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4 September 2025
Pierre Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Pierre, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on September 3, 2025.
Archie Mack, age 41, was sentenced to three 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.
Mack was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 4, 2025.
Mack was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in December 2005. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or change in employment or student status. In August 2024, Mack updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at a residence in Pierre. In September 2024, Mack relocated to a different residence in Pierre, but did not thereafter update his sex offender registration. On November 19, 2024, Mack was arrested in Pierre.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service and the Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Mack was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Orange County felon charged with federal drug and gun violationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – An Orange, Texas, convicted felon has been charged with federal drug and firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Mario Peeples, 35, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this week in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a controlled substance on a premises where children are present.
The indictment alleges that in February and July 2025, Peeples, a previously convicted felon, was found in possession of a total of three firearms and methamphetamine intended for distribution. As a convicted felon, Peeples is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms.
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).
If convicted, Peeples faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Beaumont Police Department, and the Orange Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy Coleman.
A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Ohio Man on Parole Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for receiving and distributing sexually explicit photos of children while he was out on parole for an unrelated offense.
Christopher Galaszewski, 27, of Cleveland, has been sentenced to 184 months (approximately 15 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in May to distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and to possession of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Galaszewski was also ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release after imprisonment and to pay $10,000 in Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) assessments. After imprisonment, he will be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
According to court documents, from on or about June 23 to July 6, 2023, Galaszewski, while out on parole for an unrelated offense, knowingly distributed computer files that contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. At least one image involved a prepubescent minor who had not yet attained 12 years of age.
During the investigation, federal agents received a report that the defendant was sharing CSAM files through a popular social media platform. While on a check-in call with his parole officer, he indicated that he suspected that his email account had been hacked because it contained child pornography. The following day, Galaszewski’s parole officer seized his cellphone and laptop as permitted under the terms of parole. During the execution of a federal search warrant of defendant’s digital devices and online accounts, investigators found that they contained nearly 200 images and videos of CSAM.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret A. Kane.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country and 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.
To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ohio Man Sentenced for a Firearms Violation, Marion County Man Admits to Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Rodney S. Knotts, 55, of Ravenna, Ohio, was sentenced today to 20 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm as a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Knotts sold firearms, ammunition, and firearms parts in Ritchie County. Knotts is prohibited from having firearms because of three prior felonies.
In a separate case, Daniel Earl Spell, 35, of Fairmont, West Virginia, has admitted to two counts of the unlawful possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Spell had a pistol in Marion County. Spell has a prior domestic battery conviction and a felony conviction in Monongalia County, prohibiting him from having firearms.
Spell faces up to 15 years in prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Rhee is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated both matters.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. [use if applicable] Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Noble Outdoors Owner Sentenced for Conspiracy to Violate the Lacey Act Involving 114 Illegal HuntsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Dustin Noble, 46, of North Platte, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 4, 2025, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, for Conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Noble to 22 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Noble’s release from prison, he will begin a three-year term of supervised release. Noble was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $179,680. Pursuant to the terms of a plea agreement, Noble forfeited multiple unlawfully taken wildlife taxidermy mounts, two crossbows, and several firearms. The Court also ordered that Noble shall not hunt, fish, trap, guide, outfit, or otherwise associate or be in the field with anyone engaged in those activities for 25 years, and shall not conduct, assist, or associate with any fish or wildlife taxidermy activities or be present, or assist with taxidermy services for 10 years.
Enacted 125 years ago, the Lacey Act protects the nation’s wildlife resources by prohibiting wildlife violations that cross state or international borders. A joint investigation conducted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Law Enforcement Division determined that Noble provided illegal hunting and guiding services to paying clients, family, and other associates, many from outside the state of Nebraska, between 2015 and 2021, while operating Noble Outdoors, a big game guiding business in North Platte. Noble also operated a commercial taxidermy business providing services of converting hides, skins, antlers, and other trophy parts of wildlife into taxidermy mounts. Some of Noble’s taxidermy clients included hunters unlawfully guided by Noble.
The investigation determined Noble charged paying clients $1,200 to $4,000 depending upon the target species and conducted the guided hunts in at least Lincoln, Hayes, and Frontier counties in Nebraska. During those hunts Noble’s friends, associates and/or clients agreed with Noble to violate Nebraska hunting laws to take wildlife including mule deer and wild turkeys. Noble employed various tactics and unlawful methods to increase the probability of locating, killing, and acquiring trophy wildlife including using specialized hunting equipment comprised of firearm sound suppressors and thermal optics; taking wildlife from upon or close to the road; taking wildlife during night-time or closed season hours; and hunting upon privately owned properties without the knowledge or permission of the landowner. Under Nebraska state law, hunters are prohibited from possessing firearms or using firearms to hunt deer during the archery season, are prohibited from shooting from or over a roadway, are authorized to hunt only during the legal shooting hours from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, and must have landowner permission to hunt on private property.
The investigation substantiated 114 unlawful hunts conducted by Noble during the course of the conspiracy with the vast majority occurring between 2018 and 2020. Noble’s unlawful activities primarily targeted trophy-sized mule deer, including early season mule deer in velvet antlers. As revealed by extensive evidence obtained during this investigation, Noble’s illegal hunts included the taking of more than 12 species of wildlife, including most notably: 61 mule deer, 33 wild turkeys, 4 pronghorn, 3 white-tailed deer, an American alligator, a timber rattlesnake, and approximately 12 upland game birds, migratory non-game birds, game fish, and furbearing or non-game animals.
Prior to his conduct in this case, Noble was subject to a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission investigation and was charged with 71 counts. He was ultimately convicted on 10 counts in Dawson County Court, Nebraska, in February 2014. As part of his sentencing, he was subject to a 10-year hunting, fishing, and trapping revocation in the State of Nebraska. The current state/federal investigation revealed extensive and ongoing hunting violations committed, aided, and directed by Noble while his hunting privileges were revoked from his prior state conviction.
Today’s sentencing marks the near conclusion of the ongoing prosecution of numerous defendants related to violations committed by Noble Outdoors and its owner, associates, and clients between 2015 and 2021. To date, 19 defendants have been sentenced and ordered to pay a more than $255,000 in fines and restitution for state and federal violations related to the interstate transport of unlawfully taken wildlife. The investigation included the seizure and subsequent forfeiture or abandonment of more than 50 trophy wildlife antlers or taxidermy mounts from 27 Noble Outdoors clients or associates.
United States Attorney Woods said, “This case demonstrates what state and federal law enforcement can accomplish when they join forces and unite in a common pursuit of justice. Wildlife resources should be fairly preserved for the enjoyment of all Nebraskans – both present and future. Noble’s destructive tactics and actions targeted Nebraska’s mule deer populations in a manner that jeopardized the ability of Nebraskans to continue to enjoy a lawful hunting experience in the future. The United States Attorney’s Office is proud to join with our partners at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to ensure that Nebraska’s resources are protected and available to all its citizens equally.”
“This case is a powerful example of the continued collaboration between Nebraska Game and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect our state’s wildlife resources,” said Colonel Jeff Clauson, Chief of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Law Enforcement Division. “Mr. Noble’s unscrupulous tactics targeting mature mule deer bucks for himself and paying clients or associates jeopardized herd health, strong genetics, breeding success, long-term population growth, and effectively stripped away seasons’ worth of hunting opportunity for the public and law-abiding hunting community. Holding wildlife violators accountable like those involved in this case, who demonstrate blatant disregard for game laws, is vital to conserving our state’s wildlife resources and preserving hunting opportunities Nebraskans cherish.”
“This outcome reflects our strong commitment to working with partner law enforcement and wildlife management agencies to protect our Nation’s vital natural resources,” said Assistant Director Doug Ault, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “The defendants demonstrated blatant disregard for the law and caused lasting harm to Nebraska’s mule deer populations. We remain steadfast in pursuing and apprehending those who profit from the illegal exploitation of our natural resources while undermining the legacy of ethical hunting.”
The operation was a joint investigation conducted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Law Enforcement Division.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Weapons ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –KEVIN STURGIS (“STURGIS”), age 26, was sentenced on August 27, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to 37 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, on November 23, 2023, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers conducting surveillance observed STURGIS standing outside a residence in Hollygrove holding an AR-15 pistol and a handgun while wearing a ski mask and gloves. Officers later arrested STURGIS who had a Glock Model 21, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol loaded with 12 rounds concealed in his waistband. On the porch, officers recovered an Anderson Manufacturing Model AM-15, multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition. Prior to possessing these firearms, STURGIS had been convicted of several felony offenses in Orleans Parish.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Drug Trafficking and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –DARNELL DOUCET (“DOUCET”), age 27, was sentenced on August 28, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 106 months in prison followed by (4) four years of supervised release, along with a $400 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, tapentadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846; possession with intent to distribute cocaine, tapentadol, and marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, in the fall of 2024 DOUCET was observed selling narcotics through his Instagram account. On September 24, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at DOUCET’s residence and recovered cocaine, marijuana, tapentadol pills, digital scales, baggies, over $20,000 in cash, and four firearms loaded with extended magazines: a Zastava Model ZPAP92, 7.62 caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-15, multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol; and a Glock Model 48, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEVIN TYLER, II a/k/a “City,” (“TYLER”), age 48, a New Orleans resident, was sentenced on August 27, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. TYLER was sentenced to 170 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, TYLER, and other co-conspirators, distributed and possessed with intent to distribute, multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine within the Eastern District of Louisiana. TYLER transported kilogram quantities of cocaine, and proceeds from the sale of narcotics, in furtherance of the conspiracy.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, United States Border Patrol, Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, Kenner Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Cocaine and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DANIEL CABRERA-VERGARA (“CABRERA-VERGARA”), age 41, a New Orleans resident, was sentenced on August 27, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and four hundred grams or more of fentanyl. CABRERA-VERGARA was sentenced to 126 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, CABRERA-VERGARA, and other co-conspirators, distributed, and possessed with intent to distribute, multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine within the Eastern District of Louisiana. CABRERA-VERGARA also facilitated the transportation and distribution of cocaine, fentanyl, and proceeds from these narcotics on behalf of a co-conspirator, a known Mexico-based source of supply.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, United States Border Patrol, Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, Kenner Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Jersey Man Charged with Enticing Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, Distributing Cocaine to Minor VictimRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging MIGUEL FRANCISCO GUZMAN, 30, of Woodbridge, New Jersey, with child exploitation and drug distribution offenses.
The indictment was returned on August 5, 2025, and Guzman has been detained since his arrest on August 12. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford, pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was ordered detained.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in March 2025, Guzman began messaging on Snapchat with a child under the age of 13 (“minor victim”) in Connecticut. Guzman solicited sexually explicit images from the minor victim and sent sexually explicit images of himself to the minor victim. Guzman then travelled to Connecticut to engage in sexual conduct with the minor victim. He also provided cocaine to the minor victim.
It is further alleged that a court-authorized search of Guzman’s Snapchat account has revealed attempts by Guzman to solicit sexually explicit images and sexual encounters with other minors between March and May 2025.
The indictment charges Guzman with one count of enticement of a minor and one count of attempted enticement of a minor, charges that carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life on each count, and one count of distribution of a controlled substance to a person under age 21, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of one year and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of local police in Connecticut and the Woodbridge (N.J.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Boyles, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Nevada Woman Sentenced to Three Years Probation for Trafficking in Counterfeit GoodsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Nevada woman was sentenced on September 3, 2025, to three years of probation for trafficking counterfeit Louis Vuitton merchandise.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Traci Linn Hubbard, 57, in March 2023, sold counterfeit Louis Vuitton merchandise out of her store, Unique Boutique, in Nevada, Iowa. On March 23, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Unique Boutique and over 100 counterfeit Louis Vuitton items were seized.
Hubbard was also ordered to pay $13,800.41 in restitution to Louis Vuitton North America, Inc.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
Montgomery County Man Found with More Than 50 Kilograms of Methamphetamine Sentenced to Almost 17 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Jelani Christmas, 42, of King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 200 months in prison and five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Joel H. Slomsky yesterday for drug trafficking.
In April of this year, Christmas was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty to that offense in June.
As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, Christmas was involved in trafficking controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine, in the area of Montgomery and Bucks counties in 2024.
On August 14, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant on a van operated and solely occupied by the defendant, uncovering a hidden compartment containing over 50 kilograms, or approximately 111 pounds, of methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lindsey Mills, John Boscia, and Rebecca Kulik.
Missouri Man Sentenced to 6 ½ Years for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Thursday sentenced a man to 78 months in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material on multiple electronic devices and in a cloud account.
Judge Ross also ordered Davie John Metzger, 55, of O’Fallon, Missouri, to pay $24,000 in restitution to the victims that have been identified in the material he possessed, as well as $40,000 that will go to other child pornography victims and victim services.
Metzger possessed 369 images of child sexual abuse material on a flash drive, 24 images on a hard drive, 211 in an online cloud storage account and 343 on a cell phone. Metzger’s conduct triggered three CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A court-approved search of his online account revealed photos that he’d surreptitiously taken of women and girls in public places.
Metzger pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in April to one count of receipt of child pornography.
The FBI and the St. Charles County Cybercrime Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
Mississippi Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine Distribution and Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JARVIS WILSON (“WILSON”), age 39, a resident of Jackson, Mississippi, was sentenced on September 2, 2025, by United States District Judge Greg Gerard Guidry, after previously pleading guilty to Counts Two and Four of the indictment pending against him. Count 2 charged WILSON with distribution of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A). Count 4 charged WILSON with being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
WILSON was sentenced to a total of 188 months, comprised of imprisonment 188 months as to Count Two, and 180 months as to Count Four, to be served concurrently. Judge Guidry also sentenced WILSON to five years of supervised release. This term of supervised release consists of five years as to Count 2 and three years as to Count Four, to be served concurrently. WILSON also faces payment of a combined $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on or about April 8, 2024, WILSON, sold five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine, to an individual he believed to be a legitimate buyer. On April 8, 2024, agents searched WILSON’s residence due to his drug trafficking. During the search, agents recovered ammunition, a Ruger Model LCR, .22 caliber revolver, and a Smith & Wesson Model 1000 Super, 12-gauge shotgun.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Michigan Woman Indicted for Smuggling Aliens, Including Children, Across the Northern BorderRead the Press Release
Note: View indictment here.
A Michigan woman has been indicted for her role in an international alien smuggling conspiracy which brought aliens, including children, from Central America into the United States across the northern border.
“This DOJ is investigating and prosecuting human smuggling more aggressively than ever before, and Joint Task Force Alpha is the tip of the spear,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will not rest until those who profit from the suffering of vulnerable people — including many unaccompanied children — face severe, comprehensive justice.”
“The defendant is charged with conspiring to smuggle families, including young children, across our northern border for profit,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Smuggling organizations threaten the security of our borders and undermines public safety. The Criminal Division is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to disrupt smuggling networks wherever they operate and bring their members to justice.”
“Those who promote and profit from smuggling migrants into the country take advantage of vulnerable individuals without regard for the safety of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher for the District of Vermont. “The prosecution of Ms. Lozano should send a message that those who commit these offenses will be investigated and held responsible, not only for their own criminal acts but also for facilitating illegal border crossings by others. Thank you to our law enforcement partners at the U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their collaborative investigative work to keep our communities and country safe.”
“Human smuggling is a ruthless criminal enterprise that exploits vulnerable individuals for profit without regard for their life and safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of HSI New England. “HSI remains steadfast in combating alien smuggling organizations and upholding the integrity of our borders.”
“I commend the unwavering dedication and vigilance of our agents in combating the dangers posed by smuggling operations along our northern border,” said Chief Robert N. Garcia of U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector. “Smuggling, whether it involves people, contraband, or other illicit activities, poses a significant threat to public safety and national security. The alleged actions of Norma Linda Lozano underscore the risks associated with these criminal enterprises and the critical need for robust enforcement efforts. I would also like to extend my appreciation to all of our partners in the investigation and indictment of Lozano. Their efforts are vital to ensuring that those who engage in these dangerous and illegal activities are held accountable.”
A federal grand jury charged Norma Linda Lozano, also known as Norma Linda Quintanilla Lozano, 53, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, with one count of conspiracy to smuggle aliens and six counts of bringing aliens to the United States for profit.
According to the indictment, from February through November 2024, Lozano participated in an alien smuggling organization (ASO) that brought and attempted to bring aliens from Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and El Salvador, including children, illegally into the United States from Canada. The ASO instructed the aliens to cross the border on foot, provided GPS coordinates and a description of Lozano’s vehicle, and coordinated their pick-up once inside the United States.
Lozano allegedly drove from Michigan to Vermont to meet the aliens at prearranged locations near the border. She then transported the aliens further into the United States, delivering them to residences, businesses, or airports. The aliens or their family members allegedly paid Lozano for smuggling services.
Photo depicting young female laying across various bags and items in the rear of the vehicle in light pink/purple jacketIn one smuggling event, Lozano allegedly transported three aliens from Guatemala and El Salvador in her car, with a five-year-old girl. The child rode in the front passenger seat, and Lozano falsely claimed the child was her granddaughter. In another smuggling event, she allegedly transported six adults along with an eight-year-old girl and a 12-year-old boy. The girl was placed in the cargo area of the hatchback on top of luggage.
The investigation and indictment are the first brought in the District of Vermont coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southern and northern borders. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 410 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 355 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
HSI Burlington and U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector led U.S. investigative efforts, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.
Trial Attorney Jenna Reed of the Criminal Division’s HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra for the District of Vermont are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Indictment - Lozano.pdfMexican man sentenced for illegal reentryRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Mexican man who entered the United States illegally was sentenced yesterday to a sentence of time served and remanded to U.S. Border Patrol upon release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Enrique Hernandez-Rodriguez, 51, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to illegal reentry.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on July 26, 2025, Enrique Hernandez-Rodriguez, an alien and citizen of Mexico, who was last removed from the United States in January 2021, was found near Chinook, Montana without having received permission to reenter the country.
Hernandez-Rodriguez’s alien registration file shows a history of criminal and immigration violations dating to 2007, including a conviction for negligent driving in Washington, driving with a revoked license in North Dakota, and two prior removals from the United States.
In this case, Hernandez-Rodriguez was stopped by the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) on July 26, 2025, east of Chinook, Montana. MHP requested assistance from Border Patrol agents who later arrived at the location. Record checks revealed Hernandez-Rodriguez had no pending or legal immigration documents that would allow him to be in the United States. He also admitted to being a Mexican citizen and acknowledged he was in United States without any immigration documents.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The U.S. Border Patrol and Montana Highway Patrol conducted the investigation.
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).
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Mexican National Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Conspiring to Traffic Cocaine and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican man, and member of a Tijuana-based Sinaloa Cartel cell, was sentenced today for his role in a cocaine and money laundering conspiracy.
Eber Alain Estrada Palafox, also known as “Doctor,” 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 63 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In June 2025, Palafox pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Palafox conspired with a ring of Massachusetts-based individuals to traffic cocaine and heroin from Mexico, through California, to Massachusetts and into New England over a two-year period. Palafox and his co-conspirators also conspired to import at least one kilogram of heroin (which was later determined to be pure fentanyl) from sources in Mexico. Palafox also admitted to conspiring to use a co-conspirator’s auto dealership, State Line Auto Sales, LLC, in Enfield, Conn., to commit money laundering by wiring drug proceeds to his mother in Mexico.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Merck of the Springfield Office prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Assaulting U.S. Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Mario Garcia-Estrada, 26, of Hidalgo, Mexico, was sentenced on Tuesday by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 63 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Garcia-Estrada previously pleaded guilty to two counts of Assault on a Federal Officer.
In the early morning of March 4, 2023, Garcia-Estrada illegally entered the United States from Mexico. United States Border Patrol (USBP) cameras spotted Garcia-Estrada near Bisbee, and an agent was dispatched to the area where she encountered Garcia-Estrada hiding. After determining that Garcia-Estrada was illegally present in the country, the USBP agent placed him under arrest, seizing his cell phone and identification. As the agent attempted to place Garcia-Estrada in her patrol vehicle, Garcia-Estrada pushed her to the ground and punched her several times in the face and head before fleeing the scene on foot. A USBP camera operator was able to track Garcia-Estrada, guiding other agents to his location where he was arrested. As a result of this vicious attack, the victim agent suffered a fractured nose and other injuries.
The FBI Phoenix Division’s Sierra Vista office conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Houston, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-00321-SHR-BGM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-143_Garcia-Estrada# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national has pleaded guilty in federal court today to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
Lisandro Garcia-Ramirez, 23, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lajuana M. Counts to one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens. Garcia-Ramirez was arrested on Feb. 20, 2025, traveling on I-70 in Saline County, Mo. Garcia-Ramirez admitted to transporting individuals he knew were present in the United States illegally.
Under federal statutes, Garcia-Ramirez is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of Garcia-Ramirez will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Mexican National Indicted for Passport FraudRead the Press Release
Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on September 3, 2025, Erik J. Paz-Zavaleta (Age: 46), who resides in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, was arraigned on a previously sealed indictment that charges Paz-Zavaleta for making a false statement in the application for a passport in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1542.
The indictment alleges that on or about March 7, 2022, Paz-Zavaleta “willfully and knowingly made a false statement in the application for a passport” and that he “used another person’s identity” to obtain a passport “under the authority of the United States.” If convicted Paz-Zavaleta faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years’ of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Chicago Field Office of the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, with the assistance of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Kaukauna Police Department.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For further information contact:Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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Mexican Citizen Guilty of Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSE DAVID MORALES-VAZQUEZ (“MORALES-VAZQUEZ”), age 29, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty on September 2, 2025 to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court documents, MORALES-VAZQUEZ was previously removed from the United States on November 19, 2018, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter. United States District Judge Brandon S. Long set sentencing for November 4, 2025.
MORALES-VAZQUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.
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).
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Massachusetts Tax Preparer Sentenced for Filing False Returns for ClientsRead the Press Release
Note, the release has been updated with minor factual corrections and that Isidor was ordered to serve one year of supervised release.
A Massachusetts tax return preparer was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for filing false tax returns for clients.
The following is according to court documents and evidence presented at trial: Yves Isidor, of Somerville, Massachusetts, owned and operated Tax Realty Pro, a tax preparation service located in Malden, Massachusetts. From 2012 to 2019, Isidor prepared over 1,500 returns for taxpayers. During that time, Isidor falsified returns for clients by preparing fraudulent schedules that claimed inappropriate expenses or deductions. On multiple occasions, Isidor inflated clients’ total itemized deductions by fabricating medical expenses, charitable contributions, employment expenses, and taxes. Additionally, on a few occasions, Isidor inflated expense deductions when clients were self-employed or owned rental properties. These activities reduced his clients’ tax liabilities and generated fraudulent refunds. At trial, clients testified that Isidor falsified their individual tax returns without request or consent.
Isidor caused a loss to the United States of $443,000.
In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge William G. Young for the District of Massachusetts ordered Isidor to serve one year of supervised release.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Christina M. Grimes of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A. Wild for the District of Massachusetts prosecuted the case.
Mason City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Cleon Mitchell, Jr., 46, from Mason City, Iowa, was sentenced on September 4, 2025, to 12 years’ imprisonment. Mitchell, Jr. pled guilty April 30, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to possession of child pornography.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from August 2022, through April 2024, Mitchell used the applications Kik and Snapchat to receive and possess visual depictions of child pornography which involved a prepubescent minor or minor under the age of 12. Snapchat reported Mitchell Jr.’s account to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children who in turn reported the information to law enforcement. Law enforcement connected the account back to Mitchell, Jr. and obtained a search warrant for his home and electronics. During the execution of the search warrant, Mitchell, Jr. admitted he had received and possessed child pornography, and it would be located on his phone. Forensic analysis of his electronics showed that Mitchell, Jr. possessed 30 videos and 50 images of child pornography including materials that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct as well as prepubescent children and toddlers. Mitchell also later admitted he had engaged in a pattern of activity involving the sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor and he plead guilty to Lascivious Acts with a Child in February 2025 in Cerro Gordo County District Court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mitchell, Jr. was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment, was ordered to pay $600 in fines and assessments, and must serve a 5-year term of supervised release following his prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system. Mitchell, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Mason City Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-3038. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Man Pleads Guilty to the Sextortion of at least 68 Children via Social Media and Sex Trafficking at least Five of those ChildrenRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Ryan Austin Lauless, 31, of, Colorado, has pleaded guilty to 21 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, 5 counts of Sex Trafficking of a Minor, 2 counts of Noticing and Advertising Child Sexual Abuse Material and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material.
According to court documents, between late 2019, and May 19, 2023, Ryan Lauless used social media applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, Yubo, Purp, and others, to coerce, sexually exploit and threaten at least 68 minor victims into producing thousands of images and videos of sexually explicit conduct. The victims ranged in age from 13 to 16 at the time of the offenses and lived in nearly every state in the United States and in at least five foreign countries.
Using the above social media applications, and others, Lauless misrepresented his identity, and falsely represented to minors that he was “Cason Fredrickson,” purporting to be a teenager from New York or other cities. In reality, Lauless was in his late 20’s, unemployed, and living in various hotels and motels in Texas and Colorado. To conceal his identity, Lauless accessed the public Instagram page of Individual A, and without Individual A’s knowledge or consent, saved their images and videos to falsely claim that he (Lauless) was Individual A, posing as “Cason Fredrickson.”
Lauless’ criminal tradecraft included misrepresenting his age, identity, background, and likeness, to groom minor children, and provide a false sense of safety in their online communications. Lauless’ tradecraft further included the use of voice modulators and third-party image and video applications to edit images and videos to make them appear as though they were taken live through social medial applications, such as Snapchat.
Lauless also feigned interest in his victims, told his victims that they were attractive, and pretended as though they were in an online romantic relationship. He purchased items for many of the minor victims over Amazon, including fishnet stockings, sexual devices, and unique t-shirts that he instructed minor victims to wear when producing sexually explicit images and videos, and shipped those items either directly to victims, or to a designated Amazon locker for pickup.
As part of Lauless’ efforts to avoid detection and continue the sexual exploitation of minor victims for a prolonged period, he threatened many of the minor victims with dissemination of their images and videos if they failed to comply with his demands, or if they intended to seek help from parents or law enforcement. At least one minor victim told Lauless that she was contemplating suicide.
Further, Lauless sex trafficked at least five different minor victims by forcing them to them engage in oral, vaginal, and anal intercourse with adult males, and producing numerous videos of the commercial sex acts. Some victims were forced to engage in sadomasochistic abuse at Lauless’ direction.
Once Lauless received images and videos from his victims, he advertised the sexually explicit material he enticed them to produce for sale on social media applications such as Discord, Instagram, Telegram, and MEGA. He engaged in at least 141 transactions in which he sold the child sex abuse material for payment via Venmo, PayPal, Bitcoin, and CashApp. Lauless admits that his collection of child pornography included images and videos depicting prepubescent children in sexually explicit conduct, as well as children engaged in bestiality and sadomasochistic behavior.
“Thanks to the courage of these victims and the dedication of our law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to justice. Exploiting children is one of the most reprehensible crimes, often going unnoticed by those closest to the victims,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John E. Childress. “In today’s digital age, predators use sophisticated tactics to target our kids and manipulate them into feeling trapped and ashamed. I urge parents and caregivers to have open, honest conversations with children in their lives to help stop this abuse before it starts.”
"Protecting children from online predators is a responsibility we all share,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “Crimes that target and exploit children are among the most egregious we investigate, and they too often remain unseen until it is too late. We urge parents to stay engaged, talk with their children, and remain vigilant. The FBI’s mission is clear: we will relentlessly pursue those who prey on children, hold them accountable, and stand with victims every step of the way.”
"Today’s guilty plea is a stark reminder of the dangers our children face online. This defendant exploited the trust and vulnerability of children through social media, committing acts of unimaginable cruelty, said Boone County Prosecutor, Kent Eastwood, on behalf of the C.A.S.E Task Force. “We will continue to pursue these cases relentlessly, and we remain committed to supporting survivors and holding predators fully accountable.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Boone County Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation (CASE) Task Force investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Lauless faces up to life in federal prison and will be sentenced by a U.S. District Judge later.
The Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation, or CASE, Task Force was established in 2023 to support the investigatory and prosecution efforts of Boone County law enforcement as they pursue persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. The task force is made up of law enforcement personnel from the following Boone County agencies; the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office, the Lebanon Police Department, the Whitestown Police Department, and the Zionsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Preston and Carolyn Haney are prosecuting this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood.
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Man Charged with Armed Robbery and Firing Machine Gun That Killed 69-Year-Old BystanderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Ricky J. Patel; and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced the unsealing of a Complaint charging FAISIL McCANTS in connection with an August 27, 2025, armed robbery and shooting in which McCANTS fired 15 rounds from a machine gun on a public street in East Harlem, New York, striking and killing a 69-year-old woman. McCANTS was arrested today and is expected to be presented tomorrow before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.
“As alleged, after robbing a drug dealer at gunpoint, Faisil McCants fired a machine gun in the middle of the day on the busy streets of New York City, killing another person,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “The death of that wholly innocent bystander, a 69-year-old woman who was merely standing with her walker on the sidewalk in East Harlem, is as tragic as it is senseless. It is unacceptable. Because of the hard work of our partners at HSI and the NYPD and the prosecutors of this Office, McCants will now answer for his alleged crime. This tragic and senseless act shows again we must do all we can to get violent criminals off our streets.”
"As a result of this defendant’s allegedly ruthless and utterly reckless violence, an innocent victim was gunned down in broad daylight while simply going about her daily life,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “New Yorkers deserve better—full stop. HSI New York—together with our partners at the NYPD and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York—will not rest until the other individuals involved are captured and, like this defendant, face the full force of the criminal justice system for their accused, unacceptable crimes.”
“Faisil McCants allegedly armed himself with a machine gun during a robbery and opened fire in broad daylight, killing a 69-year-old mother, grandmother, and beloved East Harlem community member,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “Robin Wright was an innocent bystander who lost her life to gun violence—and today, justice was served in her memory. Removing illegal firearms from our streets remains at the forefront of the NYPD’s public safety mission, and we will continue to ensure that those who carry them are held accountable. I am grateful to the NYPD investigators, HSI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their swift work to keep our streets safe.”
As alleged in the Complaint:[1]
On or about August 27, 2025, shortly before 12:30 p.m., FAISIL McCANTS and two co-conspirators (“CC-1” and “CC-2”) robbed a drug dealer (“Individual-1”) near East 109th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan. During the robbery, McCANTS and his co-conspirators got into a physical altercation with Individual-1 before both McCANTS and CC-2 grabbed backpacks from Individual-1—which contained marijuana—and then fled north on Madison Avenue, turning onto East 110th Street.
As he fled the robbery, McCANTS pulled a black machine gun out of his right sweatshirt pocket and fired 15 shots in rapid succession in the general direction of Individual-1. A 69-year-old woman who was standing with a walker on the northwest corner of East 110th Street and Madison Avenue—in the direction that McCANTS shot the machine gun—was hit by the gunfire. From the scene, she was transported to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
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McCANTS, 18, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of Hobbs Act robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of the use, carrying, and possession of a machine gun, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, and which must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
The minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of HSI and the NYPD. He also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the New York State Board of Parole.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra S. Messiter and Kathryn Wheelock are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
u.s._v._mccants_complaint.pdf
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Louisville Man Sentenced to 7 years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy and Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on August 28, 2025, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Joseph Cook, 46, was sentenced to 7 years in prison, followed by 6 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
Between August 20, 2024, and August 22, 2024, Cook conspired with other persons to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Cook supplied 111.35 grams of methamphetamine to codefendant, John Jecker, on August 20, 2024. Again, on August 20, 2024, Cook possessed 111.35 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it and supplied the 111.35 grams of methamphetamine to codefendant, Jecker. Finally, on August 22, 2024, Cook possessed 799 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. The methamphetamine was stored in a safe in Cook’s apartment. The total amount of methamphetamine from both the conspiracy and possessed by Cook was 910.35 grams. The methamphetamine was tested at the DEA laboratory, where it was confirmed to be methamphetamine.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF, with assistance from the DEA Louisville Field Division, and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This conviction is a 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).
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville, Kentucky man was sentenced on August 21, 2025, to 14 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and distribution of over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Antonio O’Neal, 40, admitted as part of an open plea on May 21, 2025, to one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine from January 1, 2021, through August 16, 2023, and five counts of distribution of methamphetamine on April 1, April 24, May 1, May 8, and May 10, 2023. Specifically, O’Neal was held responsible for distributing 960 grams of methamphetamine which was purchased through law enforcement-controlled purchases.
Based on this conduct and his criminal history, the Court imposed a sentence of 14 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI and LMPD investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Porter and Frank Dahl III prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Adela Alic.
This conviction is a 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).
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on August 27, 2025, for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Tremell Smith, 34, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 6 years of supervised release, for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
Mr. Smith’s conviction stems from two instances in which he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant. On March 11, 2024, Smith sold 460 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Again, on March 19, 2024, Smith sold 231 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Each methamphetamine transaction was audio and video recorded. The total amount of methamphetamine from both of the controlled purchases was 691 grams. The methamphetamine was tested at the DEA laboratory, where it was confirmed to be methamphetamine.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF, with assistance from the DEA Louisville Field Division and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This conviction is a 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).
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Lincoln Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Nathaniel Lee Stephenson, 28, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 4, 2025, in federal court in Lincoln for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual (pure). United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Stephenson to 140 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Stephenson’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
On June 13, 2024, Stephenson sold 83 ½ grams, (approximately three ounces), of methamphetamine to an undercover Lincoln Police Department officer for $1,000 in Lincoln. Purity testing at the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab showed the methamphetamine was at least 93% pure.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Level 3 sex offender pleads guilty to new child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that James M. Lajoie, 30, of Appleton, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to possession of child pornography following a prior conviction under New York law relating to sexual abuse, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a maximum penalty of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2016, Lajoie was convicted of Attempted Sexual Abuse in the 1st Degree and sentenced to serve three years in prison and 10 years post release supervision. In August 2023, a New York Parole Officer conducted a home inspection at Lajoie’s residence and found an unauthorized cellular telephone in his possession. A review recovered approximately 54 images and four videos of child pornography stored on the device. Lajoie obtained these images and videos of child pornography over the internet. Some of images depicted prepubescent minors and violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Mark Grimm, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 4, 2025, before Judge Arcara.
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Laredo Weapons Trafficking Coordinator Pleads Guilty to Charges for Conspiring to Smuggle Military Grade Firearms to Mexican Drug CartelRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A Laredo man pleaded guilty in a federal court in San Antonio today to four conspiracy counts related to his role as the coordinator for a weapons trafficking organization that illegally obtained hundreds of firearms and smuggled them from the U.S. to Mexico in support of the Cartel Del Noreste (CDN).
According to court documents, Gerardo Rafael Perez Jr. aka Jerry, 24, and his network of straw purchasers illicitly obtained the firearms, including FNH SCAR rifles, Barrett .50 caliber rifles, FNH M249S rifles, M240s and M1919s, from gun stores and unlicensed dealers in San Antonio and other Texas cities. They also acquired FightLite MCR belt-fed upper receivers, which allow standard AR-15 lower receivers to use belt-fed ammunition and provide for a greater capacity of continuous fire before reloading. Perez directed the acquisition, trafficking, and illegal export of guns and parts in support of the cartel, all without an export license or a license to deal firearms.
Agents searched the cell phones of multiple straw purchasers of firearms who were receiving directions from Perez, revealing communications in which Perez sent instructions on specific guns to buy from specific sellers across Texas. On one occasion, a straw purchaser purchased six firearms for Perez in San Antonio with nearly $50,000 in cash, including three FN SCAR 17S 7.62 caliber rifles, an FN SCAR 20S 7.62 caliber rifle, an FN M249S belt-fed rifle 5.56 caliber, and a Barrett M82A1 .50 caliber rifle, all of which Perez acquired for the purpose of delivery to Mexico. Communications showed Perez telling another straw purchaser he was obliterating serial numbers from trafficked guns so there was no way the gun could be tracked to the original seller.
On Sept. 26, 2023, law enforcement conducted a search of Perez’s residence and recovered multiple firearms and various types of ammunition, blank ATF Form 4473s, and CDN jewelry. Agents seized and searched Perez’s cell phone and found photos depicting him in tactical gear and wearing CDN jewelry, as well as photos of numerous guns. His phone also contained messages in which Perez solicited firearms, coordinated their purchase, and negotiated prices with sellers.
Perez was arrested March 20, 2024, along with co-defendants Antonio Osiel Casarez, Luis Matias Leal, Francisco Alejandro Benavides Jr., and Mark Anthony Trevino Jr. Three other co-defendants, Gerardo Ibarra Jr., Gerardo Corona Jr., and Jose Emigdio Q. Mendoza were named in an earlier indictment and arrested in 2023. The ninth and tenth co-defendants, Armando Mata Jr., and Felipe Vasquez III, were charged in a superseding indictment and arrested in March 2025.
Perez pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to traffic firearms, conspiracy to straw purchase firearms, conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States, and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces up to 25 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Calve is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Lackawanna man going to prison for distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Maxwell H. Gawley, 34, of Lackawanna, NY, who was convicted of distribution of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that in August 2022, Gawley engaged in sexually explicit conversations via Snapchat with a minor victim, who was a 14-year-old male. During these conversations, Gawley asked the minor victim to send him pictures of himself and discussed having sexual contact with him, which the minor victim complied with. In response, Gawley told the minor victim that he “might even have to make a road trip ... [come] see you if we were dating.” In September 2022, Gawley engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with another individual over Snapchat, during which Gawley shared images and videos of child pornography over the internet via Snapchat.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
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Kenyan National Charged with International Money Laundering in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Ahmednaji Maalim Aftin Sheikh, 28, a resident of Kenya, was indicted today with Conspiracy to Commit International Money Laundering for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. Sheikh is the 74th defendant charged in this scheme, the largest Covid fraud scheme in the country.
“I share the outrage of my fellow Minnesotans at seeing money meant to feed hungry children converted into fortunes half a world away,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “Sheikh’s indictment shows yet again what we are up against. It is another window into the many fraud schemes that have seeped into every corner of our state. But we cannot shrink from confronting this crisis. We must come together as Minnesotans and demand that the frauds stop now. We must protect the future of our children and our state.”
Sheikh is a Kenyan national who helped launder and send abroad millions of dollars in Feeding Our Future fraud proceeds for his brother, Abdiaziz Farah. Abdiaziz Farah was the leader of the “Empire” group and the lead defendant in the first Feeding Our Future trial. Earlier this month, United States District Judge Nancy E. Brasel sentenced Abdiaziz Farah to 28 years in prison for his role in the fraud scheme. Abdiaziz Farah is pending sentencing in the juror bribery case before United States District Judge David S. Doty.
As set forth in the indictment, from 2020 to 2022, Abdiaziz Farah and others carried out a massive scheme to defraud the federal child nutrition program, a program designed to provide free meals to children in need. Abdiaziz Farah and his co-conspirators obtained, misappropriated, and laundered more than $40 million in federal child nutrition program funds that were intended to serve hungry children.
Defendant Ahmednaji Sheikh is a citizen and resident of Kenya. Sheikh helped his brother, Abdiaziz Farah, launder and hide his fraud proceeds abroad, beyond the reach of federal law enforcement. Abdiaziz Farah sent millions of dollars in fraud proceeds abroad, including to Sheikh. Sheikh received those funds and helped his brother conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the fraud proceeds by investing them in Kenyan real estate through a series of sham corporate entities and bulk cash smuggling.
Sheikh helped Abdiaziz Farah use fraud proceeds to purchase a 20 percent stake in a Kenyan real estate company. For example, in April 2021, Abdiaziz Farah purchased an apartment building in the South C neighborhood of Nairobi, located adjacent to Nairobi National Park. Defendant Sheikh also helped Abdiaziz Farah use proceeds to purchase land in Mandera Town, a city located in Kenya, on the boarder with Somalia and Ethiopia.
Defendant Sheikh and Abdiaziz Farah regularly exchanged text message about their ill-gotten wealth. For example, on July 3, 2021, Abdiaziz Farah texted Sheikh, “You are gonna be the richest 25 year old InshaAllah.” Sheikh responded, “I love you so much.” Abdiaziz Farah and Sheikh also exchanged messages and photos of the cash that was sent from Farah in the United States to Sheikh in Kenya.
For example, on August 29, 2021, Sheikh sent Abdiaziz Farah a photo of $138,000 in cash.
On December 9, 2021, Sheikh sent Abdiaziz Farah a photo of banker’s boxes filled with $270,000 in cash that Farah sent to Sheikh.
On December 16, 2021, Sheikh sent Abdiaziz Farah photos of a receipt documenting a $300,000 money transfer from Abdiaziz Farah in Minneapolis to Sheikh in Kenya. Abdiaziz Farah reported the transfer purpose as “family support” and the source of the income as his “salary.”
On December 27, 2021, Sheikh sent a text message explaining that he had received $1,287,000 from Abdiaziz Farah in the prior days.
As the indictment notes, Individual S.D. is Abdiaziz Farah’s sister-in-law; she is the sister of Abdiaziz Farah’s wife. Individual S.D. is a naturalized U.S. citizen who lives in Minnesota. She worked at one of the companies that sponsored Abdiaziz Farah’s fraudulent participation in the federal child nutrition program.
In October 2021, Abdiaziz Farah purchased a townhome in Burnsville, Minnesota for $575,000 using the proceeds of his fraud scheme. Individual S.D. then moved into that townhome.
On December 30, 2021, Sheikh married Individual S.D., in Nairobi, Kenya. Individual S.D. flew to Nairobi on December 21, 2021 and returned to the United States on January 11, 2022.
On June 9, 2023, Individual S.D. filed a petition for alien relative seeking to sponsor Sheikh’s immigration to and permanent residency in the United States. On the petition, Individual S.D. identified Sheikh as her husband.
On November 7, 2024, Sheikh applied to enter the 2026 Diversity Immigrant Visa lottery. The Diversity Immigrant Visa program, also known as the “green card lottery,” is an annual immigration lottery run by the United States Department of State. The program seeks to diversify the immigrant population of the United States by selecting applicants from countries with low number of immigrants. Each year, the State Department issues immigrant visas followed by permanent resident cards (or “green cards”) to approximately 55,000 winners of the green card lottery. On his application, Sheikh stated that he was unmarried.
“The federal child nutrition program was designed to provide meals to children in need,” said FBI Minneapolis SAC Alvin M. Winston, Sr. “According to the indictment, Ahmednaji Maalim Aftin Sheikh saw this instead as an opportunity to steal from taxpayers and from hungry children. The indictment alleges Sheikh and his co-conspirators laundered more than $40 million in federal funds. Sheikh allegedly used the proceeds of his fraud to invest in an upper-class Kenyan real estate company. The FBI will use every resource to stop this shameful theft, and to ensure that taxpayer resources are used appropriately for their intended purpose.”
These cases result from an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Jacobs and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting these cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Kent County Man Facing Federal Child Sexual Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Stephen Nicholas Westcott, 35, of Kennedyville, Maryland, charging him with Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material, Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material, and Illegal Possession of an Unregistered Silencer. Law enforcement arrested Westcott in Manistee County, Michigan, after he fled the state of Maryland to avoid arrest when a warrant was issued in February 2025.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); James A. Dellmyer, State’s Attorney for Cecil County; and Bryan DiGregory, State’s Attorney for Kent County.
According to the 13-count indictment, Westcott produced sexually explicit images of a young child under the age of 5. Westcott also communicated and distributed child sexual abuse materials over various internet platforms including Snapchat, Discord, and Telegram while maintaining a collection of child sexual abuse material on his personal electronic devices.
If convicted, Westcott faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 20 years for each count of Distribution of Child Pornography. Additionally, Westcott is facing a maximum sentence of 20 years for each count of Possession of Child Pornography and a maximum 10-year sentence for the count of Possession of an Unregistered Silencer.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
This case is also part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, ATF, and MSP for their work in the investigation, and the Manistee County Sheriff's Office and FBI Detroit for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen E. McGuinn who is prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Kansas City Woman Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud Using a Stolen and Altered CheckRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to taking part in a bank fraud scheme.
Aviance Shepard, 34, admitted that in March 2023, she obtained a $881,324 check belonging to another person which was stolen from the United Parcel Service mail stream. Shepard opened a business account at a local financial institution in the name of the check payee. On March 27, 2023, Shepard deposited the stolen and altered check into the newly opened account.
The next day, on March 28, 2023, Shepard obtained five cashier’s checks in the total amount of $320,000 for herself and others. Shepard also withdrew $20,000 in cash from the account.
On March 27, 2023, the check payor discovered that the check had been lost or stolen from the UPS package and stopped payment on the check. The bank did not receive the stop payment until Shepard had withdrawn $340,000 in cashier’s checks and cash.
Under federal statutes, Shepard is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole for bank fraud. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of Shepard will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service.
Kansas City Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements to a Financial Institution and Preparing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to taking part in two separate fraudulent schemes.
Bianca Cobbins, 42, pleaded guilty to a seven-count Information charging two counts of making a false statement to a financial institution and five counts of aiding in the preparation of a false tax return.
False Statements to a Financial Institution
Cobbins admitted that, in December 2019, she obtained personal information belonging to a victim, including the victim’s legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and credit score. Utilizing this information, Cobbins obtained a fraudulent driver’s license containing the victim’s personal information and a photograph of another individual, Quanisha Capelton. Cobbins and Capelton then utilized the fraudulent driver’s license to apply for a checking account at a local financial institution.
After opening the checking account, Cobbins manufactured two fraudulent paystubs. The paystubs falsely indicated that the above-mentioned victim worked for a healthcare company in Kansas City, Mo., and that the victim’s paychecks were directly deposited into the fraudulently opened checking account. Cobbins and Capelton used the fraudulent paystubs to apply for a consumer loan at the above-mentioned local financial institution.
As part of her plea agreement, Cobbins admitted that the procurement and use of the victim’s personal information to commit fraud resulted in an intended loss of at least $36,128.32.
Quanisha Capelton was previously charged, convicted, and sentenced to the Bureau of Prisons for her use of the victim’s personal information.
Aiding in the Preparation of False Tax Returns
Cobbins, a professional tax preparer, further admitted that for tax years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, she knowingly prepared false federal tax returns aimed at fraudulently inflating her clients’ refunds. In many instances, Cobbins attached fraudulent Schedule C forms to her clients’ returns. The fraudulent Schedule C forms falsely claimed business profits and/or losses in an effort to ensure her clients received the maximum amount of Earned Income Credit.
As part of her plea agreement, Cobbins admitted to preparing at least 55 false federal tax returns, resulting in an actual loss of at least $312,656.00.
Under federal statutes, Cobbins is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole for each count of making a false statement to a financial institution and is subject to a sentence of up to 3 years in federal prison without parole for each count of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of Cobbins will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas P. Heberle. It was investigated by the United States Secret Service, IRS-CI, and the Lee’s Summit, Mo., Police Department.
Justice Department Opens Investigation into Rainsville, Alabama for Disability and Religious Liberty DiscriminationRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division launched an investigation into the City of Rainsville, Alabama, to determine whether the City violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000 (RLUIPA), and the Fair Housing Act (FHA) by denying a faith-based organization’s application to operate an addiction-recovery facility in the City.
The Department opened this investigation after receiving a complaint alleging that the City denied a Christian recovery organization the ability to establish a Christian discipleship program, motivated by a desire to keep away “drug addicts.” The program was intended to rehabilitate men with drug and alcohol dependency, and other life-controlling problems.
“The ADA affords every individual, including those on the path to recovery, the dignity and opportunity to fully participate in society,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division stands guard to protect not only the rights of Americans with disabilities, but also the rights of religious institutions to minister to those recovering from substance abuse.”
The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability by public entities. People in recovery from substance use disorders who are not currently engaging in illegal drug use are protected by the ADA. The ADA prohibits public entities from discriminating against people with disabilities on that basis. The FHA further prohibits such discrimination by municipalities in making housing unavailable to people with disabilities.
RLUIPA is a federal law that guards religious institutions from unduly burdensome, unequal, or discriminatory land use regulations. More information about RLUIPA and the department’s work can be found on the Place to Worship Initiative’s webpage.
If you believe you have been a victim of disability discrimination, please file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division online at https://www.ada.gov/file-a-complaint/, or by calling the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (1-833-610-1264 (TTY)). For more information on the ADA and the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.ada.gov or www.justice.gov/crt.
And individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination in land use or zoning decisions may contact the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section at (833) 591-0291 or may submit a complaint through the RLUIPA complaint portal. More information about RLUIPA, including questions and answers about the law and other documents, may be found at www.justice.gov/crt/about/hce/rluipaexplain.php.
Jenks Man Sentenced for Receiving and Distributing Sexually Explicit Material of ChildrenRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – A Jenks man was sentenced today after a forensic analysis of his cellphone revealed 99 images and 39 videos of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Jason Gardner Davis, 52, for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography. Judge Russell ordered Davis to 78 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Judge Russell ordered Davis to pay $5,100 in restitution and monetary assessments. Upon his release, Davis will also be required to register as a sex offender.
From October 2022 through February 2023, Davis admitted to receiving sexual gratification after receiving and sharing sexually explicit images and videos of minor children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Court records show that Davis was chatting with an undercover agent through a social media app and distributed child sexual abuse material to the undercover agent. The investigation led agents to Davis’ home with a search warrant, where agents found 99 images and 39 videos of child sexual abuse material, including images of pre-pubescent children being sexually abused, and images of sadistic conduct, on Davis’ cellphone.
Davis was taken into custody at his guilty plea in May, and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Robert and Nathan Michel prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Jefferson Parish Man Guilty of Possessing Machine GunRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 21, 2025, JAHBRELL PRICE (“PRICE”), age 25, of Marrero, La. plead guilty before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to a two-count indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged PRICE with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(3). Count 2 charged PRICE with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). Sentencing is set for December 4, 2025.
According to court documents, on January 7, 2024, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives located PRICE at a motel in the 6700 block of Westbank Expressway, Marrero, Louisiana. He was taken into custody for an outstanding Orleans Parish arrest warrant. Detectives then secured a search warrant for PRICE’s hotel room and located twenty (20) bottles of promethazine (9,460 ml), $1,375.00 in United States currency, and a Glock Model 45 nine-millimeter handgun with an attached external and visible machine gun conversion device.
PRICE faces up to 1 year imprisonment, up to a $100,000 fine, and a $50 mandatory special assessment fee as to Count One, and up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release for Count Two, as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit .
Jamaican National Sentenced to Six Months in Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Jamaican national was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Tanya James, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to six months in prison. The defendant is now subject to deportation proceedings. In July 2025, James pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. James was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025.
In 2003, Tanya James was convicted of possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine base. She was ordered removed from the United States and deported to Jamaica in 2004. In 2011, James was again ordered removed from the United States and deported to Jamaica in 2012. According to court documents, in March 2024, James was charged with motor vehicle offenses. On or about May 12, 2025, James was taken into custody by immigration officials after she was found to be in the United States without having received permission to reenter.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Jamaican National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Julie S. Sneed has sentenced Garville Gary Gayle (37, Jamaica) to one year and six months in federal prison for illegal reentry by a deported alien. Gayle pleaded guilty on June 3, 2025.
According to court documents, Gayle is a citizen and national of Jamaica. He was previously deported from the United States on November 19, 2009, and May 26, 2016, following two felony convictions. Prior to his 2009 deportation, Gayle was convicted of possession of marijuana with intent to sell. Prior to his 2016 deportation, he was convicted of illegal reentry. On April 29, 2024, Gayle was found to be voluntarily back in the United States when he was arrested by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for possession of cocaine. He was subsequently convicted of that offense.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO). It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro.
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.
Independence Woman Admits to Role in National Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to taking part in a fraud scheme impacting the U.S. Small Business Administration and numerous state governments.
Cathy M. Kelley, 69, pleaded guilty to knowingly receiving stolen government money. Specifically, Kelley admitted, in September 2020, she received $59,900 in Economic Injury Disaster Loan proceeds from the U.S. Small Business Administration after another individual submitted a fraudulent application requesting the funds. After receipt, Kelley converted the stolen funds to her use and the use of others by purchasing personal items and making large cash withdrawals.
Kelley also admitted that, in 2020 and 2021, she knowingly received stolen unemployment benefits from the State of Washington, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, State of Colorado, State of Florida, State of Kansas, State of California, and State of Nevada. Specifically, knowing the unemployment benefits had been procured by others through fraud, Kelley received the benefits in multiple financial accounts in her name and control as well as through numerous state-issued debit cards delivered to her personal residence. Upon receipt, Kelley converted the money to her use and the use of others. As part of her plea agreement, Kelley admitted that the stolen unemployment benefits contained federal funds and admitted that she received a total of at least $250,000 in stolen funds over her course of conduct.
Under federal statutes, Kelley is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of Kelley will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for Jan. 6, 2026.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas P. Heberle. It was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Humboldt County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for 25 Years on Multiple ConvictionsRead the Press Release
A man who was convicted of two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine after having been previously convicted of a serious drug felony, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and failure to appear, was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in federal prison.
Nathan Nickless, age 40, from Dakota City, Humboldt County, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 1, 2025, guilty plea.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that on August 12, 2023, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, law enforcement attempted a traffic stop on a truck Nickless was driving. Nickless attempted to evade law enforcement onto a river road. After ramming his truck into a non-law enforcement vehicle, Nickless stopped his truck and fled on foot but was apprehended while trying to climb a river embankment. During the flight by foot, Nickless was in possession of a backpack. In the backpack, law enforcement found a loaded 9mm pistol, multiple bags of narcotics including approximately 200 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, psychedelic mushrooms, pills, THC gummies, ammunition, a scale, and multiple small baggies.
Nickless was federally charged but was allowed to remain released pending his July 8, 2024, federal trial. Nickless failed to appear as required for trial and absconded from law enforcement over the next several months.
Evidence at the hearings further showed that, on September 28, 2024, in Humboldt County, Iowa, law enforcement became aware Nickless was in the area. Law enforcement located Nickless and attempted to stop the vehicle he was driving. He refused to stop and began a vehicle pursuit with law enforcement where he again abandoned the vehicle he was driving in a field by a river. Law enforcement lost sight of Nickless when he went on foot along the river. The abandoned vehicle was seized, and a search warrant was granted.
Law enforcement searched the vehicle and found methamphetamine, multiple baggies of marijuana, pills, a scale, empty baggies for distribution, a methamphetamine pipe, and a marijuana pipe. On October 2, 2024, Nickless was found hiding inside a residence in Humboldt County and was arrested.
Nickless was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Nickless was sentenced to 300 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Nickless is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick T. Greenwood, and was investigated by the Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Dodge Police Department, Iowa DCI Laboratory, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 23-3040. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Honduran National Sentenced for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JHOSMY JOSUE PEREZ-ALVAREZ (“PEREZ-ALVAREZ”), age 24, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on August 26, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, on or about January 2, 2025, PEREZ-ALVAREZ, an individual unlawfully present in the United States, was found in possession of a Glock nine-millimeter handgun and was arrested by authorities. PEREZ-ALVAREZ admitted that he was unlawfully present at the time of the offense and due to his status, was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
PEREZ-ALVAREZ was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment, followed by (2) two years of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Upon completion of his prison sentence, he will be transferred to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation to Honduras.
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).
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations and the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) for their roles in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.
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Hoffmann Quality Tools USA Inc. Agrees to Pay $1.4M Following Improper Receipt of PPP LoanRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Hoffmann Quality Tools USA Inc. (“Hoffmann”) has paid $1,400,027.39 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by applying for, receiving, and obtaining forgiveness of a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) for which it was not eligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, to provide relief to small businesses experiencing economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. On December 27, 2020, the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act (“Economic Aid Act”) was signed into law. The Economic Aid Act authorized the Small Business Administration to guarantee second-draw PPP loans. To be eligible for second-draw PPP loans, borrowers were required to have no more than 300 employees, among other requirements. On May 21, 2020, an Interim Final Rule was published that clarified that affiliated foreign employees were to be included when a borrower calculated their total number of employees for purposes of determining PPP loan eligibility.
The United States contends that Hoffmann failed to include employees employed by foreign entities affiliated with Hoffmann through common ownership when it applied for a second-draw PPP loan and forgiveness thereof. Had Hoffmann included the employees of the foreign entities affiliated with Hoffmann, Hoffmann would have exceeded the 300-employee size limitation applicable to second-draw PPP loans and would not have been eligible to receive the second-draw PPP loan.
This Settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Blockquote, Inc. v. Hoffmann Quality Tools USA Inc., No. 3:24-cv-297 (E.D. Tenn.).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Cunningham and Alexa Ortiz Hadley represented the United States, with assistance from the Small Business Administration.
“The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) stood as vital resource for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “Our office will continue to work with SBA and other federal partners to recover from those who take advantage of vital resources at the expense of the public.”
SBA’s General Counsel, Wendell Davis, stated, “This recovery is a direct result of the concerted efforts of SBA and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee to investigate claims of fraud in SBA’s COVID-relief programs and to recover funds lost through false statements from individuals and companies that engage in such activities.”
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Guatemalan National with Negligent Homicide Conviction Admits Illegally Reentering U.S., Attempting to Engage in Sex with MinorRead the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAFAEL VINCENTE VINCENTE, also known as “Rafael Vicente Vicente,” “Vincente Carlos Vincente,” “Carlos Vincente,” “Carlos Vicente,” “Rafael A Vincente,” and “Rafael A Vicente,” 41, a citizen of Guatemala last residing in New London, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to illegally reentering the United States after being deported. In pleading guilty, he also admitted that he attempted to entice, patronize, or solicit a minor in violation of federal law.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2004, Vincente, who has never held legal immigration status in the U.S., was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court of negligent homicide and evading responsibility for a motor vehicle accident resulting in death, and was sentenced to a 10-year term of incarceration, suspended after 13 months. In July 2005, he was deported to Guatemala.
Vincente subsequently reentered the U.S. and, on June 7, 2024, was arrested by Groton Town Police and charged with attempted commercial sexual abuse of a minor, attempted sexual assault in the second degree, and attempted risk of injury to a child. The state charges stem from Vincente being caught in an undercover law enforcement operation in which he responded to an advertisement on Skip the Games, a website commonly used to advertise commercial sexual activity, and traveled to a hotel in Groton to meet a 15-year-old girl for sex.
Vincente has been detained since his federal arrest on November 21, 2024.
Judge Nagala scheduled sentencing for January 7, 2026, at which time Vincente faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
This matter has been investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gordon.
U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of New London for its cooperation in the prosecution of this case.
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Guatemalan national deported from the United States in November 2024 who illegally reentered the United States shortly thereafter was sentenced today in federal court, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
Rigoberto Cano Perez, 28, was removed from the United States by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on November 20, 2024, having been convicted in Rhode Island state court in December 2023 on charges of simple assault and/or battery and disorderly conduct.
On May 12, 2025, Immigration Officers learned through an automated biometric fingerprint match of fingerprints entered into the National Crime Information Center that Perez was arrested in Rhode Island the day before for violating a domestic no contact order and on a domestic disorderly conduct charge.
Perez was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Melissa R. DuBose to time served. An immigration detainer has been lodged by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Taylor A. Dean and Peter I. Roklan.
The matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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).
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Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal Re-entry into the United States, Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Guatemalan national convicted and sentenced in Rhode Island state court in 2014 for second degree sexual assault and subsequently deported, was sentenced today in federal court for reentering the United States illegally and for failing to register as a sex offender, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
Court records reflect that after being deported in May 2014, Nelson Leonel Yocute Samayoa, 34, a/k/a Marvin Gomez, reentered the United States illegally, and lived and worked in Newport for approximately nine years. He failed to comply with the obligation that he register as a sex offender, as mandated by his 2014 sentence.
Yocute, detained in federal custody since June 23, 2025, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Mary S. McElroy to time served and five years of supervised release. He continues to be held in federal custody while awaiting deportation proceedings.
The case was prosecuted in U.S. District Court by Assistant United States Attorney Denise M. Barton.
The matter was investigated by the Newport Police Department, with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Marshals Service.
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).
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Greenbrier County Couple Plead Guilty to Immigration CrimesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Today, Rajesh N. Patel, 51, of Ronceverte, pleaded guilty to knowingly transporting an illegal alien and his wife Avanibahen Patel, 44, pleaded guilty to unlawful employment of aliens.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from November 2020 through at least September 2024, Aakash Prakash Makwana, 30, a citizen of India unlawfully residing in Ronceverte, was employed at a Fairlea business owned and operated by the Patels. Makwana assisted with the daily running of the business during the time period. As part of their guilty pleas, the Patels each admitted that they agreed to hire Makwana knowing that he was living in the United States illegally after his immigration visa expired.
Rajesh N. Patel further admitted that he drove Makwana to and from work and other locations because Makwana did not own a vehicle. Rajesh N. Patel also admitted that he did not collect or pay over to the United States government any payroll taxes from Makwana’s gross pay, and paid Makwana’s rent and supplied him with groceries during most of the time Makwana was employed at the business.
Makwana pleaded guilty on May 14, 2025, to aggravated identity theft, admitting that he committed the offense as part of a scheme to marry a United States citizen to evade U.S. immigration laws. In or around August 2021, Makwana conspired with others to marry a U.S. citizen so he could apply for Lawful Permanent Residence status, also known as obtaining a Green Card. The marriage fraud scheme was not successful. Makwana is scheduled to be sentenced on September 26, 2025.
As part of his guilty plea, Rajesh N. Patel admitted that he knew of the marriage fraud conspiracy and aided and abetted it by making cash payments to Makwana’s co-conspirators. Kalee Ann Huff, 28, of Fairbury, Illinois, admitted to marrying Makwana as part of the conspiracy and was sentenced on June 12, 2025, to five years of federal probation for marriage fraud and perjury. Huff’s brother-in-law, Joseph Sanchez, admitted to helping to arrange the fake marriage and to pressuring Huff to take part. Sanchez, 33, of Fairbury, Illinois, was sentenced to five years of federal probation on May 28, 2025, for participating in an immigration marriage fraud conspiracy.
Rajesh N. Patel is scheduled to be sentenced on January 9, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Avanibahen Patel is scheduled to be sentenced on January 5, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of six months in prison, up to one year of supervised release, and a fine of up to $3,000.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the cases.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:25-cr-136 (Rajesh N. Patel) and 5:25-cr-137 (Avanibahen Patel).
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Grand jury indicts Hilliard man for distributing fentanyl resulting in overdose deathRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Hilliard man is charged with trafficking in fentanyl that caused at least one overdose death.
A second superseding indictment against Raymond A. McGhee, 37, was returned today. In addition to being charged with distributing fentanyl resulting in death – a crime punishable by at least 20 years and up to life in prison – McGhee is also charged with five other drug counts and two firearms crimes.
According to charging documents, McGhee, who is also known as “Red” and “Draco,” distributed the fatal fentanyl on Feb. 22.
McGhee was previously charged by criminal complaint in April after patrol officers with the Columbus Division of Police stopped McGhee for two traffic violations. They discovered a pistol and a sock filled with baggies of fentanyl and cocaine hidden under the carpet of the passenger side floorboard.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Thomas A. Greco, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorneys Noah R. Litton and Jennifer M. Rausch are representing the United States in this case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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