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5 August 2026
Operation Clean Sweep Produces Major Arrests and Seizures in Onondaga CountyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK — Law Enforcement officials announced the results of Operation Clean Sweep – Onondaga County, a major enforcement initiative resulting in several arrests and significant seizures of firearms and narcotics.
Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in charge New York division Bryan DiGirolamo, Federal Bureau of Investigation Albany Field Office Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli, Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam, Syracuse Police Chief Mark Rusin, Onondaga County Sheriff Tobias Shelley, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, made the announcement.The success of this operation reflects enhanced cooperation between federal and local law enforcement, working collectively through integrated planning, intelligence sharing, and unified resources to address violent crime in Onondaga County.
Officials highlighted that this level of interagency coordination represents one of the most collaborative enforcement actions undertaken in the county in recent years.
Operation Clean Sweep – Onondaga County Results:
- 13 arrests connected to narcotics distribution and firearm offenses
- 11 kilograms of cocaine seized
- 615 grams of crack cocaine seized
- 365 grams of fentanyl seized
- 3 pounds of methamphetamine seized
- 37 illegally possessed firearms seized
Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said, “I want to thank my friend, U.S. Attorney John Sarcone for honoring his commitment to work collaboratively with local law enforcement to keep Syracuse and other communities in the Northern District as safe as possible. In my three decades as District Attorney, this represents the highest level of cooperation we have had with our federal partners. Let this serve as fair warning to those who seek to prey on our community with deadly firearms and narcotics.”
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “Today’s results prove that when local law enforcement and local prosecutors, work together with federal law enforcement and federal prosecutors we can make a difference in the community. As a result of this operation, 37 illegal firearms have been removed from our streets—each one representing countless potential lives saved. In addition to significant quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine, this operation seized 365 grams of fentanyl. To put that into perspective, 365 grams of fentanyl equates to approximately 180,000 potentially lethal doses. That is enough fentanyl to fatally poison the equivalent of more than four sold‑out crowds at the JMA Wireless Dome.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo said, “Violent crime doesn’t respect agency boundaries, and neither does our response. Operation Clean Sweep reflects what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal partners share intelligence, coordinate enforcement efforts, and pursue the individual’s driving violence in our communities. Together, we’ve removed dozens of illegal firearms, significant quantities of deadly drugs and disrupted criminal networks that threaten public safety. ATF NY remains committed to working alongside our partners to reduce gun violence and ensure those who traffic firearms and drugs are brought to justice. Thanks to the steady partnership with ATF NY Syracuse, Syracuse PD, NYS DOCCS & USAO NDNY.”
"Operation Clean Sweep is a clear example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies come together with a shared mission of protecting our community and holding those who choose to bring violence and dangerous drugs into our neighborhoods accountable. This operation highlights the strength of the partnerships we have built with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. By working together, we are able to identify and disrupt criminal networks, remove dangerous individuals and illegal firearms from our streets, and make a meaningful impact on public safety,” said Chief Mark Rusin, Syracuse Police Department.
“Operation Clean Sweep Onondaga County demonstrates what is possible when law enforcement agencies unite with one mission: protecting our communities from violent drug traffickers and armed criminals,” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “The seizure of 37 illegally possessed firearms, along with significant quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl represents more than evidence—it represents lives protected and violence prevented. Every firearm removed from our streets is one less weapon that can be used to intimidate or kill, and every gram of fentanyl seized is another step toward preventing a tragedy. The DEA New York Enforcement Division remains steadfast in our commitment to dismantle the criminal organizations fueling addiction and violence across Central New York.”
FBI Albany Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli said, “Operations like Clean Sweep present the invaluable opportunity for federal, state, and local law enforcement to deliver a unified response to our shared mission of crushing violent crime and protecting our communities. By coming together, we can identify problematic criminals wreaking havoc in our communities, then quickly get to work to leverage our collective resources and hold them accountable. The success of this joint operation is the direct result of that remarkable collaboration. 37 illegal guns and a significant amount of deadly narcotics will never make it into our neighborhoods. FBI Albany remains deeply committed to continuing this important work with our outstanding partners throughout Onondaga County.”New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Disrupting the flow of illegal guns and narcotics and mitigating their source of supply remains a top priority for the State Police. Not only has the success of this operation saved lives, but it has also put an end to the violence associated with these illegal possessions. I commend our State Police members and all law enforcement partners involved for their intelligence, coordination, and expertise in keeping New Yorkers safe.”
"Operation Clean Sweep is about a direct, unwavering commitment to the safety and peace of mind of every resident in Onondaga County. By working shoulder to shoulder with our local and federal partners, we are actively pulling dangerous weapons and illegal drugs off our streets before they can destroy more lives or disrupt our neighborhoods. I want the people of Onondaga County to know, without a doubt, that law enforcement is working diligently in your communities every single day. We are focused, relentless, and unified in our mission to protect your families, restore peace to our streets, and ensure that our county remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Sheriff Tobias Shelley
Today’s announcement underscores the shared commitment of all participating agencies to protect the community, disrupt violent criminal networks, and hold offenders accountable. The arrests and seizures described are at various stages of judicial proceedings. Accordingly, any statements made here constitute allegations only. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.These cases are being investigated by Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, Syracuse Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. The cases are being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
Oklahoma Inmate Sentenced to Life in Prison for Coercing South Florida Child to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MIAMI – An Oklahoma inmate who used a contraband cellphone to sexually exploit and coerce a 12-year-old South Florida child into producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was sentenced to life in federal prison.
U.S. District Judge Rodney Smith imposed the sentence on Jeffrey Allen Holden, 45, after he pleaded guilty to five counts of production of visual depictions involving sexual exploitation of minors and three counts of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
“Even a lengthy prison sentence for rape did not stop Jeffrey Allen Holden from seeking out and sexually exploiting another vulnerable victim,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “From his prison cell, he used a contraband phone and a false name to manipulate a 12-year-old child into producing CSAM. His life sentence is a just consequence for conduct that was calculated, predatory, and profoundly cruel.”
According to court documents, in October 2024, the mother of a 12-year-old child discovered sexually explicit communications between the child and an individual using the name “Jeremy” on a messaging platform. The communications included text messages, voice recordings, photographs, and videos. Although the child initially told Holden she was 13, she later disclosed that she was 12.
After the mother reported the communications to law enforcement, investigators reviewed the child’s cellphone and discovered CSAM exchanged through direct messages between Holden and the victim. Investigators also found that Holden had sent the child sexually explicit photographs and videos of himself and had persuaded the victim to create sexually explicit content.
Investigators identified Holden through a photograph he sent the victim. At the time, Holden was incarcerated at the Howard McLeod Correctional Facility in Oklahoma, where he was serving a 25-year sentence for rape. A subsequent search of Holden’s prison cell uncovered a contraband cellphone.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
FBI Miami investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille Smith and Vanessa Bonhomme prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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 25-cr-60108.
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Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Firearm Used in Drive-By ShootingRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – MARREE KAVON CURRIE, 43, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 144 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to public records, on August 22, 2025, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Currie after observing he was not wearing a seatbelt. During the stop, Currie told officers there was a firearm inside the vehicle, which officers recovered. At that time, Currie had numerous prior felony convictions, including convictions in Oklahoma County District Court for:
- malicious injury to property in case number CF-2001-69;
- placing bodily fluids on a government employee in case number CF-2001-70;
- possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute, possession of drug proceeds, and destruction of evidence in case number CF-2007-5267; and
- felon in possession of a firearm in case number CF-2022-5350.
Ballistics testing later tied the firearm to a drive-by shooting eight days earlier, during which shots were fired into an occupied residence. Currie’s vehicle was captured by the Flock surveillance system within blocks of the scene several minutes before the shooting, and a digital extraction of his phone showed that it was powered off ten minutes before the shooting and powered back on ten minutes after the shooting, consistent with someone attempting to avoid detection.
At a sentencing hearing on August 4, 2026, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Currie to serve 144 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing his sentence, Judge Russell noted Currie’s disregard for the law and the danger he posed to the public.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Moore Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Ohio Felon Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for Checking Luggage Containing Concealed Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Youngstown, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of possessing a firearm as a felon and carrying a weapon on an aircraft, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Luis Rojas Cay, 29, on July 29, 2026.
According to information presented to the Court, on or about April 26, 2024, Rojas Cay was attempting to travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico, from the Pittsburgh International Airport on a commercial airline when agents discovered in his checked luggage a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, an unloaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, an unloaded 40 SW caliber semiautomatic handgun, and approximately 204 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearms and ammunition were concealed in packages wrapped in multiple layers of foil-backed tape and contained inside a metal briefcase that was also lined with sheet metal. The briefcase was then placed inside a suitcase that Rojas Cay checked with the airline. Rojas Cay was previously convicted in Kansas on robbery and attempted kidnapping charges. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Allegheny County Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rojas Cay.
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.
Nigerian Citizen and Three Other Individuals Sentenced in Connection with a $1.7 Million Money Laundering OperationRead the Press Release
Greensboro, N.C. – Four individuals have been sentenced to imprisonment in connection with a money laundering operation in which the individuals attempted to launder the proceeds of approximately $1.7 million in fraud proceeds, announced United States Attorney Dan Bishop of the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC).
According to court documents, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Services (“USPIS”) investigated Adedayo Fateru, a Nigerian citizen and U.S. Permanent Resident, Lisa Farrow, William Atwater, and Victoria Stone for a money laundering ring involving the proceeds of various wire fraud schemes including business email compromises (“BEC”), modified check schemes, false ACH schemes, false applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”) provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, and false applications for unemployment benefits. Farrow recruited Stone and Atwater into the conspiracy to work along with Fateru. Farrow and Fateru provided Stone and Atwater directions on opening bank accounts and how to move the fraud proceeds. Farrow and Fateru would also collect portions of the money that Stone or Atwater withdrew from their bank accounts.
Stone opened ten bank accounts and received, across those accounts, approximately $1,036,679 in proceeds from various wire fraud scams, including BECs. Stone was able to withdraw approximately $187,375 by conducting hundreds of smaller transactions, including automated teller machine withdrawals and debit card cash advances designed to move and conceal the fraud proceeds. William Atwater opened numerous bank accounts in his name to receive the proceeds of various wire fraud schemes including, among others, false applications for EIDLs and a BEC scam. In total, Atwater received fraud proceeds of approximately $704,320 into his bank accounts. Atwater was able to withdraw or remove approximately $390,352 by conducting over 150 different transactions designed to move and conceal the fraud proceeds.
Fateru was sentenced to 87 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release. Upon completion of his sentence, Fateru will be transferred to ICE custody for removal proceedings in accordance with U.S. immigration law. Farrow was sentenced to 45 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, Atwater was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release, and Stone was sentenced to 25 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the USPIS are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Waid of the Middle District of North Carolina is prosecuting the case.
New Charges and Rewards Announced for the Capture and/or Conviction of Senior Leaders of Notorious Mexican CartelRead the Press Release
Note: Copies of the indictments filed in the District of Columbia can be obtained by clicking on Julio César Montero Pinzón, Carlos Andrés Rivera Varela, Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán, Ricardo Ruiz Velasco, and Julio Alberto Castillo Rodríguez. A copy of the superseding indictment filed in the Eastern District of New York can be found here.
Reward posters of the eight CJNG fugitives can be found in English here and in Spanish here.
Today the Department of Justice, in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and National Coordination Center (NCC) announced new charges of the most-wanted leaders of Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), one of the most prolific and dangerous drug cartels in Mexico. Alongside the indictments, the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announced more than $100 million in reward offers for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of Juan Carlos Valencia González also known as “Pelón,” 41; Audias Flores Silva also known as “Jardinero,” 45; Julio César Montero Pinzón also known as “Tarjetas,” 44; Carlos Andrés Rivera Varela also known as “La Firma,” 40; Hugo Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán also known as “Sapo,” 37; Ricardo Ruiz Velasco also known as “RR” / “Tripa,” 42; Julio Alberto Castillo Rodríguez also known as “Chorro,” 49; and Griselda Margarita Arredondo Pinzón, 36. These new enforcement actions are part of the NCC Homeland Security Task Force initiative to counter the narco-terrorist cartels that endanger the American people.
“The American people gave us a mandate to keep this country safe, and we will not rest until it is fulfilled,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Today's unsealing of criminal charges against five high-ranking CJNG leaders marks another decisive step in our campaign to dismantle the cartels that have plagued this country for far too long. With these charges now public, and with more than $100 million in State Department rewards for the capture or conviction of eight CJNG fugitives, this administration will use every tool at its disposal to bring these defendants to justice – no matter where they hide.”
“Every day, the Department fights to eradicate CJNG and bring its leaders to justice for the death and destruction they inflict on the American people,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and resolve, we continue to advance our mission to destroy foreign terrorist organizations and prosecute narco-terrorists. We will leave them nowhere to hide.”
“Last year, prosecutors in our Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section and International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section obtained a superseding indictment against two senior leaders and a criminal associate of CJNG in connection with a fraud scheme targeting Americans who owned timeshare properties in Mexico,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. for the Eastern District of New York. “Thousands of U.S. victims have reported hundreds of millions of dollars in losses attributable to timeshare fraud schemes in Mexico. It is significant that our white-collar prosecutors are teamed with our narcotics prosecutors in this case because increasingly, transnational criminal organizations such as CJNG fund their illicit operations not only through drug trafficking and other forms of street crime, but sophisticated fraud schemes as well. It is our hope that the rewards being announced today will lead to capture of the fugitives so they can face American justice in a federal courtroom. Our prosecutors stand ready to hold them accountable.”
“DEA has never been more focused on dismantling CJNG and bringing its leaders, members, facilitators, and corrupt enablers to justice,” said DEA Administrator Terrance Cole. “As one of the world’s largest narco-terrorist organizations, CJNG poses a serious threat to the United States and our international partners. Juan Carlos Valencia González is one of DEA’s Most Wanted fugitives, and today’s coordinated actions demonstrate the full weight of the U.S. government behind this effort.”
“The FBI, alongside our Homeland Security Task Force partners, will systematically dismantle every piece of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “President Trump has given us the authorities we need to annihilate the drug trade and their criminal enterprise into fraud. This foreign terrorist organization’s complex time share fraud scheme stole hundreds of millions of dollars from U.S. citizens and continues to exploit our nation through widespread drug trafficking, money laundering, and systemic violence. This announcement puts the cartel on notice with the full force of the U.S. government committed to cutting off every source of illicit income that fuels this savage cartel.”
“Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación is a violent foreign terrorist organization that threatens the United States through drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and intimidation,” said HSI Executive Associate Director John Condon. “HSI-led investigations in Arizona and the Carolinas have targeted CJNG’s weapons, money, narcotics, and facilitators. Through the Homeland Security Task Force, HSI will continue working with federal, state, local, and international partners to follow the evidence, follow the money, and dismantle the networks that enable CJNG to harm American communities.”
“CJNG’s criminal enterprise has exploited financial systems and defrauded thousands of Americans, fueling violence and narcoterrorism across borders,” said Deputy Chief Gary Shapley of IRS-CI. “IRS-CI is committed to dismantling these networks — tracking illicit proceeds, exposing fraud, and holding cartel leaders accountable. Today’s coordinated action demonstrates the power of U.S. law enforcement partnerships and our resolve to protect the American public from the devastating impact of transnational crime. We will continue to pursue those who threaten our communities, wherever they operate.”
“CBP in close coordination with our federal and international law enforcement partners, supported critical actions in support of this investigation,” said Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino of CBP’s Office of Field Operations (OFO). “CBP officers through targeted inspection and information sharing contributed to the direct action taken against the CJNG drug traffickers and money laundering subjects. This operation reflects OFO’s commitment to disrupting transnational criminal organizations, protecting the public, and helping ensure that those who enable money laundering and fraud schemes are held accountable.”
“The Department of State, together with our U.S. law enforcement partners, will continue to safeguard our nation, the American people, and our Hemisphere from the violence and terror inflicted by CJNG,” said INL Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Ambassador Michael C. Gonzales. “We will use every tool at our disposal to hunt down, dismantle, and destroy these ruthless foreign terrorist organizations and defend America from the violence and drugs that have torn apart our families and communities.”
CJNG produces and traffics multi-tonnage quantities of drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine, into the United States, and uses extreme violence to further its operations. On Feb. 20, 2025, the State Department designated CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization. About a year later, in February 2026, CJNG’s notorious top leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” was killed during a Mexican military operation. According to court filings, Valencia González assumed the role of CJNG’s top leader following El Mencho’s death.
Increased Rewards Announced
The Department of Justice previously unsealed a federal indictment charging Valencia González with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute cocaine and methamphetamine for unlawful importation into the United States, as well as use of firearms, one of which was a machinegun, during and in relation to the charged drug trafficking crime. Valencia González is El Mencho’s stepson, who reportedly organized numerous crimes of violence as a CJNG leader, in addition to manufacturing, transporting, and distributing tonnage quantities of narcotics. The State Department announced today the newly increased reward of up to $25 million for information leading to Valencia González’s arrest and/or conviction.
The superseding indictment against Flores Silva was originally unsealed in May 2026, charging him with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine destined for the United States, use of firearms, one of which was a destructive device, in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime, and money laundering conspiracy. Flores Silva, a high-ranking member of the CJNG, was arrested in Mexico in April 2026. The State Department announced today the newly increased reward of up to $15 million for information leading to Flores Silva’s conviction.
If convicted of these charges, which were filed in the District of Columbia, Valencia González and Flores Silva face up to two consecutive life prison terms.
New Charges and Rewards Announced
The Department of Justice also announced the recent unsealing of criminal charges against five additional senior CJNG leaders.
According to court filings, at El Mencho’s direction, Montero Pinzón and Rivera Varela founded and led a group of highly trained and heavily armed sicarios, or hitmen, known as the “Grupo Elite.” The Grupo Elite allegedly acts as the CJNG’s enforcement arm to further CJNG’s drug trafficking operations, including by overseeing CJNG territories and murdering public officials and rival cartel members. As alleged, the Grupo Elite ran infamous training camps, wherein recruits learned weapons handling, such as the use of rocket launchers, .50-caliber machineguns, and rocket-propelled grenades, as well as the use of violence and torture to further CJNG’s objectives. Montero Pinzón and Rivera Varela allegedly had over 1,000 personnel reporting to them and ran the Guadalajara Plaza, one of the most important CJNG territories.
The filings allege that Mendoza Gaytán, El Mencho’s godson, procured the majority of the CJNG’s weapons, trained sicarios at CJNG’s training camps, and oversaw operations, including forced recruitment and violent enforcement, across multiple strategic CJNG locations.
The court documents further allege that Ruiz Velasco, another close associate of El Mencho and a Grupo Elite leader, oversaw all CJNG operations in several Mexican territories, including drug trafficking, bribery, procurement of weapons, and enforcement. Ruiz Velasco is also allegedly involved in the transportation, importation, and distribution of drugs, including the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin within the United States and the collection of narcotics proceeds.
The court filings allege that Castillo Rodríguez, El Mencho’s former son-in-law, was responsible for various aspects of the CJNG’s operations, including overseeing CJNG operations in Colima, Mexico, collecting drug proceeds, paying for precursor chemicals used by the CJNG to manufacture methamphetamine, purchasing tonnage quantities of methamphetamine from CJNG suppliers, and overseeing the transportation of cocaine and methamphetamine shipments for importation into the United States.
The unsealed indictments allege that these five defendants participated in conspiracies to manufacture and distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl destined for the United States for over a decade. The indictments further allege that these defendants used, carried, brandished, or discharged firearms, some of which were semi-automatic weapons, machineguns, and destructive devices, during and in relation to the charged drug trafficking crimes. If convicted of these charges, which were filed in the District of Columbia, all five defendants face up to two consecutive life prison terms.
The State Department also announced today a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to Mendoza Gaytán’s arrest and/or conviction; a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to Castillo Rodríguez’s arrest and/or conviction; a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to Montero Pinzón’s arrest and/or conviction; a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to Rivera Varela’s arrest and/or conviction; and a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to Ruiz Velasco’s arrest and/or conviction.
Relatedly, the State Department also announced a reward of up to $2 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Arredondo Pinzón, Montero Pinzón’s half-sister. In coordination with Montero Pinzón and Rivera Varela, the three allegedly ran an international fraud scheme organized and controlled by the CJNG, which targeted Americans who own timeshare properties in Mexico. As announced in September 2025, Arredondo Pinzón is charged in the Eastern District of New York with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. A superseding indictment returned in October 2025, also charges Montero Pinzón and Rivera Varela with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to provide and providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, and charges Montero Pinzón with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. If convicted, Arredondo Pinzón, Montero Pinzón, and Rivera Varela face up to 20 years in prison on each count related to the fraud scheme.
The timeshare fraud investigation is being investigated by the FBI New York Field Office, Threat Finance Task Force, DEA New York Division, IRS-CI New York Field Office, with support from CBP’s New York Field Office. The narcotics and firearms offenses are being investigated by DEA Bilateral Investigations Unit Los Angeles and HSI.
The Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit (NDDU) of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Health and Safety Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting these cases.
The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit investigates and prosecutes the top command and control elements of international drug cartels, drug trafficking organizations, and related transnational criminal organizations.
The Health and Safety Unit of the Fraud Section works with law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute violations of federal laws designed to protect public health and safety. The unit focuses on corporations and individuals who make and sell dangerous drugs, food, and other consumer products that could cause significant harm to Americans.
The Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force investigates and prosecutes cartels and transnational criminal organizations by bringing charges that include terrorism, racketeering, and operating a continuing criminal enterprise. DEA’s Bilateral Investigations Unit is an elite group of experienced DEA special agents that are entrusted with handling the most sensitive, expansive, and difficult investigations that target the world’s most violent drug traffickers and terrorists.
These cases are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
Nevada Doctor Charged with $95M Wound Care Fraud on MedicareRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Nevada returned an indictment yesterday charging Stephen Dubin, M.D., 74, of Henderson, Nevada, with a $95 million scheme to defraud Medicare by billing for medically unnecessary amniotic wound allografts that he and others applied to elderly Medicare patients.
“This indictment exposes a scheme driven by greed, not medicine. As alleged, this provider exploited elderly patients by pushing costly and unnecessary medical procedures, then lied to Medicare to pocket millions of taxpayer dollars,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Schemes like this drain Medicare of resources and impose substantial burdens on the taxpayers who fund it. Let this serve as a warning: any healthcare professional who tries to get rich at the expense of patient care can expect to face the same scrutiny — and the same consequences.”
“Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime; it steals vital resources from elderly and vulnerable citizens who truly need life-saving treatments,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “These defendants prioritized personal greed over patient care by weaponizing complex billing codes for advanced wound care products. As part of the West Coast Health Care Strike Force, our office, alongside our federal law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively dismantle predatory schemes that target public healthcare programs.”
“Dr. Duben, as a physician, had a duty to prioritize the well-being of his patients; however, he engaged in unethical practices by prescribing costly, unnecessary allografts at taxpayer expense,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office. “This betrayal of trust and exploitation of his healthcare position for personal financial gain is both cruel and premeditated. The FBI remains dedicated to collaborating with federal, state, and local agencies to investigate individuals like Dr. Duben and to safeguard federally funded healthcare programs from provider abuse.”
“These charges reflect a clear and calculated betrayal of elderly Medicare patients who depend on trusted providers for legitimate care,” said Special Agent in Charge Robb R. Breeden of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS‑OIG). “Schemes like this siphon taxpayer dollars, undermine patient safety, and erode confidence in our health care system. HHS‑OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to identify and hold accountable those who exploit federally funded health care programs for personal gain.”
“Fraud involving TRICARE, the healthcare program that provides medical coverage for active duty service members, retirees, and their families, strikes at a benefit earned through service to our nation,” said Special Agent in Charge John Helsing of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Western Field Office. “As the criminal investigative arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General, DCIS is steadfast in protecting TRICARE from individuals who manipulate medical billing for personal gain. The West Coast Health Care Fraud Task Force, working with our federal partners, greatly enhances our ability to detect and dismantle these schemes, ensuring we preserve the integrity of our nation’s military health system.”
According to court documents, Dubin, a medical doctor and sole owner of Dubin Medical Consultants, Inc. (also known as Wound MD) caused Medicare to be billed over $95 million for expensive amniotic allografts that he procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Dubin allegedly applied these allografts to elderly patients — including vulnerable patients in hospice care — without medical necessity. Medicare paid over $54 million based on Dubin’s false and fraudulent claims.
As alleged in the indictment, Dubin received illegal kickbacks, bribes, and rebates from two different allograft distributors. Some of these illegal payments were falsely structured to appear as legitimate “Rebate Agreements” while concealing their true nature and illegal payments. These purported rebates substantially reduced Dubin’s true net cost of acquiring the allografts. Dubin allegedly submitted claims to Medicare seeking reimbursement for the price listed on sham full-price invoices, instead of the actual price he paid for the allografts. Dubin and others allegedly kept as profit the difference between Medicare’s reimbursement and the price paid for the allografts.
The indictment also alleges that Dubin received illegal kickbacks from one allograft distributor through payments from a pass-through bank account held in the name of a shell company in exchange for purchasing allografts from the distributor.
Induced by these illegal kickbacks, bribes, and rebates, Dubin and his co-conspirators applied allografts without regard to medical necessity, including by applying allografts to infected wounds; to wounds that were not responding to allograft treatment; without first attempting, completing, or confirming conservative wound care treatment as required by Medicare; and in quantities that far exceeded the size of wounds. Dubin allegedly selected allografts that would maximize his profit, not based on the patient’s need. To conceal the lack of medical necessity, Dubin falsified patient medical records to make it appear as though the application of allografts was medically reasonable and met Medicare requirements.
Dubin used the proceeds of his alleged offenses to fund a lavish lifestyle, including having multi-million-dollar yachts built for him.
Dubin is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and five counts of health care fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count.
FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Chris Wenger and Shane Butland of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
On April 30, the Fraud Division announced the formation of the West Coast Health Care Fraud Strike Force, a multi-district enforcement initiative uniting the Division’s Health Care Fraud Section with the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Arizona, District of Nevada, and Northern District of California.
The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Nevada Doctor Charged with $95 Million Wound Care Fraud on MedicareRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A federal grand jury in the District of Nevada returned an indictment on Tuesday charging Stephen Dubin, M.D., 74, of Henderson, Nevada, with a $95 million scheme to defraud Medicare by billing for medically unnecessary amniotic wound allografts that he and others applied to elderly Medicare patients.
“This indictment exposes a scheme driven by greed, not medicine. As alleged, this provider exploited elderly patients by pushing costly and unnecessary medical procedures, then lied to Medicare to pocket millions of taxpayer dollars,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Schemes like this drain Medicare of resources and impose substantial burdens on the taxpayers who fund it. Let this serve as a warning: any healthcare professional who tries to get rich at the expense of patient care can expect to face the same scrutiny—and the same consequences.”
“Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime; it steals vital resources from elderly and vulnerable citizens who truly need life-saving treatments,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah of the District of Nevada. “These defendants prioritized personal greed over patient care by weaponizing complex billing codes for advanced wound care products. As part of the West Coast Health Care Strike Force, our office, alongside our federal law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively dismantle predatory schemes that target public healthcare programs.”
“Dr. Dubin, as a physician, had a duty to prioritize the well-being of his patients; however, he engaged in unethical practices by prescribing costly, unnecessary allografts at taxpayer expense,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Field Office. “This betrayal of trust and exploitation of his healthcare position for personal financial gain is both cruel and premeditated. The FBI remains dedicated to collaborating with federal, state, and local agencies to investigate individuals like Dr. Dubin and to safeguard federally funded healthcare programs from provider abuse.”
“These charges reflect a clear and calculated betrayal of elderly Medicare patients who depend on trusted providers for legitimate care,” said Special Agent in Charge Robb R. Breeden of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS‑OIG). “Schemes like this siphon taxpayer dollars, undermine patient safety, and erode confidence in our health care system. HHS‑OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to identify and hold accountable those who exploit federally funded health care programs for personal gain.”
“Fraud involving TRICARE, the healthcare program that provides medical coverage for active duty service members, retirees, and their families, strikes at a benefit earned through service to our nation,” said John Helsing, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Western Field Office. “As the criminal investigative arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General, DCIS is steadfast in protecting TRICARE from individuals who manipulate medical billing for personal gain. The West Coast Health Care Fraud Task Force, working with our federal partners, greatly enhances our ability to detect and dismantle these schemes, ensuring we preserve the integrity of our nation’s military health system.”
According to court documents, Dubin, a medical doctor and sole owner of Dubin Medical Consultants, Inc. (a/k/a Wound MD) caused Medicare to be billed over $95 million for expensive amniotic allografts that he procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Dubin allegedly applied these allografts to elderly patients—including vulnerable patients in hospice care—without medical necessity. Medicare paid over $54 million based on Dubin’s false and fraudulent claims.
As alleged in the indictment, Dubin received illegal kickbacks, bribes, and rebates from two different allograft distributors. Some of these illegal payments were falsely structured to appear as legitimate “Rebate Agreements” while concealing their true nature and illegal payments. These purported rebates substantially reduced Dubin’s true net cost of acquiring the allografts. Dubin allegedly submitted claims to Medicare seeking reimbursement for the price listed on sham full-price invoices, instead of the actual price he paid for the allografts. Dubin and others allegedly kept as profit the difference between Medicare’s reimbursement and the price paid for the allografts.
The indictment also alleges that Dubin received illegal kickbacks from one allograft distributor through payments from a pass-through bank account held in the name of a shell company in exchange for purchasing allografts from the distributor.
Induced by these illegal kickbacks, bribes, and rebates, Dubin and his co-conspirators applied allografts without regard to medical necessity, including by applying allografts to infected wounds; to wounds that were not responding to allograft treatment; without first attempting, completing, or confirming conservative wound care treatment as required by Medicare; and in quantities that far exceeded the size of wounds. Dubin allegedly selected allografts that would maximize his profit, not based on the patient’s need. To conceal the lack of medical necessity, Dubin falsified patient medical records to make it appear as though the application of allografts was medically reasonable and met Medicare requirements.
Dubin used the proceeds of his alleged offenses to fund a lavish lifestyle, including having multi-million-dollar yachts built for him.
Dubin is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and five counts of health care fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count.
FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Chris Wenger and Shane Butland of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
On April 30, the Fraud Division announced the formation of the West Coast Health Care Fraud Strike Force, a multi-district enforcement initiative uniting the Division’s Health Care Fraud Section with the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Arizona, District of Nevada, and Northern District of California.
The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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NFT Startup Founder Charged with FraudRead the Press Release
Sean S. Buckley, Deputy United States Attorney, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced that TAJ TARSHA, the founder of Few and Far Limited (“Few and Far”), has been indicted for securities and wire fraud for defrauding investors of the crypto startup he founded by making false and misleading statements regarding the use of investor funds and subsequently misappropriating those funds. TARSHA was previously arrested on June 6, 2026. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan.
“As alleged, Taj Tarsha raised millions of dollars from investors by promising that their investments would be used to build a marketplace for non-fungible tokens, but he instead breached their trust by stealing those funds for his own personal benefit,” said Deputy United States Attorney Sean S. Buckley. “Investors are entitled to the truth when choosing to make an investment, and this Office and our law enforcement partners will hold business leaders responsible when they lie for their own gain.”
“Taj Tarsha is alleged to have concealed fraudulent conduct behind his crypto startup, using investor funds for personal benefit,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “Protecting the integrity of our financial markets is a priority, and the FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to conducting thorough and fact-driven investigations into potential financial offenses.”
According to the Indictment:(1)
TARSHA was the founder and sole equity owner of Few and Far, a startup that claimed to be developing a decentralized marketplace for non-fungible tokens (“NFTs”). Beginning in February 2022, TARSHA solicited investments in Few and Far through Simple Agreement for Future Tokens (SAFTs), under which investors paid upfront for rights to receive FAR tokens—a proprietary token meant to be integrated into the marketplace—at a later date. The offering materials promised investors that their funds would be used to advance the development of the Few and Far marketplace and the FAR tokens. Through these sales, TARSHA raised over $10 million from the sale of 95 million FAR tokens to at least 67 investors.
Almost immediately, however, TARSHA began misappropriating investor funds for his personal use, including gambling at an online casino and purchasing speculative cryptocurrencies. TARSHA also siphoned nearly a million dollars of investor funds under the pretext of legitimate compensation in the form of two bonuses—which he deliberately hid from investors and a co-founder—and a high salary that he acknowledged was unreasonable in light of Few and Far’s lack of product and “zero revenue.”
In June 2023, an audit uncovered the misappropriation. TARSHA falsely told investors that the bonuses were tied to predetermined FAR token presales targets and all transactions were done for the benefit of Few and Far, and he claimed all investor funds were still needed to complete the company’s mission. In reality, he had fired nearly all staff and instructed the remaining contractor to do work that merely created the appearance of continued development of the marketplace. For at least another year, he used investor funds for personal expenses, including cryptocurrency purchases, a Miami condominium loan and interior design services, and his DJ hobby. When he finally launched the FAR token in May 2024, it was effectively worthless and soon ceased trading.
* * *
TARSHA, 34, of Miami, Florida, is charged with securities fraud and wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 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 defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Buckley praised the outstanding work of the FBI.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. DiBattista is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
^
As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact descried therein should be treated as an allegation.
Mexican illegal alien pleads guilty in fentanyl conspiracyRead the Press Release
DAYTON, Ohio – An illegal alien from Mexico pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to participating in a narcotics conspiracy that involved approximately a kilogram of fentanyl being brought to the Dayton area from Philadelphia. He separately pleaded to an immigration offense charging him with eluding inspection of immigration authorities.
Luis Gomez-Andres, 27, and Jonathan Salomon-Muguel, 22, of Dayton, were caught traveling with approximately a kilogram of fentanyl they obtained in Philadelphia to bring back to Dayton.
According to charging documents, in September 2025, Gomez-Andres was stopped for a traffic violation by law enforcement in Dayton, Ohio, and discovered to be illegally in the United States. Soon thereafter, immigration authorities returned Gomez-Andres to his country of citizenship.
Four months later, in January 2026, law enforcement developed information that Gomez-Andres illegally had returned to the United States. Based on that information, federal agents obtained an arrest warrant against Gomez-Andres for a criminal immigration offense and began to search for him in the community.
On Jan. 21, 2026, as federal agents continued their search, Gomez-Andres was stopped in a vehicle for a traffic violation in the state of Delaware. Salomon-Muguel was with him. During a search of their vehicle, officers discovered hidden within it a black metal safe containing bulk fentanyl bound for Dayton, Ohio.
The narcotics conspiracy in this case is punishable by at least 10 years and up to life in prison. Charges remain pending against Salomon-Muguel.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Joseph O. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Detroit announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Newman. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Painter is representing the United States in this case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Mexican citizen/local bar owner pleads guilty to cocaine, stolen vehicle crimesRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A Mexican citizen living in West Chester with an expired visa, who owned bars in Cincinnati and Middletown, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute drugs from the businesses. The defendant also participated in the buying and selling of stolen vehicles.
Sergio Velasco-Cortes, 42, also known as Piojo, Gordo, and Bruno, was a member of a drug trafficking organization that distributed kilogram shipments of cocaine throughout the Southern District of Ohio, including the Cincinnati area. He owned and operated Ibiza Restaurant and Lounge in Cincinnati and Bar Bunny in Middletown.
In fall 2024, Velasco-Cortes purchased Ibiza from another drug trafficking organization member for $250,000 in cash. Velasco-Cortes admitted to engaging in drug trafficking activity at both bar locations.
In December 2024 and January 2025, Velasco-Cortes drove to a mechanic shop in Indianapolis to buy bulk amounts of narcotics to bring back to southern Ohio. The defendant was also connected to a coconspirator obtaining shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico. The coconspirator delivered drugs to Velasco-Cortes at Bar Bunny in February 2025.
When executing search warrants in March and April 2025, agents discovered seven stolen vehicles at Velasco-Cortes’s residence. Several of the vehicles had falsified VINs. Further investigation revealed Velasco-Cortes and others discussed buying, “cleaning,” and selling stolen cars.
Velasco-Cortes and five others were charged federally on April 1, 2025.
Velasco-Cortes faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. Sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a future hearing.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Joseph O. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced the guilty plea entered on Aug. 4 before Senior U.S. District Judge Michael R. Barrett. Assistant United States Attorney David P. Dornette is representing the United States in this case.
This case part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Cincinnati comprises agents and officers from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 12 Months and 1 Day in Prison for Forcibly Assaulting a Federal Officer During an Immigration Enforcement ActionRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Rosario Carrillo Lopez, 54 years old, a Mexican national, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Carrillo Lopez was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $3,809.33 in restitution for damage he caused to a government vehicle. Because he has no legal status in the United States, Carrillo Lopez will be subject to a separate and immediate removal process upon his release from prison.
“An illegal alien will serve a year in prison after pleading guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer. He will then be subject to an independent, immediate removal process upon his release from prison. He was also ordered to pay $3,809.33 in restitution for damage he caused to a government vehicle. To be clear, there is zero tolerance for those who forcibly assault or impede federal law enforcement. Carrillo Lopez is a Mexico national who chose to enter the United States illegally. When ICE caught up with him and attempted to make an arrest, Carrillo Lopez stepped on the gas pedal and dangerously fled through a residential area. Through his reckless actions, Carrillo Lopez jeopardized the safety of law enforcement officers who are sworn to uphold our laws and protect the public. He also endangered the lives and safety of innocent bystanders who were simply going about their day—drivers, pedestrians, and schoolchildren—all so he could evade arrest. And later, he doubled down and put his own family in harm’s way, allowing them to physically confront agents while he bolted out the back door to escape a federal arrest warrant. Carrillo Lopez should consider himself lucky that a tragedy was avoided due to the disciplined and measured response by federal law enforcement agents. The Defendant chose to violate our nation’s laws, borders, and sovereignty, and then committed additional high risk felonies to evade capture with no care for the harm that might result. Thanks to the efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Marshals Service and Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa, the Defendant has been held accountable for his deliberate, selfish choices,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
“Violence against federal law enforcement is a serious crime that places agents and the public at risk,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI Special Agents and Task Force Officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect our communities from violent crime. HSI is grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their commitment to ensuring accountability in this case.”
“The U.S. Marshals Service remains steadfast in its partnership with Homeland Security Investigations to remove dangerous criminals and undocumented offenders from our streets,” said United States Marshal Todd L. Nukes. “Through coordinated efforts, this subject was safely subdued and will not pose any future risk to our communities. We will continue these efforts for the safety and security of all residents.”
According to documents in the case, on October 13, 2025, deportation officers with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) stopped Carrillo Lopez’s vehicle to conduct an immigration enforcement action. Upon learning the officers were with ICE, Carrillo Lopez sped away and led them on a high-speed chase through the streets of Gary, in the middle of rush hour on a Monday morning. As he fled, Carrillo Lopez drove over a curb, along a sidewalk, and through a cardboard sign. He also used his vehicle to strike one of the officer’s vehicles, causing damage to the front passenger’s side bumper and wheel well.
Based on this criminal conduct, federal agents obtained a warrant for Carrillo Lopez’s arrest. Ten days later, on October 23, 2025, agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Marshals Service went to Defendant’s house to arrest him. After their attempts to coax Carrillo Lopez out of the house failed, agents made the decision to breach the front door. Once inside the house, the agents faced physical resistance from Carrillo Lopez’s family, while Carrillo Lopez ran out the back door and jumped onto the roof.
The agents eventually located Carrillo Lopez and took him into custody. Carrillo Lopez spoke to agents following his arrest, after being advised of his Miranda rights. Explaining his decision to flee, Carrillo Lopez said he needed to “hide” and that “if I go easy, you’re gonna take me.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with valuable assistance provided by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa.
Memphis Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False Returns for ClientsRead the Press Release
A Memphis woman pleaded guilty today to helping prepare false tax returns for clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Selma Brinson owned and operated a tax preparation business that she used to report false items on clients’ tax returns to generate inflated tax refunds. Among other false items, Brinson reported false fuel tax credits, false claims for residential energy credits and false health savings account deductions on client returns. She received hundreds of thousands of dollars in client fees in exchange for preparing returns. In total, Brinson filed false returns that attempted to defraud the IRS out of more than $5.4 million.
Brinson pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting the preparation of a false tax return. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 10 and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Caroline Pearson and Max Willner-Giwerc of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Massachusetts Man Charged in Federal Court for Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – On July 9, 2026, a Massachusetts man was charged federally for allegedly attempting to entice a person he believed to be a 14-year-old female to engage in sexual activity and travelling to Rhode Island to meet her.
Jung H. Nam, 35, is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and possession and receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). He made his initial appearance in federal court on the complaint on July 29, 2026.
According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, in July 2025, an East Providence Police Detective assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force initiated an undercover online investigation using a social application. The detective, posing as a minor, engaged in conversations with a user later identified as Nam. During these communications, Nam allegedly discussed plans to meet for sexual activity, and thereafter, traveled to Warwick, Rhode Island to meet her.
On July 7, 2025, after arranging a meeting in Warwick, Nam arrived at the agreed‑upon location, where he was taken into custody by members of the ICAC Task Force. He was initially charged in Rhode Island District Court, and later, in January 2026, in Kent County Superior Court. Those state charges remain pending.
During a state‑authorized search of Nam’s cell phone, investigators located multiple images and videos of CSAM, including of prepubescent minors.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Denise M. Barton.
The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the ICAC Task Force, and the Rhode Island State Police.
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 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 Justice.gov/PSC
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Marion Man Sentenced to 132 Months in Prison for Attempting to Possess with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Douglas Hillsamer, 44 years old, of Marion, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to attempting to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Hillsamer was sentenced to 132 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
“A drug dealer intended to profit from distributing nearly 3 pounds of almost 100% pure methamphetamine and earned 11 years in prison and 5 years of supervised release instead. The Defendant was to receive a shipment of methamphetamine in the mail from Fresno, California when it was intercepted by the United States Postal Service. Inside the package were three plastic bags containing almost 100% pure methamphetamine with a pure substance weight of 1,317.83 grams. The Defendant admitted to investigators that the methamphetamine was destined for him, and that he planned to unleash that poison on our communities. He was no rookie, having prior felony convictions for possession of methamphetamine and invasion of privacy. Thanks to the partnership of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Indiana State Police and Assistant United States Attorneys Teresa L. Ashcraft and Justin C. Sheridan, the Defendant is behind bars, the drugs have been removed from our community, and the nation is safer,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.
"The U.S. Postal Service is a trusted service, not a pipeline for dangerous drugs," said Felicia George, Inspector in Charge for U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Detroit Division. "Postal inspectors are committed to identifying and disrupting drug trafficking networks that exploit the mail to distribute illegal narcotics. This sentence highlights the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies working together to protect our communities and hold offenders accountable."
A photograph of the intercepted methamphetamine taken by law enforcement attached.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Teresa L. Ashcraft and Justin C. Sheridan.
Man pleads guilty after sexual meetup with agent posing as 14-year-old girlRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Missouri man pleaded guilty to crossing state lines to have sex with someone he thought to be a 14-year-old girl.
According to court documents, James D. Fishbaugh, 53, of Blue Springs, Missouri, pleaded guilty to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
In August 2025, Fishbaugh used a social media account to communicate with an undercover agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) posing as a minor. During the online chat, the agent claimed to be 14 years old, to which Fishbaugh responded that he was 49.
Fishbaugh shifted the conversation to be sexual in nature and told the agent he “would love to meet you sometime”. On August 22, 2025, Fishbaugh drove from his residence in Missouri to a designated meeting place in Kansas, stopping for condoms along the way. Agents arrested him upon arrival. Fishbaugh told officers that he believed the undercover agent was a real 14-year-old girl and that he traveled to the residence to have sex with the minor.
Fishbaugh is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.###
Local man with 56,000 child sexual abuse files sent to prisonRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 29-year-old Penitas resident has been ordered to federal prison for receiving and distributing child pornography.
Jesus David Gutierrez pleaded guilty Oct. 2, 2025.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Gutierrez to serve 110 months in federal prison and to pay $6,000 in restitution. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Gutierrez was associated with approximately 56,000 files containing child pornography, was involved in the sale of pornography of adult women from the Rio Grande Valley, and was beginning to collect child sex abuse material (CSAM) for future sales. He must also serve five years of supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Gutierrez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
The investigation revealed a computer associated with a specific IP address in Penitas engaging in downloading and distributing CSAM. On June 3, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and found Gutierrez hiding in his bedroom closet.
He admitted to having CSAM on his cellular phone. Forensic analysis resulted in the discovery of 63 videos and 141 images depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Gutierrez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI McAllen conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexa D. Parcell prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Lebanon Woman Sentenced for Child Sex Trafficking and Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Alisha Danielle Scudder of Lebanon, Tennessee, was sentenced on July 27, 2026, in U.S. District Court to several a total sentence of 340 months followed by 10 years of supervised release for conspiracy, four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, sex trafficking of children, distribution of child pornography, and sale of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee.
“Scudder exploited two vulnerable children, produced child abuse material involving them, and accepted money in exchange for that material,” said U.S. Attorney Boucek. “Her conduct represents a profound betrayal of the children who depended on her for protection. Our office and our law enforcement partners will continue working together to identify those who exploit children, protect victims, and hold offenders accountable.”
“Those who strip children of their innocence commit one of the gravest betrayals imaginable,” said Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message that exploiting children carries serious consequences. The FBI and our partners will continue to aggressively investigate, pursue, and bring child predators to justice, ensuring they are held fully accountable for the harm they inflict.”
“Protecting children is one of HIS’s most important missions,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “HSI will continue working with our partners to identify predators, protect victims and seek justice for exploited children.”
“The exploitation of children is among the most disturbing crimes we investigate,” said Tennessee Bureau of Investigations Director David Rausch. “Through strong partnerships and persistent investigative efforts, we remain committed to identifying those who exploit vulnerable victims and holding them accountable.”
According to court documents, beginning in approximately June 2019 and continuing through March 2022, Scudder produced child sexual abuse material involving two children who were under the age of 14. She transmitted the material over the internet to a co-conspirator in exchange for money.
The co-conspirator communicated with Scudder through social media and messaging applications, requested that she produce additional material, and paid her for images and videos she transmitted. On at least one occasion, the co-conspirator traveled from East Tennessee to the Middle District of Tennessee where additional child sexual abuse material was produced.
The investigation began in October 2022 after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children referred two CyberTips concerning suspected child sexual abuse material uploaded through social media applications to law enforcement. Investigators traced the account activity to the co-conspirator and recovered child sexual abuse material from his electronic devices.
On December 9, 2022, federal agents executed a search warrant at Scudder’s Lebanon residence and recovered several electronic devices, including a cell phone containing communications with the co-conspirator and child sexual abuse material. During an interview with investigators, Scudder admitted producing the material, transmitting it through internet-based applications, and receiving payments for some of it.
The case was investigated by FBI Nashville and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Lebanon Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.
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Leader of 2024 Armed Robbery, Carjacking Spree Sentenced to 180 MonthsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kanard Bishop, 28, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 180 months in prison in connection with a violent spree of armed robberies and carjackings that spanned six weeks and 13 incidents across the District of Columbia and Maryland, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“Violent conduct and a blatant disregard for human life have no place in the District,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. "This sentence sends an unmistakable message: those who bring violence to our communities will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable. The people who live, work, and visit our Nation’s Capital deserve safety and security, and we will continue working every day to deliver it.”
Bishop pleaded guilty on March 26, 2026, before Judge Rudolph Contreras to conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery and to using and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. In addition to the 180-month prison sentence, Judge Contreras ordered Bishop to serve five years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 252-month prison term.
Co-defendants Edward Leroy Brown, 26, aka “Shiesty,” and Khalil Boyd, 20, pleaded guilty to the same charges on March 26 and were sentenced today to 150 months and 144 months, respectively.
According to court papers, beginning on Feb. 14, 2024, and continuing through March 28, 2024, Bishop and his co-conspirators agreed to rob retail stores and carjack victims at gunpoint across the District and Maryland, carrying out or attempting at least 13 separate robberies and carjackings.
The conspiracy began on Feb. 14, 2024, when Bishop and Brown entered a convenience store in Capitol Heights, Maryland, pointed firearms at an employee, and demanded cash. Unable to open the register, they fled to a nearby McDonald’s, where they opened the drive-through window from the outside and pointed a firearm at an employee before fleeing again.
On March 17, 2024, Bishop and a co-conspirator carjacked two victims at gunpoint in the 4300 block of Southern Avenue SE, stealing a 2008 Mercedes-Benz along with cell phones, a wallet, identification, a credit card, and $2,000 in cash.
The pace of the conspiracy accelerated on March 20, 2024. In the early morning hours, Bishop and Boyd carjacked a victim near 35th Street NE, stealing his 2018 Dodge Durango. Using the stolen vehicle, the group attempted a second McDonald’s drive-through robbery, robbed a Denny’s restaurant on Benning Road NE, where Bishop ripped the cash register off the counter, attempted a robbery at a second McDonald’s in Landover, Maryland, robbed a 7-Eleven in Landover, where Bishop jumped the counter to grab the register, and robbed a convenience store in District Heights, forcing an employee inside at gunpoint and stealing cash and tobacco products.
On March 27, 2024, Bishop and Boyd carjacked another motorist at a gas station in District Heights, knocking him to the ground during a struggle before fleeing in his 2022 Dodge Challenger. Later that day, the pair approached two FedEx employees working in a delivery truck in Southeast Washington, pointed firearms at both workers, and stole their wallets, cellphones, and four packages.
The conspiracy ended on March 28, 2024, at a GameStop in District Heights. Bishop and Brown entered the store, struck an employee, and demanded that workers open the cash registers and safe. When police arrived, both men fled on foot with firearms. A detective shot Brown in the lower body as he fled, and Bishop discarded his loaded firearm before he was apprehended. Boyd, who had waited outside in the stolen Challenger, fled the scene, carjacked another driver at gunpoint, and crashed into two police cruisers before he was taken into custody.
Joining U.S. Attorney Pirro in the announcement was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office.
The case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office Violent Crime Task Force and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Carjacking Task Force, with valuable assistance from the Prince George’s County Police Department.
The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Satter.
Defendant later identified as Bishop enters a convenience store in Capitol Heights with a firearm during a Feb. 14, 2024, attempted armed robbery.
Suspect points a firearm with a laser sight at a restaurant employee during the March 20, 2024 armed robbery of a Denny’s.
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Leader of drug trafficking organization that sold fentanyl, cocaine, and meth in ‘The Jungle’ and International District sentenced to ten years in prisonRead the Press Release
Seattle – The leader of a wide-ranging drug distribution network that was uncovered when law enforcement focused on Seattle’s International District and nearby homeless encampments was sentenced to ten years in prison today, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Octavio Salazar Palma, 34, of Federal Way, Washington was arrested in May 2025 following a lengthy wire-tap investigation. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Tana Lin said, “You were a leader in the drug conspiracy, you were the source of an extraordinary amount of drugs in our community…. Despite multiple seizures by law enforcement you did not stop, only the arrest made you stop.”
“This case began with officers on the street working their way up the supply chain until prosecutors had enough evidence to get a court approved wiretap,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “The wiretap allowed us to identify the leaders, and more importantly, interdict drug shipments before they hit our streets. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is keenly aware of the law enforcement problems facing the International District and is committed to doing all we can to address them.”
“Led by his own greed, Mr. Salazar Palma piloted an interstate conspiracy to distribute obscene and lethal amounts of dangerous drugs through the International District and homeless encampments in Seattle. No amount of profit can justify the cost of putting members of our own community at such a risk,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “I am thankful for the diligence and hard work of FBI Seattle and our partners as we remain dedicated to disrupting violent crime and making our streets a safer place.”
In this investigation in March 2025 alone, law enforcement seized 100 pounds of methamphetamine, 111 kilos of cocaine, 19 kilos of fentanyl powder, 250,000 fentanyl pills, and four kilos of heroin. The street value of the narcotics was nearly $3 million.
On May 29, 2025, law enforcement moved to take down Salazar Palma’s network. They executed 16 search warrants in Federal Way, Vancouver, Everett, Pacific, Tukwila, Kent, Issaquah, Seattle, Woodlake California and Beaverton, Oregon. Investigators seized more than seven kilograms of cocaine, 18 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 57,000 fentanyl pills, and 17 firearms. They also seized more than $353,000 in cash.
On April 15, 2026, Salazar Palma pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to engage in money laundering.
In asking for a sentence of 140 months prosecutors wrote to the court, “… Salazar Palma engaged in drug trafficking not to support an addiction to controlled substances, but for his personal profit. And profit he did. When investigators searched his residence, they found nearly $20,000 in United States currency, which Salazar Palma admits were proceeds of his drug trafficking enterprise. Salazar Palma is also agreeing to forfeit a 2024 BMW M3 Competition xDrive, a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe LT, and jewelry, because that property was proceeds of his enterprise.”
“Mr. Salazar Palma led the drug trafficking organization that targeted some of Seattle’s most vulnerable, living in encampments in ‘The Jungle’, while he bought expensive cars and jewelry with the profits,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field
Division. “Today’s sentence and the seizure of massive amounts of fentanyl, meth, and cocaine demonstrate DEA’s commitment to dismantling these criminal networks along with our federal, state, and local partners. Through our Fentanyl Free America, we are disrupting the fentanyl supply chain, reducing its availability, and protecting American lives.”
“Our streets are safer today as Mr. Salazar Palma faces the consequences of his crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Carrie Nordyke, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Seattle Field Office. “Illicit drugs have no place in our communities, and IRS-CI is committed to bringing those who choose to harm our friends and neighbors to justice.”
Salazar Palma is a U.S. citizen who will be on four years of supervised release following prison.
This investigation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Seattle comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), The United States Marshals Service (USMS), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the United States Secret Service (USSS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.
The investigation was led by the FBI, Seattle Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with significant assistance from the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program (HIDTA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Washington National Guard Counterdrug Program. Investigators also worked with the Oregon State Police and Clark County, Washington Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne.
Las Vegas Woman Sentenced to Prison in $5M Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Las Vegas woman was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States by filing false tax returns with the IRS and diverting portions of the resulting tax refunds to herself and her codefendant.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Iris Hondermann owned and operated Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC, a tax preparation business in Las Vegas. An individual close to Hondermann worked for the business and was charged in the same scheme. From approximately 2017 through 2021, Hondermann and her codefendant prepared tax returns for clients that included one or more false items, including business profits and losses, COVID-19 sick and family leave credits, and residential energy credits.
“The deliberate falsification of tax records and the theft of funds are severe violations of public trust and federal law,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Our office, alongside our law enforcement partners, remains committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting those who use deceit to enrich themselves at the expense of taxpayers and honest institutions.”
“By inserting false information into client tax returns and taking a share of the fraudulent refunds, Hondermann and her codefendant defrauded the government of millions for personal benefit,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office. “This was a substantial theft from the U.S. Treasury and, ultimately, from every honest taxpayer. IRS CI remains dedicated to identifying schemes that exploit the tax system and holding accountable those who choose to profit through fraud.”
Between 2017 and 2021, Hondermann and her codefendant prepared false tax returns with the IRS seeking more than $5 million in refunds that their clients were not entitled to receive. At times, Hondermann and her codefendant also diverted portions of client tax refunds to themselves. From 2017 through 2021, they diverted more than $1.1 million in fraudulent tax refunds to bank accounts one or both of them controlled.
Hondermann pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States. Hondermann’s codefendant, who admitted to filing false tax returns for clients as part of the same scheme, still awaits sentencing.
Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Thomas W. Flynn and Stuart A. Wexler of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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Las Vegas Woman Sentenced to Prison in $5M Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Las Vegas woman was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States by filing false tax returns with the IRS and diverting portions of the resulting tax refunds to herself and her codefendant.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Iris Hondermann owned and operated Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC, a tax preparation business in Las Vegas. An individual close to Hondermann worked for the business and was charged in the same scheme. From approximately 2017 through 2021, Hondermann and her codefendant prepared tax returns for clients that included one or more false items, including business profits and losses, COVID-19 sick and family leave credits, and residential energy credits.
“The deliberate falsification of tax records and the theft of funds are severe violations of public trust and federal law,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Our office, alongside our law enforcement partners, remains committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting those who use deceit to enrich themselves at the expense of taxpayers and honest institutions.”
“By inserting false information into client tax returns and taking a share of the fraudulent refunds, Hondermann and her codefendant defrauded the government of millions for personal benefit,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office. “This was a substantial theft from the U.S. Treasury and, ultimately, from every honest taxpayer. IRS CI remains dedicated to identifying schemes that exploit the tax system and holding accountable those who choose to profit through fraud.”
Between 2017 and 2021, Hondermann and her codefendant prepared false tax returns with the IRS seeking more than $5 million in refunds that their clients were not entitled to receive. At times, Hondermann and her codefendant also diverted portions of client tax refunds to themselves. From 2017 through 2021, they diverted more than $1.1 million in fraudulent tax refunds to bank accounts one or both of them controlled.
Hondermann pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States. Honderman’s codefendant, who admitted to filing false tax returns for clients as part of the same scheme, still awaits sentencing.
Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Thomas W. Flynn and Stuart A. Wexler of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Kapolei Woman Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Aggravated Identity Theft in Connection with Unemployment Insurance and Pandemic Unemployment Relief Program FraudRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Phoebe Trinh, also known as Phuong Trinh Ngoc Vo, 33, of Kapolei, Hawaii, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Shanlyn A.S. Park to 24 months in prison followed by 6 months of supervised release for aggravated identity theft. Trinh was also ordered to forfeit $36,265 and pay $78,474 in restitution. Trinh pled guilty pursuant to a plea agreement in April 2026.
In 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) unemployment insurance program to provide emergency unemployment payments to certain workers whose livelihoods were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic but who were ineligible for traditional state unemployment insurance benefits, such as business owners, self-employed workers, independent contractors, and those with a limited work history who were out of business or had significantly reduced their services as a direct result of the pandemic. To obtain either traditional unemployment insurance (UI) or PUA UI benefit payments, claimants could submit a claim online. If approved, the U.S. Treasury typically deposited payments every week into a claimant’s bank account. To continue to receive benefit payments, claimants were required to certify on a weekly basis under penalty of law that they remained unemployed or partially employed, and eligible to receive benefit payments.
According to court documents, Trinh admitted that between May 19, 2020 and October 20, 2020, she submitted a false claim online for UI benefit payments for herself, and then repeatedly falsely certified under penalty of law that she was unemployed and not receiving income, despite knowing that her certifications were false, in order to receive benefit payments that she was not entitled to receive.
Trinh then submitted a false claim for PUA UI benefit payments for another individual, who was an employee of her family’s restaurant in Kapolei, Hawaii. Trinh used that individual’s personal identifiable information, including his name and social security number, without that individual’s knowledge and consent, in order to obtain additional benefit payments to which Trinh was not entitled. On May 19, 2020, and on multiple other occasions, Trinh then certified that the individual remained eligible for PUA UI benefit payments in order to receive his benefit payments, without the individual’s knowledge and consent. Trinh then directed those benefit payments intended for the individual to be transferred to her own bank account.
According to court documents, Trinh fraudulently obtained at least $36,265 in unemployment insurance and PUA UI benefits to which she was not entitled.
“Motivated by greed, Trinh defrauded the government to obtain critical resources intended to provide a lifeline to unemployed Americans during the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “The National Fraud Enforcement Division is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars, and our Office and law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to bring those individuals to justice.”
“Phoebe Trinh’s sentencing is a reminder that unemployment benefits were meant for workers in crisis—not criminals looking to exploit them. While Americans relied on these funds to survive, fraudsters drained them for personal gain,” said Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor. “Working with Vice President Vance’s White House Fraud Task Force and our state and local law enforcement partners, we will continue pursuing those who defraud American taxpayers. We will not tolerate anyone who undermines the public’s trust.”
The Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Paris Yates prosecuted the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Justice Department Withdraws Business Review Letter Issued to Proxy Advisory FirmRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division (“Antitrust Division”) is withdrawing a 1987 Business Review Letter (the “1987 BRL” or the “Letter”) issued to Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”). ISS is a foreign-owned proxy advisory firm that advises its clients on how to vote shares their clients hold for thousands of corporate governance questions each year. ISS and Glass, Lewis & Co. LLC (“Glass Lewis”), control more than 90 percent of the proxy advisory market and their clients’ holdings represent a significant ownership stake in the United States’ largest publicly traded companies. As a result of this concentration of market power, ISS and Glass Lewis have tremendous influence in corporate governance matters and, based on their market dominance, shape the policies of America’s largest companies.
At the time that the Antitrust Division issued its 1987 BRL to ISS, proxy advising as an industry was in its infancy. The Letter noted that, based on the understanding that ISS “will offer advice only on matters relating to the exercise of voting rights on issues of corporate governance, and that ISS will not provide advice or engage in discussions with respect to the corporate operations or business activities,” the Department of Justice “ha[d] no current intention to bring action under the antitrust laws to enjoin the establishment and operation of ISS.” The 1987 BRL did not address corporate consulting services, which ISS now offers in connection with proxy voting services. ISS’s business model is now in direct conflict with the language in the Letter. ISS is, in fact, now providing advice with respect to corporate operations. In so doing, ISS wields enormous influence over corporate governance issues and policies through its proxy voting services.
A Business Review Letter “states only the enforcement intention of the Antitrust Division as of the date of the letter, and the Division remains completely free to bring whatever action or proceeding it subsequently comes to believe is required by the public interest.” While the 1987 BRL stated the Division’s enforcement intention at that time, the Letter is not applicable to ISS’s current business practice of corporate consulting services. These issues were not a part of ISS’s original business model and are outside the scope of the 1987 BRL. Indeed, the representation at the time that ISS would not “provide or engage in discussions with respect to the corporate operations or business activities” may run contrary to ISS’s business model today. The 1987 BRL expressly qualified the Antitrust Division’s enforcement position to exclude services directed at corporate operations or activities. The Department of Justice has since clarified that while antitrust safe harbors for passive investment protect most beneficial corporate governance advocacy, they do not protect the use of commonly held stock in competitors to encourage market-wide reductions in output or other anticompetitive conduct.[1]
To be clear, proxy advising is not inherently problematic and the lawful exercise of voting rights pursuant to a proxy advisor recommendation does not raise competition concerns. The Antitrust Division is withdrawing its 1987 BRL because the Letter does not reflect ISS’s current business practices or the Antitrust Division’s view of those practices. Moreover, the concentration of market power in the proxy advisory market raises significant competition concerns.
The Antitrust Division has previously recognized potential competitive concerns in the proxy advisory industry. In 2020, the Division filed comments before the Securities and Exchange Commission in a rulemaking process about proxy voting advice.[2]
The Antitrust Division is committed to protecting the rights of all Americans, including by promoting competition, reducing barriers to entry, and ensuring full compliance with the antitrust laws in the proxy advisory market.
[1] DOJ Press Release, Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission File Statement of Interest on Anticompetitive Uses of Common Shareholdings to Discourage Coal Production (May 22, 2025; see also Statement of Interest of the Federal Trade Commission and the United States of America, Texas v. BlackRock, No. 6:24-cv-00437-JDK (E.D. Tex.), ECF No. 99 (May 22, 2025), https://www.justice.gov/atr/media/1401251/dl?inline.
[2] Comments of the United States Department of Justice, In the Matter of Release No. 34-87457, File No. S7-22-19 Amendments to Exemptions from the Proxy Rules for Proxy Voting Advice, U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (Feb. 5, 2020), https://www.justice.gov/atr/page/file/1243656/dl?inline.
Justice Department Sues Pennsylvania Landlord for Sexual Harassment in HousingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it filed a lawsuit against Venkatachalam Mani, a landlord in State College, Pennsylvania, for sexually harassing a female tenant and retaliating against her when she refused his advances, in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
“The landlord failed to fix a tenant’s furnace despite freezing temperatures because the female tenant refused his sexual advances, forcing her family to move out with no other place to live,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This conduct is illegal. The Justice Department will uphold the rights of female tenants to housing without the threat of sexual harassment by a landlord.”
“Attempts to exploit tenants for sexual favors, sexual assault, and retaliation by landlords will never be tolerated in the Middle District of Pennsylvania,” said U.S. Attorney Brian D. Miller for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
The lawsuit, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, alleges that Mr. Mani made sexual advances toward a female tenant, including unwelcome sexual touching. After the tenant rejected his advances, Mr. Mani failed to respond to the tenant’s repeated requests for maintenance, including repairing a broken furnace in the middle of winter that eventually caught fire. The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for the tenant and her children and a court order barring future discrimination.
The case was referred to the Department after the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development received a complaint, completed an investigation, and issued a charge of discrimination.
If you are a victim of sexual harassment by another 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 complaint is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative. 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 53 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered approximately $19 million for victims of such harassment.
Justice Department Secures Agreement with Connecticut Children’s to End Pediatric “Gender-Affirming Care”Read the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice announced another resolution with a leading children’s medical center arising from the Department’s ongoing national investigation into violations of federal law in connection with the provision of sex-rejecting procedures on minors (otherwise known as “gender-affirming care”). Connecticut Children’s Medical Center has entered into agreements with the Department that entail a commitment not to perform sex-rejecting procedures on minors—including by administering puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones to and performing surgeries on children and adolescents. Connecticut Children’s has also agreed to pay a monetary penalty and dedicate an additional $500,000 in medical care for individuals living with the harmful consequences of “gender affirming care.”
“The Department of Justice will stop at nothing to protect America’s children,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “This resolution is a reminder to hospitals, medical providers, and pharmaceutical companies that the Justice Department will vigorously enforce federal law, especially where the lives of children are endangered.”
Today’s announcement follows similar agreements with Texas Children’s Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. In working towards this resolution, the United States acknowledged that Connecticut Children’s took significant steps entitling it to credit for cooperation with the Department in its investigation. At all times during the investigation, Connecticut Children’s remained cooperative, proactive, and solution-driven, as highlighted by its financial commitment to providing restorative care to the victims who desperately need it.
“As with Texas Children’s and Cleveland Clinic before it, I am encouraged when leading institutions like Connecticut Children’s agree to be part of the solution and no longer the problem,” said Brett Shumate, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division. “But while we can be grateful when we arrive at such positive resolutions, we cannot and will not rest in our pursuit of justice for the victims of these discredited practices.”
“This resolution reaffirms our unwavering commitment to safeguarding America’s children,” said Ryan Raybould, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. “When unsafe medical practices put minors at risk or violate federal law, the Department will act swiftly and decisively to protect them and hold every institution accountable.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch and the Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The claims resolved by the United States in the agreements are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Connecticut Children’s has denied all allegations.
Jury Convicts Orleans Parish Man of Maintaining Residence for Fentanyl Distribution and Possessing Machinegun to Further Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – On August 4, 2026, WILBERT SMITH, (“SMITH”), age 46, of New Orleans, was found guilty on all seven counts of a superseding indictment pending against him, following a two-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2026.
SMITH was convicted in Count 1 of conspiring with others to distribute, or possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, and in Count 2 of possessing with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine and heroin, all in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), (b)(1)(C), and 846. At sentencing, for both Counts 1 and 2, he faces a mandatory minimum of ten years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.
SMITH was convicted in Count 4 of possessing firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy charged in Count 1, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A). At sentencing, he faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. SMITH was convicted in Count 6 of being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). At sentencing, he faces up to fifteen years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
SMITH was convicted in Count 8 of possessing a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(o) and 924(a)(2). At sentencing, he faces up to ten (10) years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and at least three (3) years of supervised release. SMITH was convicted in Count 9 of possession of a machinegun in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i) and 924(c) (l)(B)(ii). He faces a mandatory minimum of thirty (30) years imprisonment, which must be run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five (5) years of supervised release.
SMITH was convicted in Count 10 of Maintaining a drug involved premises, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 856. At sentencing, he faces up to twenty years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count of conviction, SMITH also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Evidence presented at trial showed that beginning at a time unknown, but continuing until at least May 8, 2024, SMITH, and other individuals, maintained three residences in the Algiers neighborhood of New Orleans for the purpose of packaging and distributing narcotics, including fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin. Federal search warrants executed on these residences on May 8, 2024, led to the seizure of multiple firearms, including a machinegun, over $41,000 is U.S. currency, drug trafficking paraphernalia such as blenders, digital scales, a money counter, and plastic baggies, along with approximately 416 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin and over 100 grams of cocaine. SMITH also possessed multiple firearms, including the machinegun, to protect this drug-trafficking operation and his drug proceeds.
United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Stuart Theriot of the Violent Crimes Unit and Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
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Iranian National Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare FraudRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— Iranian National residing in Coos Bay pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.
Mehrdad Gerami, Age 67, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.
According to court documents, from 2021 to the present, Gerami was the owner and operator of Coastal Diagnostic Testing Group (CDTG). CDTG operates out of Coos Bay, Brookings, Reedsport, Florence, and Roseburg, Oregon. He and his employees overcharged the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Veteran’s Health Administration (VA), and numerous private insurance companies for intensive, in-office sleep studies. CDTG billed for the more expensive in-office sleep studies when more inexpensive at-home sleep studies were actually conducted. Additionally, to generate more revenue in certain offices during months of low productivity, defendant instructed staff to falsely bill for sleep studies using patient information despite the studies never occurring on those dates. Gerami oversaw all aspects of the company’s operation and conspired with and directed employees to bill fraudulently. The estimated loss is $2,124,363.41.
On June 22, 2026, Gerami was charged by Information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
Gerami faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and 3 years of supervised release.
Gerami will be sentenced on January 26, 2027, before a U.S. district court judge.
As part of the plea agreement, Gerami has agreed to pay restitution in full to his victims.
This case was investigated by Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Huynh and Julia Jarrett are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Interstate Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Lewis County traffic stop and hotel room search led to the sentencing of a North Carolina man responsible for distributing a large quantity of fentanyl in West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Shawn Galin Whitley, Jr., 35, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was sentenced to 48 months in prison. A Lewis County Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a vehicle occupied by Whitley. He was removed from the car during the stop. Deputies discovered $2,040 in cash and five fentanyl stamps in Whitley’s pocket. Officers then obtained a search warrant for Room 204 of a nearby hotel where he was staying. Inside the room, investigators found a backpack containing approximately 3,750 fentanyl stamps. Hotel security footage showed Whitley wearing the backpack shortly before police arrived.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Individual Arrested for Arson of Historic Brooklyn ChurchRead the Press Release
Today, a criminal complaint was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging John Jones with intentionally setting fire to the South Bushwick Reformed Church (the Church) located at 855 Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, on June 19, 2026. Jones was arrested earlier today in Manhattan and will make his initial appearance at a later date in the Eastern District of New York.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, New York Division (ATF); Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD); and Lillian Bonsignore, Commissioner, New York City Fire Department (FDNY), announced the arrest.
“As alleged, Jones intentionally set fire to a historic and beloved church, significantly damaging the structure,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “I commend the Special Agents and the NYPD Detectives who have worked tirelessly to identify and apprehend the perpetrator of this senseless act that has deeply wounded the Church’s congregation and the entire Bushwick community. Our Office will vigorously prosecute Jones to the full extent of the law. Arson is a terrible crime that strikes at the heart of public safety and endangers first responders.”
“This arrest reflects the strength of our law enforcement partnerships. Through the coordinated efforts of the ATF Arson & Explosives Task Force, NYPD, FDNY, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office EDNY, we acted swiftly to hold the individual allegedly responsible accountable for setting fire to a historic church that has been part of New York City’s fabric since the 1850s,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge DiGirolamo.
“This defendant placed countless Brooklyn residents at risk when he recklessly set fire to the South Bushwick Reformed Church in broad daylight,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “New Yorkers deserve to practice their faith freely and without fear, and the destruction of this sacred New York City landmark will be met with swift justice. I thank the NYPD investigators and our law enforcement partners for their work to hold this individual accountable.”
“The intentional burning of a house of worship is an attack on a historic building and on the sense of safety and community it represents,” stated FDNY Commissioner Bonsignore. “This fire placed lives at risk, including the first responders who responded to protect the church and the surrounding neighborhood. We are grateful for the outstanding work of our partners at the ATF, NYPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office that led to this arrest. We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to hold those responsible for these dangerous crimes accountable.”
The Church was constructed in the 1850s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It was also designated as a New York City Landmark in 1968.
As set forth in the complaint, between approximately 12:12 p.m. and 12:47 p.m. on June 19, 2026, Jones was captured on surveillance video attempting unsuccessfully to enter the Church. At approximately 12:30 p.m., Jones was observed on surveillance video inside a convenience store that was a short walking distance from the Church. He asked the cashier “for a lighter” and then paid for the lighter. Jones then returned to the Church, walking on and around the Church property and within the Church gates. A photo taken by a witness at about 1:27 p.m. shows smoke and low burning on an area of the Bushwick Avenue side of the Church. Jones appears to have approached areas of the Church exterior near to the location where low burning ultimately appears on the front of the Church.
The charge in the complaint is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Jones faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, and a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorney William Bristow is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
JOHN JONES
Age: 24
Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No.26-MJ-0143
john_jones_complaint.pdfIllegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful ReentryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rodanim Castellanos-Julian, a/k/a Rodanim Castellanos, age 27, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Haskell County, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.
The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.
The Indictment alleged that on July 3, 2026, Castellanos-Julian, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on December 5, 2024.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, 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.
Castellanos-Julian will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.
Honduran Sex Offender Sentenced in Del Rio to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Re-Entry into the U.S.Read the Press Release
DEL RIO, Texas – An illegal alien and convicted sex offender from Honduras was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 20 years in prison for attempting to enter the United States illegally, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas.
According to court documents, on Nov. 17, 2025, Noel Jose Funez-Antunez, 41, was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Eagle Pass. Funez-Antunez was questioned regarding his citizenship status, and he freely admitted to being a citizen of Honduras, and without legal permission to be present in the United States. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Eagle Pass South Border Patrol Station for processing. Further investigation into his criminal history revealed that Funez-Antunez was previously convicted of kidnapping, illegal re-entry into the United States, and sexual assault.
“This is the message that we need to send to anyone who is thinking of coming into the United States illegally,” said U.S. Attorney Simmons. “Here we have an illegal alien who has already been convicted multiple times in our country, who thought he would be able to sneak in and live a life of freedom. He instead was met by federal agents and Lady Justice, and will spend the next two decades in federal prison before he’s deported yet again.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nallely Duarte prosecuted the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Shilling handled the sentencing.
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.
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Homeland Security Task Force: Dual Dominican and French National Admits Role in Firearms Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
DIMITRI BEIX, 28, a Dominican and French citizen and resident of Dominica, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to an offense related to his role in the illegal trafficking and export of firearms and firearm components from the United States to Dominica.
U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan; Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; Special Agent in Charge James Guanci of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement, Boston; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeff Grimming of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England; Acting Inspector in Charge J. Buck Buckley of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco, ATF Boston Field Division; and Special Agent in Charge Thomas Demeo of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, made the announcement.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January 2021 through September 2024, Beix led a scheme to smuggle firearms, firearm components, and ammunition from the U.S. to Dominica without first having obtained the required licenses or authorization from the U.S. Department of Commerce, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act. Beix used a network of suppliers, buyers, and shippers in Connecticut and elsewhere in the U.S. to facilitate his illicit procurement of firearms. Beix provided to his U.S. suppliers a list of firearm parts to purchase on his behalf via eBay and other retailers. Beix, using his own eBay accounts, also purchased more than 100 firearm parts himself and had the items shipped to individuals in the United States. Firearms and parts were then shipped to Beix in Dominica.
In February 2023, Dominica authorities intercepted three parcels shipped from the U.S. to Beix in Dominica. The parcels contained six handguns, Glock slides, trigger assemblies, sight assemblies, rifle magazines, pistol magazines, AM15 rifle parts, a suppressor kit, ammunition, and other firearm components.
Beix pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Export Control Reform Act, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Beix has been detained since November 27, 2024, when he was arrested in Sint Maarten at the request of the United States. He was extradited to the United States in February 2026.
This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security; Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. HSI Caribbean, the Dominica Customs Excise Division, and the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force have assisted the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Konstantin Lantsman and Sean P. Mahard, and Trial Attorney Yifei Zheng of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Sint Maarten authorities provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition to the United States.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement toward identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
HSTF New Haven comprises agents and officers from the FBI, DEA, HSI, ATF, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Labor, and Connecticut State Police, with prosecutions led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
Homeland Security Task Force Arrests Members of Dade City Fentanyl Trafficking Organization on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging five individuals with federal drug offenses including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl.
Name
Age, Residence
Charges
Aaron McKinney38, Dade CityDrug trafficking conspiracy
Distribution of fentanyl (4 counts)
Distribution of cocaine and fentanyl
Derrick Harrison53, Dade CityDrug trafficking conspiracy
Distribution of fentanyl
Derrick Harrison II35, ZephyrhillsDrug trafficking conspiracy
Distribution of fentanyl
Derrick Gentles41, Dade CityDrug trafficking conspiracyMichael Taylor34, Dade CityDrug trafficking conspiracy
Distribution of cocaine and fentanyl
If convicted, McKinney faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. Harrison and Harrison II each face a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. Gentles and Taylor face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
According to the indictment and other court records, McKinney sold fentanyl and other controlled substances in Dade City. The others assisted McKinney with his drug trafficking business. Through this drug trafficking organization, McKinney trafficked more than 400 grams of fentanyl, along with cocaine.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, and the Zephyrhills Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region 20 (Tampa) comprises agents and officers from multiple law enforcement agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
Guatemalan man pleads guilty to crashing into a Border Patrol vehicleRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ericson Vasquez-Moran, 22, of Guatemala, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to depredation and injury to government property, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
On May 13, 2026, Vasquez-Moran drove his vehicle into a United States Border Patrol vehicle, causing more than $1,000 worth of damage to the government vehicle. He then fled the scene, leading to a high-speed pursuit by law enforcement. Police eventually deployed a spike strip device, disabling Vasquez-Moran’s vehicle. The defendant then fled on foot but surrendered several hours later and was taken into custody.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan W. Fitzgerald. The plea is the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Acting Chief Patrol Agent James D’Amato, the Department of Homeland Security Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Operations Director Phillip Rhoney, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff David Linder.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 11, 2026, before Judge Arcara.
Global Veterinary Drug Distributor Agrees to $100,000 SettlementRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Moore Capito announced today that MWI Veterinary Supply Inc. (MWI) has agreed to pay $100,000 to resolve allegations it failed to identify large oxycodone HCL orders from a Putnam County, West Virginia, veterinarian as suspicious or flag them to authorities, resulting in abuse and probable diversion of these drugs.
MWI, also known as MWI Animal Health, is a global distributor of supplies and pharmaceuticals for the veterinary industry based in Boise, Idaho. As a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registrant authorized to distribute controlled substances, MWI is required under the Controlled Substances Act to design and operate a system to identify suspicious orders of controlled substances and to notify the DEA upon discovering such suspicious orders.
Federal investigators found that MWI’s internal Diversion Control Program policies required a suspicious order to be investigated by MWI’s Diversion Control Team, including documentation for the reason the order was flagged. The internal policy identified oxycodone HCL as a substance “especially susceptible to diversion” that required additional scrutiny. MWI’s internal policy noted that its Suspicious Order Monitoring System “will fail if individuals clear orders without adequate investigation.”
The federal investigation found that between March 8, 2018, and July 10, 2023, MWI filled orders totaling 14,200 dosage units of hydrocodone/acetaminophen at 10 milligrams each, 800 dosage units of oxycodone HCL at 10 milligrams each, and 600 dosage units of oxycodone HCL at 5 milligrams each for Dr. Clara Ann Mason, the Putnam County veterinarian.
These orders were determined to be unusual for a veterinary practice, and amount to more than 16 times the national average for medical practitioners. For the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, Mason ordered substantially more hydrocodone/acetaminophen from MWI than any other individual customer. Mason accounted for all oxycodone HCL dosage units filled by MWI for West Virginia veterinarians in 2022 and 2023.
On September 13, 2022, MWI’s Suspicious Order Monitoring System flagged Mason’s order that day for 300 dosage units of oxycodone HCL at 10 milligrams each. Federal investigators determined than an MWI representative opened the suspicious order for review and released it the next day without substantial investigation. MWI filled nine subsequent orders for oxycodone HCL from Mason, including one for approximately 1,300 pills, without questioning Mason or doing further due diligence.
“The authority to distribute controlled substance requires complete adherence to the law and mandated internal policies to protect our communities against the consequences of diversion and abuse,” Capito said. “This settlement agreement is the result of outstanding work by the Drug Enforcement Administration, our office’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement and Health Care Fraud Investigative Specialist Tyler E. Japhet, and Assistant United States Attorney Gregory P. Neil.”
“DEA registrants like MWI are obligated to uphold the stringent reporting requirements outlined in the Controlled Substances Act; a failure to do so can result in the diversion of medications that have a high potential for abuse, and endanger our communities,” said Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Louisville Division, which serves Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia. “Hopefully, today’s settlement will serve as a costly reminder that compels MWI to take the threat of drug diversion seriously.”
Capito’s office secured a $956,709 default judgment against Mason on July 31, 2025. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers ordered Mason to pay the maximum civil penalties, concluding that she ordered thousands of doses of opioids and other drugs, failed to keep these drugs secured, failed to keep track of these drugs, and apparently fabricated records to cover her failures.
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. 3:35-cv-175 (Mason).
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Georgia Man Sentenced to 13½ Years in Prison for Philadelphia, Upper Darby CarjackingsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Jalaal Claitt, 20, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced yesterday afternoon to 162 months in prison, five years of supervised release, and $7,400 in restitution by United States District Judge Juan R. Sánchez for committing two armed carjackings.
The defendant was charged by superseding indictment in April of last year for his roles in a September 2024 carjacking in West Philadelphia and an October 2024 carjacking in Upper Darby, Pa.
This February, Claitt entered a plea of guilty before United States Magistrate Judge Jose R. Arteaga to two counts of carjacking and one count of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
As described in the superseding indictment and other public filings, on September 17, 2024, Victim #1 parked on the 300 block of 62nd Street in Philadelphia and reported being immediately approached by three males, later identified by investigators as Claitt and co-defendants Kristian Jackson, 20, and Legend Hall, 20, both of Philadelphia.
One of the defendants asked Victim #1 to drive them somewhere. When Victim #1 refused, two of the males took out handguns and told Victim #1 to get out of the car. The three males then got into Victim #1’s black Chevy Malibu and drove off with Victim #1’s iPhone 14 and approximately $500 that was in the car.
As further detailed in court filings, on October 1, 2024, Claitt, Hall and others placed an order for a pizza delivery at Slices and Moore in Upper Darby. When the delivery driver (Victim #2) attempted to make the delivery, the defendant and others pointed guns at him and took Victim #2’s wallet, phone, car keys, the proceeds of the pizza shop, and the rest of the money that Victim #2 had on him at the time. Claitt and the others then jumped into Victim #2’s vehicle and fled the area.
Co-defendant Jackson pleaded guilty to the West Philadelphia carjacking and was sentenced in February to eight and half years in prison. Co-defendant Hall pleaded guilty to both the West Philadelphia and Upper Darby carjackings and was sentenced in April to 11½ years in prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department, with assistance from the Upper Darby Township Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert E. Eckert and Samantha A. Arena.
Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and possessed a firearm and ammunition as a prohibited person during and in furtherance of the conspiracy was sentenced August 4, 2026, to more than 18 years in federal prison.
Ray Spencer Hollers, age 31, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 20, 2026, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine, two counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine, one count of possession of firearms by a prohibited person, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
At the plea hearing, Hollers admitted that from November 2024 to December 2024, Hollers and others agreed to distribute methamphetamine. He also admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine that he was caught with by law enforcement officers on several occasions.
On February 7, 2023, law enforcement officers in Webster County, Iowa, attempted a traffic stop on a car Hollers was driving. Hollers failed to stop and a high-speed pursuit ensued. Hollers reached speeds of over 100 miles-per-hour. After he hit “stop-sticks,” Hollers came to a stop and officers arrested him. Officers searched the car and seized more than 600 grams of methamphetamine, items for its distribution, over $1,800 U.S. currency, and various ammunition magazines belonging to Hollers.
On December 5, 2024, after observing Hollers makea drug sale, law enforcement officers in Webster County, Iowa, again attempted a traffic stop of a car Hollers was driving. Once again, Hollers failed to stop for law enforcement, and a similar high-speed pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, law enforcement
Officers observed Hollers discarding methamphetamine from his car. Hollers stopped once it was disabled by striking a concrete median. Law enforcement officers searched the car and seized approximately one-pound of methamphetamine, items for its distribution, two firearms (one loaded), and over $4,000 U.S. currency. That same day, officers searched a residence in Fort Dodge that was associated with Hollers. Officers seized approximately 75 grams pure methamphetamine and a digital scale.
During the investigation, law enforcement officers obtained information that Hollers was a source of methamphetamine to numerous individuals and that Hollers would often carry firearms. Hollers was previously convicted of several felonies in the State of Iowa, including a drug trafficking offense in 2017, possession of multiple firearms by a convicted felon in 2018, and a dangerous eluding by vehicle in 2020, among numerous other criminal offenses the preceding ten years.
Hollers was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Judge Strand found that Hollers repeated, dangerous eluding conduct while in possession of large quantities of methamphetamine and firearms and ammunition extremely aggravating and despicable. Hollers was sentenced to 224 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.
Hollers is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick T. Greenwood and Shawn S. Wehde, and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Dodge Police Department, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Sac County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-03056.
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Former St. Louis Aldermanic Candidate Admits Committing Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A businessman and former St. Louis aldermanic candidate on Wednesday admitted committing Social Security disability fraud by falsely claiming to be unable to work for years.
Justin Idleburg, 47, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of theft of government money. He admitted that from January 2019 to May 2024, he failed to report his business activities and income from grants to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and exaggerated his symptoms to remain medically eligible for benefits. He fraudulently received a total of $51,388.50.
Idleburg initially began receiving Social Security disability benefits in January 2007. His disability determination was reviewed in 2018 and 2024, when he reported mental health symptoms and difficulty getting along with others. Despite those claims, beginning as early as 2017, Idleburg was involved in multiple community organizations, organized and attended public events, ran for the St. Louis Board of Alderman in 2019 and started two businesses, he admitted in his plea agreement. In March 2019, he formed Idleburg Consultants, LLC and listed himself as the principal. In 2020 his social media showed him volunteering at the polls for an election event. In 2022 Idleburg posted a photo of a chancellor’s certificate he received from the University of Missouri St. Louis in economic development.
In August of 2023, Idleburg registered Cabanne District Community Development Corporation and listed himself as president. He applied for and received $67,000 in grants for his business and deposited the grants in bank accounts he failed to disclose to the SSA. In 2023 he also participated in multiple media interviews regarding his businesses and spoke to lawmakers in Jefferson City regarding cultural bias in the energy sector.
Idleburg is scheduled to be sentenced on November 5. The charge carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison.
The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General’s Cooperative Disability Investigations program investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jolene Taaffe is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Former Kansas first responder pleads guilty to child pornography distributionRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A former Kansas emergency responder pleaded guilty to sending and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online.
According to court documents, Dylan Jamescupp, 34, of Ottawa pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.
Between July 2021 and September 2022, Jamescupp uploaded and traded CSAM using social media platforms. Whenever a platform suspended or terminated his accounts, Jamescupp would create a new account to continue with his criminal activities. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received multiple cybertips about Jamescupp which were forwarded to the U.S. Secret Service.
In March 2024, federal agents executed a search warrant at Jamescupp’s home where agents seized electronic devices. A forensic analysis found CSAM including 2,306 photos and 369 videos. Jamescupp told investigators he’d viewed sexual exploitation images involving children as young as eight years old. His phone GPS information indicated that Jamescupp was sent CSAM images while at the Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department, where he worked as an emergency medical technician prior to the search of his home.
Jamescupp is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.###
Former General Superintendent of the New York City Department of Sanitation Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Pete Gizas, and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today that VICTOR ALVELO has been charged with possessing approximately thousands of images and videos depicting child pornography, including images that depict pre-pubescent children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. ALVELO was arrested yesterday and presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary Stein in Manhattan federal court.
“Victor Alvelo, the General Superintendent of the New York City Department of Sanitation (‘DSNY’), is accused of possessing thousands of images of graphic child sexual abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Sexual abuse of children inevitably leads to irreparable harm to those innocent and vulnerable victims. Our Office is committed to pursuing justice against those who commit these unfathomable acts. Together with our partners at HSI and the NYPD’s Computer Crimes Squad, we will work tirelessly to detect predators, prosecute them, and protect our community’s children.
“As a former senior public official, Victor Alvelo allegedly betrayed the confidence placed in him by the city and the public, even brazenly using his government-branded clothing to store files containing material that no person should ever possess,” said HSI New York Acting Special Agent in Charge Pete Gizas. “Those who seek out and keep child sexual abuse material perpetuate the abuse of children and fuel a predatory market built on their exploitation. HSI New York will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners to identify offenders, pursue justice, and safeguard our community’s children, vulnerable populations, and the public at-large.”
“Victor Alvelo allegedly possessed thousands of disturbing images of child pornography, including victims as young as 12 years old,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “The NYPD will be relentless in stopping predators who seek to exploit and harm children. I thank our investigators, including the NYPD’s Computer Crimes Squad, and law enforcement partners for finding this illegal and vile material, and working to hold this perpetrator accountable.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint:(1)
ALVELO served as a General Superintendent of the DSNY until his retirement in or about August 2025. From at least in or about August 2022 through on or about August 3, 2026, ALVELO possessed approximately thousands of images and videos depicting child pornography on devices within his residence. The child pornography files were found in, among other places, a USB flash drive in the front pocket of a jacket bearing DSNY insignia inside ALVELO’s residence.
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ALVELO, 61, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of possessing child pornography, including images and videos of prepubescent minors and minors who had not attained 12 years of age, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding work of HSI, including the Child Exploitation Investigations Team, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the NYPD Computer Crimes Squad.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulena B. Prager is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Former Denver Man Sentenced to 42 Months for Complex Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
DENVER –The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Heath Posey, 39, formerly of Denver, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison, more than $6.2 million in restitution to victims and the IRS, a $10,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for his role in operating a multi-million-dollar fraudulent investment scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately December 2022 through May 2024, Posey was the Chief Financial Officer of the ROI Cash Flow Fund, a fraudulent investment scheme. The ROI Cash Flow Fund was founded in June 2022 by Timothy McPhee. In late December 2022, McPhee hired Posey to serve as the fund’s Chief Financial Officer. In December 2025, McPhee was sentenced to 151 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $59 million in restitution to the IRS and victims of the investment fraud scheme.
The ROI Cash Flow Fund was advertised to prospective investors as an opportunity to earn a 3% monthly return on a principal investment. Investors were told that the ROI Cash Flow Fund generated the 3% monthly returns by lending investor funds to a borrower who engaged in foreign exchange currency (forex) trading to generate a profit. As the fund’s CFO, Posey tracked the money moving in and out of the ROI Cash Flow Fund bank accounts, circulated fund materials, and initiated monthly payments to investors.
In February 2023, unbeknownst to investors, the ROI Cash Flow Fund stopped sending investor funds to the borrower because the borrower was not paying returns as expected. To keep the fund running, McPhee and Posey started using investor funds to make 3% monthly payouts to certain investors. They continued to solicit investments into the fund. Although Posey knew that as of March 2023 the ROI Cash Flow Fund was not operating as advertised, he nevertheless helped McPhee conceal and carry out this fraud scheme until around May 2024. During this time, Posey repeatedly made false statements to investors, including that investors’ funds would be sent to a borrower who engaged in forex trading. Posey also helped recruit investors into the ROI Cash Flow Fund despite knowing that the fund was running out of money.
From January 2023 until its collapse in February 2024, the ROI Cash Flow Fund generated a total of about $8 million in investments. McPhee and Posey used more than $5 million in investor funds to make 3% monthly payouts to certain investors, and Posey helped McPhee siphon off more than $2.2 million in investor funds for McPhee’s own financial gain. Both men also used investor funds to pay Posey’s salary and fund-related expenses, though investors were told their money would not be used to pay salaries, fees, or fund expenses. In total, the ROI Cash Flow Fund scheme caused a loss to investors of approximately $6 million.
“It’s good news for our community that these swindlers are no longer able to hurt trusting clients with their schemes,” said United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Peter McNeilly. “The Department of Justice is committed to holding fraudsters who abuse the trust of others accountable.”
“This defendant played a substantial role in orchestrating an elaborate Ponzi scheme that cost investors millions of dollars,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Amanda Koldjeski. “Pursuing his own greedy ends, the defendant lied repeatedly to investors and led to numerous individuals losing their life savings, retirement funds, and peace of mind. The FBI aggressively pursues fraudsters who try to benefit themselves by stealing from others.”
“This defendant will spend years in prison for participating in a conspiracy that defrauded investors out of their hard-earned savings,” said Todd Wacaser, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation's Denver Field Office. “Criminals who prey on hardworking people for their own financial gain should expect to be held accountable. IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to protect taxpayers and investors, safeguard the integrity of our financial system, and work with our law enforcement partners to bring those responsible to justice.”
United States District Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney presided over the sentencing.
The FBI Denver Field Office and the IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Scott for the District of Colorado and former Trial Attorney Lauren K. Pope of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section handled the prosecution.
Case Number: 24-CR-352-CNS-2
Final defendant sentenced to 21 years for distributing fentanyl resulting in fatal overdose in Homeland Security Task Force caseRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Fairbanks woman was sentenced today to 21 years in prison for her role in distributing fentanyl that resulted in the overdose death of a local man in 2022.
According to court documents, from May to July 2022, Samantha Pearson, 39, and Edward Ginnis, 40, of Fairbanks, conspired together and with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute drugs in the Fairbanks area. Specifically, Ginnis distributed drugs to Pearson, who then sold the substances to others. Ginnis and Pearson’s actions were a small part of a larger drug trafficking enterprise allegedly being directed by an inmate in a California prison.
On or about June 11, 2022, Ginnis received a shipment of drugs through the mail that contained fentanyl. Later that day, Ginnis sent text messages to several distributors asking if they had potential purchasers. Pearson offered to help sell drugs. On June 25, Adam Sakkinen, 32, an individual who struggled with heroin usage, messaged Pearson asking to purchase drugs. Around noon, Pearson agreed to sell drugs to Sakkinen. Sakkinen sent Pearson $50.00 before messaging that he was on his way. At 12:34 p.m., Sakkinen called Pearson.
Later, at 12:58 p.m. that same day, local fire and emergency medical services responded to a single car accident on the side of a road in Badger, Alaska. First responders found Sakkinen unconscious behind the wheel of a car with drug paraphernalia in his hands and near him. Law enforcement officials tested the paraphernalia, and it tested positive for fentanyl.
First responders administered six doses of Narcan to Sakkinen and he regained a pulse. Sakkinen was transported to two hospitals and was put on life support at a hospital in Anchorage. Sakkinen spent 11 days in the intensive care unit before he passed away. A sample of Sakkinen’s blood was sent for testing and lab results found that he had 20 nanograms per milliliter of fentanyl in his bloodstream at the time of his death. Reports show that the average lethal level of fentanyl in the bloodstream is eight nanograms per milliliter.
On Jan. 18, 2025, Pearson and Ginnis were indicted on federal drug trafficking charges. Pearson and Ginnis both pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances resulting in death on April 20, 2026, and April 3, 2025, respectively. On July 8, 2025, Ginnis was sentenced to 22 years in prison.
In handing down Pearson’s sentence, the Court recognized the devastating impact fentanyl has had in Alaskan communities, stating that “this was more of a poisoning than an overdose.” The Court also emphasized the need for general deterrence by stating that the public should know that if someone sells an illegal substance and another person dies, the sentence imposed will be harsh.
“This sentence is the conclusion of a multi-year investigation and prosecution to hold Ms. Pearson and Mr. Ginnis accountable for their greed-motivated decision to distribute the drugs that took an innocent life,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “I commend the phenomenal investigatory and prosecutorial efforts put forth by the Assistant U.S. Attorneys and law enforcement in Alaska throughout this case. It takes all of us to dismantle the drug pipeline targeting our country.”
“Fentanyl traffickers who choose profit over human life will be held accountable,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division. “The defendant’s role in distributing the fentanyl that killed a member of the Fairbanks community underscores the deadly consequences of this poison. Through Fentanyl Free America, DEA is relentlessly disrupting the criminal networks driving this crisis, reducing the availability of fentanyl, and protecting American lives. DEA and our law enforcement partners will not stop until those responsible are brought to justice.”
“Those who traffic fentanyl in Alaska endanger entire communities and destroy families,” said Colonel Maurice Hughes, Director of the Alaska State Troopers. “This sentence reinforces a simple point: drug traffickers will be held accountable for the destruction that they cause. The Alaska State Troopers, alongside our local, state, and federal partners, will continue to relentlessly pursue these criminals, disrupt their operations, and protect Alaskans from the deadly impact of these illicit substances.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska has been recused from this case with the exception of certain personnel. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven D. Clymer from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York has been appointed as Special Attorney to the United States Attorney General to assist with this and other recused cases. He reports to and acts under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General, or his delegee, or U.S. Attorney Bradford in these cases. Special Attorney Clymer supervises personnel from the District of Alaska who have been exempted from the recusal.
The DEA Seattle Field Division and Anchorage District Office, Alaska State Troopers, North Slope Borough Police Department, North Pole Police Department and Fairbanks Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephan Collins, Chris Schroeder and Alana Weber are prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region One comprises agents and officers from Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations – Seattle; the United States Attorney’s Office(s) for the Districts of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Eastern Washington, and Western Washington; the Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); CBP – Office of Field Operations; CBP – Air & Marine Operations; U.S. Border Patrol; U.S. Coast Guard, Coast Guard Investigative Service; and Transportation Security Administration, Law Enforcement/Federal Air Marshal Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.
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Final Defendant Sentenced in Montgomery Dry Cleaning Business Robbery CaseRead the Press Release
The final defendant has been sentenced for his role in the violent robbery of a Montgomery dry cleaning business, bringing the federal prosecution of all four participants in the March 10, 2025, crime to a close.
On August 5, 2026, a federal judge sentenced Clinton Thompson, 56, of Birmingham, Alabama, to 121 months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty on April 13, 2026, to one count of Hobbs Act robbery. Following his prison term, Thompson will serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Thomas Govan and Special Agent in Charge Christopher R. Flowers with the FBI Mobile Field Office made the announcement.
“Violent crime has no place in our communities, and those who commit these offenses should expect substantial federal prison sentences,” said United States Attorney Govan. “This was a calculated and violent robbery that left a hardworking business owner injured and traumatized. With the sentencing of the final defendant, every member of this robbery crew has now been brought to justice. Together, the defendants received nearly 53 years in federal prison, a result that reflects the severity of their conduct and the outstanding work of our law enforcement partners.”
“Today’s sentencing of Clinton Thompson ends the final, real-life chapter of something you would only expect to find in a true crime story,” said Special Agent in Charge Flowers. “This brazen group of criminals pre-planned a robbery, then executed that plan with violence and intimidation, and stole not only the victim’s cash, but also the victim’s car. What this robbery crew did not expect was the relentless tenacity of federal, state, and local law enforcement. The FBI and our partners worked quickly and aggressively to investigate this case, and ensured these violent offenders were held accountable.”
According to his plea agreement and other court records, Thompson joined co-defendants Zedekiah Sykes, Spirit Hooks, and Spencer Thomas in carrying out the robbery of the Montgomery business located on East South Street. After shattering the front door with a rock, the four men forced their way inside and confronted the business owner.
During the robbery, Thomas brandished what appeared to be a handgun, pointed it at the victim’s head, and demanded that the safe be opened. The weapon was later determined to be a BB gun. When the victim struggled to remember the safe’s combination, Hooks struck him in the left eye, causing visible bruising and swelling. The group ultimately gained access to the safe and stole approximately $8,000 in cash. Before fleeing, the men zip-tied the victim’s hands and feet, stole his cell phone and car keys, and escaped in the victim’s vehicle.
Thompson is the fourth and final defendant to be sentenced in the case. Sykes, the organizer and ringleader of the robbery, was sentenced to 195 months in federal prison on October 23, 2025. Hooks was sentenced to 175 months in federal prison, and Thomas received a sentence of 144 months in federal prison, both on January 13, 2026. Sykes, Hooks, and Thomas were also ordered to pay $9,598.74 in restitution to the victimized business. Thompson was ordered to pay restitution jointly and severally with his co-defendants.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Montgomery Police Department, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Unit investigated this case, with assistance from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Feil.
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.
Fentanyl Near Playground Leads to Ohio Man’s ConvictionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA — A Canton, Ohio man has admitted to having more than 40 grams of fentanyl near a playground in Ohio County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Jaylen Jawaun Lashawn Martin, also known as “Money,” age 29, pleaded guilty to one charge of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl within 1,000 feet of a protected location. According to statements made in court, Martin was staying at a hotel in the Elm Grove section of Wheeling. While under investigation for drug trafficking, officers observed Martin exit a vehicle and go inside his room. Officers arrested Martin and conducted a lawful search of the vehicle, seizing a shopping bag containing nearly 72 grams of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. The hotel is within 1,000 feet of Overbrook Playground.
Martin faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 80 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated.
Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Federal Jury Finds Columbia County Man Guilty of Knowingly Providing a False Statement to a Federally Licensed Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal jury has found Bryan Steven Etheridge (40, Columbia County) guilty of providing a false statement to a federally licensed firearms dealer. Etheridge faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 16, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to evidence presented at trial, on May 10, 2025, Etheridge attempted to purchase a .40 caliber pistol from a firearms dealer in Columbia County. When completing a Firearms Transaction Record (ATF Form 4473), Etheridge knowingly provided a false statement by denying that he was subject to a court order restraining him from stalking, harassing, or threatening an intimate partner or child of an intimate partner. In fact, in 2024, Etheridge’s wife and mother of their six children sought a domestic violence injunction against him and the court imposed an injunction through early 2026.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rick Lasseter and David Mesrobian.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Federal Jury Finds Armed Career Criminal Guilty of Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – After a two-day federal trial, a jury found Rodriquez Henley, 33, of Memphis, guilty of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and made a special finding that Henley’s extensive criminal history qualified him for enhanced punishment as an Armed Career Criminal (ACC). United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the verdict today.
According to information presented in court, on May 19, 2025, officers with the Memphis Police Department located Henley at the Know-It-All Market on Park Avenue while responding to a disturbance call. Upon detaining Henley based on an outstanding warrant, officers recovered a black Ruger .380 caliber handgun from his front waistband.
During the trial, the jury heard evidence of Henley’s criminal history, which includes two separate convictions for Aggravated Robbery as well as a conviction for Aggravated Burglary. The jury found Henley guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm and made a finding that he had committed at least three violent felonies on different occasions, triggering the enhanced sentencing penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA).
A sentencing hearing is scheduled to be held on November 10, 2026 before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman. As a result of the verdict and ACC designation, Henley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of at least 15 years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “Henley’s lifestyle of lawlessness has finally caught up with him. He has devoted most of his life to repeated violent crimes, and now the federal system will do what should have been done a long time ago – impose a real consequence that will prevent him from victimizing anyone else for years to come.”
The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department (MPD) as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative.
Special Assistant United States Attorneys Yosef Hochheiser and Kesha Zaffino, both of the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
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For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Federal Inmate Convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter in the Death of CellmateRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG– The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rudy Mendoza, age 41, was convicted on July 31, 2026, of voluntary manslaughter in the death of his cellmate following a five-day jury trial before United States District Judge Keli M. Neary. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, on July 30, 2019, the Bureau of Prison’s staff found Mendoza’s cellmate dead in their cell within the Special Housing Unit at United States Penitentiary, Canaan, Waymart, PA. The correctional officers found blood in various locations throughout the cell and the victim had multiple injuries to his head and face. The cause of death was cardiorespiratory collapse secondary to physical trauma.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorneys Scott Ford, Stephen Dukes, and William Behe prosecuted the case.
The maximum penalty for these offenses is 15 years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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Federal Corrections Officer and Wife Plead Guilty to Smuggling Contraband, Including Drugs, to Lompoc InmateRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A correctional officer at a federal prison in Santa Barbara County and his wife pleaded guilty today to smuggling contraband – including a drug used to treat opioid addiction – to a prison inmate in exchange for a total of $6,650 over several months.
Paul Betancourt, 38, and Sylvia Betancourt, 49, of Lompoc, each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to provide contraband to a federal inmate.
According to their plea agreements, Paul Betancourt was employed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) as a correctional officer at Federal Correction Complex, Lompoc. From May 2023 to September 2023, Paul Betancourt agreed to provide contraband to an FCC Lompoc inmate. Sylvia Betancourt received payment and contraband from the inmate through the inmate’s intermediaries, which she then delivered to her husband.
The defendants admitted that on at least 13 occasions, they met with, or received payment from, a Lompoc inmate or one of the inmate’s intermediaries for the delivery of contraband, including controlled substances such as suboxone. The payments ranged from $100 to as much as $1,500, according to court documents.
In total, the inmate paid the defendants $6,650 to provide contraband to him at FCC Lompoc.
The BOP has indefinitely suspended Paul Betancourt.
United States District Judge Anne Hwang scheduled sentencing hearings for January 27, 2027, at which time the defendants will each face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
The United States of Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher C. Kendall and Patrick Castañeda of the Transnational Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.
Falconer man pleads guilty to production of child pornography shortly after federal trial beginsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Yusef E. Malik Myrick, 27, of Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty to four counts of production of child pornography before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. following opening arguments in his federal jury trial. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Between September 2020, and December 19, 2021, Myrick communicated with several minor females on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram, coercing four minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purposes of producing visual depictions of such conduct.
During the investigation, law enforcement officers discovered that in December 2021, Myrick instructed co-defendant Lily A. Brandow to locate his cell phone, which he hid in their home in an attempt to conceal it from law enforcement. He also instructed Brandow to access and delete several Google accounts and a Snapchat account which he knew were subjects of the investigation and prosecution. On January 31, 2022, during the arrest of Brandow, Myrick’s cell phone was seized and found to contain child pornography.
The investigation further determined that Myrick engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with a victim on Snapchat, during which he asked the minor victim to send him a sexually explicit photo. Myrick also accessed the victim’s Snapchat account and posted a video to her public Snap Story, depicting the victim engaged in sexual activity with another known minor. In addition, Myrick engaged in sexual activity with three other minor victims and recorded the activity on his cell phone. He sent the sexually explicit videos from two of the victims to other individuals.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James B. Quattrone; the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Forster; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone, and the Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief Daniel Ingrao. Additional assistance was provided by the Rome, Georgia Police Department, and the Child Advocacy Program of Chautauqua County.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date before Judge Sinatra.
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