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8 August 2025
Seattle resident convicted at trial of directing sexual abuse of young child in VietnamRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 38-year-old Seattle man was convicted late yesterday of producing child sexual abuse imagery for his scheme to obtain images of sexually abused children from a coconspirator in Vietnam, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Richard Stanley Manness Jr. was convicted of two federal felonies following a three-day jury trial. Jurors deliberated about three hours before returning the jury verdict. Manness faces a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison and up to 30 years in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones on November 14, 2025.
According to records filed in the case, law enforcement in Vietnam rescued two young children who had been kidnapped off the street in April 2024. The mother of the two sisters was distraught when she could not find them. The young girls were taken to an Airbnb by Maness’ female coconspirator. Records showed Maness rented the apartment. Messages between Manness and the coconspirator documented him directing sexual abuse of a child as young as 6-years-old. The coconspirator sent the images of the child sexual abuse to Maness over the internet. Maness had plans to travel to Vietnam for further child sexual abuse. Maness was arrested in a Seattle apartment after detectives in Vietnam contacted Homeland Security Investigations with information about the child kidnapping and abuse. Maness has remained in federal custody since his arrest on August 28, 2024.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations in cooperation with the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Hampton and Cecelia Gregson.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Registered sex offender pleads guilty to sex crimes for sexual exploitation of ten girls ages 12-16Read the Press Release
Seattle – A 28-year-old registered sex offender who sexually exploited ten different minor teens after cutting off his electronic monitoring device and absconding from Department of Corrections Community Custody, pleaded guilty to federal charges today in U.S. District Court in Seattle, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. James “Jake” Harrison Newcomer admits that between February and April 2024 he sexually abused ten different teens he met via various social media platforms. Prosecutors and defense will both recommend that Newcomer be sentenced to 17 years in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge John H. Chun on November 17, 2025.
According to records filed in the case, Newcomer was on state supervision following his 30-month prison sentence for two counts of rape of a child. As part of the supervision, Newcomer was on electronic monitoring with an ankle bracelet. On January 19, 2024, the ankle monitor lost connection and when corrections officers went to arrest Newcomer on January 25, 2024, he had left the residence and could not be located.
Over the next three months, Newcomer connected with various teen girls via social media and then arranged to meet them in person. In those meetings he gave girls drugs and alcohol and sexually assaulted them. The victims were from King, Kitap, Snohomish, Lewis, Clark, Thurston, and Spokane Counties as well as Woodburn Oregon. The victims ranged in age from 12 to 16.
Newcomer pleaded guilty to Travel with intent to engage in sexual acts with a minor and two counts of attempted enticement of a minor. Travel with intent to engage in sexual acts is punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Enticement of a minor is punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years in prison and up to life in prison.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the Woodburn, Oregon Police Department, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, the Auburn Police Department, the Snoqualmie Police Department, the Black Diamond Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department, the King County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kent Police Department, with the assistance of the Department of Corrections.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly Three Years in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on August 7, 2025.
Dorian Lester, 29, was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lester was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in April 2025 and later pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
Lester is required to register as a sex offender for life because he was previously convicted of sexual abuse of a minor, where the victim was 12 years old. Federal law requires a sex offender to update his residence to the sex offender registry within three days of changing residence. Lester was released from custody from a separate sentence and failed to update the sex offender registry with his current residence. It is a violation of federal to fail to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Lester was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of a Firearm while Under Indictment. The sentencing took place on August 7, 2025.
Terrance Drapeaux, 31, was sentenced to one year and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Drapeaux was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Receipt of a Firearm while Under Indictment by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
On December 4, 2024, Drapeaux was found by law enforcement with an active warrant for his arrest. Drapeaux resisted arrest and was discovered to have a firearm in his pocket. Before this date, Drapeaux had been charged elsewhere with a felony crime, which charge was still pending at the time he possessed the firearm. It is illegal for a person charged with a crime punishable beyond a year in prison to receive a firearm.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Drapeaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Prince George’s County Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Two ChildrenRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Today, U.S District Judge Paula Xinis sentenced David Jamal Watson, 40, of Fort Washington, Maryland, to 30 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for sexually exploiting two children and producing child sexual abuse material. Judge Xinis also ordered that, upon release from prison, Watson must register as a sex offender in the places where he resides, is an employee, and is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Acting Special Agent in Charge Evan Campanella, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Baltimore, and Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP).
As detailed in the plea agreement, from September 2023 to October 2023, Waston sexually exploited two children — who were 9 and 13 years old at the time — to produce, distribute, and attempt to sell child sex abuse materials (CSAM). Watson used platforms such as Telegram, Instagram, Twitter, and Google to store and distribute the victim’s CSAM and material depicting other children.
In July 2023, the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received two CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, indicating that a Google user uploaded 51 files of suspected CSAM to Google’s platform between October 2022 and July 2023. Authorities traced the tips to an IP address associated with Watson’s Fort Washington address.
Then in October 2023, law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant for Watson’s residence. During an MSP interview, Watson admitted to viewing, retaining, and distributing CSAM. On the morning of the search, MSP also seized five devices from a basement bedroom where Watson was sleeping.
During a forensic analysis of Watson’s devices, law enforcement identified more than 600 CSAM images, including nude images and videos of Watson’s victims and other children. Law enforcement also found conversations on Telegram between Watson and other users in which he referenced charging money for nude images of his victims.
In November 2023, law enforcement arrested Watson at his residence on a federal arrest warrant. During an interview, Watson said that he recorded the nude images of his victims at his residence. Additionally, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the contents of Watson’s Instagram account, which revealed conversations in which he attempted to sell CSAM depicting his victims to at least three other Instagram users.
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 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 justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI and the MSP for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy who prosecuted the case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Parkersburg Man Pays Restitution and Fine for Immigration CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – John Robert Coe, 66, of Parkersburg, paid $54,740 in restitution and a $500 fine for continuing to employ a known illegal alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from early 2011 until May 12, 2021, a foreign national from Madagascar worked without monetary compensation at the business that Coe co-owned with Frederick Sayre Anderson. Coe admitted that, at some point in 2011, he learned the foreign national’s presence in the United States was unlawful. Coe further admitted that the foreign national continued to work at the business until May 12, 2021, despite her illegal immigration status.
The foreign national was also housed at the business, sleeping in an office converted into a bedroom. The business is a laboratory that provides water quality testing kits to state and local governments across the country. Coe admitted that the foreign national performed work for the business including shipping supplies to customers, receiving customer service calls, and handling the company’s accounts receivable.
Coe further admitted that he also had the foreign national perform side jobs for him during this time period. These side jobs included cleaning his residence and editing history book manuscripts that he was preparing for publication. Coe compensated the foreign national in cash for these side jobs.
On May 7, 2021, Coe learned from Anderson that federal immigration agents were at the business and searching for the foreign national. Coe admitted that Anderson suggested later that day that they move the foreign national into Coe’s residence. Coe further admitted that he did not want the foreign national moving into his residence. They discussed moving the foreign national into a motel before agreeing that the foreign national should remain at the business. On May 12, 2021, the foreign national permanently left the business with the assistance of federal authorities.
Anderson, 65, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty on January 4, 2024, to concealing, harboring, and shielding an alien from detection. Anderson admitted that the foreign national entered the United States on a 90-day fiancée K-1 nonimmigrant visa that he obtained. Anderson further admitted that he knew the visa required him to marry the foreign national within 90 days, that he never married her, and that he knew her presence in the United States became unlawful once her K-1 visa expired on April 8, 2011. Anderson was sentenced on May 13, 2025, to three years of federal probation and ordered to pay $75,000 in restitution.
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), the West Virginia State Police, and the Parkersburg Police Department.
Coe paid the $500 fine on August 7, 2025, and the $54,740 in restitution on March 17, 2025, after pleading guilty on January 22, 2025. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.
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 No. 2:24-cr-178.
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Orange County Man Pleads Guilty to Using Semi-Automatic Rifle to Shoot at Sheriff’s Department Helicopter After His Birthday PartyRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – A Laguna Niguel man pleaded guilty today to using a semi-automatic rifle to repeatedly shoot at an Orange County Sheriff’s Department helicopter last year from a second-story window at his home.
Justin Derek Jennings, 40, pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to damage, destroy, disable, or wreck an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.
According to his plea agreement, on March 9, 2024, Jennings – from a second-story window of his residence – used a semi-automatic rifle to shoot at a helicopter operated by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Court documents previously filed in this case stated that Jennings and his family were celebrating his birthday party on that day. Jennings had been drinking and became angry. As anger grew, family members in attendance left the home. After most of his family left, Jennings removed a rifle from his gun safe and fired an entire magazine worth of ammunition inside the home. The rest of Jennings’ family fled and reported the incident to law enforcement.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department responded with several deputies and a police helicopter that flew in circles around the area. Jennings then went to the home’s second story and began shooting a rifle upwards in the sky, firing only when the helicopter was visible to him. The shooting continued intermittently for at least 20 minutes. After speaking with an Orange County sheriff’s deputy, Jennings exited the residence and surrendered.
During a search of Jennings’ residence, law enforcement seized two revolvers, two handguns, and two rifles along with multiple rounds of ammunition. Bullet casings were scattered throughout the floor and law enforcement also seized two magazines and a box of ammunition that was on a couch beneath the window from where Jennings fired the weapon.
United States District Judge John W. Holcomb scheduled a January 30, 2026, sentencing hearing, at which time Jennings will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office charged Jennings in connection with this incident but dismissed the case so the federal case against him could proceed.
The FBI and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin J. Campbell and Lisa J. Lindhorst of the Orange County Office are prosecuting this case.
Oklahoma City Man to Serve 20 Years in Federal Prison for Child Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – MARLON DEWAYNE MARTIN, 48, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 240 months in federal prison for child sex trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on September 15, 2023, a homeless female minor was recruited by another individual to work for Martin. Their plan was to make money using the minor to engage in commercial sex acts. When Martin began sex trafficking the minor he knew she was under the age of 18. From September of 2023 through February of 2024, Martin sex trafficked the minor by setting up commercial sex dates for the minor, providing her transportation to and from the dates, providing her hotel rooms, and collecting the money. Additionally, Martin produced and distributed child pornography involving the minor.
“The exploitation of minors is among the most reprehensible crimes we confront, and those who prey on children will face the full weight of the justice system,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “This sentence reflects not only the seriousness of the offense but also our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.”
“The actions of Marlon Dewayne Martin could best be described as pure evil, using a juvenile victim for commercial sex trafficking and distributing child pornography,” said Donnie Anderson, Director of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. “I want to thank the US Attorney’s Office Western District for their prosecution and securing this sentence. And I am extremely proud of the exhaustive investigative work by my agency’s Human Trafficking Unit to get this predator off our streets and rescuing the victim so they could get immediate access to recovery assistance.”
“HSI works relentlessly with our law enforcement partners every single day to ensure those involved in sexually exploitative acts against children are brought to justice, “ said James Carmany, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the HSI Dallas – Oklahoma Division. “With this child predator behind bars, the lengthy healing journey for this unwarranted trauma can now begin.”
On September 17, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Martin with child sex trafficking. Martin pleaded guilty on February 7, 2025, and admitted he rented a hotel for the victim and drove her to the hotel to engage in commercial sex acts.
At the sentencing hearing on August 8, 2025, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Martin to serve 240 months in federal prison, followed by supervised release for life. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell noted Martin’s long criminal history that included 15 separate criminal convictions for crimes ranging from assault on a police officer to drug distribution to DUIs, the seriousness of the offenses, and the need to protect the public from Martin.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Ohio Men Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute More Than Five Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung today sentenced Virgil Cooper (42) and Angelo Jordan (49), both residents of Ohio, for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Cooper was sentenced to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison and Jordan was sentenced to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison. A federal jury found both guilty on May 1, 2025.
According to testimony and evidence presented during the four-day trial, Cooper contacted a former federal prison cellmate who had been deported to his native country of Colombia after serving his sentence, wanting to purchase multiple kilograms of cocaine directly from Colombia at a discount rate. The former cellmate introduced Cooper to a Drug Enforcement Administration confidential source who helped arrange for a viewing of 10 kilograms of cocaine with undercover officers in Tampa in February 2023. Since Cooper was still serving his sentence from a prior felony in a halfway house, he sent his co-conspirator, Jordan, on his behalf. Jordan drove 17 hours from Ohio to Tampa to view the cocaine. An image from the video of that meeting is below:
Government Trial Exhibit 6
After repeated communications and Cooper’s release from the halfway house, Cooper and Jordan traveled from Cleveland to Tampa on August 3, 2023, to deliver a down payment of $120,000 in cash for an initial 30 kilograms of cocaine. They were subsequently arrested. An image from the video of that meeting is below:
Government Trial Exhibit 26
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney David Rehfuss and Assistant United States Attorney E. Jackson Boggs, Jr.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF
New Charges Filed Against Brothers in Case Involving Death of a Shreveport Man during Robbery in Walgreens Store Parking LotRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment against two brothers adding a new charge against them for causing death to a Shreveport man. Kevin Terrell Lewis a/k/a “Kelvin Lewis,” 38, of Arlington, Texas, and his brother, Larry Dewayne Lewis, 44, of Shreveport, were both charged last month with robbery and conspiracy to use, carry, brandish and discharge firearms during and in relation to a crime of violence. This superseding indictment adds another count charging both Kevin and Larry Lewis with causing the death of victim B.J. by using and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. If convicted of this charge, both defendants face a sentence of up to life in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The superseding indictment alleges that on or about January 22, 2025, Kevin Lewis and Larry Lewis, each aided and abetted by the other, committed robbery of personal property consisting of prescription drugs and a work van that was in the care, custody and control of victim B.J. as he was making a delivery from the Hackbarth Company to Walgreens located at 3124 Line Avenue in Shreveport. In addition, it is now alleged in the superseding indictment that on January 22, 2025, Kevin and Larry Lewis, each aided and abetted by the other, knowingly used and discharged a firearm during and in relation to robbery causing the death of B.J. through the use of a firearm, and the killing constituted murder.
The superseding indictment further alleges that on or about December 23, 2024, Kevin Lewis and Larry Lewis, each aided and abetted by the other, committed robbery of personal property consisting of approximately $500 in United States currency from the victim owner/manager of the Pull-Up Liquor located at 5619 Hearne Avenue in Shreveport, as he was closing the store and walking to his car in the parking lot.
Kevin Lewis is charged in the superseding indictment with using, carrying, and brandishing semi-automatic firearms during and in relation to these crimes of violence. The superseding indictment also alleges that the Lewis brothers conspired to use, carry, brandish and discharge a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, namely, robbery.
This investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the FBI. We are seeking additional information regarding other individuals who are believed to have participated in these crimes. If you have further information concerning this case, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), your local FBI office, or you can submit a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Aaron Crawford and William C. Gaskins.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Mount Vernon Man Sentenced to Federal Prison After Pleading Guilty to a Drug Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
A Mount Vernon, Iowa, man who was found in possession of over one and a half pounds of ice methamphetamine while possessing a firearm as a felon was sentenced on August 8, 2025, to over twelve years in federal prison.
Brice Aron Horton, age 49, from Mount Vernon, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 10, 2025, guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
On May 26, 2024, officers with the Mt. Vernon-Lisbon Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Horton. Officers searched Horton’s vehicle and seized 814.9 grams of ice methamphetamine and a loaded pistol. At the time of the stop, Horton was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms. In a plea agreement, Horton admitted that between May 2023 and May 2024 he was responsible for distributing at least 13 pounds of ice methamphetamine in the Northern District of Iowa. Additionally, Horton admitted that during this time he distributed 100 pills containing fentanyl.
Horton was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Horton was sentenced to 147 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jared Manternach and investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Mt. Vernon-Lisbon Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-99.
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Mother and Son Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Thousands of Fentanyl Pills in Sioux Falls Area and for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that United States District Judge Karen Schreier has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, SD, and a woman from Luverne, MN, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
Sean Swiftbird, 27, was sentenced on April 22, 2025, to 11 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Laurie Swiftbird, age 67 and Sean’s mother, was sentenced on August 4, 2025, to two years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The two were indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering in December 2023. Sean Swiftbird pleaded guilty on February 4, 2025. Laurie Swiftbird pleaded guilty on September 6, 2024.
Sean Swiftbird worked with others in Sioux Falls to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills over the course of 2023. Eventually, his mother Laurie became involved and assisted the conspiracy by accepting pill-laden packages at her home and dealing pills to customers. Both Sean and Laurie utilized the electronic payment system Cash App to accept proceeds related to the sale of fentanyl pills and to send those proceeds to their source. Throughout the Swiftbirds’ involvement, the conspiracy trafficked thousands of fentanyl pills in the Sioux Falls area.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Sean Swiftbird was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Laurie Swiftbird was ordered to turn herself in by January 2026.
Moroccan National Living in Medford Indicted for Being an Unlawful Alien in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Moroccan man unlawfully residing in Medford has been indicted by a federal grand jury for being an unlawful alien in possession of ammunition.
Ayoub Haddad, 24, was indicted on one count of being an unlawful alien in possession of ammunition. Haddad was arrested and charged in March 2025.
According to the charging documents, Haddad was admitted into the United States in April 2012 on a temporary B-2 non-immigrant visa, which was obtained by his parent on his behalf as he was a minor at the time. His visa expired six months later in October 2012. Thereafter, Haddad no longer had a lawful basis to remain in the United States.
According to court documents, March 2019, Haddad was encountered while being held at the South Bay Correctional Facility on charges in Chelsea District Court for firearm offenses, drug distribution and motor vehicle violations. Those charges were later dismissed after a period of general continuance.
It is alleged that, in June 2024, Haddad was identified as the driver of a vehicle involved in a shooting outside of an apartment complex in Lawrence. During a subsequent search of Haddad’s vehicle, an AR-15 style rifle bearing no serial number was allegedly found wrapped inside black t-shirt and stuffed between the radiator and the engine block in the engine compartment under the hood of the car. Twenty pieces of live .223 Remington Bronze full metal jacket rifle rounds were also allegedly located under the hood of the car.
The charge of being an unlawful alien in possession of ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Bryan DiGirolamo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston; Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler; and Medford Police Chief Buckley made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Mobridge Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Central South Dakota and within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian ReservationRead 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 Mobridge, South Dakota, who was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 5, 2025.
Eric Traversie, age 28, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Traversie was indicted for by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from a drug conspiracy that ran between April 2024 and February 2025 in which Traversie and other individuals conspired to distribute methamphetamine in and around the central South Dakota area, including within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation. As part of the conspiracy, Traversie was involved in distributing between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Traversie was also involved in a traffic stop where law enforcement seized 237 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine.
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).
This case was investigated by the FBI, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, BIA, and Dewey County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child Sexual Exploitation MaterialRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Brandon Leal Castro, age 34, of Mexico, entered a guilty plea to an Information charging him with one count of Receipt of Certain Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison.
The Information alleged that on November 14, 2024, Castro knowingly received a visual depiction of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct through the internet.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the District 16 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Castro will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.
Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the CountryRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Elpidio Abelardo Perez-Perez, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry by a removed alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws and removing violent illegal aliens from our communities has been a top priority defined by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute these offenses to deter future violations of our national immigration laws and to keep our communities safe from violent illegal aliens.”
Court documents reflect that Perez-Perez was first encountered by immigration officials following his arrest for aggravated assault with a weapon and discharging a firearm in Escambia County, Florida. Perez-Perez was determined to be in the United States illegally and was removed to Mexico in August 2010. He was removed and deported again in June 2012 and January 2013. He was most recently found in the country on February 17, 2025.
Perez-Perez faces up to two years in prison followed by removal from the United States.
The case involved an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Forbes.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 6, 2025, at 1:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Lubbock Cardiologist Agrees to Pay $1.2 Million to Resolve Alleged Controlled Substance Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Dr. Juan Kurdi, M.D., a cardiologist in Lubbock, Texas, has agreed to pay $1,200,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by issuing prescriptions for opioids and other powerful drugs outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.
Dr. Kurdi is an interventional cardiologist who co-owned and co-operated a group medical practice based in Lubbock, Texas.
“Prescribing opioids and other dangerous narcotics outside the usual course of professional practice betrays the trust placed in physicians by society and threatens public safety,” said Nancy E. Larson, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. “This settlement demonstrates our office’s commitment to holding doctors accountable for violating their obligations to properly prescribe these powerful drugs.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge, Joseph B. Tucker stated, “This case should serve as a strong warning to all physicians who knowingly prescribe controlled substances without a legitimate medical need or a proper doctor-patient relationship. The DEA will continue to aggressively target and hold accountable physicians who, like Dr. Kurdi, contribute to the poisoning crisis in our communities by improperly distributing these controlled substances.”
In settlement documents, the government contends that Dr. Kurdi—previously a registered DEA practitioner—violated the CSA’s dispensing requirements by issuing numerous prescriptions for controlled substances, including Oxycodone, Alprazolam, Tramadol, Dextroamp-Amphetamine, Vyvanse, and others, in the names of family members and friends—but that were often intended for his own personal use. Dr. Kurdi issued these prescriptions without establishing a legitimate physician-patient relationship, performing physical examinations, or creating medical records that documented the rationale for the purported treatment. Dr. Kurdi routinely filled these prescriptions at Lubbock area pharmacies even though some of the purported recipients lived hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of miles away. In many instances, Dr. Kurdi would personally pick up the prescriptions from these pharmacies to obtain controlled substances for his own personal use.
In the settlement documents, Dr. Kurdi publicly acknowledges and admits that he issued certain prescriptions in the names of family members and friends to obtain controlled substances, including Oxycodone, for his own personal use. The balance of the conduct outlined in the settlement agreement is merely alleged; the agreement does not constitute an admission of liability by Dr. Kurdi.
In addition to this settlement, Dr. Kurdi previously agreed to voluntarily relinquish his DEA registration.
This matter was investigated by the DEA’s Fort Worth Diversion Squad and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Robbins, with oversight from the Northern District of Texas Civil Chief, Kenneth Coffin, and Deputy Civil Chief, Brian Stoltz.
Local man charged with committing 5 armed robberies in 6 days, gun shop thefts, illegally possessing firearm as convicted felonRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal grand jury has charged a Columbus man with committing five armed robberies at local businesses within six days in January 2025. He and a co-defendant also allegedly stole firearms from a gun shop.
Dequan M. Keys, 30, is charged with crimes related to seven total robberies and one attempted robbery during January 2025. Keys allegedly possessed a firearm during five of the robberies. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Marwan H. Muhammad, 33, also of Columbus, is charged with taking part in one of the robberies.
According to the 14-count indictment, Keys committed the robberies between Jan. 12 and Jan. 26. In the first two alleged incidents, Keys stole a handgun from federal firearms licensee Vance Outdoors on Jan. 12 and Jan. 17. Muhammad allegedly participated in the Jan. 17 robbery.
Between Jan. 21 and Jan. 26, it is alleged Keys brandished a firearm and robbed Little Caesars Pizza on Harrisburg Pike in Columbus, Turkey Hill on South Hamilton Road in Whitehall, Turkey Hill on Stringtown Road in Grove City, Dollar General on West Broad Street in Columbus and Turkey Hill on Morse Road in Columbus. He allegedly attempted to rob the Turkey Hill on Cleveland Ave. in Columbus on the same day as the Little Caesars Pizza armed robbery.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Thomas A. Greco, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Noah R. Litton is 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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Leominster Man Arrested for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Leominster man has been arrested and charged for allegedly possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) following a federal search warrant executed at his home.
Brian Cook, 36, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography. Cook was arrested yesterday and was ordered detained pending a 2:30 p.m. hearing today in federal court in Worcester.
According to the charging document, during a search of Cook’s residence yesterday, an on-site review of his computer and hard drives allegedly revealed several videos depicting CSAM. Numerous electronic devices including laptops, hard drives and various other electronic storage media were seized for further forensic review.
Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274.
The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance provided the Leominster and Westford Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Leader of Transnational Terrorist Group Pleads Guilty to Soliciting Hate Crimes, Soliciting the Murder of Federal Officials, and Conspiring to Provide Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
Dallas Humber, 35, of Elk Grove, — leader of the Terrorgram Collective, a transnational terrorist group — pleaded guilty today to all charges against her, including soliciting hate crimes, soliciting the murder of federal officials, and conspiring to provide material support to terrorists, the Justice Department and Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced.
“Hate and terror have no place in this country or abroad,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “By securing this conviction, my office makes clear that purveyors of these heinous crimes will be brought to justice.”
“Humber led a transnational terrorist group promoting white supremacy, hate crimes, and violence, including soliciting the murder of U.S. government officials,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Her actions posed a direct threat to our citizens and national security, and the National Security Division will hold her, as well as others who commit these illegal acts, accountable for their terrorist aims.”
“Humber solicited murders and hate crimes based on the race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sanchez. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly with our partners in law enforcement and in the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute those who commit such violations of federal criminal law and keep our people and public officials safe from hate-fueled crimes of violence.”
“The leader of the Terrorgram Collective influenced hate and violence across the globe while living in a quiet suburb,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Through close collaboration with our domestic and international partners, we defended the homeland and dismantled a dangerous network intent on inciting violence to advance its extremist ideology. Those who direct or commit acts of terror in our communities will face justice.”
With her guilty plea, Humber admitted the following facts: from July 2022 until her arrest in September 2024, she served as a leader of the Terrorgram Collective, a white supremacist transnational terrorist group. To achieve their ends, she and other members of the Terrorgram Collective solicited individuals to commit hate crimes, terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure, and assassinations; and provided technical, inspirational, and operational guidance to equip those individuals to plan, prepare for, and successfully carry out those attacks.
Inspired and guided by Humber and the Terrorgram Collective, individuals committed attacks or plotted to commit attacks in the United States and elsewhere, including, plotting to attack an energy facility in New Jersey, plotting to bomb an energy facility in Tennessee, plotting to murder two people in Wisconsin in furtherance of plans to assassinate a federal official, and attempting to assassinate an Australian official. In addition, individuals led by Humber and the Terrorgram Collective have committed acts of violence internationally, including shooting three people, killing two, at an LGBT bar in Bratislava, Slovakia; shooting 11 people, killing four, at two schools in Aracruz, Brazil; and stabbing five people outside of a mosque in Eskişehir, Turkey.
The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from a variety of foreign and domestic law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Abendroth, Senior Litigation Counsel Christopher Perras and Trial Attorney Samuel A. Kuhn of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division are prosecuting the case.
Humber is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 5, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 25 to 30 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court at the sentencing hearing.
Leader of Transnational Terrorist Group Pleads Guilty to Soliciting Hate Crimes, Soliciting the Murder of Federal Officials, and Conspiring to Provide Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Dallas Humber, 35, of Elk Grove, California — leader of the Terrorgram Collective, a transnational terrorist group — pleaded guilty to all charges against her, including soliciting hate crimes, soliciting the murder of federal officials, and conspiring to provide material support to terrorists.
District Court Judge Dena Coggins found that Humber’s plea was knowing and voluntary, and deferred acceptance of the plea agreement until the sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for Dec. 5. Humber faces a penalty of 25 to 30 years in federal prison.
“Hate and terror have no place in this country or abroad,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “By securing this conviction, my office makes clear that purveyors of these heinous crimes will be brought to justice.”
“Humber led a transnational terrorist group promoting white supremacy, hate crimes, and violence, including soliciting the murder of U.S. government officials,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Her actions posed a direct threat to our citizens and national security, and the National Security Division will hold her, as well as others who commit these illegal acts, accountable for their terrorist aims.”
“Humber solicited murders and hate crimes based on the race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez for the Eastern District of California. “The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to work tirelessly with our partners in law enforcement and in the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute those who commit such violations of federal criminal law and keep our people and public officials safe from hate-fueled crimes of violence.”
"The leader of the Terrorgram Collective influenced hate and violence across the globe while living in a quiet suburb,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Through close collaboration with our domestic and international partners, we defended the homeland and dismantled a dangerous network intent on inciting violence to advance its extremist ideology. Those who direct or commit acts of terror in our communities will face justice.”
With her guilty plea, Humber admitted the following facts: from July 2022 until her arrest in September 2024, she served as a leader of the Terrorgram Collective, a white supremacist transnational terrorist group. To achieve their ends, she and other members of the Terrorgram Collective solicited individuals to commit hate crimes, terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure, and assassinations; and provided technical, inspirational, and operational guidance to equip those individuals to plan, prepare for, and successfully carry out those attacks.
Inspired and guided by Humber and the Terrorgram Collective, individuals committed attacks or plotted to commit attacks in the United States and elsewhere, including: plotting to attack an energy facility in New Jersey; plotting to bomb an energy facility in Tennessee; murdering two people in Wisconsin in furtherance of plans to assassinate a federal official; and attempting to assassinate an Australian official. In addition, individuals led by Humber and the Terrorgram Collective have committed acts of violence internationally, including shooting three people, killing two, at an LGBT bar in Bratislava, Slovakia; shooting eleven people, killing four, at two schools in Aracruz, Brazil; and stabbing five people outside of a mosque in Eskişehir, Turkey.
The FBI Sacramento Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from a variety of foreign and domestic law enforcement agencies.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case.
Lakeland Nurse Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Tampering with and Stealing Fentanyl at Five Hospitals in the Tampa Bay AreaRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Eric Brewer (30, Lakeland) to five years and three months in federal prison for tampering with a consumer product and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud. Brewer pleaded guilty on April 28, 2025.
According to court documents, Brewer was a Florida-licensed registered nurse who worked at various hospitals in the Tampa Bay area. Brewer tampered with fentanyl intended for patients by removing a portion of the controlled substance from its container, at times diluting it with another substance, and using the drug for his own personal use. By tampering with the fentanyl, Brewer acted with reckless disregard for the risk that patients would be in danger of death or bodily injury and under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to such risk.
On seven occasions between June 2 and September 12, 2023, Brewer repeatedly took needles, syringes, and saline flushes from the supply room, entered the treatment room of another nurse’s patient who was receiving intravenous fentanyl, and stole the patient’s fentanyl by redirecting it into a Styrofoam cup. At other times, Brewer stole fentanyl directly from a secure medication locker or started and stopped the patient’s intravenous (IV) pump of fentanyl to steal it. After stealing the drugs, Brewer injected them into himself in a restroom.
Brewer’s criminal conduct came to the attention of hospital administrators on September 12, 2023. Although he was not assigned to care for any patients receiving fentanyl, Brewer volunteered to change the fentanyl IV drip bag for another nurse. Brewer acquired a 100mL fentanyl IV bag and tubing from the secured medication locker and disbursed it to the patient. Shortly thereafter, Brewer entered a restroom. When he left the restroom, nurses observed Brewer stumbling, slurring his speech, and falling asleep. An inspection of the restroom revealed a bloody needle and paper towel, which Brewer had used to inject himself with fentanyl. A hospital employee reported Brewer to a manager who requested he take a drug test. Brewer refused and was fired. Subsequent lab testing of the fentanyl IV bag he had administered that morning revealed that fentanyl had been removed from the drip bag and diluted approximately 50% with saline.
This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Pizzo.
KC Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Three Fentanyl Overdose DeathsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court yesterday for distributing fentanyl, which resulted in three overdose deaths in Belton and Raymore, Mo., as part of a drug-trafficking conspiracy.
Tiger Dean Draggoo, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 40 years in federal prison without parole.
On Oct. 16, 2024, Draggoo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and three counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death.
Draggoo admitted that during his fentanyl distribution conspiracy, on three separate occasions the fentanyl he sold caused the death of the purchaser, one of which was a juvenile.
“This case is a sad reminder of the horrific damage and destruction that fentanyl can have in our community. It is also a stern reminder to those who seek to make a profit off dealing fentanyl will be vigorously investigated, prosecuted, and incarcerated,” R. Matthew Price United States Attorney. “I want to express my condolences to the family members of the victims and thank our law enforcement partners and United States Attorney’s Office staff who worked on this case. I know that the sentence does not bring back their loved ones but hope that the lengthy sentence brings some measure of peace that justice was served for the individual responsible for providing the drug that killed their loved one.”
"Armed, violent criminals who traffic deadly fentanyl into our communities and prey on the most vulnerable pose an immediate threat to everyone’s safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office, whose collaborative work not only delivered justice, but has put an end to this devastating path."
“This case further highlights the terrible effect fentanyl continues to have on public safety. The FBI is dedicated to work with all our local, state and federal partners to crush those that supply and sell fentanyl and other drugs within our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.
Draggoo also admitted that the investigation established that he was responsible for distributing or possessing at least 22,364 pills that contained a total of 2,460 grams of fentanyl. As part of the investigation, during a search of Tiger Draggoo’s apartment, law enforcement found 17 firearms, including two machine guns, ammunition of various calibers, $246,769 in cash, a ballistic vest with plates, a money counter, numerous pills that contained fentanyl, eight suspected LSD tabs, and marijuana. The 17 firearms included a Del-Ton 5.56-caliber rifle (converted into a machine gun), a Glock switch (used to convert a Glock pistol into a machine gun), three Marlin .22-caliber rifles, a Norinco 7.62-caliber rifle, a Mosin-Nagant rifle, an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber rifle, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, an Armscorp USA .308-caliber rifle, a Century Arms 7.62-caliber rifle, a Herbert Schmidt .22-caliber revolver, a New England Firearms .22-caliber revolver, a Kimber 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and a Metro Arms .45-caliber pistol.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Belton, Mo., Police Department, the Raymore, Mo., Police Department, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.
Justice Department Secures Settlement in Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Maine Property Owner and Property ManagerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: The owner, former property manager, and contractor of an apartment building in Lewiston have agreed to collectively pay $39,500 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that the former property manager and his contractor sexually harassed a female tenant in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The Justice Department’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine in June 2024, alleges that beginning in 2019 and continuing through 2020, Defendants subjected a female tenant to repeated and unwanted sexual comments and touching without her consent. The case is captioned United States v. Methuselah Tree, LLC., Robert Ross, RLR Enterprises, Brian Bennett, and Henry Irvin Investments, LLC, Case No. 2:24-cv-00204-JAW. The former tenant was represented by Pine Tree Legal Assistance. The lawsuit arose from a complaint that the tenant filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After HUD investigated the complaint, it issued a charge of discrimination, and the matter was referred to the Justice Department.
Under the consent decree and settlement agreements, the former property owner will pay $35,000 to the former tenant. The former property manager and his contractor will pay $1,500 and $3,000, respectively, while also completing Fair Housing Act training and refraining from engaging in property management or residential property maintenance for one year. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and the settling defendants did not admit liability in the consent decree or settlement agreements.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or property manager or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743 or submit a report online. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative, led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. The initiative, which the Department launched in October 2017, seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the Department has filed 49 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $16 million for victims of such harassment.
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Justice Department Secures Settlement in Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Maine Property Owner and Property ManagerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: The owner, former property manager, and contractor of an apartment building in Lewiston have agreed to collectively pay $39,500 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that the former property manager and his contractor sexually harassed a female tenant in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The Justice Department’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine in June 2024, alleges that beginning in 2019 and continuing through 2020, Defendants subjected a female tenant to repeated and unwanted sexual comments and touching without her consent. The case is captioned United States v. Methuselah Tree, LLC., Robert Ross, RLR Enterprises, Brian Bennett, and Henry Irvin Investments, LLC, Case No. 2:24-cv-00204-JAW. The former tenant was represented by Pine Tree Legal Assistance. The lawsuit arose from a complaint that the tenant filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After HUD investigated the complaint, it issued a charge of discrimination, and the matter was referred to the Justice Department.
Under the consent decree and settlement agreements, the former property owner will pay $35,000 to the former tenant. The former property manager and his contractor will pay $1,500 and $3,000, respectively, while also completing Fair Housing Act training and refraining from engaging in property management or residential property maintenance for one year. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and the settling defendants did not admit liability in the consent decree or settlement agreements.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or property manager or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743 or submit a report online. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative, led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. The initiative, which the Department launched in October 2017, seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the Department has filed 49 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $16 million for victims of such harassment.
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Justice Department Reaches Proposed Settlement with Greystar, the Largest U.S. Landlord, to End Its Participation in Algorithmic Pricing SchemeRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division filed a proposed settlement today to resolve the United States’ claims against Greystar Management Services LLC as part of its ongoing enforcement against algorithmic coordination and other anticompetitive practices in rental markets across the country.
Greystar, the largest landlord in the United States, manages almost 950,000 rental units across the country. As alleged in Plaintiffs’ complaint, Greystar and other landlords, including five co-defendants, shared competitively sensitive data to generate pricing recommendations using RealPage’s algorithms, which also included anticompetitive rules that aligned competitors’ pricing. In addition, Greystar and other landlords discussed competitively sensitive topics — including pricing strategies, rents, and selected parameters for RealPage’s software — directly with each other.
“American greatness has always depended on free-market competition, and nowhere is competition more important than in making housing affordable again,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to vigorously pursue President Trump’s pro-consumer agenda.”
“The Trump-Vance Administration is committed to promoting competition to help working class Americans pay for life’s necessities — including rent,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Whether in a smoke-filled room or through an algorithm, competitors cannot share competitively sensitive information or align prices to the detriment of American consumers.”
If approved by the court, the proposed consent decree would require Greystar to:
- Refrain from using any anticompetitive algorithm that generates pricing recommendations using its competitors’ competitively sensitive data or that incorporates certain anticompetitive features;
- Refrain from sharing competitively sensitive information with competitors;
- Accept a court-appointed monitor if it uses a third-party pricing algorithm that is not certified pursuant to the terms of the consent decree;
- Refrain from attending or participating in RealPage-hosted meetings of competing landlords; and
- Cooperate with the United States’ monopolization claims against RealPage.
As required by the Tunney Act, the proposed settlement, along with a competitive impact statement, will be published in the Federal Register. Any interested person should submit written comments concerning the proposed settlement within 60 days following the publication to Danielle Hauck, Acting Chief, Technology and Digital Platforms Section, Antitrust Division, U.S. Department of Justice, 450 Fifth Street NW, Suite 7050, Washington, DC 20530. At the conclusion of the public comment period, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina may enter the final judgment upon finding it is in the public interest.
Greystar is a residential property manager headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina.
Justice Department Ends Half-Century-Old Desegregation Cases in Florida and MississippiRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced today the dismissal of two desegregation cases in Hendry County, Florida, and Copiah County, Mississippi, concluding matters that have remained on the docket for more than half a century.
The cases of Hendry County, Florida and Copiah County, Mississippi were first filed in 1970, each in connection with unlawful operations of dual school systems based on race. After thorough review, the Civil Rights Division determined that both Counties are unitary in their schools, eliminating the vestiges of prior de jure segregation to the extent practicable. On Aug. 5, the Court formally dismissed the case of Hendry County with prejudice. On Aug. 6, the Court formally dismissed the case of Copiah County with prejudice.
“In this administration, we are ending prolonged court oversight that does not reflect the reality in classrooms today,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. “After fifty-five years of federal control, these local school districts can use taxpayer dollars that were spent on monitoring for past vestiges of racism, and can redirect those funds instead for the direct benefit of students.”
Note: Click to read the court filings for Hendry County, Florida and Copiah County, Mississippi.
Jacksonville Man Arrested for Attempting to Entice A 13-Year-Old Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint charging Tony Leroy Bartley, Jr. (37, Jacksonville) with using his cellphone and the internet to attempt to entice a 13-year-old child to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Bartley faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison and a potential lifetime term of supervised release. On August 5, 2025, Bartley was arrested by FBI agents in Ponte Vedra Beach. He remains in custody pending a detention hearing set for August 11, 2025.
According to court documents, between June 17 and July 30, 2025, an FBI agent (UC) in Jacksonville was conducting an undercover operation on an online social media application (“app”) to identify adults who were seeking to make online contact with and engage in sexual activity with children. On July 25, 26, and 29, 2025, the UC and app user “keven” exchanged several private online messages on the app and via text message. After the UC advised “keven” that “she” was only 13 years old, “keven” suggested that they engage in sexual activity. App user “keven,” who was subsequently identified as Bartley, asked the “child” about her sexual experience, described sexual acts that he wanted to perform on the “child,” and sent an explicit photo of himself to the “child.”
A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 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 and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Islesford Man Pleads Guilty to Providing False Information to a Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: An Islesford man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Portland on Wednesday to providing false information to a federal firearms dealer.
According to court records, William Heutz, 32, purchased a Glock Model 19 9mm pistol from a licensed federal firearms dealer in February 2023. In filling out a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473 required for the purchase, Heutz indicated that he was the firearm’s actual buyer. However, according to electronic messages obtained by investigators, he straw purchased the pistol for another individual, who provided money for the purchase. Heutz kept the money left over from the exchange and transferred the firearm to that individual.
Heutz faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 followed by up to three years of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
ATF investigated the case.
Straw Purchasing: A straw purchase is an illegal firearm purchase where the actual buyer of the gun, being unable to pass the required federal background check or desiring to not have his or her name associated with the transaction, uses a proxy buyer who can pass the required background check to purchase the firearm for him/her.
Project Safe Neighborhoods: This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. To learn more information about Project Safe Neighborhood, visit www.justice.gov/psn.
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Illegal aliens sentenced for drug trafficking and possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming announced today that a drug trafficking case involving two illegal aliens in possession of firearms resulted in lengthy sentences for both defendants.
Oscar Espinoza-Duarte (Espinoza), 32, of Chihuahua, Mexico was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting that offense; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. German Ortiz-Esparza (Ortiz), 35, of San Luis Potosi, Mexico, was sentenced to 120 month’s imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for the distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting that crime and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
During an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the District of Wyoming, including the Wind River Indian Reservation (WRIR) and surrounding communities, Agents of the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) received information that Espinoza and Ortiz were known to supply methamphetamine to multiple distributors on the WRIR. Through the investigation, agents learned that Espinoza and Ortiz were frequently driving to Denver to pick up large quantities of methamphetamine and returning to the area of the WRIR where they sold it to distributors.
According to court documents, on Feb. 25, agents arrested both men at Espinoza’s trailer. Ortiz had 8 grams of cocaine and a 9mm pistol on his person and Espinoza had a .45 caliber pistol. In the trailer agents found a pound of methamphetamine, three additional firearms, including a pistol with an obliterated serial number, and over $5,000 in cash.
Espinoza and Ortiz were indicted on March 20. Espinoza pleaded guilty on May 14 and Ortiz pleaded guilty on May 15. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced Ortiz on Aug. 5 and Espinoza on Aug. 7 in Casper.
This crime was investigated by the DCI, FBI and the Safe Trails Task Force, and assisted by state and local law enforcement, BIA and ICE. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy W. Gist. This conviction 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 transactional criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Case No. 25-CR-00050
Illegal Immigrant Who Murdered the Mother of His Children Gets 24 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Mario Miguel Banegas Deras, 43, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today in Superior Court for the beating, stabbing, and strangulation death of Maria Magdalena Ayala Guardado in Northwest, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Banegas Deras pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder while armed on April 15, 2025. Superior Court Judge J. Michael Ryan sentenced Banegas Deras to 24 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
“This illegal lowlife killed the mother of his children in the most heinous way, after abusing her throughout their relationship,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro. “Domestic violence is something that we will not tolerate from anyone, particularly those who are not legal citizens of this country who break the law. For any woman in a violent relationship please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.”
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 6:30 a.m. on December 15, 2024, 42-year-old Mario Miguel Banegas Deras, went to 744 Girard Street, NW, where he had lived with the victim, Maria Magdalena Ayala Guardado, and their 3 children until approximately one week before the murder, after Ms. Ayala told him to leave the home due to continued physical and emotional abuse. On that day, Banegas Deras entered the apartment building and made his way to the lower level where he exited the building at the storage/garage area and attempted to open the garage door. When he couldn’t get in the garage, the defendant re-entered the building where he waited in hiding for the victim to make her way to the garage, as she did every day. Ninety minutes later, Maria Magdalena Ayala Guardado exited the building, unlocked and then entered the garage. The defendant, who had been watching her through a small window, followed her into the garage and immediately closed the door. Once the defendant had Ms. Ayala trapped inside the garage, he killed the victim by strangling her, hitting her in the head over fourteen times with a brick, and stabbing her in the neck. Thirty-five minutes after closing the garage door, Banegas Deras called 9-1-1 and reported that he’d just killed his wife by strangling her. The defendant was placed under arrest at the scene.
Shortly after the defendant’s arrest, the government obtained a Warrant of Removal/Deportation with the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Upon completion of his sentence, the defendant will be deported to his country of origin, Honduras.
Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney, Marybeth Manfreda, who prosecuted the case.
Illegal Aliens with Violent Histories, Multiple DWIs Sentenced in AustinRead the Press Release
AUSTIN, Texas – Multiple violent offenders in the U.S. illegally were sentenced to federal prison in Austin this week.
Nery Flores-Flores, of Mexico, was sentenced to 65 months in prison for illegal re-entry. Flores-Flores was arrested by the Kinney County Sheriff’s Office on Dec. 9, 2024, for criminal trespass and evading arrest near Brackettville. He was remanded into federal custody on Feb. 21 and pleaded guilty May 12. Flores-Flores had previously been removed from the U.S. four times and granted two voluntary returns. He has also prior convictions for illegal re-entries, felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, domestic violence/battery, and grand theft auto.
Mexican national Angel Mireles-Maldonado was sentenced to 51 months after he was encountered at the Travis County Jail in October 2024. He had been arrested and convicted for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and sentenced to 10 months. Prior to that, he had been convicted of three DWIs and assault causing bodily injury. Additionally, Mireles-Maldonado has been convicted of illegal re-entry twice before and removed from the U.S. four times.
Angel Navarro-Miranda, also a Mexican national, was sentenced to 12 months and one day for illegal re-entry. He was encountered at the Travis County Jail on March 12 after being arrested for DWI, collision involving damage. Prior to his arrest in March, Navarro-Miranda had been convicted of DWI four times between August 2000 and May 2009. He had previously been removed from the U.S. in September 2010.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Illegal Alien Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Drugs and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Edwin Reyes-Parra, 22, of Mexico, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl while in possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
Between June and October 2024, Reyes-Parra distributed over 4 pounds of methamphetamine and smaller amounts of fentanyl and fluorofentanyl into the community. In December 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and located 75.5 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and $2,000.00 in cash. Prior to the execution of the warrant, Reyes-Parra attempted to flush drugs down the toilet. Upon completion of his sentence, Reyes-Parra, an alien born in Mexico and without legal authority to be in the United States, is likely to be deported back to Mexico.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Boise Police Department, the High Desert Drug Task Force, the Oregon State Police, and the Payette County Narcotics Task Force, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kane Venecia prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with funds provided by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney position.
The High Desert Drug Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. They are supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Illegal Alien Sentenced for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Salvador Diaz-Hermosillo, age 39, a Mexican national unlawfully present in the United States, was sentenced to 6 months in prison for one count of Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.
On March 12, 2025, Diaz-Hermosillo pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on January 31, 2025, Diaz-Hermosillo, an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States, who knew of his status, knowingly possessed a semi-automatic rifle within the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
Illegal aliens are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5).
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Diaz-Hermosillo was remanded into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dak T. Cohen represented the United States.
Husband and Wife Indicted for Starving Child to DeathRead the Press Release
Ft. Stewart Army Base, Liberty County, GA: A federal grand jury, in the Southern District of Georgia, indicted a husband and wife for murdering their child, Vyolet Kelley, by depriving her of adequate nourishment and medical care.
On August 8, 2025, a federal court unsealed a federal indictment charging Brandon M. Kelley, 29, and Stacey D. Kelley, 26, of Ft. Stewart, GA, with several charges related to the unlawful death of their child. The federal grand jury indicted them for Felony Murder and two counts of Second Degree Murder, all counts alleging that the child died because she was deprived of adequate nourishment and medical care while living at Fort Stewart Military Reservation. The family lived at Fort Stewart because Brandon Kelley was an enlisted soldier during the time outlined in the indictment.
“The allegations in this case are heartbreaking on many levels. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons.
The case was investigated by the United States Army Criminal Investigative Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy P. Dean and E. Greg Gilluly, Jr. Upon conviction, the Kelleys face potential penalties up to life in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
For any questions, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.
38-25
Honduran National Sentenced to 5 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Yesterday, Herlin Yovany Guerrero-Zelaya, 53 years old, of Honduras residing in Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.
Herlin Yovany Guerrero-Zelaya was sentenced to 5 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.According to documents in the case, Guerrero-Zelaya’s criminal history includes two prior driving under the influence convictions, and multiple other driving related offenses. He was previously removed from the United States on four separate occasions in 1999, 2015, and twice in 2017.
“Herlin Yovany Guerrero-Zelaya illegally reentered the country after already having been removed on four separate occasions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Proctor. “Illegal reentry of this kind is a federal crime, and just like any other federal crime, it will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted in this District. My thanks go out to the law enforcement professionals who brought this case to a just end.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.
Honduran Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Honduran citizen was sentenced on August 8, 2025, to 18 months in federal prison for illegally returning to the United States after being deported.
According to public court documents, Mario Fernando Padilla Barahona, 28, had previously been deported from the United States once in 2020. In September 2024, law enforcement encountered Padilla Barahona when he was arrested for operating while intoxicated after he drove on the wrong side of the road, lost control of his vehicle, and crashed into a utility pole. Prior to his 2020 removal, Padilla Barahona was convicted of online solicitation of a minor in the Texas District Court for Montgomery County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Padilla Barahona will be required to serve a two-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Hobbs Woman Sentenced for High-Speed Chase that led to Fentanyl and Meth BustRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Hobbs woman involved in a high-speed chase with law enforcement was sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms offenses uncovered during an investigation into a significant fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution operation.
According to court records, on October 19, 2023, agents with the Lea County Drug Task Force (LCDTF) received information that a vehicle traveling in Hobbs, New Mexico, contained fentanyl pills and methamphetamine. Agents located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. Amber Dawn Rogers Johnson, 39, was identified as the passenger. The vehicle was registered to both Johnson and the driver.
During the traffic stop, agents observed a handgun in the front passenger seat near Johnson. A canine unit alerted to the odor of narcotics, and the vehicle was towed pending a search warrant.
On October 20, 2023, a search warrant was executed, revealing approximately 425 grams of fentanyl pills, 98 net grams of pure methamphetamine and three firearms.
On November 9, 2023, LCDTF agents tracked a vehicle, Johnson’s was a passenger in, to Tatum, New Mexico and attempted a second traffic stop, however the driver fled from officers over the Texas border. Deputies from the Yoakum County Sheriff's Office located the vehicle and began to pursue from Yoakum County into Gaines County where the Gaines County Sheriff's Office joined the pursuit.
During the pursuit, Johnson shot at Yoakum County Sheriff’s Deputies and threw a backpack containing narcotics and firearms from the vehicle before fleeing back over the state border into Hobbs, New Mexico where they were located by LCDTF agents after Johnson and the driver crashed the vehicle and fled on foot. Officers pursued and arrested them a short time later.
Yoakum County Sheriff’s Deputies located the backpack Johnson threw out of the vehicle. Inside the back was 1,129 grams of fentanyl pills and 814 grams of methamphetamine. Deputies also located two firearms nearby.
When LCDTF agents searched the vehicle, they located another 13 grams of methamphetamine, 616.6 grams of liquid fentanyl, multiple loaded rifles, magazines and ammunition, including hollow point bullets. In total, approximately 827 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 1.7 kilograms of fentanyl, and five firearms were seized on November 9, 2023.
On April 7, 2025, Johnson pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Upon her release from prison, Johnson will be subject to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, made the announcement today.
The DEA’s El Paso Division investigated this case with the assistance of the Lea County Drug Task Force, Yoakum County Sheriff's Office and the Gaines County Sheriff's Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Williams is prosecuting this case.
Grand Jury Returns 4-Count Indictment Charging Two Defendants with Assaulting Federal Officers at Immigration Protest in Downtown Los AngelesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A federal grand jury today indicted a Los Angeles woman and a South Bay man on charges that they assaulted federal officers stationed at a federal building in downtown Los Angeles – property that one of them defaced – during an anti-immigration enforcement protest last month.
Erin Petra Escobar, 34, of the Palms neighborhood of Los Angeles, is charged with one felony count of assault on a federal officer or employee and one misdemeanor count of depredation of government property.
Nick Elias Gutierrez, 20, of Hawthorne, is charged with two felonies: one count of assault on a federal officer or employee and one count of assault on a federal officer or employee resulting in bodily injury.
The defendants’ arraignments are scheduled for August 15 in United States District Court in Los Angeles. Both Escobar and Gutierrez are free on $5,000 bond.
According to the indictment and court documents previously filed in this case, a small group of protesters on July 17 gathered near the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and United States Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. The group was protesting federal immigration enforcement operations that had recently been occurring. Various entrances to the Roybal building clearly indicate that it is federal property.
A federal officer saw a protester – later identified as Escobar – using a permanent marker to write on and damage federal property. Minutes later, officers approached Escobar and attempted to detain her.
While the officers attempted to detain Escobar, a second protester – later identified as Gutierrez – used both hands to grab the shoulder straps of an officer’s bulletproof vest and began shaking the officer. The officer, helped by two other federal officers, attempted to detain Gutierrez. During the ensuing struggle, one of the officers dislocated his left ring finger.
Escobar and Gutierrez eventually were detained and arrested. While in custody and en route to a nearby holding cell, Escobar audibly filled her throat with saliva and spat into the face of one of the officers.
An indictment contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, Escobar would face a statutory maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison for the assault charge and up to one year in federal prison on the depredation charge. If convicted, Gutierrez would face up to 20 years in federal prison for the assault resulting in injury count and a maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison for the assault count.
The United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Protective Service is investigating this matter.
The General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
Ghanaian Nationals Extradited for Roles in Criminal Organization That Stole More Than $100 Million Through Romance Scams and Other FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia, announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging four Ghanaian nationals, ISAAC ODURO BOATENG, a/k/a “Kofi Boat,” INUSAH AHMED, a/k/a “Pascal,” DERRICK VAN YEBOAH, a/k/a “Van,” and PATRICK KWAME ASARE, a/k/a “Borgar,” for their roles in an international criminal organization that stole more than $100 million from victims via romance scams and business email compromises. They further announced Ghana’s extradition of BOATENG, AHMED, and VAN YEBOAH, who arrived in the U.S. on August 7, 2025, and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger. ASARE remains at large. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.
“As alleged, Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, Derrick van Yeboah, and Patrick Kwame Asare led and participated in an international fraud ring that engaged in a massive conspiracy to defraud vulnerable people and steal from businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Offshore scammers should know that we, the FBI, and our law enforcement partners will work around the world to combat online fraud and bring perpetrators to justice.”
“The defendants have been brought to the United States to be held accountable for their alleged roles in scamming companies and vulnerable Americans out of over $100 million,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “Deceiving businesses using email compromise campaigns and tricking innocent elderly victims through fraudulent companionship in order to exploit their trust and finances is not merely appalling but illegal. The FBI will continue to ensure anyone who preys on companies and vulnerable Americans online is made to face the criminal justice system.”
As alleged in the Indictment:[1]
BOATENG, AHMED, VAN YEBOAH, and ASARE were high-ranking members of a criminal organization based in Ghana that committed romance scams and business email compromises against individuals and businesses located across the U.S.
Many of the conspiracy’s victims were vulnerable older men and women who were tricked into believing that they were in online romantic relationships with people who were, in fact, fake identities assumed by members of the conspiracy. Once members of the conspiracy had gained the trust of their victims, they deceived those victims into sending their money to the enterprise or into helping them launder funds from other victims. The conspirators also committed business email compromises to trick and deceive businesses into wiring funds to the enterprise. In total, the conspiracy stole and laundered more than $100 million from dozens of victims.
After stealing the money, the fraud proceeds were then laundered to West Africa, where they were largely funneled to individuals called “chairmen,” who directed the activities of other members of the conspiracy. BOATENG and AHMED were considered chairmen of the organization.
* * *
BOATENG, 36; AHMED, 40; VAN YEBOAH, 40; and ASARE, 39, each of Ghana, are charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of money laundering conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI. He also thanked Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their assistance.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the International Cooperation Unit of the Office of the Attorney-General of Ghana to secure the extraditions to the United States. Ghana’s Economic and Organized Crime Office, the Ghana Police Service – INTERPOL, Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority, and Ghana’s National Intelligence Bureau all provided significant assistance to ensure the success of these extraditions.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead and Mitzi Steiner are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
u.s._v._boateng_et_al_indictment.pdf
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment, and the description of the Indictment set forth herein, constitutes only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.
Four Men Arrested and Federally Charged Following Multi-Agency Child Exploitation OperationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the Ellsworth AFB Office of Special Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI conducted a joint sex-trafficking and child exploitation operation during the 2025 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
“This sophisticated sting operation pulled together local, state, and federal law enforcement resources to take dangerous sexual predators off the streets and out of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We are fortunate here in South Dakota to have officers, agents, and detectives who collaborate each and every day to protect children throughout the state. Now that the operation has safely concluded, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is pleased to announce that four local men have been arrested and will be held to account in federal court.”
The operation resulted in federal charges against the following four men who were all separately arrested while attempting to meet with a person who they believed to be a 14-year-old girl for the purposes of engaging in sexual activity:
- Elmer Hopper, 36, Rapid City—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
- Beau Remington, 23, Black Hawk—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet and Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor.
- Jayson “Javi” Gomez, 30, Rapid City—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
- Joshua Michael Allen, 36, Hermosa—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
“All the individuals who were arrested in this operation are South Dakota residents,” said South Dakota ICAC Task Force Commander Toby Russell. “This is a sad statistic for our state, but it is a reminder why these operations and investigations are so important. The level of support, cooperation, and teamwork between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies during this operation is unique and does not happen elsewhere. This operation is truly a team effort. All the law enforcement personnel who participated in this operation and the members of the South Dakota ICAC Task Force work tirelessly every day to keep the children of South Dakota safe. They should all be commended for their tenacity and professionalism in how they pursue these offenders.”
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction for Attempted Enticement of a Minor is 10 years up to life in federal prison, along with a minimum term of supervised release of five years up to life.
These cases are 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The cases are being federally prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox.
The charges are merely accusations, and all four defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Fort Wayne, Indiana Man Charged with Transportation and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on August 7, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Marco Antonio Jimenez Gonzalez, 27, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, with transportation and possession of child pornography.
Gonzalez’s arraignment on the indictment will occur on August 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
According to court records, Gonzalez attempted to reenter the United States at the Highgate Springs Port of Entry on July 23, 2025. During the reentry process, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers found child sexual abuse material, also known as child pornography, on Gonzalez’s cell phone and laptop. Law enforcement arrested Gonzalez that same day.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Gonzalez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Gonzalez faces up to 40 years of imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years if convicted on all counts. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Joshua L. Banker. Gonzalez is represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.
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.
Former State Trooper Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Falsify CDL Test ScoresRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former Massachusetts State Police (MSP) trooper was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a conspiracy to falsify records by giving passing scores to certain Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) applicants, including individuals who had failed or did not take the CDL skills test as required by federal law.
Perry Mendes, 64, of Wareham, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to one month in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release with the first two months on home confinement. The government recommended a sentence of one year in prison and a fine of $5,500.
In July 2025, Mendes pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to falsify records, three counts of falsifying records and two counts of making false statements. In January 2024, Mendes was charged in a 74-count indictment along with five others in the alleged conspiracy and related schemes.
Members of MSP’s CDL Unit were responsible for administering CDL skills tests. Test requirements for CDLs are established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The CDL skills test is a demanding, in-person test that consists of three segments: Vehicle Inspection, in which an applicant is tested on their knowledge of the vehicle; Basic Control Skills, in which an applicant is tested on their ability to perform certain maneuvers; and the Road Test, in which an applicant is tested on their ability to drive a commercial vehicle on an open roadway. Only drivers who have passed the test and thereby proved they are capable and qualified to drive a commercial vehicle may be issued a CDL, with the primary goal of public safety.
Between January 2019 and April 2022, Mendes conspired with others to give automatic passing scores to at least 17 CDL applicants on their skills tests regardless of whether they actually passed, using the code word “golden handshake” or “golden,” for short, to identify applicants who would receive special treatment.
In July 2025, Mendes admitted to his role in the alleged conspiracy, including that he cut skills tests short for “golden” applicants; that he entered false information on CDL score sheets indicating that certain applicants had passed the skills test when they had not; and that he reported passing scores for one applicant he knew had never taken the skills test.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Brian C. Gallagher, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine J. Wichers and Adam W. Deitch of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit are prosecuting the case.
Former Mustang Public Schools Payroll Services Director to Serve 18 Months in Federal Prison After Defrauding School District and Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – KIM WEINRICH, 68, of Mustang, has been sentenced to serve 18 months in federal prison for committing wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, between 2014 and April 2022, Weinrich was employed by Mustang Public Schools (the “District”) as Payroll Supervisor and was later promoted to Director of Payroll Services in 2021. In her roles with the District, Weinrich administered, processed, and reconciled the bi-monthly payroll for the District’s employees. Beginning in July 2016, Weinrich manipulated the District’s payroll accounting software to increase her net pay each pay period, and deposited the stolen funds into her personal bank account. Weinrich’s scheme resulted in several District employees underreporting their federal and state withholdings, which reduced the amount of their tax refunds. In all, between July 2016 and April 2022, Weinrich defrauded the District out of approximately $470,000.
“Simply put, Weinrich stole taxpayer money intended for the benefit of students, families, and employees of Mustang Public Schools,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “I applaud the efforts by the investigators and prosecutors to safeguard public funds, especially those that support Oklahoma’s education, and hold Ms. Weinrich accountable.”
Public records further indicate that Weinrich manipulated the District’s payroll accounting software to make it appear as if she paid substantial amounts in federal income taxes, when in reality, Weinrich had no federal income taxes withheld. On April 5, 2022, Weinrich filed a federal tax return where she reported an income that was substantially lower than the actual income received due to the fraud.
On December 3, 2024, Weinrich was charged by Information with wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return. On December 12, 2024, Weinrich pleaded guilty and admitted that she adjusted payroll amounts to herself to increase her income, manipulated payroll software to make it appear as if she were paying substantial amounts in federal and state income taxes when in fact she was not, and filed a federal tax return declaring she only made $91,295 while knowing the actual income received was substantially more.
At the sentencing hearing on July 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Weinrich to serve 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Judge Wyrick also ordered Weinrich to pay $595,970.21 in total restitution, with payable $470,385.21 to Mustang Public Schools and $125,585.00 payable to the IRS. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the substantial amount of money embezzled by Weinrich and her repeated fraudulent conduct.
This case is the result of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation and the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cole McFerren prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Floyd County Felon Charged with Threatening to Assassinate President TrumpRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Jauan Rashun Porter was arrested and detained today on federal charges of knowingly and willfully making a threat against the President of the United States.
“The allegations against Porter are serious and required a swift, decisive, and collaborative response,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We do not tolerate threats against public officials or law enforcement officers, and Porter will now face the consequences of his actions.”
“The United States Secret Service takes threats against a protectee very seriously. We will investigate every threat, and if warranted, prosecute those who make threats to the fullest extent of the law,” said Robert Donovan, Deputy Special Agent in Charge, Atlanta Field Office, United States Secret Service.
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On July 26, 2025, Porter allegedly joined a TikTok livestream about President Trump captioned “Alligator Alcatraz,” commenting: “So there’s only one way to make America great and that is putting a bullet in between Trump’s eyes.” Over the next several minutes, Porter allegedly made further comments about killing President Trump, including the following statements:
- “I’m gonna kill Donald Trump. I’m gonna put a 7.62 bullet inside his forehead.”
- “I’m gonna watch him bleed out and I’m gonna watch him die . . . I’m gonna do that.”
When asked by the livestream host about federal agents coming to his door, Porter allegedly stated, “I’m gonna kill them too.”
During their investigation, Secret Service agents, Floyd County police officers, and State of Georgia probation officers conducted searches of Porter’s apartment and found two pipes, pistol ammunition, and Tannerite (an explosive). Porter has prior convictions for terroristic threats, influencing a witness, mutiny in a penal institution, drug possession, battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and domestic violence. He is currently on probation.
Jauan Rashun Porter, 29, of Rome, Georgia, was charged by a criminal complaint on August 7, 2025, with making threats against the President. U.S. Magistrate Judge Walter E. Johnson ordered that Porter be detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for August 12, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.
Members of the public are reminded that the criminal complaint only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service. The Floyd County Police Department, Floyd County District Attorney’s Office, and Georgia Department of Community Supervision provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Brian Michael Pearce is prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Florida Men Plead Guilty to Alien Smuggling Conspiracy Involving 69 AliensRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Two Miami men have pleaded guilty to federal charges for their roles in a conspiracy to smuggle aliens into the United States by sea.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2024 and March 2025, Ezequiel Perez Benitez, 37, and Miguel Avoy, 36, participated in at least three alien smuggling ventures.
As part of the conspiracy, “go-fast” boats would travel from Miami-Dade County to the territorial waters of the Bahamas. During each return trip to the United States, the boats were intercepted in United States waters by U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP-AMO) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Overall, the conspiracy involved 69 aliens of various nationalities, including China and Ecuador.
The conspiracy also involved the transportation of aliens within the United States after they had entered the country unlawfully. A third co-defendant, Baisheng An, a Chinese national, pleaded guilty on June 9 to charges related to conspiracy and the transportation of aliens. An was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in during an investigative operation targeting the human smuggling network.
All aliens interdicted at sea were either prosecuted for illegal reentry into the United States, returned to their country of departure, in this case the Bahamas, or turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), for further immigration proceedings.
Several additional co-conspirators have been charged in separate, related cases.
Avoy was sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy. Perez is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30 at 10:30 a.m. in Miami. He faces up to 10 years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
United States Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose R. Figueroa of HSI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
HSI Miami investigated the case with assistance from CBP-AMO and USCG, Southeast Coast Guard District.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Tanner Stiehl is prosecuting the case.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-10027.
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Film Production Accountant Charged in Six-Count Federal Indictment with Embezzling More Than $1.9 Million from Indie FilmsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A film production accountant from the San Fernando Valley has been charged in a federal grand jury indictment alleging he embezzled more than $1.9 million from the film productions that employed him, using the illicitly obtained funds to stay at Las Vegas hotels and socialize with pornographic actresses, the Justice Department announced today.
Joshua Mandel, 46, of Woodland Hills, is charged with six counts of wire fraud. He is expected to make his initial appearance and be arraigned on September 10 in United States District Court in Los Angeles.
According to the indictment returned on Thursday, Mandel owned the Woodland Hills-based company First J Productions Inc., where he served as both its CEO and chief financial officer. He also worked as a film production accountant who specialized in accounting services for independent films. As a production accountant, Mandel oversaw cash flow, payroll, and expenses for the film productions. He also added funds to prepaid debit cards issued by CASHét Card that are commonly used in the film industry and was an authorized user for bank accounts belonging to the production companies.
From 2019 to 2023, Mandel misappropriated funds belonging to the film productions by writing unauthorized checks, making unauthorized wire transfers, and moving funds into a CASHét Card account he controlled called “Fun Fun Fun.”
Mandel also used the embezzled money to maintain his lifestyle, including paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to various young women, including pornographic actresses, and more than $129,000 to a woman he met through a “sugar daddy” website; spending more than $24,000 at Las Vegas hotels, clubs, and shows; and purchasing more than $12,000 in luxury items from Louis Vuitton. To hide his scheme, Mandel used funds from one production company to pay expenses incurred by another.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted of all charges, Mandel would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each count.
The FBI is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Alexander B. Schwab, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, is prosecuting this case.
Federal Jury Convicts Sequoyah County Resident of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that Justin Floyd Qualls, a/k/a Jay Qualls, age 40, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country.
The jury trial began with testimony on August 5, 2025, and concluded on August 7, 2025, with the guilty verdict.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that in May 2024, Qualls knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a child who had not attained 12 years of age. The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The guilty verdict was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Timothy M. Reif, U.S. Judge for the United States Court of International Trade, sitting by assignment in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial in Muskogee and ordered the completion of a presentence report. The sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report. Qualls will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals until sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessie K. Pippin and Emily Wittlinger represented the United States.
Federal Indictment Charges Woman with Defrauding FEMA After Tropical Storm HeleneRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – A federal grand jury in Asheville returned a criminal indictment charging Peggy Lee Cantrell, 40, of Marion, North Carolina, with defrauding the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) following Tropical Storm Helene, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
“Disaster relief resources were intended to help Western North Carolina get back on its feet after the devastation left by Helene,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “Knowing that federal funding is often followed by federal fraud, my office is committed to ferreting out such fraud and our work is far from over. We will continue to bring to justice those who fraudulently used taxpayer money for personal gain because full recovery from Helene is going to take every available dollar.”
On September 27, 2024, Tropical Storm Helene struck the Western District of North Carolina, causing massive devastation, including extensive property damage and loss of life. On September 28, 2025, Tropical Storm Helene was declared a major disaster, and federal agencies were able to provide relief to affected individuals and entities in the impacted areas through financial assistance for repairs of impacted properties. FEMA made financial assistance and benefits available to individuals and families who were affected by the storm (victims). Victims, including renters and property owners, who lost the use of their residences could qualify for FEMA benefits. Specifically, victims could seek relief for home repair, personal property damage, transportation, medical expenses, and housing assistance, among other benefits.
According to allegations in the indictment, on or about February 22, 2025, Cantrell filed an application for disaster assistance with FEMA for a dwelling she claimed was located at 193 Beaver Creek Road, in Marion, and was damaged by Tropical Storm Helene. The indictment alleges that, in the application, Cantrell asserted that she rented the property and that the damaged dwelling was her primary residence. On or about February 27, 2025, Cantrell allegedly amended her FEMA application’s residential status from renter to owner of the damaged dwelling. Contrary to her claims, the indictment alleges that Cantrell never lived at, rented or owned a residence or structure at that location. In fact, no dwelling existed at that location at the time the storm struck the area, and Cantrell was residing in Wake County, well outside the effects of Tropical Storm Helene. Then on February 28, 2025, Cantrell falsely represented to a FEMA inspector that she owned the residential trailer that was destroyed, but not the land where the trailer was placed.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, on or about March 8, 2025, Cantrell submitted a handwritten letter to FEMA attesting that the information she provided was “true and correct.” She allegedly wrote that she had purchased the dwelling from J.W. of South Carolina for $8,500 and that she had lived at 193 Beaver Creek Road for 25 years. She also falsely attested that that all of her important personal documents “got washed away by Hurricane Helene.” In connection with her application, and as part of her fraudulent scheme, Cantrell also allegedly filed a falsified “Residential Property And Owner’s Association Disclosure Statement,” to support her claim that she had purchased 193 Beaver Creek Road in 2005, from an individual identified as R.E., knowing that was not a true statement. The indictment alleges that, in the Disclosure Statement, Cantrell used the name and signature of R.E., without R.E.’s consent or knowledge, in order to convince FEMA of the validity of her claim for benefits.
On March 12, 2025, FEMA paid Cantrell’s false claim and wired $30,631.59 to Green Dot Bank in Pasadena, California. It is alleged that Cantrell withdrew funds from a credit union in Marion, North Carolina.
Cantrell appeared in federal court this morning. She is charged with fraud in connection with a major disaster or emergency benefits and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, she faces up to 30 years in prison for the disaster benefits fraud charge and two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft charge, to be served consecutive to any other prison term imposed.
The charges against Cantrell are allegations and she is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Inspector General and FEMA’s Fraud Investigations and Inspections Division for their investigation of the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville is prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina is committed to protecting federal disaster relief programs from waste, fraud and abuse. To report suspected disaster-related fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at 1-866-720-5721, or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.
Española Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges in 2023 AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Española man pleaded guilty to federal assault charges for attacking a woman in 2023, causing her serious bodily injuries.
According to court records, in the early morning hours of September 21, 2023, Isiah Gutierrez-Arquero, 29, an enrolled member of the Santa Clara Pueblo, punched and kicked Jane Doe. He threw her against a wall, sat on her chest, and strangled her with both hands. As a result of the assault, Jane Doe sustained serious bodily injuries.
Gutierrez-Arquero pleaded guilty to assault by strangulation and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing, Gutierrez-Arquero faces up to 10 years in prison for each felony charge. Upon his release from prison, Gutierrez-Arquero will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Jones is prosecuting the case.