Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
29 September 2026
Defendants in conspiracy to distribute cathinone through Facebook messaging receive multi-year sentencesRead the Press Release
BRUNSWICK, Georgia: Two defendants associated with a drug distribution conspiracy have been sentenced to federal prison.
The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood and announced by Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
Alen Addison, 54, of Brunswick, Georgia, was sentenced to 82 months in prison and a $1,500 fine followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Substituted Cathinone.
His co-defendant, Minus Tyler, 45, of Brunswick, was previously sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to Use of a Communication Facility.
There is no parole in the federal system.
As described in court documents and testimony, from April 2023 through August 2023, Addison and Tyler conspired to distribute cathinone in Glynn County. The two defendants utilized Facebook Messenger as a method to communicate the sale and distribution of cathinone.
Synthetic cathinones are derivatives of the naturally occurring compound cathinone, the main psychoactive ingredient in the khat plant Catha edulis. Like amphetamines, synthetic cathinones are psychomotor stimulants that exert their effects by impairing normal brain functions. Overall, a National Library of Medicine study of the Neuropharmacology of Synthetic Cathinones shows that certain synthetic cathinones are powerful drugs of abuse that could pose significant risk to users.
“Synthetic substances like cathinone are a real threat to communities,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “This investigation was the result of intuitive law enforcement that succeeded in identifying the pathway of these illicit drugs, tracing it to the distributor and resulted in this prosecution, and protecting our citizens from these dangerous substances.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and Glynn County Sheriff’s Office.
“The outcome of this case is a testament to the professionalism and perseverance of the investigators who worked together throughout this investigation,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “DEA and our partner agencies combined resources, expertise, and investigative information to uncover the scope of the conspiracy and build a case for prosecution. We are grateful for the commitment of every agency and individual who contributed to this joint effort.”
This case was prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys John P. Harper III and Jennifer J. Kirkland.
Dane County Man Sentenced to over Four Years for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Cordero Coker, 38, Fitchburg, Wisconsin, was sentenced on September 23, 2026, by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 52 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Coker pleaded guilty to this charge on June 8, 2026.
On November 13, 2025, law enforcement arrested Coker in Madison, Wisconsin, for driving a stolen vehicle. Law enforcement searched the vehicle and found various controlled substances in tied-off bags, and a loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun inside Coker’s coat pocket. Two minor children were also present in the vehicle. In an interview with police, Coker admitted the gun belonged to him. Coker is prohibited from legally possessing firearms or ammunition because of previous felony convictions, including armed robbery.
At sentencing, Judge Conley found Coker posed a danger to the community given his firearm possession, polysubstance abuse, poor decision making, and failure to embrace treatment.
The charge against Coker was the result of an investigation conducted by the Monona Police Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Office, and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, which is comprised of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala prosecuted this case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies.
Federal prosecutions by the U.S. Department of Justice involving drugs and guns are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
DOJ’s Fraud Division Uncovers $1.34M in Stolen Social Security Benefits in One-Month Takedown, Including Illinois Fraudster Who Allegedly Hid Deceased Mother in Garage FreezerRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON -- Today, the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division announced the results of a surge of criminal enforcement actions targeting fraud in the Social Security Administration (SSA)’s benefits programs, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Between Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, the Fraud Division and U.S. Attorneys in 11 districts, along with the assistance of the SSA Office of Inspector General (SSA OIG), brought charges against 17 defendants who are allegedly responsible for more than $1.3 million in intended loss to the United States.
“The Social Security Administration’s benefits programs are meant to safeguard America’s elderly and most vulnerable — not to bankroll fraudsters,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Every dollar stolen is a dollar taken from a retiree’s medicine, meals, or housing. These cases represent just a fraction of the fraud we are aggressively pursuing every day. The egregious facts uncovered in these cases underscore why our mission to combat fraud — large or small — is vital to protecting public trust and ensuring justice.”
“President Trump and Vice President Vance have given the federal government an unprecedented mandate — and the tools and resources to back it up — to find fraud wherever it exists and root it out,” said Commissioner Frank Bisignano of the Social Security Administration. “At Social Security, we are putting that mandate into action. Working hand-in-hand with the Department of Justice, we are aggressively pursuing fraud, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and protecting Social Security.”
“Fraud involving Social Security’s retirement and disability programs will not be tolerated. Thanks to OIG’s partnership with the Department of Justice, those targeting taxpayer dollars and jeopardizing our most vulnerable populations will be held accountable,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit as First Assistant at SSA OIG. “These cases demonstrate the value of focusing resources to identify and prosecuting fraud schemes to ensure taxpayers dollars are paid only to those who are rightfully entitled.”
Notable Cases (Intended Loss Figures):
U.S. v. Eva Bratcher (Indictment) – $21,402 – Northern District of Illinois
Bratcher allegedly concealed her mother’s body in a deep freezer in her garage for two years. During those two years, Bratcher assumed her mother’s identity, collected her mother’s SSA benefits, and used her mother’s SNAP benefits. The defendant also allegedly used an alternative Social Security Number to steal additional SNAP benefits to which she was not entitled.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 42 U.S. Code § 408 (Fraud, Misrepresentation, or misuse of Social Security Benefits)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years; 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker Gardner-Erickson and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Niranjan Emani for the Northern District of Illinois. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincenza Tomlinson for Northern District of Illinois.
U.S. v. David Darling (Indictment) – $ 109,746 – Northern District of New York
Darling had control of his deceased brother’s ATM card and began withdrawing money the day after death. SSA was unaware of the death and continued to pay into the account. Darling continued his scheme for a total of $109,746 in stolen social security benefits.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 1029 (Access Device Fraud); 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 18 U.S. Code § 1028A (Aggravated Identify Theft)
Maximum Penalties: 15 years; 10 years; 2-year mandatory minimum in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arne Soldwedel for the Northern District of New York. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Clark for the Northern District of New York.
U.S. v. Debra Reed (Indictment) – $ 59,070 – Western District of Pennsylvania
On Nov. 23, 2020, Debra Reed’s father died. Between Nov. 24, 2020, and Oct. 26, 2023, the Social Security Administration continued to pay social security retirement payments to the father’s account, and Reed either personally stole the money or caused her daughter to take the money and transfer it to her directly.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna for the Western District of Pennsylvania. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Stockey for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
U.S. v. Laura Whisenant – $ 121, 980 – Eastern District of Michigan (Complaint)
Laura Whisenant served as a representative payee for her elderly, mentally disabled uncle. For seven years, she stole and misused nearly $121 K of her uncle’s SSA benefits — all while he lived in squalor, in a house without running water, electricity, or heat.
Charges: 42 U.S.C. § 408(a)(5)
Maximum Penalties: 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne M. Lambert for the Eastern District of Michigan. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Norwood for the Eastern District of Michigan.
U.S. v. Keshaune Pace also known as Keshaune Jenkins – Southeast Michigan (Complaint)
Keshaune Pace served as representative payee for her minor son, who was a recipient of SSI benefits due to disability. In order to maintain the receipt of her son’s benefits after he left her custody, she lied to the SSA about her son’s living arrangements, going so far as to have another person impersonate her son during an SSA-initiated review. Pace stole and misused $30,000 of the benefits paid on behalf of her son; $6,000 of those benefits should have been used for her son’s needs and were not, $24,000 should have been paid to no one at all.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 42 U.S.C. § 1383a(a)(4) (Social Security Representative Payee Fraud)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years; 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne M. Lambert for the Eastern District of Michigan. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Norwood for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Additional Charges During SSA Surge:
- United States v. Tammy Phillips - $65,000 – Western District of Pennsylvania
- United States v. Israel Gonzalez - $139,952 – Western District of North Carolina
- United States vs. John Zaccaria - $143,685 – District of Rhode Island
- United States v. Sherry Freude - $100,845 – Southern District of Texas
- United States v. Lisa Martinez - $50,501 – Western District of Texas
- United States v. Stacey L. Stoudermire - $31,237 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Ruthie M. Lewis - $33,131 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Lizbeth A. Reinhard - $170,166 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Carrie Miller - $50,658 – District of Idaho
- United States vs. Calandra Davis - $53,234 – Northern District of Indiana
- United States v. Tammy Hopkins - $98,879 – Eastern District of Michigan
- United States v. Darlette Williams - $46,844 – Eastern District of Michigan
U.S. Attorney Partners: District of Idaho, District of Rhode Island, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of New York, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of California, Southern District of Texas, Western District of North Carolina, Western District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Texas.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
DOJ’s Fraud Division Uncovers $1.34M in Stolen Social Security Benefits in One Month Takedown, Including Fraudster Who Allegedly Hid Deceased Mother in Garage FreezerRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division announced the results of a surge of criminal enforcement actions targeting fraud in the Social Security Administration (SSA)’s benefits programs, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Between Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, the Fraud Division and U.S. Attorneys in 11 districts, along with the assistance of the SSA Office of Inspector General (SSA OIG), brought charges against 17 defendants who are allegedly responsible for more than $1.3 million in intended loss to the United States.
“The Social Security Administration’s benefits programs are meant to safeguard America’s elderly and most vulnerable — not to bankroll fraudsters,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Every dollar stolen is a dollar taken from a retiree’s medicine, meals, or housing. These cases represent just a fraction of the fraud we are aggressively pursuing every day. The egregious facts uncovered in these cases underscore why our mission to combat fraud — large or small — is vital to protecting public trust and ensuring justice.”
“President Trump and Vice President Vance have given the federal government an unprecedented mandate — and the tools and resources to back it up — to find fraud wherever it exists and root it out,” said Commissioner Frank Bisignano of the Social Security Administration. “At Social Security, we are putting that mandate into action. Working hand-in-hand with the Department of Justice, we are aggressively pursuing fraud, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and protecting Social Security.”
“Fraud involving Social Security’s retirement and disability programs will not be tolerated. Thanks to OIG’s partnership with the Department of Justice, those targeting taxpayer dollars and jeopardizing our most vulnerable populations will be held accountable,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit as First Assistant at SSA OIG. “These cases demonstrate the value of focusing resources to identify and prosecuting fraud schemes to ensure taxpayers dollars are paid only to those who are rightfully entitled.”
Notable Cases (Intended Loss Figures):
S. v. Eva Bratcher (Indictment) – $21,402 – Northern District of Illinois
Bratcher allegedly concealed her mother’s body in a deep freezer in her garage for two years. During those two years, Bratcher assumed her mother’s identity, collected her mother’s SSA benefits, and used her mother’s SNAP benefits. The defendant also allegedly used an alternative Social Security Number to steal additional SNAP benefits to which she was not entitled.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 42 U.S. Code § 408 (Fraud, Misrepresentation, or misuse of Social Security Benefits)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years; 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker Gardner-Erickson and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Niranjan Emani for the Northern District of Illinois. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincenza Tomlinson for Northern District of Illinois.
S. v. David Darling (Indictment) – $ 109,746 – Northern District of New York
Darling had control of his deceased brother’s ATM card and began withdrawing money the day after death. SSA was unaware of the death and continued to pay into the account. Darling continued his scheme for a total of $109,746 in stolen social security benefits.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 1029 (Access Device Fraud); 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 18 U.S. Code § 1028A (Aggravated Identify Theft)
Maximum Penalties: 15 years; 10 years; 2-year mandatory minimum in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arne Soldwedel for the Northern District of New York. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Clark for the Northern District of New York.
S. v. Debra Reed (Indictment) – $ 59,070 – Western District of Pennsylvania
On Nov. 23, 2020, Debra Reed’s father died. Between Nov. 24, 2020, and Oct. 26, 2023, the Social Security Administration continued to pay social security retirement payments to the father’s account, and Reed either personally stole the money or caused her daughter to take the money and transfer it to her directly.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan J. McKenna for the Western District of Pennsylvania. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Stockey for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
United States v. Laura Whisenant – $ 121, 980 – Eastern District of Michigan (Complaint)
Laura Whisenant served as a representative payee for her elderly, mentally disabled uncle. For seven years, she stole and misused nearly $121 K of her uncle’s SSA benefits — all while he lived in squalor, in a house without running water, electricity, or heat.
Charges: 42 U.S.C. § 408(a)(5)
Maximum Penalties: 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne M. Lambert for the Eastern District of Michigan. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Norwood for the Eastern District of Michigan.
United States v. Keshaune Pace also known as Keshaune Jenkins – Southeast Michigan (Complaint)
Keshaune Pace served as representative payee for her minor son, who was a recipient of SSI benefits due to disability. In order to maintain the receipt of her son’s benefits after he left her custody, she lied to the SSA about her son’s living arrangements, going so far as to have another person impersonate her son during an SSA-initiated review. Pace stole and misused $30,000 of the benefits paid on behalf of her son; $6,000 of those benefits should have been used for her son’s needs and were not, $24,000 should have been paid to no one at all.
Charges: 18 U.S. Code § 641 (Theft of Government Property); 42 U.S.C. § 1383a(a)(4) (Social Security Representative Payee Fraud)
Maximum Penalties: 10 years; 5 years in prison
Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne M. Lambert for the Eastern District of Michigan. District Fraud Counsel AOR: Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Norwood for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Additional Charges During SSA Surge:
- United States v. Tammy Phillips - $65,000 – Western District of Pennsylvania
- United States v. Israel Gonzalez - $139,952 – Western District of North Carolina
- United States vs. John Zaccaria - $143,685 – District of Rhode Island
- United States v. Sherry Freude - $100,845 – Southern District of Texas
- United States v. Lisa Martinez - $50,501 – Western District of Texas
- United States v. Stacey L. Stoudermire - $31,237 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Ruthie M. Lewis - $33,131 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Lizbeth A. Reinhard - $170,166 – Northern District of Ohio
- United States vs. Carrie Miller - $50,658 – District of Idaho
- United States vs. Calandra Davis - $53,234 – Northern District of Indiana
- United States v. Tammy Hopkins - $98,879 – Eastern District of Michigan
- United States v. Darlette Williams - $46,844 – Eastern District of Michigan
U.S. Attorney Partners: District of Idaho, District of Rhode Island, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of New York, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of California, Southern District of Texas, Western District of North Carolina, Western District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Texas.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Department of Justice Awards $1 Million Grant to the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office to Serve Victims of Technology-Facilitated AbuseRead the Press Release
The United States Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime has awarded $1,000,000 to Louisiana Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General.
United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, Kurt Wall, stated, “Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Office has been a leader in investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes in our state. We are pleased to see that this award will be used to assist the victims of those heinous criminal acts.”
These funds will assist in the implementation of a statewide effort to identify, serve, and empower victims of technology-facilitated abuse, including image-based sexual abuse, non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, and sextortion. The initiative will establish Louisiana’s first statewide multidisciplinary response protocol and create standardized victim-rights and resource materials for distribution by law enforcement agencies statewide. Additionally, the monies will expand access to services, with the goal of improving outcomes for victims of technology-facilitated abuse.
“I want to thank the Department of Justice for this important initiative. These funds will help establish Louisiana’s very first statewide multidisciplinary protocol to serve victims of technology-facilitated abuse (TFA). The protocol will directly address rapidly evolving digital crimes, including - sextortion, cyberstalking, and AI-generated intimate images. Initiatives like these strengthen real-time collaboration among prosecutors, law enforcement, and victim services,” stated Attorney General Liz Murrill.
For more information about this award, please contact the OJP Office of Communications at 202-307-0703 or OJP.OCOM@ojp.usdoj.gov.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm Used in Tallahassee ShootingRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – David Benjamina Davis, 43, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case required exceptional investigative work by the Tallahassee Police Department, with support from our federal law enforcement partners, to identify, locate, and arrest this violent criminal. My office stands shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners in the fight against violent crime, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to ensure dangerous thugs, like this defendant, are kept out of our communities and locked away behind bars.”
Court documents reflect that on February 7, 2026, the defendant was the driver of a car at the intersection of Ocala Road and Pensacola Street in Tallahassee. The defendant rolled down his window and fired a handgun several times into the air. After discharging his firearm, the defendant ran a red light and fled the area. The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) investigated the shooting and located traffic camera footage that captured the shots. A detective responded to the scene and recovered twelve .40-caliber shell casings.
On February 10, 2026, TPD executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence, and located the firearm used in the shooting hidden in a wall-mounted “concealment shelf.”
A loaded, extended Glock magazine was found next to the firearm, and a separate drum-style magazine was found in a dresser drawer. Laboratory analysis confirmed the defendant’s firearm had fired the shell casings recovered from the scene of the shooting. Historical location information for the defendant’s cellphone also put him at the scene of the shooting at the time of the shooting on February 7, 2026.
The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had previously spent 10 years in prison for two counts of robbery with a firearm, two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, and possession of a controlled substance.
The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.
The defendant faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2026, at 10:00 am, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Convicted Felon & Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison After Supplying Fentanyl that Resulted in Death of a Utah ResidentRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah man and convicted felon with a criminal history of possessing, using, and distributing drugs was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment today for possessing fentanyl that ultimately resulted in the death of another person.
The sentence, imposed by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Clark Waddoups, comes after Spencer Massengale, 34, of Ogden, Utah, pleaded guilty on July 23, 2026 to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. In addition to his term of imprisonment, Massengale was sentenced to five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $4,025 in restitution.
According to court documents and statements made at Massengale’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, on February 22, 2023, a victim was found dead on the couch of Massengale’s residence. During the investigation police recovered 330 fentanyl pills in the home, which Massengale admitted he intended to distribute to others. Massengale further admitted that when his roommate called on the telephone to notify him that the victim was unresponsive, Massengale asked his roommate to delay calling 911 and to hide Massengale’s fentanyl pills from police. Massengale did not call 911 until he returned home and found the victim dead. Massengale then reported the victim “overdosed.”
The Utah State Assistant Medical Examiner and toxicologists determined that the victim died of drug intoxication from the effects of the use of fentanyl.
Massengale has an extensive criminal history, including a state of Utah criminal conviction in December 2022 for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced to 0-15 years in the Utah State Prison, suspended upon completion of 36 months’ probation.
“Mr. Massengale’s long history of recidivism and the devastating consequences of his fentanyl distribution resulted in the worst possible outcome — the loss of another life,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak for the District of Utah. “No prison sentence can ever erase the pain and suffering endured by the victim’s loved ones. However, by removing Mr. Massengale from our community, we hope they can begin the difficult process of healing.”
The case was investigated by the Weber Morgan Narcotics Strike Force and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah.
Columbus man pleads guilty to conspiring to launder $1M in business email scam proceedsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus man pleaded guilty in federal court here today, admitting he received and laundered more than $1 million in proceeds of a business email compromise scam.
Benjamin O. Alexander, 43, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit money laundering.
According to court documents, from June until October 2020, Alexander conspired to launder proceeds from a scheme related to a contract for personal protective equipment (PPE) for a health-care provider in response to COVID-19. In June 2020, workers at the New Jersey health-care provider received email messages purporting to be from the contracted safety-equipment supplier and requesting payments be sent to a new bank account.
The new bank account where the health-care provider was directed to send payments was one controlled by Alexander in the name of a business he established in April 2019 called BOA Building Maintenance and Cleaning Services LLC.
As a result of the business email fraud scheme, four ACH transfers were sent to Alexander’s bank account totaling approximately $1.1 million. Alexander then quickly withdrew the money via official checks, cash withdrawals, ACH payments and other transactions, in order to launder the funds.
Alexander was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025.
Conspiring to commit money laundering is a federal crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Todd Strom, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Peter K. Glenn-Applegate is representing the United States in this case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
# # #
Camp County man sentenced to 29 years in federal prison for the online sexual exploitation of childrenRead the Press Release
MARSHALL, Texas - A Leesburg man has been sentenced to 29 years in federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Wesley Jacob Hearon, 36, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography and was sentenced to 348 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap on September 28, 2026.
According to information presented in court, Hearon used various online personas on social media chat platforms to coerce minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct, produce visual depictions of such conduct, and transmit them over the internet.
This case 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety - Criminal Investigations Division, and Palo Alto (California) Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Austin Wells and Lucas Machicek.
###
California man pleads guilty to supplying bulk amounts of meth to Dayton-area drug dealersRead the Press Release
DAYTON, Ohio – Michael Chang, 55, of Los Angeles, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to his role as a source of supply in a narcotics conspiracy punishable by at least 10 years and up to life in prison.
Chang admitted to conspiring with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The defendant was found responsible for the distribution of more than 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in late 2024 and early 2025, Chang orchestrated the delivery of bulk quantities of methamphetamine from California to customers, including in the greater Dayton area. While in Los Angeles, Chang obtained and distributed narcotics to other members of the drug trafficking organization, who then trafficked the drugs in southwest Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
Chang is the lead defendant in this case, and three other defendants have been charged and pleaded guilty as part of the drug conspiracy. The following defendants are awaiting sentencing:
- Erika Garcia, 45, of Trotwood;
- Dennis Campbell, 41, of Hamilton; and
- Kathryn Tucker, 47, of Bourbon County, Kentucky.
As part of this case, law enforcement officials seized two firearms and seven pieces of jewelry including diamond and gold tennis bracelets and necklaces.
Sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a future hearing.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Joseph O. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Detroit; announced the guilty plea offered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter B. Silvain, Jr. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders and Assistant Deputy Criminal Chief Amy M. Smith are representing the United States in this case.
# # #
CPA Pleads Guilty to Committing $2.3 Million COVID-era Loan FraudRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Jawan Simpson, 37, a tax preparer and Certified Public Accountant (CPA), pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government established the PPP to help small businesses keep their workers employed and cover essential operating costs. Simpson pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Field Office and Basil Demczak, Special Agent in Charge of Amtrak Office of Inspector General’s Central and Western Field Offices.
“Jawan Simpson abused the trust placed in him as a tax preparer to defraud the American people of more than $2 million,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
“Exploiting a federal relief program during a national crisis for personal financial gain is a serious betrayal of the public trust. Today’s guilty plea represents an important step toward accountability,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “I am grateful for the outstanding work of our FBI Oakland County Resident Agency and the Amtrak Office of Inspector General’s Central and Western Field Offices. Their diligence and collaboration helped uncover this scheme and protect the integrity of programs funded by American taxpayers.”
“We hope this guilty plea sends a clear message that those who exploit emergency relief programs for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Basil Demczak, Special Agent in Charge of Amtrak Office of Inspector General’s Central and Western Field Offices. “We appreciate the strong partnership among the investigative agencies and prosecutors involved and remain committed to pursuing those who defraud taxpayer-funded relief programs.”
According to the plea agreement, Simpson promised family members, friends, and tax preparation clients (including Amtrak employees) that, in exchange for a fee of $2,000-$3,000, he could help them qualify for pandemic relief loans that would be forgiven by the federal government. Simpson ultimately filed 111 PPP loan applications that contained materially false information. In support of those fraudulent applications, Simpson created bogus documents, including fake tax returns. The government asserts in the plea agreement that Simpson’s fraud resulted in the loss of $2.3 million in government funds.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Davin M. Reust. The case is being investigated by the Amtrak Office of Inspector General and FBI.
Blacksburg Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A convicted felon, who fled from police during a traffic stop because he was illegally in possession multiple firearms, was sentenced yesterday to 9 years in federal prison.
Damonte Marquise Forbes, 33, previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, at approximately 9 p.m. on July 14, 2025, officers with the Town of Pulaski Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Forbes. During the traffic stop, officers learned that Forbes did not have a valid license and asked him to exit the vehicle. Additionally, a K9 unit from the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office was requested and responded to the scene.
After the K9 alerted to the scent of narcotics in the vehicle, officers found it locked. When questioned about this, Forbes attempted to flee the scene on foot. However, he was apprehended almost immediately and searched.
Officers found a 9 mm pistol with an extended magazine in his pant leg, as well as suspected MDMA in his shirt pocket. Additionally, officers searched the vehicle and found a .223 caliber assault pistol in the backseat, with a suppressor and a small quantity of cocaine.
First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Anthony Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge ATF Washington Division made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives, the Town of Pulaski Police Department and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case
Assistant United States Attorneys Talk Integrity and Civility in the West Virginia Lawyer MagazineRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA — United States Attorney Matthew L. Harvey is proud to announce two Assistant U.S. Attorneys are featured as guest writers in The West Virginia Lawyer, a statewide publication of the West Virginia State Bar.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberley Crockett and Eleanor Hurney authored “The Rule of Law Begins with Layers – Why Civility and Integrity Still Matter.” The article, featured in the Autumn 2026 edition, focuses on the ethical responsibilities that all lawyers carry and the promise to uphold the law while treating colleagues with civility.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Crockett and Hurney write, “The rule of law is the promise that disputes will be decided according to the law rather than emotion or influence, that every person who enters a courtroom be treated fairly, and that no one is above the law. By practicing with honesty, integrity, and respect for others, attorneys help ensure that justice is administered fairly and that the public continues to have confidence in the legal system.”
Kimberley Crockett joined the United States Attorney’s Office in 2018 as a violent crimes prosecutor. She joined the office after running a private law practice, Crockett Law, and after having served more than 12 years as a state prosecutor. She has had an extraordinary 24-year legal career and distinguished herself as a state and federal prosecutor because of her ability to work with victims of violent crime, including children. Kim is a 2024 WV Bar Foundation Fellow and is currently president-elect of the West Virginia State Bar.
Eleanor Hurney joined the United States Attorney’s Office in 2020 after having served as a law clerk for United States District Judge John Preston Bailey in the Northern District of West Virginia, Judge Stephanie D. Thacker on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and United States District Judge Frank W. Volk in the Southern District of West Virginia. After a detail to the Northern District of Oklahoma, Eleanor returned to the Northern District of West Virginia where she developed a practice focused on white collar, fraud, and tax-related offenses. Eleanor also serves as the Appellate Chief for the office.
Read the article here.
Arizona CEO Pleads Guilty to Embezzling over $8.8M from Employee Benefit PlansRead the Press Release
James Vincent Campbell, 49, of Scottsdale, Arizona, pleaded guilty today in the District of Maryland to embezzling more than $8.8 million from an Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) benefit plan.
“Workers have a right to trust that when they contribute portions of their hard-earned wages into their health insurance and retirement accounts, those contributions will go to where they were intended – their health plans and 401(k) accounts,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “Instead, James Vincent stole directly from these accounts by embezzling funds and putting more than $8 million into his own pocket. The Criminal Division is proud to partner with the Department of Labor to uncover and prosecute this fraud.”
“Private pensions make up a large portion of Americans’ wealth,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employee Benefits Security Daniel Aronowitz. “The U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) will continue to pursue those who try to steal pension assets as part of its efforts to prevent and fight fraud committed on both pension and healthcare plans. EBSA is grateful for the continued relationship with the DOJ in prosecuting pension fraud.”According to court documents, Campbell is the CEO and founder of Axim Fringe Solutions Group LLC (Axim), a company that processes employee benefits for employees of federal contractors. At the time the theft began, the company was headquartered in Maryland. In January 2022, Campbell moved Axim to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he continued his fraud.
According to the court documents, Axim’s clients sent funds to the company to pay for health insurance premiums and 401(k) retirement contributions. Axim was responsible for forwarding those funds to insurance carriers and retirement accounts. Before forwarding the funds, Campbell allegedly pooled them in a master trust account. Between 2015 and 2024, he made 135 unauthorized withdrawals — totaling $2,486,905 — beyond the legitimate fees owed to Axim. Campbell used a significant portion of the stolen funds for personal expenses including big game hunting trips in Alaska, Africa, and other locations; taxidermy fees; jewelry; casino gambling; and direct payments to his girlfriend. Once Campbell relocated Axim to Arizona, he continued the thefts by secretly charging clients up to five times the amount of fees they owed to Axim. In sum, Campbell unlawfully converted more than $8.8 million from Axim’s clients using both withdrawals from the master account and repetitively charging client fees.
The information to which Campbell pleaded guilty charges him with a single count of theft from an ERISA plan. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Federal District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
EBSA investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Vincent Falvo of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section is prosecuting the case.
28 September 2026
Wyoming Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 135 Months for Dealing Fentanyl & CarfentanilRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey today announced that Ramico Jovon Earvin, a/k/a “Pooh,” 44, of Wyoming, Michigan was sentenced to 135 months in prison for trafficking in fentanyl and carfentanil. Earvin’s sentence was enhanced in part because, in addition to dealing drugs, he also illegally possessed firearms.
Earvin’s drug trafficking came to light as police investigated a shooting. On March 4, 2025, a neighbor reported that, after an argument, Earvin shot him in the leg outside their apartment building.
During a subsequent search of the apartment where Earvin stayed, investigators found evidence of drug trafficking. On the bed in a bedroom where Earvin’s children sometimes slept, officers located a loaded .45 caliber revolver inside a soft-sided cooler. In shoeboxes kept under the bed, Earvin had stored more than a kilogram of fentanyl, nearly a kilogram of carfentanil, and Earvin’s credit card. In the same room, Earvin had a safe, baggies commonly used for drug packaging, digital scales and scale attachments, and a box of .45 caliber ammunition. The following photographs depict some of the illegal items Earvin had hidden in the room:
Carfentanil is an analogue of fentanyl. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, carfentanil is approximately 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl alone. It can be used legally to tranquilize large mammals, including elephants.
“Earvin was a menace to his neighbors and needed to be removed from the community. First, he was a large-scale drug trafficker who sold drugs capable of killing thousands of people,” said United States Attorney Timothy VerHey, “even worse, like most drug dealers he had guns, and he used one to shoot someone who disagreed with him. No one should have to endure behavior like this. Thanks to the fine work of the Wyoming Police Department and the DEA, we were able to charge Earvin and today he got the punishment he deserved. Others like Earvin will get the same treatment.”
“This violent offender made the conscious decision to use violence and distribute fentanyl along with carfentanil in our communities, recklessly endangering the lives of Michiganders.” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph O. Dixon. “Today’s sentence holds him accountable for those actions. DEA will not rest. We will deploy every available resource to hunt down those who traffic these deadly drugs, dismantle the networks behind them, and protect American lives.”
“Wyoming Police are committed to keeping our community safe. An investigation into a shooting led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of dangerous narcotics; drugs that could have harmed thousands of people in Wyoming and surrounding communities.” said Lieutenant Andrew Koeller. “This seizure reflects the dedication of our investigators and the strength of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partnerships. We are grateful for the collaborative effort that helped bring Ramico Earvin to justice.”
The Wyoming Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Carowan prosecuted it on behalf of the United States.
West Haven Man Who Attempted to Travel to the Middle East to Join and Fight for ISIS Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
AHMAD KHALIL ELSHAZLY, 29, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 92 months of imprisonment and a lifetime of supervised release for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham(ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in approximately September 2018, Elshazly, a U.S. citizen, expressed a desire to travel to Syria to fight on behalf of ISIS. In numerous conversations online and in person, he swore (“bay’at”) allegiance to ISIS and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. In October 2019, just after al-Baghdadi’s death, Elshazly sent a message pledging allegiance to the new leader of ISIS, saying “I pledge my allegiance...to the Khilafah (the successor of the leadership) of the Muslims Abu Ibrahim Al Husseini Al Hashami Al Qurashi…” Elshazly also created and administered a pro-ISIS Discord server that he used to post hundreds of ISIS and other extremist propaganda memes and videos.
On December 14, 2019, Elshazly paid $500 to a person he believed was an ISIS facilitator who would be able to smuggle him out of the U.S. to Turkey. He believed this would enable him to connect with an ISIS member who, in turn, would assist him with traveling to ISIS within Syria. The next day, Elshazly was arrested after he arrived in Stonington, Connecticut, where he expected to board a boat to begin his trip.
“There is no higher priority than the security of our nation and its citizens,” said David X. Sullivan, U.S. Attorney of the District of Connecticut. “My office and our law enforcement partners will continue to tenaciously work to investigate, apprehend, and bring to justice anyone who threatens us. I greatly appreciate the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and all the participating agencies for their tireless dedication to protect public safety and to bring this case to a successful conclusion. We can accomplish great things when we work together.”
“Twenty-five years after the attacks of 9-11, the FBI New Haven Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) remains steadfast in its resolve to prevent, detect, and deter acts of terrorism as one of our highest priorities,” said FBI New Haven Division Special Agent in Charge P.J. O’Brien. “The JTTF is committed to rigorously investigating all those who pledge allegiance to foreign terrorist organizations and threaten our national security both in the homeland and around the world. The JTTF is the gold standard of law enforcement partnership, and we are grateful for the support of all our partners who enabled this highly successful outcome and are embedded with us every day to ensure the safety of our communities and the nation.”
Elshazly has been detained since his arrest. On November 30, 2022, he pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. While detained, Elshazly has had numerous disciplinary infractions. In August 2025, officers searched his cell and found a handwritten plan for a coordinated uprising at the detention facility, complete with diagrams of the housing unit, instructions for breaching secured areas, and tactics for confronting the Correctional Emergency Response Team.
This matter was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) with the assistance of the Stonington Police Department, the New Haven Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police. The FBI’s JTTF includes participants from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), IRS Criminal Investigation, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department, Norwich Police Department, Hartford Police Department, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department, Town of Groton Police Department, UConn Police Department, Yale Police Department, Stonington Police Department, New Haven Police Department, and New York Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel and Trial Attorney John Cella from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
Warren Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
EL DORADO – A Warren, Arkansas man was sentenced on September 24, 2026, to 210 months in federal prison to be followed by 20 years of supervised release for administering two online groups for receipt and distribution of child pornography. The Honorable John Thomas Shepherd presided over the sentencing hearing, which was held in the U.S. District Court in El Dorado.
According to court documents, Jerry Lee McGhan, age 31, uploaded images and videos depicting child pornography to an internet-based storage platform through two separate chatrooms, which sparked CyberTipline Reports by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that were later transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During the same period, an online covert operation captured child pornography being traded within one of the chatrooms. The resulting investigation revealed McGhan to be one of the administrators for both groups. McGhan was indicted by a Grand Jury in the Western District of Arkansas in July of 2025 and entered a plea of guilty in March of 2026.
United States Attorney Kevin R. Holmes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, El Dorado Police Department, and Arkansas State Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Devon Still prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.
United States Obtains $4 Million Penalty in Settlement with the Estate of Harry D. Silverstein for Violations of Lead Paint Safety LawsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, XX of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), Drew McCall, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”), and Acting Inspector General Brian D. Harrison of the HUD Office of the Inspector General (“HUD OIG”), announced today that the district court has approved a settlement of a civil lawsuit filed by the United States against the ESTATE OF HARRY D. SILVERSTEIN (the “ESTATE” or the “Defendant”). The lawsuit alleges that Harry D. Silverstein (“SILVERSTEIN”) and the ESTATE routinely violated federal laws relating to lead paint safety. The Stipulation and Order of Settlement (“Settlement”), requires, among other things, that the Defendant pay a $4 million penalty.
“This Office is committed to protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “When landlords and renovators violate laws designed to protect children from lead poisoning, we will take action. Today’s $4 million penalty should put landlords and renovators on notice that violations of important federal safety laws will not be tolerated.”
EPA QUOTE
“Landlords of homes built before 1978 must warn tenants about known lead," said HUD Chief of Staff Drew McCall. “The defendant ignored this requirement, risking exposure of children to lead toxins and lead poisoning.”
“HUD OIG has zero tolerance for landlords who place families at risk by failing to provide safe and healthy housing,” said HUD Acting Inspector General Brian D. Harrison. “There is no excuse for violating laws that protect children from preventable exposures to lead hazards. This settlement holds the Silverstein Estate accountable for its serious failures. HUD OIG will continue working alongside the U.S Department of Justice, HUD, and EPA to aggressively pursue those who violate the law and to ensure our nation’s most vulnerable residents are protected.”
Lead is toxic. Lead poisoning can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. The most common source of lead poisoning in children is ingesting deteriorated lead paint or lead dust from renovations. To protect children from this grave threat, the federal Lead Disclosure Rule requires landlords and their agents to inform tenants about the risks of lead exposure in their apartments before entering lease agreements and to disclose known facts and available records about lead paint and lead paint hazards to them so those tenants can take action to protect their children. A second key regulation, EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (“RRP Rule”), sets mandatory certification, training, and work-practice requirements to minimize the risk of lead exposure during renovation projects.
As alleged in the United States’ Complaint filed in the district court, SILVERSTEIN and the ESTATE routinely violated both regulations. SILVERSTEIN owned, managed, and controlled more than 1,000 apartments in fourteen New York City buildings constructed before 1978 until his death in 2016. After his death, the ESTATE owned, managed, and controlled those apartments until it sold them, which in some cases was not until 2020. For years, SILVERSTEIN and the ESTATE systematically failed to provide their tenants with disclosures about lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in their apartments, as required by the Lead Disclosure Rule. They also failed to protect tenants from toxic lead dust during renovation work. At least 11 children residing in these buildings suffered lead poisoning during SILVERSTEIN’s ownership of the buildings.
* * *
In the Settlement, the ESTATE admits, acknowledges, and accepts responsibility for the following:
- SILVERSTEIN and the ESTATE had an ownership interest in entities that owned and controlled 14 buildings, which contained approximately 1,000 units in New York City, all of which were built prior to 1978.
- During the period SILVERSTEIN had an ownership interest in entities that owned and controlled these buildings, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development issued certain lead-based paint violations in the buildings.
- When SILVERSTEIN had an ownership interest in entities that owned and controlled these buildings, on one or more occasions, the ESTATE could not locate evidence that SILVERSTEIN provided a Lead Warning Statement or EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet to tenants entering into a new lease.
October 25 to 31, 2026, is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. The United States Attorney’s Office, EPA, HUD, and HUD OIG all encourage parents to learn what they can do to help keep kids safe from lead poisoning. Useful resources are available at https://www.epa.gov/lead/national-lead-poisoning-prevention-week.
Mr. McDonald thanked the EPA and HUD attorneys and staff, and agents at HUD OIG, for their critical partnership on this and other lead paint enforcement matters.
This case is being handled by the Environmental Protection Unit of the Office’s Civil Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob Lillywhite and Jessica F. Rosenbaum are in charge of the case.
United States Attorney's Office Files Civil Forfeiture Action to Recover Cryptocurrency Involved in an Account Takeover Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture action to recover 110,270 USDT (Tether), alleged to be proceeds of a fraud scheme in which a Massachusetts victim was deceived into providing account login information to scammers, who then removed funds from the victim’s account. The cryptocurrency currently has an estimated value of approximately $47,000.
As alleged in the complaint, while corresponding via email with Coinbase, a cryptocurrency exchange, the victim received fraudulent text messages purporting to be from “Coinbase” that induced the victim to share login, password, and other information that allowed access to the victim’s Coinbase account. Thereafter, funds from the account were removed without the consent of the victim. Some of the funds were traced to a cryptocurrency account at Biance, another cryptocurrency exchange, and seized in August 2026.
In an account takeover fraud scheme, cyber criminals deliberately gain unauthorized access to a victim's online bank, payroll, health savings or social media account, with the goal of stealing money or information for personal gain.
It is a violation of federal law to use wire communications as part of a scheme to defraud or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, and property so obtained is subject to forfeiture. A civil forfeiture action allows third parties to assert claims to property, which must be resolved before the property can be forfeited to the United States and returned to victims.
This is one of several civil forfeiture actions the U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed seeking to forfeit cryptocurrency traced to fraud schemes targeting Massachusetts victims.
Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including cryptocurrency scams, tech support scams, investment scams and business email compromise fraud scams – should contact USAMA.CyberTip@usdoj.gov.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carole E. Head, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture action.
The details contained in the civil forfeiture complaint are allegations.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Two New Assistant U.S. Attorneys to the Criminal DivisionRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island announced today the appointment of two new Assistant U.S. Attorneys to the Criminal Division.
Alison Bittl, of Rhode Island, joins the office after serving as an Assistant Attorney General with the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General since 2017. In that role, she managed a significant felony caseload in Providence County Superior Court, handling cases from charging through disposition. She presented matters to the grand jury and conducted bail, violation and suppression hearings, and trials. Bittl also responded to major crime scenes, including shooting and homicides, and provided guidance to local police departments on charging decisions, search and arrest warrants, and capital offense bail matters.
Bittl has served as an instructor at the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy since 2023 and the Rhode Island State Police Academy, where she designs and teaches criminal procedure and law curriculum. She previously worked as an Assistant City Solicitor for the City of Providence. Bittl holds a Juris Doctor degree from Roger Williams University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Boston University. She is admitted to practice law in Rhode Island.
Arthur T. DeFelice, of Rhode Island, joins the office after serving as a Special Assistant Attorney General, where he prosecuted criminal matters through all phases of prosecution, from investigation and grand jury proceedings through trial and post-trial litigation. He has extensive experience managing complex investigations, preparing witnesses, leading multidisciplinary teams, and litigating pretrial motions.
DeFelice serves as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy Reserve Judge Advocate Corps, providing legal guidance on investigations, risk mitigation, ethics compliance, and operational matters. His prior military assignments include senior intelligence roles and service as Aide‑de‑Camp to the Commanding General of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa, where he coordinated engagements with domestic and international partners.
DeFelice previously worked in civil litigation and served as a law clerk with the Rhode Island Superior Court. DeFelice holds a Juris Doctor degree from Roger Williams University School of Law, a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Criminal Justice from the George Washington University. He is admitted to practice law in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and the District Court for the District of Rhode Island.
“These are two prosecutors who have already distinguished themselves through demanding public service,” said the First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “Alison brings deep experience in violent crime and frontline prosecutorial work in our state’s busiest courts, and Arthur adds extensive courtroom, investigative, and military leadership experience. Their skill sets are different but complementary, and together they will strengthen the work of our Criminal Division.”
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller Joins FBI and Federal, State, and Local Leaders to Announce Formation of GATOR Task Force to Fight Violent Crime and Drug Trafficking in Northwest LouisianaRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT — On September 28, 2026, in Shreveport, United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller and the FBI New Orleans Field Office hosted a press conference to announce the formation of the GATOR Task Force, a major new initiative to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in Northwest Louisiana.
Governor Jeff Landry and Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux were also in attendance.
U.S. Attorney Keller began the press conference by explaining that the newly launched GATOR Task Force—the Gun Crime Abatement and Targeted Offender Response Team—was initiated on July 9th, 2026, to confront violent crime through a unified, multi agency strategy. He emphasized that the Task Force is built around a core group of FBI Special Agents and FBI Task Force Officers from the Louisiana State Police, now working in coordination with every law enforcement agency in the region, including the Shreveport Police Department’s Violent Crimes Abatement Team, the Bossier, Caddo, and Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Offices, the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, the Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, and others.
Mr. Keller said the Task Force enhances already existing partnerships and provides a centralized, rapid response capability focused on the offenders that drive violence. He detailed significant early results since the inception of the Task Force that include approximately 65 arrests and eight federal indictments along with multiple ongoing federal investigations, with seizures of over 400 pounds of marijuana and THC products, more than 20 pounds of methamphetamine, 25 firearms, and four stolen vehicles, demonstrating the Task Force’s immediate impact on violent crime and drug trafficking networks. Mr. Keller also highlighted the GATOR Task Force’s work in recent months, including its involvement in investigating and federally prosecuting Tre’veon Jackson.
Following Mr. Keller’s remarks, several law enforcement leaders, including the Governor, provided brief comments underscoring their support for the Task Force and its mission. Speakers included:
o Governor Landry o Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge, FBI New Orleans Division o Joshua Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF New Orleans Field Division o Frank Besson, Superintendent, Louisiana State Police o Wayne Smith, Chief, Shreveport Police Department o Henry Whitehorn, Sr., Caddo Parish Sheriff o James E. Stewart, Sr., Caddo Parish District Attorney
Each expressed appreciation and dedication to the unified approach. It was noted that the GATOR Task Force represents one of the strongest collaborative efforts to combat violent crime in the region.
###
CONTACT: Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704U.S. Assistant Special Agent in Charge Accused of Stealing Thousands in Fraudulent Disability PaymentsRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City, Utah, returned a four-count indictment charging an Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General (USDA-OIG), with defrauding the United States out of more than $50,000 in disability pay.
USDA-OIGAccording to court documents, Michelle L. Bouziden, 44, of Ogden, Utah, suffered a concussion on the job in March 2026 but then, beginning around May 14, 2026, she falsely reported that ongoing symptoms left her totally disabled and unable to work. In filings with the Department of Labor Office of Workers’ Compensation Program, Bouziden sought disability pay claiming she was completely unable to engage in “arduous physical activity” and cognitive reasoning,” and could not perform any required work tasks such as: sitting, walking, standing, twisting, bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, and operating a motor vehicle. Yet, Bouziden received disability payments as she simultaneously traveled internationally and actively pursued a high-endurance, athletic lifestyle.
Court filings allege Bouziden submitted documents to the Department of Labor indicating she was totally disabled and too symptomatic to return to work on the same day she flew to Italy to hike the Dolomites. Bouziden allegedly remained in Italy for two weeks, hiking over 50 miles and documenting her experience on social media. Prior to leaving, Bouziden allegedly canceled a Department of Labor appointment for a mandatory, independent second opinion medical evaluation claiming it conflicted with a “wellness retreat.”
The indictment alleges Bouziden received $51,571.73 in disability compensation.
USDA-OIGUnited States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah thanked federal law enforcement partners for their work on the case and emphasized her Office’s commitment to prosecuting fraud in federal benefits programs.
“Our federal law enforcement is filled with hardworking, dedicated employees who sacrifice to keep the people of Utah and this country safe,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “Bouziden’s alleged fraud not only cheats taxpayers but is an affront to those hardworking federal employees who show up every day to fight fraud. My Office remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to stamp out corruption and waste.”
Bouziden is charged with wire fraud, false reports for federal workers’ compensation benefits, obstruction of federal department and agency proceedings, and theft of government property. A four-day jury trial is scheduled for November 30, 2026, at the Orrin G. Hatch United States Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
The case is being investigated jointly by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG), and U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG).
Assistant United States Attorney Luisa Gough of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Attachments:
bouziden.detentionmemo.pdf bouziden.indictment.pdfTwo New Haven Men Charged with Offenses Stemming from Armed Robbery of Convenience Stores in Hamden and East HavenRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging SHEROD MANICK, 25, and NYGERE EVANS, 21, both of New Haven, with offenses related to armed robberies in Hamden and East Haven earlier this year.
The indictment was returned on September 1, 2026. Evans, who was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on August 21, 2026, appeared today in New Haven federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has been detained since his arrest. Manick was arrested and arraigned on September 4, 2026, and is also detained.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of March 16, 2026, Manick and Evans, brandishing and threatening to use firearms, robbed Dix Convenience located at 1586 Dixwell Avenue in Hamden. Manick and Evans stole approximately $600 in cash, approximately $500 in vape smoking devices, and cannabis products during the robbery. They then took a store employee’s car keys and fled the scene in his car. The vehicle was later located and recovered in New Haven.
It is further alleged that on April 3, 2026, Manick and Evans, brandishing and threatening to use firearms, robbed ZaZa City, a convenience store located at 855 Foxon Road in East Haven. Manick and Evans stole approximately $4,150 in cash and several cannabis products from the store and then fled on foot.
The indictment charges Manick and Evans with one count of conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; two counts of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; and two counts of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violent, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least seven years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the FBI New Haven Violent Crime Gang Task Force, the Hamden Police Department, the East Haven Police Department, and the New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Lembo and Rahul Kale.
Two Marion County Residents Charged with Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Ashley Dillard (22, Dunnellon) and Jahlique Debanairr Lawson (28, Ocala), a/k/a “Gang Gang,” have been charged by federal indictment with obstruction of the due administration of justice. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Dillard and Lawson are both currently detained pending the resolution of the case. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, between August 11 and August 22, 2026, Dillard and Lawson, aiding and abetting each other, endeavored by threats and threatening communications to impede the due administration of justice in a pending federal criminal case in the Middle District of Florida. The indictment alleges that Dillard and Lawson committed the offense by intimidating, pressuring, and threatening an individual they perceived to be a witness in an attempt to influence and prevent the testimony of the perceived witness.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Three Ocala Men Charged with Distribution of Controlled Substances, Including Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – A federal grand jury has returned an 11-count superseding indictment charging Kelvin Leon McChriston (56, Ocala), a/k/a “Big Pole,” Jahlique Debanairr Lawson (28, Ocala), a/k/a “Gang Gang,” and Corey Jarrell Tavares Rocker (27, Ocala), a/k/a “Spin,” with distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
McChriston is charged in seven counts with distribution and possession with intent to distribute, or aiding and abetting the distribution and possession with intent to distribute, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. If convicted on all counts, he faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Lawson is charged in four counts with distribution and possession with intent to distribute, or aiding and abetting the distribution and possession with intent to distribute, methamphetamine and fentanyl. If convicted on all counts, he faces an enhanced minimum penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison due to having a qualifying prior conviction for a serious violent felony offense. Rocker is charged in one count with aiding and abetting the distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, he faces an enhanced minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for having a prior conviction for a serious violent felony offense.
According to court records, between December 11, 2025, and July 27, 2026, 10 controlled purchases were made involving either methamphetamine, fentanyl, or cocaine, from McChriston, Lawson, or Rocker.
On December 11, 2025, Lawson and Rocker, aiding and abetting each other, distributed and possessed with intent to distribute approximately 56 grams of methamphetamine. On December 18, 2025, Lawson distributed and possessed with intent to distribute approximately 30 grams of methamphetamine. Lawson and McChriston, aiding and abetting each other, distributed and possessed with intent to distribute approximately 450 grams of methamphetamine, on December 23, 2025, and approximately 14 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, on January 14, 2026.
McChriston then distributed and possessed with intent to distribute the following controlled substances: approximately 57 grams of methamphetamine and 16 grams of a mixture and substance containing cocaine on February 12, 2026; approximately 354 grams of methamphetamine on April 2, 2026; approximately 29 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl on both May 12, 2026, and July 6, 2026; and approximately 434 grams of methamphetamine on July 27, 2026. McChriston is further charged with possessing with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing cocaine on August 11, 2026.
In 2016, Lawson was convicted of robbery with a firearm. He was released from the Florida Department of Corrections for that conviction in October 2025.
In 2022, Rocker was convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He was released from the Florida Department of Corrections for that conviction in November 2025.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Three Men Federally Charged in Brutal Assault That Left Victim with Life-Threatening InjuriesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Three men are facing federal charges for allegedly beating a man with a sledgehammer and dumbbells, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
According to court documents, on September 23, 2026, Craig Yazzie, 35, Angel Smith, 22, and Manualito Begay, 18, all enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, allegedly entered a residence in Nageezi, New Mexico, and assaulted a man with a sledgehammer and dumbbells, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
Afterward, Yazzie and Smith encountered a family member nearby, and Yazzie allegedly told him they had beaten the victim and left him outside. The family member found the victim beneath a wooden structure near the residence, bleeding from his face and struggling to breathe.
The victim was airlifted to a local hospital, where medical personnel determined that he had suffered a collapsed lung, a head laceration, and multiple contusions.
Yazzie, Smith, and Begay were located at a residence in Bloomfield, New Mexico the following day and arrested.
Yazzie, Smith, and Begay are charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. They will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, the defendants face up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tallahassee Man Sentenced to Decade in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Crimes & Firearm Possession by FelonRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – Amontea Allen John Mitchell, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to attempted enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners remain ever-vigilant to stay one step ahead of the sexual predators, like this defendant, who seek to sexually exploit and victimize kids online. Aggressively prosecuting these sick individuals and ensuring they remain locked away in prison is the best way we can ensure our kids stay safe, and that is exactly what I will ensure my office does in cases like this.”
Court documents reflect that in April 2026, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Tallahassee Police Department conducted an undercover operation to identify individuals using the internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, the defendant responded to an online advertisement for a female escort and began communicating through text message with an undercover officer who was posing as a 15-year-old child. After the undercover officer told the defendant he was speaking to a 15-year-old female, the defendant proceeded to send an obscene photograph and asked the child to produce child pornography to send to him. The defendant ultimately expressed an interest in engaging in sex with the child. Law enforcement arrested the defendant near an arranged meeting location. Inside the defendant’s backpack, agents found three condoms and a firearm. The defendant is a felon with multiple prior felony convictions and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
“Protecting children from those who seek to exploit them requires vigilance and collaboration,” said Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell. “This investigation is an example of what can be accomplished when local and federal law enforcement agencies combine their resources and expertise. We will continue working alongside our partners to identify those who prey on children and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Upon his release from federal prison, Mitchell will be required to serve five years of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Tallahassee Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood and Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Two Michigan Men Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Malik Strodder, age 25, of Flint, Michigan, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison, and Dondrell Smith, age 25, of Mount Morris, Michigan, was sentenced to 35 months in federal prison for their roles in a scheme to defraud Walmart using fraudulent cash cards to obtain merchandise which they then subsequently returned for cash. U.S. District Court Judge Brian A. Jackson further sentenced both to serve three years of supervised release following their terms of imprisonment. Strodder was ordered to pay $180,676.53, and Smith was ordered to pay $167,802.52 in restitution.
According to court records, Strodder and Smith executed a nationwide scheme targeting Walmart stores. Using fraudulent “cash cards,” they attempted to purchase high-value items knowing the cards would decline. They then falsely claimed to be former Walmart employees and instructed cashiers to enter manual codes to process the transactions as cash payments - allowing them to get the items for free. They then used the resulting receipts to return the stolen merchandise for cash refunds at other Walmart locations. The scheme spanned more than 101 Walmart locations in more than 15 states, with an intended loss of over $340,000.
The scheme included fraudulent activity in which Strodder and Smith conducted seven fraudulent transactions at Walmart in Gonzales, Louisiana, stealing more than $6,500 in merchandise and returning the items for cash the next day at Walmart stores in and around Broussard, Louisiana.
At sentencing, Strodder admitted that he spent the proceeds on luxury clothing and vehicles, which he later wrecked and totaled.
U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Gonzales Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mallory Richard and Jessica M.P. Thornhill, who also serves as a Deputy Chief in the Criminal Division.
Stamford Man Charged in Stolen U.S. Treasury Check SchemeRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BRADLEIGH RIVAL, 23, of Stamford, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with offenses stemming from his alleged role in a conspiracy involving the theft, altering, and negotiating of U.S. Treasury checks stolen from the U.S. Mail.
As alleged in court documents, in 2024, the Connecticut Organized Financial Fraud Task Force began an investigation after learning that several social security checks issued to individuals in Connecticut and New York had been stolen from the mail. The investigation revealed that more than 100 stolen U.S. Treasury checks with a total value of several hundred thousand dollars had been deposited into the bank account of one individual. Rival had exchanged Apple Cash payments with the bank account holder, and was identified as a participant in a conspiracy to acquire checks stolen from the mail, “wash” or alter the named payee on the checks, deposit them into bank accounts of individuals they recruited, and withdraw the stolen funds at ATMs, through mobile apps, by making purchases at stores with cash back capabilities, or by using debit cards to purchase U.S. Postal Service money orders. Analysis of Rival’s social media accounts has revealed included numerous photos of Rival in possession of large amounts of cash stolen during the scheme.
On September 16, 2026, Rival was arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging him with bank fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, theft or possession of stolen mail, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and aggravated identity theft, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of two years. He is currently released on a $200,000 bond.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Connecticut Organized Financial Fraud Task Force (CUTOFF), the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs Office of the Inspector General, and the Stamford Police Department. The CUTOFF Task Force includes personnel from the Stamford, Westport, West Haven, and Bridgeport Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Southern Maine Men Plead Guilty to Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man and a South Portland man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court records, from May 2024 through April 2025, a group of drug traffickers worked with a Massachusetts supplier to distribute drugs in southern Maine. In November 2024, as part of the investigation into this drug ring, law enforcement officers arrested Daniel Lydon, 46, who was located in a hotel room with over 100 grams of methamphetamine, over 700 grams of fentanyl powder, and approximately $4,000 in cash. A search of Lydon’s phone confirmed he had been working with the Massachusetts supplier and communicating about the distribution of drugs. Later in the investigation, law enforcement developed information that Michael Myrick, 48, was using his South Portland residence to distribute drugs for the same Massachusetts supplier. In March 2025, investigators received evidence of ongoing communications between the Massachusetts supplier and Myrick, which confirmed he was receiving drugs, including fentanyl, and distributing them to associates and customers in southern Maine.
Lydon faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10 million fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. Myrick faces a mandatory minimum term of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5 million fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release.
Both men will be sentenced after the completion of presentence investigative reports by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Additional subjects have been charged with offenses related to the same drug-trafficking ring. Maximo Pepin, aka Manny, 30, of Massachusetts, was sentenced to 15 years in prison on May 7, 2026, having pleaded guilty to a drug conspiracy. Alec Dodge, 35, of South Portland, Matthew Estes, 47, of Falmouth, and Patrick McCarthy, 34, of Scarborough, have previously pleaded guilty to a federal drug conspiracy offense. Peter Call, 31, of Portland, Cassandra Smith, 36, of Old Orchard Beach, and Nicholas Porter, 35, of Windham, are indicted co-defendants with Lydon and Myrick, and are all scheduled for change of plea hearings in U.S. District Court.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case, with assistance from the FBI, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Maine State Police, the Portland Police Department, the South Portland Police Department, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maine Attorney General’s Office.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Maine HSTF comprises agents and officers from FBI; DEA; Homeland Security Investigations; IRS-Criminal Investigations; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Border Patrol; Coast Guard Investigative Service; and Transportation Security Administration, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine.
###
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 2 Years Imprisonment for Interfering with a Delta Airlines Flight CrewRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Greenwood, South Carolina man was sentenced on September 23, 2026, to two years in prison for interfering with a Delta Airlines flight crew in December 2025.
According to court documents, Michael Shane Orndoff, Jr., 52, boarded Delta Airlines flight 27 from Atlanta, Georgia, enroute to Seoul, South Korea, when it had to be diverted to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport because of Orndoff’s intoxication and violent behavior.
Approximately one hour after take-off, Orndoff had already consumed four to six large glasses of wine, becoming intoxicated and belligerent toward the flight crew and other passengers. Orndoff began to lean and breathe onto an adjacent female passenger. Around this time, the flight crew refused alcohol service to Orndoff. Orndoff then tried to have other passengers, including a minor, buy alcohol for him, and eventually he stole a bottle of wine from a service cart and locked himself in a bathroom. A short time later, he left the bathroom carrying the empty wine bottle, returned to his seat, and continued to harass nearby passengers. The pilots locked themselves in the cockpit and diverted the flight to Anchorage for safety. The female passenger approached a flight crew member at the front of the plane and asked for a different seat. Orndoff chased her to the front of the plane, pounded on the cockpit door, and demanded more alcohol. It took several passengers and flight crew members to subdue Orndoff with zip-ties.
Airport police boarded the plane when it landed and escorted Orndoff off the plane. Hours after Orndoff stole the bottle of wine, his blood alcohol concentration was .192.
“Regrettably, events such as this have become all too common,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Air travel is an essential mode of transportation, especially for Alaskans, and we remain committed to ensuring that every passenger can fly without fear of belligerent and dangerous behavior.”
“While onboard a commercial aircraft, Mr. Orndoff’s violent and disruptive behavior jeopardized the safety of the flight crew and his fellow passengers,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Schlegel of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Interfering with a flight crew is a federal crime that can have catastrophic consequences. The FBI will continue to investigate crimes aboard aircraft, pursue justice for victims, and help ensure the safety and security of all travelers.”
The FBI Anchorage Field Office and the Anchorage Airport Police and Fire Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Mackenzie prosecuted the case.
###
South Burlington Man Charged with Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Kendall Liberty, 25, of South Burlington, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Liberty appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on Friday, September 25, 2026, who ordered that Liberty be detained pending further proceedings in the case.
According to court records, on November 27, 2025, a woman reported to the Burlington Police Department that between that day and the previous day, she had received numerous messages from Liberty, including threats that he was going to find her and hurt her. The woman returned to her residence on November 27, 2025, after learning that police had encountered Liberty, to find her residence in disarray, with blood on the walls. Burlington Police reviewed camera footage from the woman’s residence that confirmed Liberty had been to the woman’s residence when she was not present. A relative of the woman discovered a pistol in cushions of the woman’s couch, which law enforcement’s investigation linked to Liberty. Liberty is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior federal felony conviction.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Liberty is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Liberty faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and thanked the Rutland Police Department for their assistance.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Lasher. Liberty is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Skamania County man charged with possession of child pornography for altering public photos of minors to make it appear they are nudeRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 23-year-old Skamania County man will appear in U.S. District Court in Tacoma today on a federal indictment for possession of images of child pornography after he used a computer program to turn public photos of minors into sexually explicit images, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Brady Bingham Hall will remain in custody pending future hearings.
“Like any other tool, Artificial Intelligence can be used to engage in criminal misconduct,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “If you make a choice to generate AI images, you better be sure they don’t violate the law. In this case sexually lascivious images of minors clearly crosses the line.”
According to the criminal complaint, Hall was arrested by Skamania County Sheriff Deputies on August 29, 2025. In his car Hall had two firearms, ammunition, and controlled substances. Police also seized Hall’s iPhone and obtained a warrant to review the phone’s contents.
A deputy reviewing the phone noted it contained images of many young people he recognized from the Skamania area. The phone contained screen shots from social media of some minors and then the same photos, but with the minors appearing nude.
Hall agreed to speak with investigators and said he had used a phone application that removed clothing from images, making the subject of the image appear nude. Hall had used this app on hundreds of images – some on images of children as young as 12-years-old. At least one of the photos had the words “AI generated” across the photo.
Law enforcement confirmed the identities of some of the children in the original photos and confirmed that they are minors.
“Our children are our future,” said Skamania County Sheriff Summer Scheyer. “We are proud to partner with Homeland Security Investigations on this case. A crime like this has no place in either Skamania County or our country as a whole.”
“We want to commend the diligence of the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office in identifying the child pornography images which led to this charge,” said acting HSI Seattle Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “We will always work with our local, state and federal partners in our fight against the production of these materials and the protection of our children.”
Possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and up to a $250,000.00 fine.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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 Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Hampton.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to over 4 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS – First Assistant United States Attorney Gregg Peterman announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on September 21, 2026.
Ryan Tulio, 41, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Tulio was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 29, 2026.
Tulio was part of a drug trafficking organization that was obtaining methamphetamine from Arizona and then distributing it in the Sioux Falls area. Tulio was personally involved with distributing approximately 2 ½ pounds of methamphetamine during his involvement in the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Tulio was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Shiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Second-Degree MurderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to second-degree murder for the 2025 killing of a woman on the Navajo Nation.
According to court documents, on November 15, 2025, Harlan Joe, 21, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, unlawfully killed Jane Doe at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico, after a day of drinking. Joe admitted that he punched, kicked, and dragged Jane Doe on the ground and asphyxiated her, causing her death. When officers arrived at the residence, they found Jane Doe deceased outside the house with obvious signs of abuse and trauma and immediately detained Joe. During a subsequent interview, Joe stated that he knew what he was doing and that it was wrong.
Joe pleaded guilty to second degree murder and faces any number of years and up to life in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Shiprock Man Charged with Four Alleged Sexual AssaultsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been indicted in connection with four alleged sexual assaults that occurred over a two-year period.
According to court documents, on four occasions between May 2018, and May 2020, Pierson Manycattle, 28, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in sex acts with a minor.
Manycattle is charged with three counts of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of abusive sexual contact and will remain on conditions of release pending trial which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Manycattle faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Salt Lake County Resident Sentenced in a Series of Baggage Thefts at Salt Lake City International AirportRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –The final defendant in a series of baggage thefts from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) was sentenced today to 13 months’ imprisonment, and two years of supervised release for her role in the 2022 thefts.
The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Howard C. Nielson Jr., comes after Leticia Marie Torres, 45, of Salt Lake County pleaded guilty on November 19, 2025, to aiding and abetting in the theft of baggage from interstate shipment, and illegal transactions with an access device. Her codefendant, Brianna Marie Taylor, was sentenced on September 17, 2025, to 13 months’ imprisonment. A third defendant, Charles Masters, charged in a separate indictment related to another string of baggage thefts at the Salt Lake City Airport, was sentenced on August 28, 2024, to two months home detention and three years’ probation. As part of their sentence, Masters and Taylor were ordered to pay restitution for their respective cases. The court ordered Torres to pay $36,599.54 jointly and severally with others involved in the offense.
According to court documents and statements made at Torres’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, in January 2022, Torres and Taylor stole multiple pieces of baggage over the course of several months from multiple victims with the intent to keep them for their personal use. As part of their scheme to defraud, Torres and Taylor used multiple stolen credit cards belonging to one of the victims and received payment and other items of value during a one-year period, costing the victims $36,599.54 in losses. Even when Torres was not present at the airport, stolen luggage was brought to her home, as revealed by a search warrant executed on her residence. See prior press release: Utah Residents Facing Federal Charges for Alleged Baggage Thefts at Airport.
United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case was investigated jointly by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department and the Salt Lake City Police Department Airport Division.
Assistant United States Attorney Jawayria Z. Auchter of The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
As part of ongoing efforts to decrease baggage thefts at airports, Salt Lake City Police Department and the Salt Lake City International Airport say the best way to prevent theft is to ensure your bag is never left unattended. Recognizing that flying with carry-on bags is not always feasible, SLCPD recommends the following tips as travelers enter the holiday and ski season in the beehive state:
- Place irreplaceable or high value items in your carry-on baggage (Note: Passengers must know which items are required to be checked or prohibited from being checked or brought onto an aircraft.)
- Reconsider purchasing luxury-branded luggage as this could be an allure to potential thieves.
- Make your checked luggage distinctive using stickers, tape, ribbon or consider purchasing a brightly colored suitcase.
- Keep a record of what you pack and take a photo of your belongings and your luggage. Photos can be helpful during a police investigation and for insurance purposes.
- After landing, avoid unnecessary delays and head to the baggage pick-up area immediately so your bag is not left unattended when on the baggage carousel.
- Ensure your bag is clearly labeled with your contact information. For privacy reasons, an address is not necessary, but a name and phone number should be included.
- If you believe someone has stolen your luggage, be sure to file a police report and file reports with the airline and TSA.
- Report anything suspicious to an airport/airline official or airport police.
The Salt Lake City Police Department’s Airport Division continues to conduct proactive operations to curb baggage theft from Salt Lake City International Airport. Officers and detectives work closely with airline and airport staff to ensure the security of passenger luggage.
Roxbury Man Arrested for Kidnapping and Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Roxbury, Mass. man has been charged with kidnapping a victim from their home in Rhode Island. The defendant allegedly led police on a chase on I-93, crashing into other vehicles and fleeing on foot.
Dominic Hampton-Boyd, 31, is charged with kidnapping and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The defendant is currently being held in state custody on related charges. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date
According to the charging documents, on Aug. 12, 2026, Hampton-Boyd is alleged to have entered the victim’s Rhode Island home without the victim’s knowledge. Once in the home, it is alleged that the defendant struck the victim on the side of the forehead with a pistol and choked the victim. Hampton-Boyd allegedly then directed the victim out of the house and into a car, asking the victim if they wanted to “die here or in Boston.”
Hampton-Boyd is alleged to have driven the car across state lines into Massachusetts. The victim attempted to exit the vehicle on several occasions but was unable to. The victim eventually was able to call 911. When law enforcement attempted to initiate a car stop, Hampton-Boyd allegedly accelerated and hit several cars on I-93. After crashing the car, Hampton-Boyd attempted to flee but was subsequently apprehended. According to court documents, a privately made Glock-style semiautomatic firearm loaded with 9mm rounds of ammunition was recovered in the car.
Hampton-Boyd is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to his prior state court convictions, including a prior conviction in Suffolk Superior Court for armed robbery.
The charge of kidnapping provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of being a felon in possession provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, 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.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Massachusetts State Police, East Providence Police Department and Norfolk District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Allegra Flamm and Aidan Lang of the Major Crimes Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rockford Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Selling Handgun and “Machine Gun” Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for illegally selling a handgun and “machine gun” conversion devices to a convicted felon.
In the spring and summer of 2024, BRIAN RODRIGUEZ sold a handgun, ammunition, and components designed to be assembled into machine gun conversion devices, also known as “Glock switches.” When attached to a firearm, a switch makes the gun capable of firing in fully automatic mode.
Rodriguez, 24, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of knowingly possessing and transferring a machine gun. On Friday, U.S. District Judge Lindsay C. Jenkins sentenced Rodriguez to 27 months in federal prison.
The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Christopher Amon, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
“The risk of danger to the community when convicted felons possess firearms, especially machine guns, is serious,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor N. Burnett argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “A criminal with a converted Glock handgun can more easily inflict damage on an individual or group of individuals, and can easily hit unintended targets as well, given the automatic firing and the difficulty of controlling the multiple rounds being expelled in short bursts by the handgun.”
Recidivist Ohio Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Cocaine and Methamphetamine ConvictionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Youngstown, Ohio, has been sentenced to 144 months in federal prison on his conviction of cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Wade Shaw, 51, also ordering Shaw to serve six years of supervised release after his prison term.
According to information presented to the Court, on September 14, 2023, Shaw possessed with intent to distribute quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine. This conviction was Shaw’s third drug trafficking conviction since 2012, with Shaw having been incarcerated or under court supervision for nearly all of the past 14 years.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Sharon Police Department, the Farrell Police Department, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Shaw.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on September 21, 2026.
Brendon Williams, 32, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Williams was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in January of 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 10, 2026.
Beginning at least in January 2024, Williams routinely traveled to the Denver, Colorado, area to purchase large quantities of fentanyl destined for the northern Black Hills. After graduating from Drug Court in May 2023 following convictions for multiple drug offenses in state court, Williams reengaged in drug trafficking and became one of the larger fentanyl suppliers in the northern Black Hills. Through informants, surveillance, search warrants, and subpoenas, investigators determined Williams was trafficking thousands of counterfeit M/30 fentanyl pills on a bi-weekly basis into South Dakota. In total, the investigation established Williams was responsible for transporting and distributing at least 3.5 kilograms, or 35,000 counterfeit M/30 fentanyl pills, in South Dakota. Over 322 grams of fentanyl were seized during the investigation.
“I’m very proud of our federal prosecutors and the UNET investigative team for cornering this fentanyl dealer and putting him behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Anyone else dealing this poison in South Dakota can expect a similar fate.”
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). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Williams was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Porcupine Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing a Minor in the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The sentencing took place on September 14, 2026.
Griffin Cross, 31, was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Cross will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Cross was indicted for Sexual Abuse of a Minor by a federal grand jury in February 2026. He pleaded guilty on June 9, 2026.
In November of 2025, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety received a report of Cross sexually assaulting a thirteen-year-old girl in the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Cross exchanged nude pictures with the victim over a social media site, sending her a picture of his private anatomy. Cross then met up with the victim at his residence and sexually abused her.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Cross was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Peoria Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois man, Dione D. Alexander, 37, was sentenced on September 18, 2026, to 120 months’ imprisonment for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
At sentencing the government provided information that between September 4, 2024, and November 14, 2024, individuals purchased methamphetamine and other drugs from Alexander on multiple occasions, including 3.4 grams of methamphetamine, 474.2 grams of methamphetamine (actual), 15.2 grams of fentanyl, and 69.5 grams of cocaine. On December 2, 2024, law enforcement agents searched Alexander’s residence and located additional narcotics, a firearm, drug packaging and other materials used in the distribution of controlled substances. In total, Alexander was accountable for the unlawful distribution of 9,542.70 kilograms of converted drug weight.
Alexander was arrested on a complaint in December 2024 and indicted two weeks later. He entered a guilty plea in March 2026. He has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since his arrest.
The statutory penalties for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) are 10 years to life imprisonment, to be followed by at least 5 years of supervised release.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Springfield Resident Office, Pekin Police Department, Peoria Multi-Agency Enforcement Group (P-MEG), and Illinois State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz represented the government in the prosecution.
The case against Alexander 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.
Pakistani National Charged with Defrauding US Postal Service of over $100 Million by Selling Counterfeit Postage OnlineRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida has returned an indictment charging a Pakistani national with operating an unauthorized website that allegedly sold more than 5 million counterfeit U.S. postage labels, causing more than $126 million in losses to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
According to court records, Faheem Akram, 33, of Khanewal, Pakistan, operated LabelsBank.com, an online website that allegedly sold counterfeit U.S. postage at a fixed rate — typically $2 per label — regardless of a package’s weight, size, or destination. LabelsBank.com was not authorized to sell USPS products and services. The counterfeit labels allegedly allowed customers to ship packages at rates far below legitimate USPS prices, resulting in substantial lost revenue and shipping costs to the Postal Service.
“The alleged scheme was simple but massive: sell counterfeit postage online at fixed, cut-rate prices, as little as $2 per label, regardless of a package’s weight, size, or destination, enabling customers to avoid legitimate Postal Service charges,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “The indictment alleges more than 5.1 million counterfeit labels and more than $126 million in losses. Through the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our prosecutors, the website has been shut down, the domain seized, and federal charges brought against its alleged operator, a Pakistani national.”
“Our reach goes beyond our borders,” said Inspector in Charge Bladismir Rojo of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Miami Division. “Transnational criminal organizations defrauding the Postal Service and targeting U.S consumers by pushing phony postage, will be found and brought to justice.”
The investigation revealed that over 5,200 individuals used LabelsBank.com to purchase more than 5.1 million counterfeit shipping labels, resulting in more than $126 million in alleged losses to USPS. In conjunction with the indictment, USPS obtained a court order authorizing the seizure and shutdown of the website.
Akram is charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to make and sell counterfeit postage stamps, five counts of making and selling counterfeit postage stamp labels, and four counts of wire fraud. If convicted, Akram faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the conspiracy and counterfeit postage counts and 20 years in prison on each wire fraud count.
The USPIS Miami Division is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jon Juenger and Jacqueline DerOvanesian are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff is handling asset forfeiture.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.sdfl.uscourts.gov, under case number 26-cr-60249.
###
Ocala Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Counts of Distributing Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Ervin Jones, III (36, Ocala), a/k/a “Downy,” has pleaded guilty to five counts of distribution or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. He faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court records, between August and September 2025, Jones distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl to an undercover law enforcement officer on four separate occasions. Additionally, on October 8, 2025, Jones was found to be in possession of fentanyl which was intended for distribution. Jones was arrested on February 26, 2026. He remains detained pending the resolution of the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Ocala Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Methamphetamine and CocaineRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Israel Reyes (27, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. He faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court records, between October and December 2025, Reyes distributed methamphetamine and cocaine to an undercover law enforcement officer on four separate occasions. He was arrested on June 26, 2026, and remains detained pending the resolution of the case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Ocala Man Indicted for Distributing Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Illegally Carrying a FirearmRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Qua’Darius Dajohn Lamar Johnson (25, Ocala), a/k/a “GuapBoyz General,” a/k/a “Quavo,” has been charged by indictment with five counts of distribution of controlled substances (methamphetamine and cocaine) and one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on all counts, Johnson faces a minimum sentence of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. Johnson was arrested on September 18, 2026, and is detained pending the resolution of the case. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on five occasions between August 26 and September 17, 2026, Johnson distributed either cocaine or 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Additionally, on August 26, 2026, Johnson carried a firearm equipped with an extended magazine during and in relation to the drug trafficking offense.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Northern Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Improperly Using His Government Credit Card for Personal PurchasesRead the Press Release
RENO – A former U.S. Department of the Army employee and Sparks, Nevada, resident pleaded guilty today to using his Army credit card to make nearly $2,800 of purchases for his personal vehicle.
“Government charge cards are strictly distributed to facilitate official operations, not to serve as personal expense accounts,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Public servants and government contractors are held to rigorous ethical and legal standards. Our office will continue working alongside our inspector general partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals who abuse their access to public resources for personal gain.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, remains firmly committed to safeguarding programs and equipment funded by the American taxpayer,” said Special Agent-in-Charge John E. Helsing of the DCIS Western Field Office. “This investigation underscores our determination to hold accountable anyone who misuses government resources and to protect the integrity of the Department’s operations. DCIS will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to identify, investigate, and dismantle schemes designed to personally profit from public funds.”
“The Department of the Army Criminal Investigative Division remains committed to protecting the integrity of the United States Army,” said Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division Fraud Field Office. “Today’s outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of Army CID and our investigative partners to pursue those who attempt to defraud the US Army and exploit their position of trust which can adversely impact the Army’s warfighting capabilities.”
“Federal officials who use public funds for personal financial gain will be held accountable,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan Gregg of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Western Investigations Division. “GSA OIG special agents will continue working with our law enforcement partners to fight fraud and safeguard taxpayer dollars.”
According to court documents, from September 21, 20220, to August 11, 2021, Tamilo Pale Fe’a, also known as “T,” made about 69 transactions with an Army fuel fleet credit card for his personal benefit at various gas stations in Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and California. Fe’a has also agreed to pay more than $80,000 in restitution to the government for the military equipment the indictment alleged that he stole.
Fe’a pleaded guilty to one count of access device fraud. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison at sentencing on January 4, 2027, before U.S. District Judge Anne R. Traum. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service; U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; and General Services Administration—Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez is prosecuting the case.
###
North Dakota woman sentenced to 15 months in prison for drunk driving crashRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A North Dakota woman who seriously injured two people after she drove into their car while intoxicated was sentenced Friday to a year and three months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Kaylee Shy Ann Little Coyote, 26, pleaded guilty in May 2026 to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Little Coyote, with a blood alcohol content nearly three times the legal limit, drifted into oncoming traffic while driving her pickup truck on Highway 212 outside of Lame Deer. The wreck happened just before 6 a.m. on April 6, 2025.
First to arrive on the scene were BIA officers, who found a Ford F-150 and an SUV on the side of the highway, both with heavy front end damage. A woman was on the ground next to the SUV calling out in pain and a man was pinned inside between the dashboard and the driver’s seat. Little Coyote and her passenger in the truck were both injured; all four were taken to an area hospital for treatment. The two injured in the SUV were eventually taken to St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings. The woman had multiple vertebral and rib fractures and a perforated colon, which required surgery. The man sustained injuries to his lungs and shoulder.
Investigators learned Little Coyote had been traveling at 80 mph when she crossed the center line of the highway and struck the SUV. At the clinic, medical staff drew Little Coyote’s blood and found it had an alcohol concentration of 0.216%.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Yerger prosecuted the case. The BIA, Montana Highway Patrol, and Rosebud County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
New York Man Sentenced to over 24 Years for Fentanyl and Meth Conspiracy in Southwest MissouriRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A New York man was sentenced in federal court yesterday for his role in a large-scale fentanyl and methamphetamine conspiracy responsible for distributing more than 47 pounds of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri.
Ahmaad Jarvis, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 24 years and three months in federal prison without parole, followed by five years of supervised release. On March 18, 2026, following a two-day trial, a jury convicted Jarvis of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, unlawful use of a communications device, possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
In October of 2023, investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a wiretap investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking organization. As part of that investigation, law enforcement intercepted telephone calls where Jarvis discussed traveling to Los Angeles to obtain narcotics and bring them to Springfield, Mo., for distribution. On Oct. 20, 2023, during a traffic stop of Jarvis, investigators seized 10 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 400 grams of fentanyl.
Jarvis is among 13 defendants who were charged in this case and is the 8th defendant to be sentenced. The remaining defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron A. Beaver and Hannah R. Lucas. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Greene County, Missouri, Sheriff’s Office, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Homeland Security Task Force
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Kansas City comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri.