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4 August 2026
Rocky Mount Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty in $3.9M Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Rocky Mount woman, Angela Dickens, 54, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns resulting a tax loss of approximately $3,900,000. Dickens faces a maximum penalty of 36 months in prison when sentenced in November 2026. She has agreed to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
“What a shocking abuse of trust for a tax return preparer to file hundreds of fraudulent federal income tax returns. No longer will we tolerate the petty misery of the destruction of society by vicious selfishness. Let this sentence serve as a warning to others considering the same dirty deeds: We will find you and prosecute you. Cheaters. Never. Win,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle.
Dickens operated Empire Tax Service, later renamed K&J Tax Service, in North Carolina. From 2017 to 2023, Dickens and at least one co‑conspirator fraudulently filed hundreds of tax returns by inflating “Other 1099 Withholding” amounts. Their scheme inflated taxpayer refunds and allowed them to take excessive fees from those refunds. A tax return preparation business gathers clients’ financial information, organizes it, and files their federal and state tax returns accurately. It aims to guide clients through the tax process efficiently, lawfully, and with as little stress as possible.
“Tax return preparers who try to defraud the tax system should be aware that IRS Criminal Investigation will expose these schemes and work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold those responsible accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Charlotte Field Office. “Today's plea is a reminder to those who might consider preparing false tax returns that IRS-CI will continue their aggressive pursuit of those who attempt to defraud the United States tax system.”
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the plea. The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations is investigating the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:26-CR-126-M-1.
Rhode Island Woman Pleads Guilty to Operating Unlicensed Money Transmitting BusinessRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – On July 30, 2026, a Rhode Island woman pleaded guilty in federal court to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business that moved funds between individuals in the United States and foreign countries.
Bukky Olukoga, 52, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 27, 2026. The sentence imposed will be determined by a federal district court judge after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
According to court documents, Olukoga owned and controlled Grace’s Property Investment LLC, a Rhode Island entity that used her prior and current residential addresses as business locations. Using bank accounts held in her name and in the name of Grace’s Property, Olukoga opened and maintained accounts at multiple financial institutions, including Santander Bank, Washington Trust, Citizens Bank, TD Bank, and Bank of America. She also created and used peer‑to‑peer mobile payment accounts, including Cash App and Zelle.
Between at least February 16, 2020, and April 17, 2022, Olukoga received funds from third parties through cash, money orders, deposits, and electronic transfers into accounts under her control. She then transferred those funds to bank accounts held by individuals and entities overseas, including recipients in Nigeria and China. Olukoga received a fee for transfers she made on behalf of third parties.
Olukoga did not possess the licenses required to operate a money transmitting business at the state or federal level.
As part of her plea agreement, Olukoga agreed to forfeit approximately $203,969 in assets involved in or derived from the offense, including U.S. currency and funds seized from bank and investment accounts.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Denise M. Barton.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).Recidivist Westchester County Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 292 Months in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl That Killed A Man, Conspiring to Distribute Crack Cocaine, and Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that PERRY FREEMAN was sentenced to 292 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas for distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of a Westchester County resident, conspiring to distribute crack cocaine, and illegally possessing ammunition. On February 11, 2026, FREEMAN pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew E. Krause.
“Perry Freeman, a recidivist drug dealer, sold fentanyl to a victim who died shortly after taking the drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “This Office will not rest until the public is safe and that those who peddle this poison have been brought to justice, as Perry Freeman now has.”
According to the charging documents and statements made in public filings and public court proceedings:
On or about November 10, 2021, FREEMAN sold fentanyl to his victim, a 37-year-old man.
Shortly thereafter, the police responded to a report of a burning car in a parking lot in the Town of Mohegan Lake, New York, approximately a three-minute drive from FREEMAN’s apartment building. They found a Ford Focus on fire; the victim was in the driver’s seat with his foot on the accelerator pedal. After the fire department put the fire out, the victim—who was dead—was pulled out. Investigators determined that the car had caught fire after overheating while the accelerator pedal was depressed for an excessive period of time while the car was in park, i.e., while the victim was passed out in the driver’s seat with his foot on the pedal.
The Westchester County Medical Examiner’s Office, which is part of the Westchester Department of Laboratories and Research, performed an autopsy on the victim. The victim had lethal levels of both fentanyl and norfentanyl (a metabolite of fentanyl) in his blood, and there was some darkening of the victim’s lungs, which indicated smoke inhalation before his death. The victim’s cause of death was certified as both acute fentanyl intoxication and accident.
In addition, FREEMAN conspired to distribute crack cocaine over a period of years and possessed five shotgun shells in his apartment despite being prohibited from doing so due to multiple prior felony convictions, including convictions for narcotics offenses in 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2022.
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In addition to the prison sentence, FREEMAN, 40, of Mohegan Lake, New York, was sentenced to five years of supervised release.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Yorktown Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.
The case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Maimin and Ben Arad are in charge of the prosecution.
Puerto Rican Man Sentenced for Damaging AircraftRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Puerto Rican man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for an incident in which he opened an emergency exit door while aboard a JetBlue flight preparing for takeoff from Boston to Puerto Rico.
Angel Luis Morales Torres, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge F. Dennis Saylor to one year of probation. Morales Torres was also ordered to pay approximately $60,000 in restitution. In May 2026, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of damaging or disabling an aircraft. Morales was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025.
On Jan. 7, 2025, Morales was a passenger aboard a JetBlue flight scheduled to fly from Boston to Puerto Rico. While the aircraft was on the taxiway preparing for takeoff, Morales stood up from his seat, ran down the aisle and entered an empty emergency exit row, where he began attempting to open the emergency exit door. A flight attendant attempted to restrain Morales and he was eventually tackled by another passenger. Prior to being restrained, Morales managed to open the emergency door, causing the emergency inflatable slide to deploy, and rendering the aircraft inoperable.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Special assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Maynard of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
Providence Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Providence man who worked as a drug runner for a transnational narcotics trafficking organization pleaded guilty today in federal court in Rhode Island to methamphetamine and fentanyl charges.
Kyle Lemay, 20, pleaded guilty conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Lemay is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. The sentence imposed by a federal district judge will be based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
According to court documents, Lemay worked as a runner for a transnational narcotics trafficking organization operating out of the Dominican Republic. During the investigation, agents seized more than fourteen pounds of crystal methamphetamine and 275 grams of fentanyl from Lemay’s Providence residence.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie M. White.
The matter was investigated by the DEA Providence District Office with assistance from the Newport Police Department and Providence Police Department.
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 effort to dismantle criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in the United States and abroad. The HSTF places particular emphasis on crimes involving children and employs all available tools to identify, investigate, prosecute, and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
HSTF Providence includes agents and officers from the DEA Providence District Office, the Newport Police Department, and the Providence Police Department, with prosecution led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island.
Polk County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempted Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Bradly Dwayne Wimberly (32, Bradley) has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber for attempted production of child sexual abuse material. Wimberly entered a guilty plea on May 4, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, between February 15, 2024, and July 10, 2025, Wimberly communicated online with someone whom he believed was a 13-to-14-year-old girl. He repeatedly asked the minor to produce sexually explicit images and videos of herself and send them to him. In actuality, Wimberly was communicating with an undercover Homeland Security Investigations special agent.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Multiple Robberies Targeting Armored TrucksRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Mujahid Davis, 24, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 11 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and $134,000 in restitution by United States District Judge Gail A. Weilheimer for his role in multiple area robberies targeting armored trucks.
The defendant was charged by superseding indictment in January and pleaded guilty in March to two attempted Hobbs Act robberies, two Hobbs Act robberies, and one count of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, Davis, with others, participated in the following crimes:
- the July 2, 2025, robbery of a Brinks truck in Philadelphia
- the July 15, 2025, attempted robbery of a Brinks truck in Philadelphia
- the August 12, 2025, robbery of a Brinks truck in Elkins Park, Pa.
- the October 3, 2025, attempted robbery of a Brinks truck in Philadelphia.
In total, the defendant admitted to stealing $122,225 from Brinks, Inc.
Davis’s co-defendant, Dante Shackleford, 27, also of Philadelphia, pleaded guilty in April of this year to three attempted Hobbs Act robberies, one Hobbs Act robbery, and carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Shackleford is scheduled to be sentenced later this month.
This case was investigated by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Eckert and Kwambina Coker.
Philadelphia In-Home Care Services Provider Agrees to Pay $1 Million to Resolve Allegations of False Claims Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced today that Blessings 4 Ever Home Care Agency LLC and V&V Management Solutions LLC (“Blessings”) have agreed to a $1 million resolution of civil claims arising from improperly submitting claims for payment from the Medicaid Program for services provided by personal care attendants (“PCAs”) using falsified documentation, and for the improper billing of claims for in-home personal care services for beneficiaries that were hospital inpatients.
Blessings provides in-home health, personal care, and related services to Pennsylvania Medicaid beneficiaries, and bills the Medicaid Program for such services. V&V, a related entity, provides management services to Blessings. The United States contends that Blessings 4 Ever submitted or caused to be submitted claims for payment to the Medicaid Program for services provided by PCAs using falsified documentation, resulting in false claims in violation of the False Claims Act.
The United States alleges that from January 2015 to December 2018, Blessings 4 Ever fabricated or backdated 181 training certificates and personnel documents to falsely certify that PCAs satisfied state training requirements and Medicaid Program requirements to provide services inside beneficiaries’ homes. In falsifying their files and using records fabricated to meet program requirements, Blessings 4 Ever allegedly operated its home care agency using certain PCAs who lacked the proper documentation in place to perform the services that were being billed by Blessings 4 Ever, thereby providing substandard services to the detriment of consumers and the Medicaid waiver program.
The United States further alleges that from June 2020 through December 2023, Blessings 4 Ever improperly billed Medicaid for 1,141 claims for in-home personal care services on days when the claimed 209 beneficiaries were hospital inpatients for the entire day receiving medical care payable under the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
“In-home care agencies have a responsibility to ensure that only qualified personnel care for Medicaid beneficiaries in their homes. They must not only properly document the training and qualifications of those providing services for Medicaid reimbursement, but must also ensure that qualified personnel are in fact providing the services billed,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf.
“HHS-OIG remains dedicated to combating Medicaid fraud by ensuring only qualified and trained individuals take care of the vulnerable populations it serves and that Medicaid is only billed appropriately for services that were actually provided,” said Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “HHS‑OIG and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those who put profits above patients accountable for their actions.”
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought by a relator under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the act, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Fatima Precia v. Blessings 4 Ever Home Care Agency LLC and V&V Management Solutions LLC, Civil Action 18-cv-901. Relator will receive a 21% share of the federal recovery.
This investigation was conducted by Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Viveca D. Parker, Lauren DeBruicker, and Deputy Chief Charlene Keller Fullmer handled the investigation and resolution, with former auditor George Niedzwicki and paralegal Brendan Novak.
Perry County man sentenced to 40 years in prison for sexually exploiting 4 minorsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Shannon “Michael” McTighe, 46, formerly of Thornville, Ohio, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 480 months in prison for sexually exploiting at least four minor victims.
“McTighe committed horrific hands-on offenses against four young girls and amassed hundreds of thousands of videos and images of child sexual abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II. “Putting this defendant in federal prison for the next 40 years protects these victims from further abuse and online exploitation.”
According to court documents, McTighe possessed 300,000 images and videos of child pornography on his electronic devices. The content also included newly created material which depicted McTighe sexually abusing four minor victims to whom he had access. The abuse of one victim began when she was 7 years old.
McTighe was arrested by FBI agents in Canton, Ohio, on June 12, 2025. At the time of his arrest, agents recovered numerous digital media devices and three pairs of female juvenile underwear in a safe in McTighe’s residence. His cell phone history included terms like underage, jailbait girls and extremely young.
McTighe pleaded guilty in February 2026 to sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the sentence imposed by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Czerniejewski is representing the United States in this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Owner of Brockton Store “Banks & Brancos” Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The owner of a Brockton clothing store, “Banks & Brancos,” pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to drug trafficking and firearm charges.
Felipe Jonet-Branco, 31, of Brockton, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and 10 counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy scheduled Jonet-Branco’s sentencing for Nov. 2, 2026. Seven members and associates of the Brockton-based Harvard Street Gang were charged in February 2026, following the execution of search warrants at numerous residences and stash locations associated with the group, including Banks & Brancos.
On Feb. 4, 2026, a search was executed at Banks & Brancos in Brockton where 10 firearms, over 35 pounds of marijuana with packaging, over 200 grams of psilocin mushrooms and over $40,000 in cash was seized during the search. Eight of those firearms, along with large-capacity magazines and several empty bottles of promethazine with codeine, were found inside a hidden drawer underneath the store’s front counter. The guns included a large-caliber rifle and a Glock handgun equipped with a machine gun conversion device. An additional gun was hidden inside the store’s vending machine, and another was in plain view in a storage room. Jonet-Branco is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior conviction for felony battery in Miami-Dade County, Fla.
The charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, supervised release for at least three years and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of firearms provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, supervised release for up to three years and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations, Boston Division; the Abington, Acushnet, Ashland, Boston, Braintree, Bridgewater, Brockton, Chelsea, East Bridgewater, Medford, Quincy, Randolph, Raynham, Stoughton, Taunton and West Bridgewater Police Departments; the Plymouth and Suffolk County Sheriff’s Departments; Massachusetts Department of Correction; and the Plymouth, Norfolk and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Cutshall and Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.
Operations Manager of Wholesale Drug Distributor Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Role in Scheme to Buy Nearly $50m of Prescription Medications Under False Pretenses and Resell Them for ProfitRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A North Jersey man was sentenced on July 29, 2026, to 30 months’ imprisonment for conspiring with doctors and others to purchase nearly $50 million worth of oncology and ophthalmology medications, under false pretenses, and then reselling these medications for profit, United States Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Frank Incognito, 46, of Englishtown, New Jersey, previously pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton to an information charging him with conspiring to unlawfully resell various medications, including oncology and ophthalmology medications, that previously had been purchased by a healthcare entity. These medications had been purchased through the medical licenses and offices of various doctors, with the express representation and on the condition that the medications would be used to treat the doctors’ own patients. In actuality, these medications were not used to treat the doctors’ patients; instead, the medications were resold by Incognito and/or his coconspirators for profit.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
For several years, Incognito worked as an operations manager of a wholesale drug distributor located in Sewaren, New Jersey. Incognito conspired with others, including multiple doctors, to obtain expensive prescription medications that Incognito and his coconspirators otherwise would not be able to obtain on their own. These medications were “straw-purchased” through the doctors’ medical practices, and then Incognito and his co-conspirators illegally transferred and resold those medications. Primarily, these medications were cold-chain biologic infusion medications that typically are used to treat cancers, macular degeneration, and autoimmune diseases.
In purchasing the drugs, Incognito and his coconspirators made numerous false and misleading representations to the pharmaceutical manufacturers and authorized distributors, including that the doctors were purchasing the drugs to treat their own patients, and that the drugs would not be resold or redistributed to others. In actuality, none of the drugs were administered to any of the doctors’ own patients but were ultimately sold to customers for a profit.
The scheme in which Incognito participated ran from approximately June 2012 through January 2019. During this time, Incognito conspired with others to buy and sell more than $47.7 million worth of the prescription drugs. Incognito is the third defendant who has been sentenced in connection with this fraudulent scheme, in addition to doctors Anise Kachadourian and Joel Lerner.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations New York Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Fernando McMillan, and special agents of U.S. Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Maltese, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph McFarlane and Sara Aliabadi of the U.S Attorney’s Office in Camden.
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Defense Counsel: Rocco Cipparone, Esq.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 160 Months in Prison for Sex with Missouri TeenRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Tuesday sentenced an Ohio man to 160 months in prison for engaging in sex acts with a Missouri minor.
Andrew Raymond Crum, 33, of Toledo, originally met the girl on an online gaming platform when she was 14 years old, in 2021. Crum began driving to Missouri to have sex with the girl in February of 2024, when she was 16. He also exchanged sexually explicit images and videos with the victim via Snapchat, where he used the name “Sassy Man.”
The FBI was alerted in October of 2024 about Crum’s plans to return to Missouri and located and contacted the victim and her mother.
“Thanks to an anonymous tip to the FBI, we were able to stop Andrew Raymond Crum from continuing to sexually exploit a teenage victim,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “Crum believed he would never be caught. He was wrong. Tips from the public are often the key to rescuing victims and identifying offenders. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue those who prey on children. When they are convicted in federal court, there is no parole.”
Crum pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in April to one count of coercion or enticement of a minor.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Edwards prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Northern District of Indiana U.S. Attorney’s Office Supports Community Events During National Night OutRead the Press Release
HAMMOND, SOUTH BEND, FORT WAYNE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana supports and encourages community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners to participate in National Night Out events on August 4, 2026, in each of the branches in Northwest Indiana, South Bend and Fort Wayne.
“National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. We are proud to support those leaders who are committed to helping make our communities a safer place to live, work, and play,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the United States Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
“Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.
Below is a list of National Night Out Events happening today in the Northern District of Indiana all hosted by local participating law enforcement agencies.
Scheduled Events:
- NATW’s National Night Out at the Pavilion
Wolf Lake Memorial Park
2324 Calumet Ave. Hammond, IN 46320
4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. CST
- St. Joseph County Police National Night Out
Memorial Park
302 W Michigan St, New Carlisle, IN 46552
5:30 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. EST
- South Bend Police Department National Night Out
701 W. Sample Street, South Bend, IN 46601
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. EST
- Fort Wayne Police Department National Night Out
Memorial Park
2301 Maumee Ave. Fort Wayne, IN 46803
5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
New Federal Charges Filed Against Two Defendants in Providence-Area Gang Racketeering Case; Arraignments Completed for All Arrested DefendantsRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – First Assistant United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda and Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Boston Field Division, in partnership with Providence Police Chief Colonel Oscar L. Perez, announce additional federal charges against two defendants related to the ongoing investigation into alleged criminal activities committed by members and associates of East Side/Congress gang and affiliated Providence-area street gangs.
Arraignments have now been completed for all defendants arrested in connection with the racketeering indictment. Nineteen defendants were ordered detained pending trial, two were released on bond, and four defendants remain at large, Jose Bautista, Marcus McClain, Marlon McClain, and Randy Winfield. Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners continue efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining defendants.
On July 22, 2026, additional charges were filed against defendants Dele Souza and Keshawn Jones for narcotics and firearms offenses. Both Souza and Jones were previously named in the June 17, 2026 racketeering indictment charging twenty-three associates and members of The Enterprise. Three additional individuals were charged with related offenses.
According to court documents, the Enterprise operated in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and elsewhere since at least 2013. Prosecutors allege that members and associates advanced the Enterprise’s interests through acts of violence, narcotics trafficking, firearms offenses, fraud schemes, and other criminal conduct. The indictment further alleges that the distribution of controlled substances, including fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, and Percocet, served as a significant source of income for the Enterprise.
Court documents also describe alleged violent crimes committed by members and associates, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to commit murder, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, firearms offenses, narcotics trafficking, wire fraud, and other financial crimes involving fraud against unemployment insurance programs, COVID 19 relief programs, tax filings, and other federal benefit programs.
“For more than a decade, members and associates of this enterprise used violence, firearms, narcotics trafficking, and fraud to strengthen their influence, enrich themselves, and retaliate against rivals,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “The charges in this case allege a pattern of criminal conduct that reached into neighborhoods, businesses, government programs, and communities throughout Rhode Island. This indictment reflects years of work conducted by the ATF, the Providence Police Department, and our law enforcement partners to dismantle an organization that prosecutors allege relied on fear, intimidation, and criminal activity to maintain its power.”
“These arrests represent a significant victory for the City of Providence in the culmination of a long-term effort to identify, investigate, and dismantle the network of violent criminal activity perpetrated by the East Side gang and its affiliates,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco. “This case highlights the experience and expertise of ATF agents in investigating complex and violent criminal organizations. Working with the Providence Police Department and other law enforcement partners, agents identified incidents of violence, conducted witness interviews, and used crime gun intelligence tools such as the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze evidence and hold violent criminals accountable. ATF remains firmly committed to working with our law enforcement partners to build safer, stronger communities.”
“This indictment is the result of years of dedicated work by the Providence Police Department and our law enforcement partners to address violence, drug trafficking, and organized criminal activity that has impacted our neighborhoods," said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. "This case demonstrates our shared commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting the safety of our residents. We remain committed to working with our community and our partners to reduce violence and strengthen public safety throughout Providence.”
“These arrests have made the cities and streets of Rhode Island a safer place,” said Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “Organized street gangs have preyed on the Providence area for far too long. From drug trafficking, to robberies, extortion, and various frauds, these groups have been a stain on society and only act to further their own self-interests at enormous costs to their own communities. Their violent acts of retaliation and retribution have shattered lives and broken families across the region. IRS-CI is proud to, and will continue to work closely with our Federal, State, and Local law enforcement partners to ensure that those who seek to do harm to communities across New England see their day in court.”
New Charges Against Dele Souza
Federal agents executed an arrest warrant for Dele Souza on June 17, 2026. During the arrest and subsequent consent search of Souza’s residence, investigators recovered a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol and quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. Souza was charged with additional offenses including:
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl/cocaine
New Charges Against Keshawn Jones
On the same day, investigators executed arrest and search warrants for Keshawn Jones. Agents recovered approximately 65.59 grams of cocaine from the residence. Jones was charged with additional federal narcotics offenses.
The defendants charged in the indictment are as follows:
*Not yet in custody
(1) JAMES ADAMS a/k/a “Money Man,” a/k/a “DopieDeniro,” a/k/a “Man”
*(2) JOSE BAUTISTA a/k/a “JJ”
(3) JEMEL BLYDEN a/k/a “Mel,” a/k/a “Jemel Waite”
(4) JAMON BROWN a/k/a/ “Sheek”
(5) KEVEND CASTILLO a/k/a “Kev”
(6) RYAN DACRUZ a/k/a “Lil Ry,” a/k/a “Cryan”
(7) LATRELLE FISHER a/k/a “Trelle”
(8) TERRANCE FISHER a/k/a “Baby Moondo,” a/k/a “Doodoo”
(9) NELSON GOMES GONCALVES a/k/a “Nelly”
(10) AYSHA GONZALEZ a/k/a “Easha,” a/k/a “Veronica” a/k/a “GetThatMoney”
(11) KESHAWN JONES a/k/a “Kemoney”
(12) JORDAN KOMHLAN a/k/a “Drowze”
(13) TYREESE McCANTS a/k/a “Reese”
*(14) MARCUS McCLAIN a/k/a “Petey,” a/k/a “Pistol Pete”
*(15) MARLON McCLAIN a/k/a “Marl,” a/k/a “Cuzzy”
(16) DARIO MERCADO a/k/a “Jose”
(17) ROMEO MERCADO a/k/a “Romey”
(18) SCOTT MONROE a/k/a “Skizz,” a/k/a “Sleezy”
(19) ISAIAH ORTIZ a/k/a “Loso”
(20) DENZEL RICHARDSON a/k/a “Deezy,” a/k/a “Richie Rebel”
(21) GARY RUSPUS a/k/a “Lil G”
(22) JEFFREY SIMS a/k/a “Jeffery Sims” a/k/a “Smoove,” a/k/a “Smooth”
(23) DELE SOUZA a/k/a “Deydey”
(24) MARK VARELA
(25) KELVIN VILORIO
*(26) RANDY WINFIELD, a/k/a “Hardbody”
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John P. McAdams, Paul F. Daly, Jr., and Special Assistant United States Attorney John M. Moreira.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Providence Police Department, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, IRS Criminal Investigation, HSTF, and numerous additional federal, state, and local law enforcement partners including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, Rhode Island Department of Corrections, Rhode Island State Police, Central Falls Police Department, Cranston Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Warwick Police Department, West Warwick Police Department, Woonsocket Police Department, Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit - Plymouth County, Shrewsbury (MA) Police Department, Worcester County (MA) District Attorney’s Office
Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office Eastern District of Virginia.
The charges contained in the indictments and complaints are allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time.
The investigation into this case is ongoing
NJ man pleads guilty to document fraudRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, NY — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Christopher Hernandez, 31, of Bergen, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to fraudulent production of more than five identification documents, authentication features, or false identification documents, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
On July 7, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant on Hernandez’s iCloud account swishgoat@gmail.com. The account contained fraudulent driver’s licenses, social security cards, U.S. passports, credit cards, and bank cards. These included a fraudulent NYS Driver’s License using the name and other personally identifiable information of Victim 1, a resident of the Western District of New York. On September 16, 2025, as investigators attempted to execute a search warrant at Hernandez’s residence, he attempted to obstruct justice by destroying evidence. After law enforcement successfully entered the residence, they found additional fraudulent driver’s licenses, social security cards, credit cards, and other identification documents, as well as equipment that the defendant used to make false identification documents.
In total, investigators seized: approximately 67 debit/credit cards; approximately 15 Social Security cards; approximately nine Passport Cards; approximately one Permanent Resident Alien Card; approximately three MTA Transit Track Safety Certifications; and approximately 106 driver’s licenses from approximately 21 different states. Hernandez used the personally identifiable information of more than 10 individuals to produce the identification documents, authentication features, and false identification documents.
In addition, Hernandez admits:
- In December 2024, he fraudulently obtained a $175,400.80 check that was issued out of a bank account belonging to Victim 2. The check was deposited into Hernandez’s checking account.
- In October, 2024, he fraudulently obtained a $10,900 check that was issued out of the retirement account of Victim 3 and deposited into his checking account.
- In April 2024, he fraudulently obtained a $79,500.89 check that was issued out of the retirement account of Victim 4 and deposited into his checking account.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Office of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis, II, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 17, 2026, before Judge Geraci.
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Missoula man pleads guilty to drug, gun charges following high-speed chaseRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula man who trafficked significant amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Wynton Ryan Magee, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Magee faces a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison for the drug offense and a consecutive mandatory minimum of five years up to life in prison for the firearm.
U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Oct. 30, 2026. Magee was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Magee was traveling to Washington to buy fentanyl that he planned to sell in the Missoula area, and that he was doing it while armed.
Law enforcement had learned from multiple sources that Magee was dealing methamphetamine and fentanyl, and that at one point he traded drugs for a handgun. In January 2026, agents learned Magee had rented a motel room for Patrick Allen, who was also dealing fentanyl in the Missoula area. Allen pleaded guilty to drugs and firearm charges earlier this year and was sentenced last week to 10 years in prison.
In February 2026, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Magee’s hotel room and found scales, plastic baggies, and other items associated with drug distribution. Agents also found a handgun. Magee admitted to traveling to Washington to buy fentanyl powder that he distributed in the Missoula area.
Two months later, Magee was returning to Montana from a drug run to Washington when law enforcement on I-90 attempted to pull him over. Rather than stop, Magee led officers on a high-speed chase through a Missoula neighborhood that ended when he crashed his car. In the vehicle, law enforcement found illicit drugs, needles, and other items indicative of drug trafficking. One of the occupants in the car confirmed Magee had purchased 2 ounces of fentanyl in Washington.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
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.
Milton Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Prison for Role in Cross-State Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Milton man was sentenced in federal court to 100 months in prison with four years of supervised release for one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, in a case brought by New Hampshire’s Homeland Security Task Force.
Jacob D. King, age 42, was sentenced by U.S District Court Judge Joseph Laplante yesterday. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, King purchased over $60,000 worth of methamphetamine and fentanyl from a Massachusetts-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) between November 2023 and December 2023. A New Hampshire state investigation led to a search warrant of King’s Milton residence in January of 2024 resulting in the seizure of a weapon, fentanyl, methamphetamine, other drugs, $8,000 cash and multiple cellphones. Investigators discovered messages that revealed King’s transactions with the Massachusetts-based DTO. Investigators learned that King travelled to Massachusetts, and that at least one member of the trafficking conspiracy appeared to visit King’s Milton home, to exchange cash for large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine.
“Those like Mr. King who traffic in dangerous illicit drugs that bring grave harm to New Hampshire communities will face serious criminal consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. “We will continue to work with federal and state law enforcement partners to disrupt these trafficking networks and put those who run their illegal operations behind bars.”
“This sentence sends a clear message: anyone who traffics methamphetamine and fentanyl across state lines and profits from the harm they cause will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “These deadly drugs devastate families and communities, and DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and dismantle the criminal networks responsible for bringing these dangerous substances into our neighborhoods.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. The Hudson Police Department, the Bedford Police Department, the Nashua Police Department, the Manchester Police Department, the Laconia Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Strafford County Sheriff’s Department, and Paralegal Specialist Hayley Orlando provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar Vega and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles V. DeJoie III prosecuted this 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 New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.
Miami Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Exploiting Child in Cuba and Transporting CSAMRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A Miami man who solicited sexually explicit videos and images from a 14-year-old child in Cuba and amassed hundreds of files depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has been sentenced to 27 years in federal prison.
U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore sentenced Ariel Espinosa, 63, of Miami, to 324 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to attempted production and transportation of CSAM.
“Ariel Espinosa knew his victim was only 14 years old, yet he repeatedly paid and directed the child to create sexually explicit material for his gratification,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “His conduct was calculated, exploitative, and profoundly cruel. This 27-year sentence holds him accountable and sends a clear message that those who prey on children, whether here or abroad, will face severe consequences.”
According to court records, Espinosa arrived at Miami International Airport on Aug. 24, 2025, on a flight from Holguin, Cuba. During a secondary inspection, law enforcement officers conducted a cursory search of Espinosa’s cellphone and discovered hundreds of images and videos depicting CSAM.
Law enforcement also uncovered communications between Espinosa and a 14-year-old minor in Cuba. Despite knowing the victim was underage, Espinosa repeatedly solicited sexually explicit videos from the victim and directed the victim to create CSAM, often in exchange for electronic payments.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement.
HSI Miami investigated the case with assistance from the HSI Caribbean Regional Attaché Office and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Montes prosecuted the case.
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-20403.
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Mexican national sentenced for firearms possession in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national illegally in the United States has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms possession in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Alberto Saenz-DeLaCruz, 33, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on August 4, 2026.
According to information presented in court, on December 8, 2025, Saenz-DeLaCruz was stopped for a traffic violation in Lufkin. During the stop, Saenz-DeLaCruz provided a Mexican passport for identification, but did not provide a driver license. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of a firearm and drug paraphernalia. Further investigation revealed Saenz-DeLaCruz was a Mexican citizen who had previously been deported from the United States and did not have permission to return to the United States. As a prohibited person, Saenz-DeLaCruz cannot legally possess firearms in the United States.
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.
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Department of Homeland Security. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Gaston.
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Members of Violent D.C. Street Crew Convicted of Drug Trafficking, Murder ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Four members of the violent “Push Dat Sh*t” (PDS) street crew were found guilty yesterday by a federal jury in connection with their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed marijuana and oxycodone in Southeast Washington, D.C. and used machine guns to protect their drug-dealing territory and kill an innocent bystander, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“We continue to take down the drivers of violence in our community, and these convictions reflect that commitment,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “The defendants were part of a violent crew that fueled senseless, retaliatory attacks and put entire neighborhoods at risk. Their actions weren’t just destructive—they cost an innocent young man his life. Today’s verdict sends a clear message: we will not tolerate armed gangs terrorizing D.C., and we will use every tool available to hold violent offenders accountable and protect the public.”
Markquette Rajon Cowan, 27, of Maryland, aka "Quette" and "Lil Why," was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana and a quantity of oxycodone, conspiracy to use firearms, including machine guns, in furtherance of drug trafficking, first-degree murder while armed, causing death through the use of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense, and related firearms counts and drug distribution charges.
Christopher Jordan Broady, 26, of the District, aka "Suave" and "Swerve," was found guilty of the same drug trafficking and firearms conspiracy charges, first-degree murder while armed, causing death through the use of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense, and related firearms counts and drug distribution charges.
Joshua Nicholas Stephenson, 25, of the District, aka “Migo,” was found guilty of the drug trafficking and firearms conspiracy charges, first-degree murder while armed, causing death through the use of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense, carrying a pistol without a license, and multiple counts of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute marijuana while armed with a firearm, including discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking offense.
Larry Duncan, 35, of the District, aka “Larry Love,” was found guilty of the drug trafficking and firearms conspiracy charges, first-degree murder while armed, causing death through the use of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense, and unlawfully using and possessing a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson scheduled sentencing for Christopher Broady for Nov. 13, 2026, Markquette Cowan for Nov. 20, 2026, Joshua Stephenson for Dec. 3, 2026, and Larry Duncan for Dec. 4, 2026. Each defendant faces a statutory maximum sentence of up to life in prison. Any sentence will be determined by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 30 years for the murder.
The verdicts came August 3 following a four-week trial and three days of jury deliberation.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Cowan, Broady, Stephenson, and Duncan were members of the PDS street crew, which distributed marijuana and oxycodone in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Southeast D.C., beginning as early as April 2018. The co-conspirators used firearms to protect themselves, their money, their drugs, and their drug-dealing territory, and carried firearms to discourage rival crews from entering their territory.
PDS maintained gang territory on the 3300 – 3500 blocks of Wheeler Road, Southeast, and adjacent areas, and operated an open-air drug market outside the Holiday Market. In August 2018, PDS became allied with a neighboring street gang known as Jugg Gang, or “JG.” Between August 2018 and April 2023, members of the allied PDS/JG street crew sold drugs from Holiday Market and from “trap houses” that they maintained in apartment buildings surrounding that location.
As their drug business grew, PDS/JG became the target of drive-by shootings conducted by rival gangs – shootings they referred to as “spinning the block.” Beginning in approximately August 2019, a PDS/JG member began assembling and distributing fully automatic AR-pistols that he purchased as “kits” from online retailers. Such firearms are defined as “privately made firearms” by the ATF but frequently are referred to as “ghost guns” on the street.
PDS/JG members possessed the ghost guns to both defend their territory from rival gangs, but also to “spin the block” on rival gangs in order to deter and dissuade the rivals from entering PDS/JG territory. PDS/JG members “kept score” with rival gangs, and the points earned by “spinning the block” varied depending on the “importance” of the people that were injured or killed.
On May 9, 2019, while in a trap house in the 3300 block of Wheeler Road SE, Larry Duncan supplied a car (leaving a fingerprint on the outside) to fellow crew members and asked for “volunteers” to spin the block (shoot up rival territory). Duncan was in a leadership role of the PDS gang. Stephenson drove Cowan and Broady until they found a target. Mark Milline Jr. was walking up the street looking down at his phone when Cowan and Broady jumped out of the car and opened fire on Milline. Broady then chased Milline down and stood over his body firing several shots. Stephenson then drove Broady and Cowan back to 10th Place where they entered apartments where Duncan was waiting. Cowan, Broady, and Stephenson were middle level members of the gang.
Milline was shot 13 times with RIP ammunition (radically invasive projectiles) and died from his injuries that day. Milline had no crew affiliation.
The crew maintained “trap houses” throughout their territory to store drugs and firearms, and communicated using coded language, referring to ammunition as “eggs” and firearms as “dogs,” “irons,” and “joints,” in an effort to conceal their activity from law enforcement.
In September 2025, Duncan was found to be in possession of approximately 38 pounds of marijuana, $72,000 in cash, and a firearm fitted with a device that converted it into a machine gun. Duncan faces an additional mandatory minimum of 30 years for his possession of the machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
These convictions are part of an ongoing joint investigation which has resulted in 30 convictions and the seizure of two vehicles, 47 firearms, six machine guns, more than 1,500 rounds of ammunition, over 100 pounds of marijuana, 41 grams of cocaine base, dozens of oxycodone pills, and approximately $581,000 in cash.
Other members of the PDS crew who have been sentenced include:
Eugene Tracey Hill, aka “Geno” and “Cheese,” of the District, was sentenced in October 2024 to 15 years in prison for his role as leader in the drug trafficking conspiracy and multiple firearms offenses. He held a leadership role in the PDS gang.
Dartanyan Ricardo Hawkins, aka “Shitty,” of the District, was sentenced in April 2025 to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute more than 50 kilos of marijuana and firearms offenses.
Isjalon Jermiah Armstead, aka “Smaut” and “Lil Blow Diddy,” of the District, was sentenced in May 2025 to 10 years in federal prison for discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking offense in connection with a shootout in a residential neighborhood.
Andre Alone Willis, aka “Boogie,” of the District, was sentenced in February 2025 to 20 years in federal prison in connection with drug and gun charges related to a drug trafficking conspiracy. He held a leadership role in the PDS gang.
Broadus Jamal Daniels, aka “Wardy,” of the District, was sentenced in April 2025 to 35 years in federal prison in connection with drug and gun charges related to a drug trafficking conspiracy.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the ATF’s Washington Field Division.
The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emma McArthur, Matthew Mattis, and Alyssa Levey-Weinstein.
Screen grab from surveillance footage of the May 9, 2019, slaying of Mark Milline Jr., who was shot 13 times and died from his injuries.
Evidence presented during the trial of PDS members Cowen, Broady, Stephenson, and Duncan.
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Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Large Quantities of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in New HampshireRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces.
Roberto Ramon-Avalo, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Samantha D. Elliott scheduled Avalo’s sentencing for November 9, 2026.
According to the court documents and statements made in court, beginning in early 2024, the DEA began an investigation into an unknown individual who was selling multiple-ounce quantities of methamphetamine in the Rochester, New Hampshire area. During the investigation, two DEA cooperating sources (or “CS”) communicated with another individual to purchase methamphetamine and fentanyl. Each time, Avalo traveled to New Hampshire to deliver the drugs at the agreed upon price. In December 2025, DEA obtained a search warrant for a suspected drug house in Boston that Avalo and another individual were using to conduct their drug trafficking activity. In the residence, DEA found items used to package and mix narcotics and approximately 5 pounds of methamphetamine and other controlled substances. After Avalo’s arrest, DEA found more controlled substances in a drug hide built into the dash of his car, including more than 200 grams of methamphetamine and more than 700 grams of fentanyl.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance carries a sentence of up to 20 years’ incarceration, not less than 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case. The Portsmouth Police Department, Somersworth Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Charles DeJoie 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 New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.
Maryland Man and Illegal Alien Indicted in Connection with Southern Maryland HSTF Drug InvestigationRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that it filed a two-count indictment against two drug traffickers, a Maryland man and an illegal alien, stemming from a federal drug investigation.
Jamar Rashard Whitaker, 42, of Waldorf, and Pedro Antonio Guardado Rivera, 33, of El Salvador, made their initial appearances to face the charges.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Charles County Sheriff’s Department (CCSD); and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Department (SMCSD).
According to the indictment, beginning in July 2025, and continuing into at least October 2025, Whitaker and Guardado Rivera conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. On July 22, 2025, the co-conspirators sold approximately 594 grams of cocaine to an undercover officer. They are both charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and distribution and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.
If convicted, Whitaker and Guardado Rivera face a minimum mandatory of five years and up to life in prison for conspiring, distributing, and possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This prosecution is part of the 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 Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, DEA, MSP, CCSD, and SMCSD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Duvall and Elizabeth Wright who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Maryland Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for His Role in Commercial Burglary Ring in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and DelawareRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Maryland man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to transport stolen property from burglarized consignment shops across multiple states, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Dominique Hayes, 30, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Esther Salas in Newark federal court on July 29, 2026. Hayes was also ordered to pay restitution of $2,167,688 to victims of the offense. This followed Hayes’s guilty plea on November 18, 2025 to one count of conspiracy to receive stolen property.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Hayes was part of a commercial burglary ring that committed at least 18 burglaries in multiple states between March 2024 and November of 2024, including in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. On several dates, Hayes and his co-conspirators targeted consignment shops, broke in using sledgehammers and other objects in the middle of the night, destroyed windows, doors, and other property in the shops, stole dozens of designer handbags and other items from each shop, and transported the stolen goods across state lines where they were sold or otherwise disposed of. Hayes and his co-conspirators burglarized some of the consignment shops on more than one occasion. As a result, the consignment shop victims collectively lost more than $2 million in valuable property.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited officers of Homeland Security Investigations-Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the New Jersey State Police, Delaware State Police, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Philadelphia Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Department, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Cape May Police Department, Cherry Hill Police Department, Colts Neck Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Guilderland Police Department, Haddonfield Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Margate Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Montclair Police Department, North Castle Police Department, Roxbury Police Department, Saratoga Springs Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Warren Police Department, and Watchung Police Department for their assistance.
Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information about the theft group or burglaries, is asked to call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or call a local field office.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly M. Lyons of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
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Defense counsel: Bruce S. Rosen, Esq., Hackensack, New Jersey.
Maryland Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland man received a federal prison term in connection with firearm charges.
U.S. District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Keith Cook, 32, to seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Additionally, Cook is a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
According to court documents, on January 27, 2023, a BPD officer, monitoring a West Baltimore neighborhood via CitiWatch camera, observed Cook and other individuals in front of a mini mart. During the surveillance, Cook reached into a blue backpack and took out a clear plastic Tupperware container. Then Cook opened the container and took out a clear plastic bag containing suspected marijuana. Cook then took some of the suspected marijuana out of the bag and gave it to an unidentified male.
Minutes later, Cook again took out suspected marijuana and handed it to a second unidentified male. Based on their observations via the Citiwatch camera, officers proceeded to the mini mart.
Upon arrival, officers located and handcuffed Cook and then searched him. During the search, officers found a firearm, equipped with an extended magazine loaded with 26 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition; 14 Alprazolam pills; 88 Oxycodone pills; a Buprenorphine foil strip; $906 in cash; an iPhone; and a flip phone.
Additionally, law enforcement recovered the backpack that contained the Tupperware filled with bags of suspected marijuana and a clear bag and gelcaps containing a heroin and fentanyl mixture. Law enforcement also discovered a clear bag with 33 clear gelcaps containing a tan powder that didn’t test positive as a controlled substance; a digital scale; and various drug-packaging materials.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in this investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Tsuei who is prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Maple Hill Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Eugene James, 48, to 10 years in federal prison. On January 29, 2026, James pleaded guilty to distribution of 5 grams or more of meth and fentanyl.
“We will continue to focus on individuals who sell drugs that poison our community,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “He is old enough to know better already, but he has 10 years to think about being a productive member of society when he gets out of prison.”
In 2024, federal and local authorities investigated a drug trafficking organization operating in the Eastern District of North Carolina. The group, which included James, distributed meth, cocaine, crack, and fentanyl across the counties of Pender, Onslow, and New Hanover. Between February and April 2024, the ATF, New Hanover Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington and Jacksonville Police Departments purchased fentanyl and meth from James using investigative methods at a home in Maple Hill. On May 6, 2025, federal and county authorities arrested Eugene at a home in Onslow County, where they found a small amount of narcotics and several firearms.
James has several prior convictions for assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, discharging a firearm into occupied property, and conspiring to distribute and possess crack cocaine with intent to distribute, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
“This investigation is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement to ensuring the safety of our communities by removing dangerous narcotics from our streets and the offenders who bring them into our communities. It also highlights effectiveness of cooperation between Federal, State and Local partners,” said Jacksonville Police Department Chief, Ashley Weaver.
This prosecution is part of Operation Counterpunch which 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 Wilmington comprises agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, NCIS, US Coast Guard, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Craven County Sheriff’s Office, Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Dare County Sheriff’s Office, Currituck County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington Police Department, State Bureau of Investigations, and NC Department of Public Safety with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of N.C.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The ATF, DEA, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Pender County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington Police Department, and Jacksonville Police Department investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-CR-00035-M-RN.
Man operating trafficking ring from California prison pleads guilty to drug chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – An inmate who was running a drug ring from inside a California state prison admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Dion Andre Davis II, 39, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Davis faces 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine, at least five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. District Judge Kathleen S. Lane presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Dec. 2, 2026. Davis remained incarcerated pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Davis was head of a large-scale, multistate narcotics trafficking organization, which he operated from his prison cell using contraband mobile phones.
Law enforcement learned in June 2023 that Christina Hill and Nathan Wilnau were selling illicit drugs in Billings. Hill was a local leader in the operation and was sending money to a source in California, who then sent packages of fentanyl and methamphetamine to Billings and to Cody, Wyoming.
Hill was sentenced last month to 15 years in prison on drug possession and money laundering charges. Wilnau was sentenced in June to 11 years in prison on meth possession charges.
During the investigation, law enforcement discovered images on Hill’s phone of FedEx receipts for packages mailed from California and pictures of large sums of cash corresponding to the dates on the FedEx receipts. Also found on Hill’s phone were images of text conversations with Davis where she ordered $72,500 worth of fentanyl and $96,000 worth of methamphetamine.
A search warrant on Davis’s phones found messages to a handful of associates, including Hill, directing the distribution of drugs, which would be shipped or delivered to Wyoming and Montana. Davis demanded payments, discussed shipments, instructed his associates on how to evade law enforcement, and complained about drug debts. Davis’s contraband phones were confiscated in April 2024 and he was subsequently charged.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The DEA and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.
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.
Man charged with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft in solar panel loan schemeRead the Press Release
Dallas — A federal grand jury indicted a Dallas man July 31 for allegedly orchestrating a fraudulent scheme involving solar panel sales and illicitly obtaining homeowner loans announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould.
Andres Jesus Linares‑Rea, 27, was charged in a four‑count indictment with two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
According to the indictment, Linares‑Rea contracted with solar engineering, procurement and construction companies (“Solar EPC contractors”) that marketed and installed rooftop solar panels. He sold solar systems door‑to‑door and assisted customers in securing financing through a fintech lender.
The indictment alleges that between September 2022 and December 2024, Linares‑Rea devised a scheme to fraudulently obtain loans in the names of unsuspecting homeowners. In several instances, he allegedly submitted loan applications and electronically signed loan agreements without the customers’ knowledge or consent and added co‑borrowers without their authorization.
Linares‑Rea allegedly misled homeowners by falsely claiming the solar panels were “free” due to government subsidies or the homeowners’ financial status. In at least one case, he is accused of obtaining a loan for a solar panel installation despite the homeowner repeatedly stating he did not want solar panels.
Once the fraudulent loans were funded, the lending company transferred loan proceeds to Solar EPC contractors, who then paid Linares‑Rea commissions inflated by these unauthorized transactions.
The indictment lists specific interstate wire transfers made in support of the scheme, including a $71,754.79 transfer on November 19, 2023, to fund a loan allegedly obtained without Victim 1’s consent, and a $57,173.25 transfer on March 14, 2023, for a loan allegedly obtained without Victim 2’s consent.
Linares‑Rea is also charged with two counts of aggravated identity theft for allegedly using Victim 1’s and Victim 2’s electronic signatures without lawful authority in connection with the wire fraud scheme.
If convicted, Linares‑Rea faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each of the wire fraud counts and two years on each of the aggravated identity theft counts. The indictment also includes a notice of criminal forfeiture.
The FBI Dallas Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marty Basu and Elise Aldendifer from the Fraud section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Man Currently Serving a State Prison Sentence Pleads Guilty to Threatening Several U.S. Senators and Former Vice President Kamala HarrisRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Todd Curry, currently imprisoned at the Ouachita River Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections, pleaded guilty to mailing threatening communications to six U.S. Senators and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the guilty plea, which occurred today before United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
On December 2, 2025, Curry, 55, who is currently incarcerated at the Arkansas Department of Corrections, was indicted by a federal grand jury in a 14-count Indictment charging him with seven counts of mailing threatening communications to a federal employee and seven counts of false information and hoaxes. On August 4, 2025, Curry pleaded guilty to seven counts of mailing threatening communications to a federal employee. Judge Rudofsky will sentence Curry at a later date after a presentence report is prepared by the United States Probation Office.
Curry faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for each count for a total of 70 years.
On October 7, 2022, Curry mailed seven letters from Little Rock to members of the United States Congress and the former Vice President in Washington, D.C. The letters contained specific threats to kill or cause bodily harm to those members of Congress and the former Vice President for their roles and official duties as employees of the federal government. The investigation revealed that in addition to the threats to kill the selected six members of Congress and the former Vice President, Curry made references in his letters to either anthrax or “rison” (ricin), which are both considered deadly poisons. After the letters were submitted for analysis, it was determined that none of the substances inside the letters contained anthrax, ricin, or any other toxic or poisonous substance. During the investigation, it was positively determined that the letters were written by Curry and some of the letters were signed by Curry.
Curry has a significant criminal history dating back to 1990 that includes violent offenses and drug offenses: breaking or entering, criminal attempt, drugs, battery in the second degree, domestic battery third degree, robbery and theft of property. He is currently serving a state sentence of 10 years following a 2024 drug conviction for trafficking a controlled substance.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Capitol Police. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas.
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Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@USAO_EDAR
Macy, Nebraska Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Tyrece D. Thomas, 25, of Macy, Nebraska, was sentenced on July 30, 2026, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for one count of Abusive Sexual Contact. United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Thomas to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Thomas’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
On June 8, 2020, while Victim 1 was walking home on the Omaha Nation Indian Reservation, an unknown male, later identified as Thomas, struck her in the head and took her cell phone. Thomas offered to return Victim 1’s cell phone if she had sex with him. When Victim 1 refused and attempted to walk away, Thomas struck Victim 1 again. Victim 1 fell to the ground and Thomas sexually assaulted her. Victim 1 did not know Thomas. Victim 1 went to the hospital after the assault and underwent a Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE), during which a SANE nurse collected forensic evidence from Victim 1’s body. Victim 1’s SANE kit was sent to the FBI Laboratory. An FBI forensic scientist identified unknown, male DNA on swabs collected from Victim 1 during her SANE exam. The FBI submitted the male DNA to the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) but received no potential matches at the time.
On October 4, 2024, the FBI Laboratory notified local FBI agents that a routine CODIS search yielded a possible DNA match between the male DNA collected from Victim 1 and a federal arrestee, Tyrece D. Thomas. The FBI obtained a search warrant and obtained a known sample of Thomas’s DNA. The FBI laboratory confirmed the male DNA collected during Victim 1’s SANE exam was, in fact, Tyrece D. Thomas’s DNA.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Omaha Nation Law Enforcement Services.
Lafayette Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Felon-in-Possession Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 29, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., sentenced Thaddaeus W. Paul, 33, of Lafayette, to 96 months in federal prison after his conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
According to court documents, Lafayette Police Department (LPD) officers conducted a lawful traffic stop on January 23, 2025, on a vehicle in which Paul was a passenger. Officers located Paul in the backseat in possession of a satchel bag containing a loaded semiautomatic SCCY CPX‑2 9mm pistol, crack cocaine and marijuana. Paul admitted to knowingly possessing the firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a prior felony offense punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Stephanie Stewart and Tanya Broussard.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-cr-00328.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLAKnoxville Resident Indicted for Laundering Fraudulently Obtained COVID-19 Unemployment Insurance BenefitsRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On July 28, 2026, a federal grand jury in Chattanooga returned a two-count indictment against Amy Denise Fields, 62, of Knoxville, for conspiracy to commit money laundering and a substantive money laundering offense. On August 3, 2026, Fields appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Debra C. Poplin in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee in Knoxville. Fields pleaded not guilty and was released pending trial, which has been set for October 6, 2026, before the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, United States District Judge in United States District Court, at Knoxville.
The indictment alleges that Fields and others not named in the indictment conspired to launder money Fields knew was fraudulently obtained from federal programs. Fields’s co-conspirators submitted fraudulent applications for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to several different states during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of those fraudulent UI applications listed Fields’s personal information, including her residential address and bank account information, which Fields knowingly provided to her co-conspirators. Fields’s co-conspirators caused the fraudulent UI benefits to be electronically deposited into Fields’s bank accounts, several of which she opened in furtherance of the conspiracy. Knowing that the funds deposited into her bank accounts were fraudulently obtained UI benefits intended for other individuals, Fields intentionally withdrew the funds from her bank accounts—often in cash—and then deposited the cash into Bitcoin ATM machines in the Eastern District of Tennessee, laundering the funds to promote the ongoing unlawful activity and to conceal the proceeds of the fraudulently obtained UI benefits.
If convicted, Fields faces up to 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release of up to three years, a fine of up to $500,000, restitution, and forfeiture.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee and Acting Supervisory Agent in Charge Kelly Linemann of the U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General, made the announcement.
This indictment is the result of an investigation by the United States Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney William A. Roach, Jr., will represent the United States.
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.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment constitutes only charges and that every person is presumed innocent until their guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Knoxville Man Indicted on 22 Counts for Making Threats to Kill Public OfficalsRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On July 28, 2026, a federal grand jury in Chattanooga returned a 22 count indictment against Garry Lee Williams, 44, of Knoxville, for posting public threats on TikTok to murder and maim national public officials, Knox County public officials, and members of Williams’s own family, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 871(a) (threats against the President), 18 U.S.C. § 875(c) (interstate threats), and 18 U.S.C. § 115(a)(1)(B) and (b)(4) (threats to murder federal law enforcement officer). On August 4, 2026, Williams appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Debra C. Poplin in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee in Knoxville. Williams pleaded not guilty and was detained in custody pending trial, which has been set for October 6, 2026, before the Honorable Katherine A. Crytzer, United States District Judge in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee in Knoxville.
The indictment alleges that from January through April 2026, Williams used TikTok to make numerous public posts announcing his intent to murder and maim public officials, and exhorting others to do the same. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Williams made 11 separate threats to murder President Trump, one threat to murder a member of President Trump’s immediate family, seven separate threats to murder the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), two threats to murder the Knox County Sheriff and the Chief of the Knoxville Police Department, and one threat to murder numerous family members.
If convicted, Williams faces a total term of 145 years in prison. The maximum prison sentence for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 871(a) is five years; the maximum prison sentence for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c) is five years; and the maximum prison sentence for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 115(a)(1)(B) and (b)(4) is 10 years. Each violation also includes a maximum fine of $250,000 and a term of supervised release of up to three years.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; and Terence G. Reilly, of the Nashville Field Office of the FBI, made the announcement.
This indictment is the result of an investigation by the FBI, the U.S. Secret Service, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, and the Knoxville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David P. Lewen, Jr. will represent the United States.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment constitutes only charges and that every person is presumed innocent until their guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Justice Served: Homeland Security Task Force Dismantles Mississippi Delta Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced that law enforcement agencies came together in the Northern District of Mississippi to bring down a drug trafficking organization. Multiple offenders were arrested, 25 pounds of methamphetamine was seized, along with over 4,000 pills containing fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “We live in a wonderful state and a wonderful country. Old fashioned patriotism should never be criticized. Normal love of country does not make one a zealous super-patriot, it makes one an American. Oh yea, and we still live with heroes in our midst. Law enforcement officers are engaged in a constant and primitive struggle to protect our communities and children. An aspect of this struggle concerns the scourge of drug trafficking organizations (DTOs). DTOs entice our children with the false promise of camaraderie and easy money. The result is destroyed lives and broken communities. The DEA, United States Marshal Service, and Grenada Police Department recently concluded a multi-year investigation into such a DTO, responsible for trafficking in fentanyl and methamphetamine, all while committing firearm crimes. State and federal officers engaged in the dangerous work of dismantling this organization, which involved the unfortunately familiar Vice Lord and Gangster Disciple gangs. The Marshals apprehended a fugitive in California. Our officers are heroes, and we as patriots applaud their dedication.”
Chief United States District Court Judge, Honorable Deborah M. Brown ordered the following:
- Chauncey Young was sentenced to 46 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl with an additional three years supervised release.
- Courasier Young was sentenced to 151 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release.
- Antonio Harley was sentenced to 18 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fluorofentanyl in addition to three years supervised release.
- Jerrica Nahwooksy was sentenced to 21 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing fentanyl in addition to three years supervised release.
- Aleatha Pullen was sentenced to 70 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release.
- Jesse Coleman was sentenced to 48 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of a communication facility in committing, causing and facilitating a felony in addition to one-year supervised release
- Johnathan Sanders was sentenced to 21 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years on supervised release.
- Kevin Golliday was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of a felony in addition to one year on supervised release.
- Marcus Jones was sentenced to 120 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in addition to five years of supervised release.
- James Pruitt was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to three years of supervised release.
- Erik Love was sentenced to 92 months for the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in addition to three years of supervised release.
- Christopher Caffey was sentenced to 200 months for the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to five years of supervised release.
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, law enforcement stood united to dismantle a dangerous drug network operating in the Mississippi Delta. Taking 25 pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills off the streets saved lives. The DEA and our partners will not let armed gangs poison our communities; if you deal lethal drugs in Mississippi, we will find you and hold you accountable,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott.
“The Mississippi Department of Public Safety is proud to stand alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in our shared mission to protect the people of Mississippi," stated Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. "Public safety is strongest when agencies work together, share information, and coordinate resources to hold offenders accountable and prevent crime before it impacts our communities. We are grateful for the leadership at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the dedication of every partner committed to making our neighborhoods safer for the families we serve.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Doleac prosecuted the case.
This operation and conviction 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 tin 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 Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Justice Department Announces Monitoring of Polling Sites in Four Michigan CitiesRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice is monitoring polling sites in four Michigan cities for the state’s primary election to ensure transparency, ballot security, and compliance with federal law.
The Department, through the Civil Rights Division, enforces federal voting rights laws that protect the rights of all eligible citizens to access the ballot. The Department regularly deploys its staff to monitor for compliance with federal civil rights laws in elections in communities across the country.
“Our primary monitoring efforts continue today as we seek to ensure free and fair elections nationwide,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice is devoting extensive resources to ensure uniform and nondiscriminatory monitoring. We appreciate the cooperation of these jurisdictions in promoting trust and transparency.”
“Transparency promotes both trust and better behavior in election administration,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey for the Western District of Michigan. “Our office is always going to be ready to lead in promoting free and fair elections.”
The Department is currently monitoring polls in Detroit, Hamtramck, Lansing, and East Lansing with DOJ staff from the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section and Michigan’s U.S. Attorney’s Offices for both the Western and Eastern districts.
This initiative is aimed at promoting transparency and an open flow of communication between poll observers and election monitors. The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces various federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Civil Rights Acts.
From now and up to Election Day on Nov. 3, 2026, Civil Rights Division personnel will be available to receive questions and complaints from the public related to possible violations of federal voting rights laws. If you would like to request election monitoring in a particular jurisdiction, please contact the Voting Section at VEM@usdoj.gov, and the Civil Rights Division will determine whether monitoring is warranted.
Jackson County Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Delay or Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
Tallahassee, Florida – Stacy Michelle Braxton, 39, of Marianna, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of delay or destruction of mail. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our citizens must be able to rely upon the mail to be delivered quickly, securely, and efficiently, and this postal carrier’s reprehensible violation of the public trust placed in her to fulfill that duty deserves serious punishment. I applaud the excellent work of the USPS Inspector General to identify, investigate, and hold accountable this criminal behavior by a postal carrier.”
Court documents reveal that the defendant was a rural mail carrier for the Greenwood Post Office in Jackson County, Florida. In February 2026, law enforcement recovered 498 pieces of mail from the defendant’s mail route that were discarded in a burn barrel in Marianna, Florida. The defendant admitted to investigators that she attempted to discard and burn the mail from her route rather than delivering the mail to the designated recipients.
Braxton faces up to five years in prison.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
Justice Department Awards over $2.8 Million in Grants to Area Law Enforcement AgenciesRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice has awarded $2,809,033 collectively to area law enforcement agencies, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall, who stated, “I am thrilled to see taxpayer dollars returned to support our law enforcement partners. Protecting our first responders with better equipment and reducing violent crimes against women are both extremely worthy causes that should always be well funded.”
The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO) was awarded $39,145 to reduce gun-related violence by supporting investigative efforts, enhancing officer safety, and strengthening evidence collection. This will be accomplished through funding for investigator overtime, the use of advanced technology, and targeted enforcement against violent offenders. Under this initiative, LPSO will continue Operation Gun Stop, a program that enables citizens to anonymously report illegal gun activity, thereby increasing community involvement and intelligence gathering. LPSO will further expand the Firearms Investigative Unit, a proven program focused on conducting undercover purchases of illegal firearms and apprehending individuals involved in unlawful gun transactions. Together, these approaches will enhance proactive enforcement, improve case development, and support the prevention of gun-related crimes throughout Livingston Parish.
The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) was awarded $28,433 to equip all APSO deputies with reliable and effective Body Armor such as ballistic vests, carriers, and trauma plates to increase the likelihood of survival during deadly force encounters. Special emphasis will be incorporated in departmental training regarding the advantages of wearing body armor by non-uniformed officers while performing their duties.
The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office (EBRSO) was awarded $232,868 to support a comprehensive equipment and technology initiative aimed at enhancing public safety, officer safety, and operational effectiveness across multiple divisions. Funds will be used to acquire LIDAR speed detection devices, breaching kits, electronic writing devices, a portable ballistic protection system, traffic control equipment, and portable solar-powered crime camera systems.
The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement (LCLE) was awarded $893,708 to support rape crisis centers (including governmental rape crisis centers not in territories and tribal governmental programs) and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations that provide core services, direct intervention, and related assistance to victims of sexual assault, regardless of age.
The LCLE was awarded an additional $2,508,587 to develop and strengthen law enforcement, prosecution, and court strategies to combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
The LCLE is a foundation located in Baton Rouge dedicated to improving the operations of the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems and to promoting public safety by providing progressive leadership and coordination within the criminal justice community.
For more information about these awards, contact OJP Office of Communications at 202-307-0703 or OJP.OCOM@ojp.usdoj.gov, or the Office on Violence Against Women at 202-307-6026 and ask for the Policy, Communication, and Evaluation Division.
Inmate who ran gun trafficking organization from state prison sentenced in Homeland Security Task Force investigationRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 38-year-old resident of Rock Hill, South Carolina, has been ordered by a federal judge to prison for conspiring to “straw purchase” firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. A straw purchase of firearms involves the illegal purchase of a firearm for or on behalf of others—in this case, dangerous cartel members.
Shawn Bisnauth pleaded guilty May 7.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Bisnauth to serve 300 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard that from 2022 through 2024, Bisnauth directed the straw purchasing operation from a South Carolina state prison using a contraband cell phone. In handing down the sentence, the court found Bisnauth responsible for placing firearms in the hands of cartel members in Mexico. The sentence imposed will run consecutively to the remainder of his state sentence.
The investigation began in early 2023 when law enforcement identified Bisnauth as a major supplier of firearms to a drug trafficking organization responsible for importing meth, cocaine, and fentanyl from Mexican cartels for distribution throughout the United States.
Bisnauth arranged for others in South Carolina to purchase at least eight firearms, including .50 caliber rifles and semiautomatic machine guns. He then directed the firearms to be transported to Texas and exchanged with the drug trafficking organization for narcotics, which individuals in South Carolina then distributed.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Martin and Tyler Foster prosecuted the case.
This investigation and prosecution was part of the Homeland Security Task Force 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 these organizations commit, 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 South Texas comprises agents and officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations; FBI; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Interpol/Department of State, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas leading the prosecution.
Illegal alien who was convicted of the sexual assault of a child pleads guilty to and sentenced for illegal re-entryRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, NY — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Arlem Bayardo Cabrera-Escoto, 41, of a native and citizen of Honduras, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to illegal re-entry subsequent to an aggravated felony conviction. The defendant was then sentenced to serve five months in prison. After serving his sentence, Cabrera-Escoto will be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
On April 22, 2026, four illegal aliens were arrested in Depew, NY, as part of a targeted enforcement effort. Law enforcement, who observed four Hispanic males exit a residence and leave in a truck parked at the residence, conducted a vehicle stop shortly after. After questioning, all four admitted that they were in the United States illegally and did not have any immigration documents that would have allowed them to be, enter, or remain in the United States. Law enforcement asked the driver to step out of the vehicle, at which time he attempted to flee on foot and actively resisted arrest. The three passengers, including Cabrera-Escoto, also fled on foot. Cabrera-Escoto was taken into custody a short time later.
During processing, it was determined that Cabrera-Escoto is a native and citizen of Honduras illegally present in the United States. In April 2005, Cabrera-Escoto was convicted of 2nd Degree Sexual Assault of a Child, an aggravated felony, and sentenced to 240 days confinement in the State of Wisconsin. In August 2005, he was physically removed from the United States.
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 Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Enforcement and Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan W. Fitzgerald. The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Acting Chief Patrol Agent James D’Amato, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone.
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Illegal alien couple sentenced to 10 years in prison for cocaine, gun crimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Two illegal aliens from Mexico were sentenced in federal court here to 10 years in prison for cocaine and gun crimes.
Laura Reyes Esquivel, 49, and Mario Gamino Sanchez, 30, both of Lewis Center, possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possessed a firearm in furtherance of their drug trafficking crimes. Reyes Esquivel was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Sanchez was sentenced last week by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson.
According to court documents, in June 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop in which the couple were the sole occupants of the vehicle. Officers discovered more than two kilograms of cocaine and a loaded handgun inside the car. The couple planned to distribute the cocaine in the Columbus area for personal profit.
Sanchez and Reyes Esquivel were both charged in June 2025. Sanchez pleaded guilty in December 2025 and Reyes Esquivel in April 2026.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit, announced the sentences imposed. Assistant United States Attorney Sheila G. Lafferty 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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Illegal 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 ARNULFO FERNANDEZ SOLIS, a/k/a Carlos Fernandez Soliz, a/k/a Carlos Alberto Solis, a/k/a Carlos Alberto Alimaranon, a/k/a Juan Garcia Paramo, a/k/a Juan Garciap, a/k/a Carlos Albert Solis, a/k/a Samuel Santana, a/k/a Carlos Soliz, a/k/a Carlos F. Soliz, a/k/a Carlos A. Solis, a/k/a Juan Paramo, a/k/a Carlos Slismaranon, a/k/a Arnulfo Fernandez, a/k/a Carlos Albert Soliz, a/k/a Arnulfo Solis Fernandez, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Okmulgee 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 April 24, 2026, Solis, 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 May 2, 2005, June 28, 2001, and January 29, 1998.
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.
Solis will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.
Hunterdon County Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Videos and Images of Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Hunterdon County man admitted to possessing videos and images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
David Tuytjens, 70, of Tewksbury Township, New Jersey, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court to a one-count Indictment charging him with possession of child pornography.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In December 2024, officers from the New Jersey State Parole Board visited Tuytjens’ residence and discovered various electronic devices, including a 64 gigabyte MicroSD storage card. Officers conducted their visit because Tuytjens is prohibited from possessing, among other things, Internet-capable devices as an individual under Community Supervision for Life due to a prior State conviction for aggravated sexual assault. The storage card contained at least 800 images and 30 video files containing child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). The CSAM included images depicting prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, images portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct, and sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler.
Due to Tuytjens’ prior convictions, including a federal conviction for possession of child pornography, the charge of possession of child pornography carries a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. The charge also carries with it a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for January 12, 2027.
U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in the Newark Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark, the U.S. Probation Office, District of New Jersey, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Joseph A. DaGrossa, the New Jersey State Parole Board, under the direction of Chairman Samuel J. Plumeri, Jr., and the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
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Defense counsel: Carlos Diaz-Cobo, Esq.
tuytjens.indictment.pdfHouston Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A Houston man pled guilty in federal court, today, to child sex abuse crimes.
Dazhon Darien, 34, formerly of Baltimore, Maryland, pled guilty to sexually exploiting a child. Darien admitted that he sexually exploited eight minor victims.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).
According to his guilty plea, on five occasions, between April 2023, and June 2024, Darien persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced Minor Victim 1, age 15 and 16, respectively, at the time, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Darien then used CashApp to pay Minor Victim 1 for the production and transmission of CSAM videos. Additionally, Darien admitted to sexually exploiting seven other victims who were between ages 14 and 17. Darien stored the exploitation videos on his cellphones and in internet-based accounts. He lived in Maryland until approximately June 2024, before moving to Texas.
Darien faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a minor. Sentencing is set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 11 a.m.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and BCPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who is prosecuting the federal case.
For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md.
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Four Individuals Charged with Illegal Re-Entry After Being Previously DeportedRead the Press Release
SRINGFIELD, Mo. – Four individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury in separate cases this week for illegally re-entering the United States after they were previously deported.
Honduran National charged with Illegal Re-Entry After Being Previously Deported and Convicted of a Prior Aggravated Felony Offense
According to an indictment returned today, Mario Robert Mejia-Valledares, 49, was charged with illegal re-entry by a previously deported alien who had been previously convicted of an aggravated felony offense. On July 27, 2026, Mejia-Valledares was found voluntarily in the United States after being previously deported on January 29, 2010, September 23, 2011, and February 4, 2023. Further, Mejia-Valledares’ aggravated felony offense was because of his conviction in Houston, Texas for discharging a firearm at an occupied dwelling, building or vehicle.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick. It was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HIS) and the Christian County, Missouri Sheriff’s Department.
Honduran National Charged with Immigration Offense
Fredy Rolando Rivera-Gonzalez, 31, was indicted today with one count of illegal re-entry by an alien. The indictment alleges Rivera-Gonzalez had been previously deported from the United States on November 6, 2019, from Huntsville, Texas.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), and the Pulaski County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.
Guatemalan National Charged in Indictment with Illegal Re-Entry After Being Previously Deported and Convicted of a Prior Aggravated Felony Offense
Yalex Rodas-Rodas, 25, was indicted today by a Federal Grand Jury for illegally re-entering the United States after being previously deported and convicted of a prior aggravated felony offense. On July 3, 2026, Rodas-Rodas was discovered by law enforcement voluntarily and illegally within the United States after having been deported on October 21, 2010, on April 26, 2012, and October 21, 2020.
Rodas-Rodas has an aggravated felony conviction for forgery on August 18, 2010, in Jasper County, Missouri. Rodas-Rodas has also been previously convicted of the felony offense of illegal re-entry after being previously deported on April 1, 2012, in the Federal District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) and the Jasper County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.
Mexican National charged with Illegal Re-Entry After Being Previously Deported
Lorenzo Castillo-Rivera, 32, was indicted today by a Federal Grand Jury charging him with illegal re-entry into the United States by a previously deported alien. On July 20, 2026, Castillo-Rivera was found voluntarily within the United States, specifically Stone County, Missouri, after being previously deported on April 18, 2022, November 14, 2023, and September 18, 2024.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), the Stone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, and the Reed Springs, Missouri, police department.
The charges contained in these indictments are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Operation Take Back America
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Fort Hall Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing a ChildRead the Press Release
BOISE – Shone Jem Bache, 47, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child Under 12 Years of Age, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
“I hope this outcome provides some closure and justice to the victim and her family,” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “I am grateful for the partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Hall Police Department and their dedication to identifying and investigating those who commit egregious acts of sexual abuse on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.”
According to court records, the investigation began when a nine-year-old child victim disclosed to family members and school staff that Bache had sexually abused her. The child victim disclosed multiple instances of sexual abuse that occurred on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Hall Police Department conducted a thorough investigation and were able to corroborate aspects of the victim’s disclosure through physical evidence and witness statements.
“No punishment can ever undo the trauma inflicted on a child or erase the lifelong impact of these crimes, but we hope this offers some comfort on their journey toward healing,” stated Robert Bohls, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office. “Children deserve to grow up safe. Alongside our Tribal and law enforcement partners, the FBI will never stop fighting to protect the most vulnerable and bring offenders to justice”.
U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Bache to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Bache will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Hall Police Department, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kassandra McGrady and Justin Paskett prosecuted the case.
These cases were 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. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Former Union Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A 65-year-old former financial secretary of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, Local Lodge 21, has been sentenced to prison for federal charges in the Western District of Missouri.
David Scofield of Independence, Missouri, pleaded guilty on November 24, 2025, to bank fraud, embezzlement of labor union assets, and falsification of annual financial report filed by labor union. He was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough.
According to information presented in court, for nearly nine years, Scofield used his position as the financial secretary of Local Lodge 21 to steal more than $54,000 from the union. He issued unauthorized checks, made personal payments from the union account, and conducted hundreds of online transactions for his own benefit. He then hid his fraud by falsifying records.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rudolph R. Rhodes IV. This case was investigated by U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards.
National Fraud Enforcement Division
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 Employee of Lafayette Medical Clinics Sentenced for Embezzling More Than $500kRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 31, 2026, Brooke Miller Duck (formerly “Brooke Miller Tauzin”), 31, a former resident of Arnaudville, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 22 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $539,451.41 in restitution. Duck previously pled guilty on March 16, 2026, to embezzling more than $500,000 from her medical clinic employer and using the stolen funds for personal expenses and luxury items that included expensive vacations, new cars, and fancy consumer products.
“Brooke Duck has now been held fully accountable for years of abusing her position and exploiting her employers’ trust,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “With this sentence, justice has been delivered not only for the clinics she stole from, but for all honest, hardworking small businesses across Louisiana. Our Office remains committed to protecting those businesses and prosecuting anyone who seeks to take advantage of them.”
According to court documents, Duck was employed by two medical clinics with offices in Lafayette and Baton Rouge and had access to the clinics’ credit cards and bank accounts. Between May 2020 and October 2023, Duck used the clinics’ credit cards for unauthorized personal purchases, including a $15,000 payment for a time-share vacation property. She then used funds drawn from the clinics’ bank accounts to pay the credit card balances associated with those purchases. In total, Duck caused $539,451.41 in unauthorized credit card transactions for her personal use and financial gain.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-cr-00096.
###CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Flatwoods Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking Through U.S. MailRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Braxton County woman was sentenced today for her role in a methamphetamine trafficking scheme that relied on the U.S. Mail to move large quantities of drugs into West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced.
Kelly Marie Myers, 56, was sentenced to 12 months in prison. According to court documents, the investigation began when U.S. Postal Inspection Service personnel in Charleston, West Virginia, intercepted a suspicious USPS Priority Mail parcel. Inspectors obtained a federal search warrant later that day and discovered approximately 890 grams of methamphetamine inside. The package had been mailed from Moreno Valley, California, and was addressed to “K. Myers” at a Flatwoods residence.
Investigators removed the methamphetamine and made the parcel available for pickup at the Flatwoods Post Office. Postal Inspectors and local law enforcement kept watch as the parcel was retrieved, ultimately leading to Myers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Final Sentencing Completed in Multi‑Defendant Scheme to Deliver Contraband into Alabama PrisonRead the Press Release
A federal judge in Montgomery has sentenced the final defendant in a drug‑trafficking conspiracy that funneled narcotics and other contraband into a correctional facility in Elmore, Alabama. In total, five defendants have now been sentenced for their roles in the scheme.
On July 30, 2026, Lilbrian Rondarrius Ladd, 28, a former inmate at the Elmore Correctional Facility, was sentenced to 215 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Following his term of imprisonment, Ladd will serve five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Thomas Govan and Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Field Division made the announcement.
“Those who attempt to smuggle drugs into our prisons, whether they are inmates or individuals on the outside, must be held accountable,” said United States Attorney Govan. “This conduct endangers staff, inmates, and the public, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to stop it.”
“Whether you are coordinating from behind bars or driving the drop-off from the outside, your illicit business will end in a federal courtroom,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott. “This operation is a clear win for public safety and reflects our unwavering commitment to Operation Take Back America.”
The other co‑defendants were previously sentenced as follows:
- Lawrence Alexander Dudley, 48, of Birmingham, Alabama, was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
- Ja’meria Quanay Snowden, 27, also from Birmingham, Alabama, received a sentence of 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
- Jarod Allen Poe, 39, another former inmate at the Elmore Correctional Facility, was sentenced to 145 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
- Chasity Pearl Lee Cox, 38, of Mobile, Alabama, was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made during the plea hearings, the Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services Division and DEA began investigating the conspiracy in 2024 after learning that Ladd was coordinating the delivery of narcotics into the prison. Ladd worked with Poe, while he was also incarcerated at the Elmore Correctional Facility, along with Dudley, Snowden, and Cox, three individuals outside the facility, to smuggle methamphetamine and other contraband behind prison walls.
On May 23, 2024, agents arrested Dudley near the Elmore Correctional Facility after he attempted to access the grounds to deliver contraband. Snowden and Cox also admitted to making multiple deliveries using various methods to conceal their activities.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services Division investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Christine Levi, Eric M. Counts, and John J. Geer, III prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Felon Sent Back to Prison for Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who illegally possessed a gun was sentenced yesterday to five years in federal prison.
Miykael Jolliff, age 20, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 19, 2026, guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
At the guilty plea, Jolliff admitted he possessed a gun after being previously convicted of felony offenses. In 2025, Jolliff was convicted of intimidation with a dangerous weapon and possession with intent to deliver marijuana.
Jolliff was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Jolliff was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Jolliff is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-0079.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Billy Boortz (43, Duval Couty, Texas) to five years in federal prison for possession of five grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the court records, on July 18, 2025, Boortz was a federal inmate in the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County, Florida. On that date, Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) corrections officers ordered Boortz to submit to a search. Instead of complying, Boortz attempted to assault the officers by throwing punches towards their heads and upper bodies. Eventually, the officers were able to gain control over Boortz, and discovered over nine grams of methamphetamine hidden in Boortz’s sock. Boortz told law enforcement that he would have made approximately $20,000 if he had been able to sell the methamphetamine inside FCC Coleman.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Prisons. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson and Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).