had previously dated — causing over 109 separate injuries to her head and neck. The medical examiner estimated that it would have taken Martin “20 to 30 [minutes] or longer” to inflict these wounds, and that the victim was alive, and likely conscious, for much of her own murder. Just hours before Martin killed the victim, he was seen threatening her at a local convenience store by pointing his fingers at her head in the shape of a gun.
At the scene of the crime, investigators recovered Martin’s DNA mixed with the victim’s own blood from the front door of the home, and Martin’s fingerprint on the handle of a metal rod used to beat the victim. Martin’s DNA was also recovered from the steering wheel of the victim’s abandoned car.
This case was investigated by the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Martin 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 life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Trial Attorneys Jared A. Hernandez and Brian W. Lynch from the Department of VCRS represented the United States. This case represents the last indictment that has been a part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section McGirt project, in which the Criminal Division partnered with the Eastern District of Oklahoma to prosecute murder cases in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murdering Checotah WomanRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE , OKLAHOMA – David Deval Martin, age 40, of McIntosh County, Oklahoma, was sentenced - for a second time - to life in prison for the vicious 2013 murder of a Checotah woman.
In 2016, Martin was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole after a state jury trial held in the District Court of McIntosh County, Oklahoma. That conviction was vacated after the Supreme Court decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma, because Martin is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe, and the crime occurred within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation reservation. Martin was subsequently charged in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and a federal jury found Martin guilty on one count of Murder in Indian Country in October 2024.
According to court documents, on Nov. 7, 2013, Martin viciously beat and stabbed the victim - whom he had previously dated - causing over 109 separate injuries to her head and neck. The medical examiner estimated that it would have taken Martin “20 to 30 [minutes] or longer” to inflict these wounds, and that the victim was alive, and likely conscious, for much of her own murder. Just hours before Martin killed the victim, he was seen threatening her at a local convenience store by pointing his fingers at her head in the shape of a gun.
At the scene of the crime, investigators recovered Martin’s DNA mixed with the victim’s own blood from the front door of the home, and Martin’s fingerprint on the handle of a metal rod used to beat the victim. Martin’s DNA was also recovered from the steering wheel of the victim’s abandoned car.
This case was investigated by the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“The defendant in this case brutally murdered his victim in cold blood,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti. “By retrying the case and securing a life sentence for the Defendant, the Department of Justice has demonstrated our commitment to seeking justice for the victims of violent crime in Indian Country.”
“The defendant’s heinous crime was deserving of the life sentence imposed by the Court,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “I am grateful for the thorough work of investigators and the skilled presentation of the evidence by colleagues from the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. Their collective efforts were vital in securing justice for the victim’s family.”
“Thanks to the work of the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS), the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and FBI Oklahoma City, this depraved and merciless killer has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in federal prison,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “Today’s sentencing underscores the FBI’s dedication to working with our partners and achieving justice for victims of violent crimes in Indian Country.”
“The OSBI appreciates the great work conducted by our law enforcement partners throughout this investigation,” said Hunter McKee, Public Information Manager with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. “Obtaining justice for the victim and their family is crucial for all agencies involved. We are thankful for everyone’s dedication and commitment.”
Martin 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 life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Trial Attorneys Jared A. Hernandez and Brian W. Lynch from the Department of VCRS represented the United States. This case represents the last indictment that has been a part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section McGirt project, in which the Criminal Division partnered with the Eastern District of Oklahoma to prosecute murder cases in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma.
Nigerian National Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Romance Scam and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Nigerian national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his involvement in the theft of more than $2 million from at least six romance scam victims by transferring their money to cryptocurrency accounts that he controlled.
Charles Uchenna Nwadavid, 35, of Abuja, Nigeria, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to two years in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release. Nwadavid was also ordered to pay $2,724,810.41 in restitution. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, Nwadavid pleaded guilty to mail fraud, aiding and abetting money laundering and money laundering. Nwadavid was arrested in April 2025 after arriving on a flight from the United Kingdom to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. In January 2024, a federal grand jury in Boston indicted Nwadavid on charges of mail fraud and money laundering.
“Romance scams” recruit victims through advertisements for online relationships on dating or social media websites. Individuals perpetuating romance scams create fictitious profiles and then use them to gain victims’ trust through a purported romantic relationship. Perpetrators then direct their victims to send money or to conduct financial transactions involving other victims’ money under false pretenses, such as an urgent need for money to secure a multi-million-dollar inheritance or to pay for an unexpected hospitalization.
Between in or about 2016 and September 2019, Nwadavid participated in romance scams that tricked victims into sending money abroad. A victim from Massachusetts was tricked into receiving funds from victims around the United States and then passed the funds to Nwadavid through a series of cryptocurrency transactions. Nwadavid repeatedly accessed accounts in the victim’s name from overseas, to transfer the victims’ funds to accounts he controlled at LocalBitcoins, an online cryptocurrency platform.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth B. Kosto and Mackenzie A. Queenin of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
Niagara Falls man arrested, charged with attempting to disable a CSX railroad switch that could cause a derailmentRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Charles Wilson, 66, of Niagara Falls, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempting to disable a CSX railroad switch in a manner that could cause a derailment or damage railroad equipment. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on June 22, 2025, Amtrak personnel reported to CSX employees that a pad lock was replaced on a railroad switch at the CSX Transportation Niagara Rail Yard on 29th Street in Niagara Falls, NY. CSX trains that use the Niagara Rail Yard carry items including chlorine, sulfuric acid, and bleach.
A railroad switch enables trains to be guided from one track to another. The Amtrak switch pad lock was stolen and replaced with an orange Maintenance of Way (MOW) pad lock, a large pad lock with one universal key. Because the pad lock was replaced with an MOW lock, the railway switch could not be changed in a timely manner. As a result, an Amtrak passenger train was delayed.
On June 23, 2025, surveillance cameras were installed in the area by CSX personnel. A subsequent review of surveillance footage identified Wilson as an individual entering the CSX Niagara Rail Yard on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and appearing to remove a pad lock and replace it with a MOW pad lock. CSX personnel had to remove the unauthorized MOW pad lock and return the switch back to its original position. Wilson’s actions created an interruption and a safety concern to train operations that could have led to a derailment of train cars that contain hazardous material. On July 1, 2025, Wilson drove an ATV from the direction of his home to the CSX Niagara Rail Yard and is seen on surveillance moving a mechanical hand switch into a new position, which could have caused a train derailment. The derailment of a train carrying chlorine, bleach and sulfuric acid could have potentially catastrophic consequences. In the following days, on July 2 and 6, 2025, Wilson is again seen trespassing on CSX property. According to the complaint, he’s been under investigation by the CSX Police Department for various issues since 2013 and was arrested in 2014 and 2016 for criminal trespass and criminal tampering. The 2016 charges resulted in an order of protection barring Wilson from being on CSX property.
Wilson made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was held pending a detention hearing.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the CSX Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean Douris, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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New Jersey Man Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Khayan Garner, 57, of Woodbridge, New Jersey, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 87 months in prison in connection with distributing videos depicting prepubescent boys engaged in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Garner, aka “Khy,” pleaded guilty on April 23, 2025, to one count of distribution of child pornography. In addition to the prison term, Judge Rudolph Contreras ordered Garner to serve 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Garner was acting as an administrator of an online public group dedicated to trading child sexual abuse material (CSAM). On June 26, 2024, Garner sent a private message from his account that included a Mega Link containing a folder labeled “CP,” which contained several videos depicting prepubescent boys engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The recipient was an undercover FBI employee.
On October 3, 2024, New Jersey law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the Garner’s residence. Officers searched Garner’s mobile phone pursuant to the New Jersey warrant. The phone contained, among other things, child pornography and selfies of Garner.
The FBI Washington Field Office and MPD’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking. Substantial assistance was provided by the Woodbridge Police Department in New Jersey, the New Jersey State Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Shinskie and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Courtney for the District of Columbia.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Missouri Woman Sentenced in Scheme to Fraudulently Foreclose on GracelandRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Lisa Jeannie Findley, 54, of Kimberling City, Missouri, was sentenced to serve 57 months in federal prison related to her unsuccessful scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s family of millions of dollars and steal the family’s ownership interest in Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home located in Memphis, Tennessee. Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., announced the sentence today.
According to the indictment returned by a federal grand jury in September 2024, Findley orchestrated a scheme to conduct a fraudulent sale of Graceland, falsely claiming that Elvis Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, had pledged the historic landmark as collateral for a loan that she failed to repay before her death. Findley pled guilty in February 2025 to a charge of mail fraud arising from this scheme.
In addition to the prison term, Senior United States District Court Judge, John T. Fowlkes, Jr., also ordered Findley to serve a three-year period of supervision following her release from custody.
“Fame and money are magnets for criminals who look to capitalize on another person’s celebrity status. In this case, Ms. Findley took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportunity to prey on the name and financial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate; attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her personal gain. Postal Inspectors and their law enforcement partners put an end to her scheme, protecting the Presley family from continued harm and stress. Today’s sentencing marks the culmination of our relentless investigative work in this case and is another example of our commitment in bringing criminals to justice for their illegal activity,” said Eric Shen, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group.
“Orchestrating a scheme to conduct a fraudulent sale of Graceland is a crime against both the Presley family and the public,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Nashville Field Office. “This sentence serves as a reminder that the FBI is committed to vigorously pursue cases against individuals, in the United States and abroad, who would steal an identity and use fraud to benefit themselves personally. It is thanks to the dedication of the FBI and our partners that justice was served.”
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the FBI – Memphis Field Office. Assistant Chief Cory E. Jacobs and Trial Attorneys Christopher Fenton and Aaron Henricks of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. Andre III for the Western District of Tennessee prosecuted the case.
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Michigan City Man Sentenced to 54 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Neil Lachmund, 46 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of children, production of child pornography, and production and transportation of obscene material for sale or distribution, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Lachmund was sentenced to 54 years in prison followed by life on supervised release. A restitution hearing will be held on a later date to determine the amount of restitution owed to the victims of the offenses.
According to documents in the case, Lachmund produced images and videos of child sexual abuse material. His crimes were committed over a ten-year period, during part of which he was employed as a law-enforcement officer. He then distributed those images and videos to other people using the Internet. Forensic analysis of his electronic devices revealed that he possessed tens of thousands of additional images and videos.
“Neil Lachmund once swore an oath to protect the vulnerable in his community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Proctor. “By repeatedly preying on those least able to protect themselves, he betrayed the principles to which he swore in the most vile and loathsome manner imaginable. While this sentence cannot undo the harm caused to Lachmund’s victim(s), it puts an end to his depredations. It also serves to warn any other would-be sexual predators: should they decide to commit their crimes in northern Indiana, they will be hunted down and brought to a swift and severe justice by the exceptional team of law enforcement professionals who operate in this District every day.”
“The sexual exploitation of children is among the most reprehensible crimes we investigate. This defendant once swore to uphold the law but, instead, he chose to exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Ericks. “This sentence reflects the serious harm inflicted on the victims and sends a clear message: those who engage in such horrific crimes will be held accountable. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to diligently identify and investigate those individuals and pursue justice for survivors.”
"Homeland Security Investigations is unwavering in its mission to protect children from those who seek to exploit and harm them, regardless of the predator's position or profession. The fact that this individual was a former law enforcement officer entrusted to uphold the law makes these crimes even more appalling. This case underscores the importance of our partnerships with state and local agencies to ensure that no one is above the law and that those who prey on the most vulnerable members of our society are brought to justice,” said Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. Scarpino.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes against Children Unit (ICAC). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Mexican woman pleads guilty to, sentenced for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ancelma Contreras Pano, 40, a citizen and national of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to re-entry of a removed alien. She was sentenced to serve two months in prison and will then be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who handled the case, stated that Contreras Pano is an alien without any legal status in the United States. In June 2015, she was physically removed from the United States. On July 31, 2025, Contreras Pano was found in Erie County, NY, by Border Patrol Agents and did not have any documents allowing her to be legally present in the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge David Banks.
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Mexican national admits to smuggling drugs with family in vehicleRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old resident of Queretaro, Queretaro, Mexico, has admitted to conspiring to import four kilograms of fentanyl and two kilograms of cocaine from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
On Feb. 14, Erik Villegas Cusi approached the International Bridge No. 2 in a sedan with his wife and minor son as passengers. An x-ray of his vehicle revealed anomalies in the center of the car, prompting further inspection. Authorities drilled into the undercarriage and discovered an aftermarket compartment containing six bundles with 4.02 kilograms of fentanyl and 2.05 kilograms of cocaine.
Cusi initially denied knowledge of the drugs and claimed a mechanic in Mexico may have been responsible. In the presence of law enforcement, he contacted the mechanic who confirmed he had only performed brake work.
Further investigation revealed significant underbody modifications to create the hidden compartment. The muffler and catalytic converter had been removed, reshaped and rewelded before installation. There were also cuts beneath the center console and additional insulation used to seal the compartment after the drugs were placed there.
As part of his plea, Cusi admitted he had conspired with others in Mexico to smuggle the drugs into the United States during the family trip. According to documents filed with the court, Cusi knew he was transporting the drugs from Mexico into the United States at Laredo and was then supposed to deliver the drug-laden vehicle to other people in the United States.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Villegas-Cusi faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.
Cusi has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection, its Laredo Evidence Collection Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration Southwest Regional Laboratory. Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez 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.
Mexican man pleads guilty for the third time to illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Oscar Figueroa Rosario, 41, a citizen and national of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to re-entry of removed alien subsequent to a felony conviction, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who is handling the case, stated that Figueroa Rosario was physically removed from the United States in August 2007. He was found in the United States again in September 2007 and was physically removed on September 20, 2007. Figueroa Rosario was subsequently found in the United States again and physically removed in November 2007, two times in January 2009, and in June 2011. On August 1, 2025, Figueroa Rosario was encountered at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry when the vehicle he was in made a wrong turn towards Canada. He was not in possession of any legal documents allowing him to be present in the United States.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The plea is the result of an investigation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 2, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Mexican man arrested for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Alejandro Vazquez-Landin, 40, a citizen and national of Mexico, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with re-entry of a removed alien, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who handled the case, stated that according to the complaint, on September 10, 2025, while conducting surveillance of a pickup truck with out-of-state plates parked at a hotel in Amherst, NY, law enforcement observed four male subjects, all wearing construction attire, enter the vehicle. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop. Vazquez Landin, a passenger in the vehicle, opened his door and began running towards a nearby parking lot. After a short foot chase, he was apprehended. Vazquez Landin did not possess any valid immigration documents that would allow him to be in the United States. An immigration record check determined that he is a native and citizen of Mexico, who was physically removed from the United States in June 2008 and September of 2012.
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 complaint is 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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Massachusetts Couple Convicted of Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester, Mass. husband and wife were convicted on Sept. 22, 2025, of sex trafficking following a six-day jury trial.
Kiersten Soto, 32, and Moises Soto, 33, were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion- both counts relating to the interfamilial trafficking of a younger relative. Kiersten Soto was also convicted of one count of traveling or using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activities. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Dec. 19, 2025. The defendants were arrested and indicted in December 2022.
Evidence presented at trial proved that from February through May 2022, the Sotos used force, fraud and coercion to traffic the victim for commercial sex in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island. A website was used to advertise the victim to sex buyers all over New England. Kiersten Soto regularly threatened the victim with violence, abandonment and involuntary commitment to a facility. Moises Soto used extreme physical violence including – beatings, assaults with wooden dowel rods and choking if he victim failed to make enough money. Videos from the defendants’ cell phones show the defendants cornering the victim in their home, threatening her, berating her, calling her a snitch, all while the victim suffered through agonizing drug withdrawals.“Kiersten and Moises Soto built their so-called livelihood off of brutality and control. The Sotos compounded their cruelty by recording the abuse – immortalizing the victim’s trauma for their own depraved purposes,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Today’s convictions send the unmistakable message that this office will relentlessly pursue those who traffic in human suffering, and we will not stop until they are exposed, prosecuted, and brought to justice.”
“HSI has no tolerance for those who exploit and traffic vulnerable individuals,” said Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “With these two traffickers brought to justice, a victim is now free from exploitation and on the path to healing. HSI is grateful for the partnership and support of our local and state partners from the Marlborough Police Department, the Worcester Police Department, and the Massachusetts State Police.”
The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion provides for a sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 and mandatory restitution to the victim. The charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and mandatory restitution to the victim. The charge of traveling or using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activities, specifically prostitution, provides for a sentence oof up to five years in prison, a maximum of three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
U.S. Attorney Foley and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Marlborough and Worcester Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Torey B. Cummings of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
Mason man pleads guilty to transporting explosive materials to local parkRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – James River Phillips, 21, of Mason, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to illegally transporting explosive materials.
Phillips was arrested in April 2025 by the FBI Cincinnati Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) after agents executed search warrants in Mason, Oxford and Liberty Township.
According to court documents, on Sept. 22, 2024, Phillips transported components of an improvised explosive device (IED) to a large soccer complex in Lebanon, Ohio. Phillips planned to detonate the IED but was stopped when a Lebanon police officer instructed him to leave the complex because it was closed. The officer discovered the live IED and it was seized by the Butler County Bomb Squad. Subsequent testing revealed that the IED contained Nickel Hydrazine Nitrate (NHN) and Erythritol Tetranitrate (ETN).
Sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the Court at a future hearing.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati and officials with the Lebanon Police Department, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Butler County Sheriff’s Office, Mason Police Department, Oxford Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Dayton Police Department and U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Douglas R. Cole. Deputy Criminal Chief Emily N. Glatfelter is representing the United States in this case.
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Man Who Sold Drugs, Shot at Undercover St. Louis Police Officer Sentenced to 15+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Wednesday sentenced a man who shot at an undercover St. Louis Police officer who was investigating drug sales to 15 years and five months in prison.
Anthony Stallworth sold 28 capsules containing fentanyl to an undercover St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officer on Oct. 10, 2019. Five days later, the officer contacted Stallworth to buy more fentanyl. Stallworth set a meeting location, then directed the officer to another spot. Stallworth arrived at the second location and had the officer follow his Mercedes SUV. Stallworth then suddenly stopped his SUV, stuck a gun out of the SUV’s window and fired two shots in the direction of the officer’s vehicle, which was stopped at a stop sign. Stallworth fled, speeding and driving erratically so that officers were unable to follow.
In the summer of 2023, St. Louis police were conducting surveillance in the 4700 block of Wilcox Avenue in St. Louis and spotted Stallworth engaging in drug transactions. They conducted a court-approved search of an apartment there and found Stallworth with 450 grams of methamphetamine, 86 grams of fentanyl, $2,862 in cash, a 10mm pistol and drug paraphernalia.
“Stallworth armed himself with firearms and even opened fire on undercover officers, showing a blatant disregard for human life,” said Special Agent in Charge Bernard “Butch” Hansen, of the Kansas City Field Division. “Combined with the large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine he was trafficking, his actions put our entire community at risk. Today’s sentence holds him accountable for the violence he chose and for flooding our streets with deadly drugs and guns. ATF will continue working with our partners to protect families and neighborhoods from offenders who endanger public safety.”
Stallworth, 26, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in June to one count each of possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The discharge of a firearm charge carried a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison for Stallworth, consecutive to all other charges, and the meth possession charges carry a mandatory minimum term of five years.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case.
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.
Man Arrested and Charged with Attempting to Provide Al-Qaida with WeaponsRead the Press Release
A criminal complaint was unsealed today after a Tulsa, Oklahoma, man appeared before a federal judge for attempting to provide 3-D printed weapons to an individual he believed was receiving them on behalf of al-Qaida.
Andrew Scott Hastings, 25, is charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to designated foreign terrorist organizations and illegal possession or transfer of a machinegun.
In June 2024, the FBI learned that Hastings was on a social media app discussing committing acts of violence against U.S. civilians in furtherance of global jihad. Court records indicate that Hastings was enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard (Guard) and worked as an aircraft powertrain repairer, and held a national security clearance. While employed with the Guard, Hastings traveled outside of the United States and failed to report his travel, as required.
Allegedly, Hastings told others within the social media group that they needed to develop cyberspace skills and to start physical training. During months of discussions, Hastings offered to provide anyone interested more than 500 pages of notes, as well as Army manuals related to tactics and the manufacture of weapons. Hastings claimed that he had previously been detained and interrogated by law enforcement and explained how to avoid law enforcement. Hastings further alleged that he made a firearm, was interested in creating a nuclear weapon, and discussed the advantages of using tunnels to protect armed militants, consistent with news reports about Hamas’s use of tunnels in Gaza.
Hastings began communicating with an undercover agent who claimed to have contacts with al-Qaida. They discussed 3-D printed firearms, machinegun conversion devices known as “switches,” and drones. Hastings eventually provided the undercover agent with a link to a website where he was offering 3-D printed switches for sale. Court documents show that Hastings was seen on surveillance footage twice arriving at a postal facility to ship boxes that contained more than 100 3-D printed switches, two 3-D printed lower receivers for a handgun, one handgun slide, and various handgun parts to be supplied to al-Qaida for use in terrorist attacks.
During the pendency of this investigation, on June 6, 2025, Hastings agreed to voluntarily discharge from the Guard.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Clinton J. Johnson for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director Donald Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City – Tulsa Resident Agency Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Army Counterintelligence Command, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tulsa Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan E. Michel, Matthew P. Cyran, and Christopher J. Nassar for the Northern District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case with support from Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Madison Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Possessing Firearm and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jeramie J. Mason, 40, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, and possessing with intent to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl, more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine. The prison term will be followed by 10 years of supervised release. A jury convicted Mason of these crimes after a three-day trial in federal court in Madison on April 21, 2025.
On November 3, 2023, Madison Police detectives searched Mason’s bedroom for evidence of a fight that had occurred at Warner Beach Park two weeks before. In the bedroom closet, police found a loaded firearm inside of a backpack and a plastic jar containing 4320 counterfeit prescription pills that contained fentanyl, 277 grams of cocaine, and more than 240 counterfeit ecstasy pills containing methamphetamine. Later, an analyst from the Wisconsin State Crime Lab found Mason’s DNA on the firearm and drug packaging. At the time of the offense, Mason was on supervision for possessing heroin intended for distribution. Mason is prohibited from legally possessing firearms under federal law based on that and other felony convictions.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted that Mason’s offenses were an “alarming escalation” of his criminal conduct. Considering Mason’s history of violent crimes, Judge Conley found it especially concerning that a firearm was found near the large quantity of drugs.
The charges against Mason were the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department, Maple Bluff Police Department, and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorneys William M. Levins and Aaron Wegner prosecuted this case.
Federal cases involving drugs and firearms are part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is 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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Teodoro Rodriguez-Alvarez , 34, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal alien has brazenly and repeatedly violated our laws while illegally present in our country. I deeply appreciate the work of our local law enforcement partners and Homeland Security Investigations to stop his flagrant criminal behavior. My office remains committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the criminal aliens who violate our federal laws by prosecuting those offenders to the fullest extent.”
On July 15, 2025, a Gulf Breeze Police Department officer responded to the Pensacola Bay Bridge in reference to a pickup truck stopped in the emergency lane. The officer arrived at the scene and identified the sole vehicle occupant as Teodoro Rodriguez-Alvarez by his Mexican passport. After speaking with the defendant, law enforcement arrested him for multiple driving offenses. A vehicle inventory was conducted before the truck was towed. During the inventory, a pistol was found in a bag near the driver’s seat. The defendant is a citizen of Mexico and was illegally in the United States.
Mr. Rodriguez-Alvarez faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release.
The case involved an investigation by the Gulf Breeze Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 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 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Long Island Teacher Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Michael Fazio, a teacher at a middle and high school on Long Island, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Nusrat J. Choudhury. When sentenced, Fazio faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York), announced the guilty plea.
“Fazio possessed unthinkable graphic images of child sexual abuse, all while employed in a position of trust as a middle and high school music teacher,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Prosecuting those who victimize children by feeding the market for child pornography will always be a top priority of our Office and our law enforcement partners.”
As set forth in court filings and statements, Fazio, a music teacher at the W.T. Clarke Middle and High School in East Meadow, possessed hundreds of images of child pornography in his Dropbox account and cellphone. During the execution of a search warrant at his residence in April 2025, Fazio admitted that he uploaded three images of child pornography to his Dropbox account in October 2024. A search of one of the defendant’s cellphones revealed more than 700 additional images of child pornography. Another cellphone belonging to the defendant contained a “Hidden Pictures” folder, which he used to store adult pornographic images as well as images and videos of some of Fazio’s students that he surreptitiously recorded during music instruction.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney Bradley T. King is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
MICHAEL FAZIO
Age: 40
Bellmore, Long IslandE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-206 (NJC)
Long Island Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Selling Fentanyl that Killed a Retired Police OfficerRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Ryan Mueller was sentenced by United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack to 22 years in prison for the distribution of fentanyl causing the death of another. The Court also ordered Mueller to forfeit $49,394 and two firearms. Mueller pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl that caused the death of another in December 2024.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Frank A Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division announced the sentence.
“Mueller operated a massive and deadly fentanyl scheme. He built vending-machine-sized pill presses, possessed kilos of fentanyl and millions of fake and deadly pharmaceutical pills, and sold the fentanyl that led to the tragic loss of life of a retired police officer,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Although no punishment can make up for a life lost, today’s sentence sends the message that our Office and our law enforcement partners will never stop working to stop unscrupulous drug dealers who distribute poison.”
Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the Nassau County Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, New York for their work on the case.
“Ryan Mueller’s decision to make and distribute fentanyl laced counterpart pills resulted in the death of an unsuspecting user who thought he was taking a legitimate pharmaceutical pill. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the dangers that counterfeit pills have on our communities,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Tarentino. “In February of 2025, the DEA and law enforcement partners seized approximately 3.4 million counterfeit pills from Mueller, making it one of the largest pill seizures in the New York Division’s history. Many of the pills seized and tested in our laboratory contained lethal doses of fentanyl. This wasn’t just a normal investigation; it was a life-saving operation. The DEA and our law enforcement partners will continue to target those poisoning our communities and hold them accountable. While today’s sentencing is a small victory, the harm it has caused this family will be long lasting.”
As set forth in the indictment and other court filings, over the last several years, Mueller conspired with others to sell several controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and oxycodone. In December 2022, a retired police officer died of a drug-related overdose at his residence on Long Island. The investigation showed that the fentanyl that killed the victim, which was in a pressed pill made to appear to be oxycodone, was supplied by Mueller.
Law enforcement officers recovered several kilos of fentanyl from Mueller’s residence. Law enforcement also recovered multiple pill press parts from a storage facility controlled by the defendant, including powder dryers, blenders, and grinders. Images of the pill presses that Mueller possessed are below:
In addition, in a February 2025 seizure of additional product distributed by Mueller, the DEA recovered approximately 3.4 million fake pharmaceutical pills, including fake oxycodone that contained fentanyl, fake Xanax pills, over 300,000 Quaalude pills and another approximately 600 grams of fentanyl in brick form. This was the largest seizure of fake pills that the DEA New York Division has ever processed, and exceeded the entire New York Division’s totals from all of last year. Pictures of some of the illegal drugs recovered can be seen below:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Justice, in 2024, approximately 80,391 people died from drug overdoses, making it a leading cause of injury-related death in the United States. The increase in overdose deaths has been driven in large part by fentanyl, a drug that has been described as 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. In 2024, about 48,422 people died from a drug overdose involving synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, a figure that was more than 25,000 fewer than the 76,282 synthetic opioid overdose deaths that occurred in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, overall drug overdose deaths declined approximately 27%, from around 108,000 such deaths in 2023. Deaths involving opioids fell from around 83,140 in 2023 to 54,743 in 2024.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney Adam R. Toporovsky is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Janelle Robinson.
The Defendant:
RYAN MUELLER
Age: 33
Lynbrook, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-134
Laurel County Man Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A London man, Edward Albert Ernsting, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom to 76 months in prison, for possession with intent to distribute fluorofentanyl and heroin, as well as a mixture containing methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, on April 9, 2024, Ernsting was found passed out in his vehicle at a gas station, where law enforcement recovered approximately 16 grams of a mixture containing fluorofentanyl, fentanyl, and heroin, and 14 grams of methamphetamine, as well as digital scales, baggies, and $504 in cash from Ernsting’s body and vehicle. Ernsting admitted significant heroin and fentanyl trafficking activity for a year or more before his arrest.
Under federal law, Ernsting must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Chief Rusty Hedrick, Corbin Police Department; and Sheriff William ‘Bill’ Elliotte, Whitley County Sheriff’s Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF, Corbin Police Department, and Whitley County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Pearce Nesbitt is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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.
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Lake Oswego Resident Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— A Lake Oswego, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today to trafficking cocaine and laundering the proceeds through a business bank account to buy cryptocurrency.
Michael Wayne Frost, 47, pleaded guilty to distributing more than 50 kilograms of cocaine and laundering the money from selling the cocaine.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers engaged in multiple controlled purchases of cocaine from Frost. On July 2, 2024, a federal search warrant was served on Frost’s residence in Lake Oswego. Agents seized a kilogram of cocaine and about $20,000 in cash from the residence. Frost admitted to selling between 10-12 kilograms of cocaine per week. Agents later applied for additional warrants and seized approximately $509,000 in cash and cryptocurrency tied to the cocaine sales. Frost deposited some of the cash into a business bank account he controlled and then transferred funds to Robinhood, a platform he used to invest in cryptocurrency, in an effort to launder the drug proceeds.
On August 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging Frost with distributing cocaine and money laundering.
Frost pleaded guilty today to one count of cocaine distribution and one count of money laundering. He also agreed to forfeit all of the seized cryptocurrency and cash.
Frost faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a 10 million dollar fine, and five years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on January 7, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Unit at the United States Attorney’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Kemp Strickland and Christopher Cardani, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Kansas City Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City men have now been sentenced in federal court for bank robbery.
Rathell Quavon Ross, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 77 months. Ross’s co-defendant Gerrad D. Rivera-Willis was sentenced previously on April 22, 2025, to 72 months in prison for bank robbery.
According to court documents, Rivera-Willis and Ross parked a vehicle near a bank in Kansas City, Mo., entered the bank and threatened its employees and demanded money. The two defendants left the bank with $2,033 and left in the same vehicle in which they arrived. Law enforcement officers were able to identify the vehicle, which had also been used in a previous bank robbery at a different bank. The vehicle was subsequently located at which point Ross and Rivera-Willis both fled on foot. Ross was found hiding under a tarp nearby in possession of the vehicle’s keys. Officers also tracked the path of Rivera-Willis’s flight from the vehicle with a K-9 and recovered the stolen $2,033 in currency from under a cinder block near where Rivera-Willis was arrested. Rivera-Willis admitted to taking part in the previous bank robbery and was ordered to pay $8,542 in restitution.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean T. Foley. It was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.
Operation Take Back America
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).
KC Area Man Sentenced to Two and a Half Years for Possessing Machine GunsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing and transferring three machine gun conversion devices.
Demetrius Harris, also known as “Meech,” 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to two and a half years in federal prison without parole for illegally possessing and transferring machine guns – an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, multi-caliber firearm containing an AR-type machine gun conversion device, and two AR-type machine gun conversion devices.
On Jan. 24, 2024, Harris sold an AR-style firearm containing an auto sear, two additional auto sears, and ammunition to an undercover agent for $1,060.
Machine gun conversion devices, also known as “switches” or “auto sears,” are used to convert semi-automatic weapons into machine guns that fire multiple shots automatically through a single pull of the trigger, enabling more rapid and often less accurate gunfire. Whether or not they are attached to a firearm, these devices constitute machine guns under federal law. It is therefore illegal to possess, sell, or use machine gun conversion devices.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Justice Department Seeks to Revoke Citizenship of Immigration and Identity FraudsterRead the Press Release
On Sept. 24, the Department of Justice filed a civil denaturalization complaint against Gurdev Singh Sohal, also known as Dev Singh, also known as Boota Singh Sundu, who obtained his U.S. citizenship in 2005 despite having been ordered deported in 1994. Instead of leaving the country based on his 1994 deportation and exclusion order under the name Dev Singh, Sohal used a different identity, with a new name, date of birth, and date of entry into the United States, to naturalize. He did not disclose his prior immigration history under the Dev Singh identity in any of his immigration applications or proceedings when he naturalized under the Gurdev Sohal identity. Expert analysis in February 2020 confirmed that the fingerprints submitted under both identities came from the same individual. The analysis was only made possible after DHS digitized the paper fingerprint submission documents from older immigration files.
“If you lie to the government or hide your identity so that you can naturalize, this Administration will find you and strip you of your fraudulently acquired U.S. citizenship.” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.
The complaint alleges that Sohal illegally procured his U.S. citizenship because he was never lawfully admitted for permanent residence and because the lies he told throughout his naturalization process rendered him unable to show the requisite good moral character to naturalize. A third count charges Sohal with procuring his naturalization by concealment or willful misrepresentation of his prior identity and immigration proceedings.
This is the ninth denaturalization action that the Department has filed since Jan. 20.
This case was investigated as part of the Historic Fingerprint Enrollment project, an ongoing national initiative between the Justice Department and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
This case is being prosecuted by the Justice Department’s Office of Immigration Litigation, General Litigation and Appeals Section, Affirmative Litigation Unit, with assistance from USCIS and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.