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17 July 2026
Des Moines Woman Sent to Federal Prison for Submitting Fraudulent Unemployment ClaimsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines woman was sentenced on July 16, 2026 to 12 months and 1 day in prison and ordered to pay nearly $30,000 in restitution for wire fraud.
According to public court documents, from March 2020 to December 2020, Victoria Tomeatre Green, 29, used her position as a contract employee of Iowa Workforce Development to fraudulently obtain $29,459.03 in unemployment benefits. Green submitted 25 false benefit claims under her name, and another 27 false benefit claims improperly using the means of identification of another.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Green will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Green was also ordered to pay $29,459.03 in restitution.
“By exploiting the identities of innocent individuals, Green brazenly stole funds intended to support unemployed American workers. Her guilty plea and sentencing reaffirm our unwavering commitment to pursuing fraud and holding every bad actor accountable,” said Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor. “If you attempt to defraud the system—whether by stealing identities or abusing public trust—we will track you down and ensure you face the full consequences.”
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The United States Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Lubben.
Des Moines Man Convicted of Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal jury in Des Moines convicted a Des Moines man yesterday for 11 counts of wire fraud, following a four-day trial.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at trial, Martin James Tirrell, 65, ran a scheme to defraud multiple individuals between February 2024 and January 2025. Tirrell’s scheme involved obtaining money from individuals that he claimed would be used to buy tickets to high-demand sports and concert events and resold at a profit. Instead, Tirrell used most of the funds for gambling and personal expenses, repaying loans, and paying other investors for earlier payments. In total, investors provided Tirrell several million dollars and the victim investors sustained a combined loss exceeding $1.5 million.
Tirrell was on federal supervised release for a 2019 mail fraud conviction. Tirrell was released from his 41-month prison sentence in January 2023.
A date for sentencing has not yet been set. Tirrell faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Kerndt and Joseph Lubben prosecuted the case.
Deported Brazilian National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FERNANDO GONCALVES DOS SANTOS, 38, a citizen of Brazil, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to unlawful reentry of a removed alien.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2023, Danbury Police arrested Goncalves, who did not have lawful status in the U.S., in connection with multiple domestic violence offenses. Goncalves was subsequently arrested by Danbury Police in March 2023 for violating a protective order, and in May 2023 for threatening and for violating a protective order. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Goncalves on June 22, 2023. On November 17, 2023, he was removed to Brazil.
Goncalves subsequently illegally reentered the U.S. In 2025, he was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court for violation of conditions of release – second degree.
ICE arrested Goncalves on a federal criminal complaint on March 27, 2026, in Bethel.
Goncalves, who has been detained since his arrest, is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson on October 9 in Hartford, at which time Goncalves faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years.
This matter has been investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.
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.
Dallas Seafood Business Fined $250,000 for Falsifying Country of Origin for SalmonRead the Press Release
Seafood Supply Co., a Dallas seafood wholesaler, was sentenced today to pay a $250,000 fine for violating two counts of the Lacey Act.
According to court documents, Seafood Supply falsified the country of origin of salmon sold from January 2020 to February 2022. The company would designate Chilean salmon as salmon from Scotland or other European countries. Typically, the Chilean salmon was less expensive than product from Scotland.
In addition to the fine, Seafood Supply was placed on probation for three years and ordered to implement an environmental compliance plan. The company previously pleaded guilty on March 4. Seafood Supply has been under new leadership since the time of the violations.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD); U.S. Attorney Ryan R. Raybould for the Northern District of Texas; and Assistant Director Paige Casey of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Office of Law Enforcement, Southeast Division made the announcement.
NOAA investigated the case as part of Operation Upstream Diligence.
Trial Attorney Christopher L. Hale of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section prosecuted the case with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.
ENRD is a member of the Department of Justice’s Trade Fraud Task Force, a cross-agency law enforcement effort that also involves the Criminal and Civil Divisions’ Fraud Sections, ENRD, the Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide. The Task Force was created to leverage all of the Department’s tools and authorities to prevent trade fraud that deprives the government of vital revenue, threatens critical domestic industries, undermines consumer confidence, and weakens national security. The Task Force is designed to pursue enforcement actions against parties who seek to evade tariffs and other duties, as well as smugglers who seek to import prohibited goods into the American economy. The Justice Department encourages whistleblowers to alert the government to credible allegations of fraud, including utilizing the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act or through the Criminal Division’s Corporate Whistleblower Program at CorporateWhistleblower@usdoj.gov using the form available here.
Criminal illegal alien sentenced for reentry into U.S. after deportationRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – An illegal alien from Honduras was sentenced to 24 months in prison for returning to the United States after previously being deported.
According to court documents, Jose Alfredo Galiano-Meza, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of reentry of a removed alien.
Galiano-Meza will be transferred to federal prison after he completes a sentence he is currently serving in the Kansas Department of Corrections. In November 2022, Galiano-Meza was sentenced in Kansas state court to 68 months of incarceration following a fatal automobile accident in Lawrence.“Mr. Galiano-Meza was deported in 2013 and again in 2018. That was years before his arrest for causing a crash that killed a child,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “If the U.S. government deports someone, that person is committing a federal crime and a felony by returning to our country without permission from the government.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.
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Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to More Than 19 Years on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Fernando Hernandez, 45, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced on July 10, 2026, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, after having been found guilty by a jury trial of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Hernandez to 235 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hernandez’s release from prison, he will serve a ten-year term of supervised release. Additionally, Hernandez forfeited any claim to more than $30,000 and a vehicle seized during the investigation.
Hernandez was charged because of his involvement with a Mexican source of supply of methamphetamine who supplies the Omaha and Council Bluffs areas. Hernandez was a local courier who was distributing the methamphetamine in Nebraska and Iowa. On October 2, 2025, law enforcement utilized a cooperating witness who ordered one pound of methamphetamine from the Mexican source who sent the cooperator to an Omaha location where Hernandez delivered one pound of methamphetamine. After the delivery, Hernandez was seen meeting with other parties who were later stopped and found in possession of one pound of methamphetamine and $4,000.
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 Omaha comprises agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, USPIS, the IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, and assistance of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska.
Columbia Man Sentenced to More than 16 years in Federal Prison for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Johnny Lee Dickerson, 45, of Columbia, has been sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to a federal drug trafficking offense involving methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana.
According to the facts presented in court, the Columbia Police Department and long with the DEA, launched an investigation identifying Dickerson as a supplier of multiple controlled substances in Columbia and Lexington County. Between February and June 2024, Dickerson sold approximately 453.6 grams of methamphetamine to confidential informants and undercover officers.
At the sentencing hearing, Dickerson was held responsible for approximately 3,906 grams of cocaine, 56.7 grams of crack cocaine, 453.6 grams of methamphetamine, and 43 grams of marijuana.
Dickerson has prior felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute within proximity of a school, criminal domestic violence, and distribution of crack cocaine. Based on his prior controlled substance convictions, he was designated a career offender under the federal sentencing guidelines.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Dickerson to 200 months in federal prison, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, City of Columbia Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.Collinsville Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation in NepalRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A Collinsville man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor in Nepal.
According to court documents, Kenneth Joseph Coombs, 58, traveled from the United States to Nepal in August 2016 and sexually abused eight different children while staying at a hotel in that country between August and September of that year. Coombs used a combination of force, involuntary intoxication, and payments to the children to commit the sex acts. Coombs also took photos of some of the children engaged in the sexually explicit conduct he directed. Those photos were recovered from his electronic devices by law enforcement. At the time Coombs committed these offenses, he was required to register as a sex offender based on having a qualifying prior sex offense conviction in the state of Missouri. Upon his return to the United States from Nepal, Coombs was arrested by U.S. law enforcement in September 2025. He has been held in custody since that time.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft of the Southern District of Illinois and Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley of the FBI Springfield Field Office made the announcement.
“Our prosecutors and agents literally travelled across the globe to find witnesses and hunt down this child predator because no one who harms children can escape American justice,” said United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
FBI Springfield is investigating the case and received substantial assistance from the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal, U.S. Embassy Nepal, FBI LEGAT Qatar, FBI LEGAT India, FBI Chicago, Collinsville Police Department, Customs and Border Protection O’Hare International Airport, Kathmandu District Attorney’s Office, and the Nepali NGO Naya Paila.
“Coombs’ conduct was predatory, deliberate, and devastating, and today’s guilty plea brings long‑overdue accountability for the children he harmed. Cases like this demand an unflinching response, and that is exactly what this investigation brought," said FBI Springfield Field Office’s Special Agent in Charge, Ryan Presley. “When a child is targeted, whether here or on the other side of the world, the FBI will push every boundary, work every lead, and coordinate with any partner necessary to ensure the offender is brought before the justice system. I want to recognize the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal and our federal partners, whose commitment and cooperation were indispensable throughout this case. Their work, combined with the dedication of our agents, underscores a simple truth: those who exploit children will be pursued until the job is done.”
Trial Attorney Jessica L. Urban of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly S. Arshi for the Southern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 28 at 1:30 PM in the East St. Louis Courthouse.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Collin County man charged with child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – An Allen man has been arrested and charged with federal child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Sanjay Sachithanandham, 44, was named in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas charging him with coercion and enticement of a minor; transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, conspiracy; and engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places. Sachithanandham appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bill Davis on July 16, 2026.
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.
This case is being investigated by the Allen Police Department and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Calli Bailey.
It is important to note that an indictment or arrest should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Career Offender Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
AKRON, Ohio, – A Summit County man, who has been designated, federally, as a career offender, has been sentenced to prison for drug trafficking after a two-year long investigation.
Robert Parham, 55, of Akron, was sentenced to 247 months (20.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Dan Aaron Polster after pleading guilty in March to the following charges as outlined in the indictment:
- Three Counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm; prior convictions include Aggravating Trafficking in Drugs and Trafficking in Cocaine in 2018; Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs and Trafficking in Drugs in 2013; Complicity to Commit Burglary in 2005; and Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs in 1995.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
- Four Counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Cocaine
- Possession of a Machine Gun
- Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises
In late 2023, federal agents began investigating suspected drug trafficking occurring throughout the Akron, Ohio, area. On July 2, 2024, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at Parham’s apartment in Akron where they seized:
- 178 grams of methamphetamine
- 142 grams of cocaine
- 355 grams of fentanyl
- Drug trafficking paraphernalia, including plastic baggies, a digital scale, kilo presses, blenders, and cutting agent.
- 28 firearms, including two stolen firearms. One firearm was outfitted with an attached machine gun conversion device.
- Marijuana, ecstasy tablets, three cellphones, and $1907.88 in U.S. currency.
The investigation leading to the indictment was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the FBI Akron Resident Agency and the Akron Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo for the Northern District Ohio led the prosecution.
Career Offender Sentenced to 96 Months for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Paterson, New Jersey man was sentenced on July 15, 2026 to 96 months of imprisonment for his role in trafficking drugs and firearms, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
Rahameen Newkirk, 46, of Paterson, New Jersey, previously plead guilty before U.S. District Judge Karen M. Williams to an Information charging him with one count of being a felon in possession, one count of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base, and one count of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In 2020 and 2021, and as part of a lengthy investigation into the illegal trafficking of firearms and narcotics in Paterson, New Jersey, undercover law enforcement purchased three AR-style rifles, as well as fentanyl and cocaine base from Newkirk. Newkirk made thousands of dollars from this illegal activity. Newkirk’s prior state convictions for distribution of controlled substances qualified him to be sentenced as a “career offender” under the United States Sentencing Guidelines, significantly increasing his sentencing exposure.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Williams sentenced Newkirk to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer thanks special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs in Philadelphia.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The government is represented by Assistant United States Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Criminal Division.
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Defense counsel: Gary Mizzone, Esq.
Border enforcement efforts result in nearly 200 more cases filed in the Southern District of TexasRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Another 199 people have been charged, including 175 illegal aliens, in 194 cases involving immigration and border security-related crimes from July 10-16.
A total of 146 criminal complaints were filed for felony reentry after prior removal, while another 17 people face charges of illegal entry. Most of those illegal aliens have prior felonies such as narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes, and more. In addition, 28 people have been charged with human smuggling which includes 12 illegal aliens themselves. The remaining cases charged this week relate to other immigration crimes and firearms charges.
One of the cases includes Pablo Ramirez-Mata, a Mexican illegal alien that law enforcement allegedly discovered unlawfully in the country near Roma. The criminal complaint against him alleges he has a prior conviction for online solicitation of a minor, and authorities had just removed him April 26. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
In addition to the new cases, Saifullah Al-Mamun made his initial appearance in Laredo federal court following his extradition from Brazil. The Bangladeshi national allegedly participated in an international human smuggling conspiracy that facilitated the movement of illegal aliens through South and Central America and Mexico into the United States for financial gain.
Also announced was the conviction of Jose Luis Reyes-Martinez, a previously removed illegal alien from Mexico who pleaded guilty to robbery, carjacking, brandishing a firearm, and illegal reentry. He robbed a Houston supermarket before breaking into a nearby residence, holding a family hostage at gunpoint for several hours, sexually assaulting a woman, and stealing the family’s vehicle. Authorities had previously removed Reyes-Martinez from the United States in 2012 before later discovering him illegally in Houston.
Two more illegal aliens were sentenced for illegal reentry after unlawfully returning to the United States. Nelson Alberto Fajardo, a Honduran illegal alien, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison after the court heard evidence of his criminal history, including convictions for burglary, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a firearm, and shooting his girlfriend’s estranged husband. Mexican illegal alien Juan Francisco Juarez-Rodriguez received a 57-month-term of imprisonment after repeatedly returning to the United States following his first removal in 1999 and accumulating convictions for offenses including burglary, drug charges, carrying a concealed weapon, battery, and another previous illegal reentry.
The cases are referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigrants, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault, and violence against children.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than 10 million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state, and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Berks County Doctor Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Dr. Habib Bhatti, 44, of Barto, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct; one count of use of an interstate commerce facility to entice a minor, and attempt to entice a minor, to engage in sexual conduct; two counts of production of child pornography; and two counts of possessing child pornography.
The defendant was arrested on a criminal complaint and warrant in September 2025 and charged by information this June, arising from his traveling across the country to meet minors to engage in commercial sex acts, secretly recording himself engaging in sex acts with minors, and possession of child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”). With today’s plea, he has waived prosecution by indictment.
As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, from about July 2024 to November 2024, Bhatti used the internet to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce Minor Victim #1 into engaging in sexual activity that would constitute a criminal offense, specifically, attempted statutory sexual assault.
Then, in or about November 2024, Bhatti traveled from Pennsylvania to California intending to engage in illicit sexual conduct with Minor Victim #1 and Minor Victim #2.
As further detailed, in December of 2018, in Philadelphia, the defendant sexually exploited Minor Victim #3 and Minor Victim #4, persuading each minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of those acts.
Bhatti also possessed multiple devices containing CSAM, with at least one of the minors depicted a prepubescent child under 12 years of age.
In addition to the offenses of conviction detailed above, as part of his plea agreement, Bhatti admitted committing offenses involving 24 additional minor girls. Generally, the defendant would meet the minor victims online and subsequently offer them money in exchange for sexually explicit photos and/or for in-person sexual encounters. The minor victims were between 14 and 17 years old at the time of the defendant’s crimes. For the purpose of determining Bhatti’s Sentencing Guidelines range, these additional offenses will be treated as if the defendant had been convicted of 24 additional counts of production of child pornography.
Bhatti is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29 and faces a maximum possible term of life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (“CEOS”), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by the FBI, with CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca Kulik and Trial Attorney James E. Burke IV of CEOS.
Arizona Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute over 20,000 Carfentanil PillsRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – An Arizona man has pleaded guilty to trafficking thousands of pills containing carfentanil into Birmingham, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
Ignacio Miguel Tirado-Castillo, of Arizona, pleaded guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute and distribution of a fentanyl analogue and attempt to distribute a fentanyl analogue. In May 2025, Tirado-Castillo was charged by a federal grand jury in Birmingham, Alabama.
According to court documents, on December 16, 2024, inspectors with the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) in Denver contacted USPIS inspectors in Birmingham to notify them of a suspicious package sent from Phoenix, Arizona, to Midfield, Alabama. An inspector was at the post office when the package arrived and took custody of it. A K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the package. The inspector obtained a federal search warrant for the package. Inside the package was approximately 20,300 “M-30” pills containing carfentanil. Carfentanil is an analogue of the fentanyl compound and is approximately 100 times more potent that fentanyl. Inspectors subsequently identified the mailer as Tirado-Castillo, and he admitted to mailing the package.
Surveillance photo of Tirado-Castillo mailing the package
According to filings in the case, a search of Tirado-Castillo’s iCloud account revealed additional evidence of criminal activity, including pictures of various firearms, including stolen firearms, being transported to Mexico. Other iCloud evidence included brutal depictions and discussions of cartel-associated violence, including a video of a decapitation.
Tirado-Castillo is also facing charges for similar conduct in the District of Nebraska. Agents arrested Tirado-Castillo in Arizona for the Nebraska case and, at that time, discovered an additional 25 pounds of carfentanil in his apartment.
"Thanks to the dedicated work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, thousands of lethal carfentanil pills were intercepted before they made their way onto our streets," said U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. "We will continue to leverage every resource to protect our communities from those who would destroy them through the distribution of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues."
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains steadfast in its collaboration with law enforcement partners, standing side by side to relentlessly pursue individuals infiltrating our communities with lethal narcotics like carfentanil,” said Shameka Jackson, Inspector in Charge of the USPIS Houston Division. “We remain committed in preventing these illicit substances from entering the U.S. mail system, protecting our postal employees, and safeguarding our community.”
Packages destined for Birmingham containing over 20,000 carfentanil pills
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.
USPIS investigated the case along with the Birmingham Police Department and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison J. Garnett prosecuted the case.
Albuquerque Man Charged with Threatening FBI Agent over Seized FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has been charged with threatening an FBI special agent during a phone call in which he allegedly demanded the return of firearms seized during a prior federal search warrant.
According to court documents, on July 14, 2026, Alejandro Moya, 36, contacted the FBI Albuquerque Field Office seeking the return of firearms that had been seized during a 2020 federal search warrant. During the call, Moya allegedly stated that he was “tired of playing games” and wanted his firearms returned.
Later that day, an FBI special agent contacted Moya by telephone regarding the request. During the call, Moya allegedly threatened the agent, stating, “Give me my fucking shit or I’m gonna kill you,” and “I will fucking cut your head off.” Moya allegedly continued making threats, telling the agent, “You’re fucking dead,” and challenging the agent to meet him at a residence in Albuquerque for a confrontation.
Court documents allege that Moya knew he was speaking with an FBI agent when he made the threats.
Moya is charged with interstate threatening communications. Post initial appearance, Moya was released on his own recognizance and is expected to appear in court on July 20, 2026, for a combined preliminary and detention hearing. If convicted of the current charges, Moya faces up to five years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Agricultural Company to Pay over $10M to Resolve Foreign Bribery CaseRead the Press Release
The Scoular Company (Scoular), an agricultural supply chain company based in Omaha, Nebraska, will pay over $10 million to resolve an investigation by the Justice Department into a years-long scheme in which it relied on bribery of Mexican officials to deliver trains of goods across the U.S.-Mexico border.
Scoular entered into a three-year deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) in connection with a criminal information filed in the Western District of Texas charging the company with one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).
“The Scoular Company used customs brokers as part of a long-running scheme at the Mexican border to pay more than $400,000 in bribes to Mexican officials,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “A portion of those bribes ultimately benefited people who helped operate a cartel, even though Scoular did not know about it. This resolution shows that bribery and corruption not only undermine fair play and competition for Americans, but also hurt our national security interests in stopping the scourge of dangerous cartel activity.”
“Nothing crosses into or out of Mexico without the approval and payment to Mexican drug cartels. American businesses that engage in any cross-border trade bear a significant amount of responsibility to do so without benefitting those cartels and without threatening our national security,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “The bribery scheme in which the Scoular Company engaged demonstrates the dangerous corporate corruption we in the Western District of Texas are committed to fighting on behalf of the American people.”
According to court documents, between 2013 and 2019, Scoular relied on multiple customs brokers to ensure that its shipments of corn and other products successfully crossed from the United States into Mexico. Under Mexican law, those shipments were subject to inspection for dirt, soil, and other impurities. To ensure that Scoular’s shipments successfully transited the border despite inspections that found such dirt, soil, and other impurities, Scoular authorized multiple third-party customs brokers to bribe Mexican officials at the border. At the direction of Scoular employees, and for Scoular’s benefit, those brokers paid bribes of approximately $2,000 per Scoular train and invoiced the bribes back to Scoular for reimbursement of reinspection fees, which Scoular paid. Scoular employees communicated about shipments and bribes via WhatsApp and other means. In total, Scoular authorized bribes of more than $400,000 and avoided fees and costs of more than $6.5 million.
As part of the DPA, Scoular agreed to pay a $9,769,521 criminal penalty and $414,351 in forfeiture. Scoular will also continue cooperating with the department in any ongoing or future criminal investigation arising during the term of the DPA. Further, Scoular has committed to implementing a compliance and ethics program designed to prevent and detect violations of the FCPA, and other applicable anti-corruption laws, throughout its operations. Scoular will periodically report to the department on remediation and implementation of compliance measures throughout the term of the DPA.
The department reached this resolution with Scoular based on a number of factors, including, among others, the nature and seriousness of the offense and the determination during the course of the investigation, that, unbeknownst to the company or its employees, a portion of the bribes paid in connection with Scoular’s shipments benefited persons associated with the criminal operations of a cartel operating at the U.S.-Mexico border. Scoular did not receive voluntary disclosure credit pursuant to the Department of Justice’s Corporate Enforcement and Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, because it did not voluntarily and timely disclose to the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section the conduct described in the Statement of Facts.
Scoular received credit for its cooperation with the department’s investigation, which included (i) conducting an internal investigation into the misconduct and providing evidence to the department, including detailed factual presentations; (ii) providing information and evidence to the department that identified those involved in the misconduct; (iii) producing and organizing materials in response to the department’s voluntary document requests, notwithstanding certain deficiencies in the early part of the investigation; and (iv) securing counsel for current employees.
Scoular also engaged in timely remedial measures, including (i) increasing compliance sensitivity across the organization through enhanced business engagement; (ii) implementing the findings of an external compliance program maturity assessment and an anti-corruption risk assessment, including by restructuring its compliance function and incorporating senior leadership oversight across compliance and business activities; (iii) reducing operational risk by eliminating the use of customs brokers associated with reinspection fees in Mexico; (iv) strengthening risk-based review and monitoring procedures, and coordinating those efforts through the use of specific software tools; (v) updating and launching a revised Code of Conduct, along with several key policies and procedures related to its compliance program, including anti-corruption, bribery, conflicts of interest, and third party management; (vi) improving and implementing risk-based screenings and approval requirements for third-party providers; implementing anti-corruption and audit right provisions in third-party contracts; (vii) implementing revised financial controls procedures that relate to high-risk transactions, and (viii) providing general and targeted anti-corruption training to relevant personnel.
In light of these considerations, the criminal penalty reflects a 25% reduction from the bottom of the applicable guidelines range, and the term of the DPA is for a period of three years.
In a related case, a customs broker who paid bribes on behalf of Scoular, Carlos Leopoldo Alvelais, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the FCPA on Oct. 23, 2025. Sentencing in that case is scheduled for July 20.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Connor Mullin and Assistant Chief William E. Schurmann of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Kanof for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting FCPA and Foreign Extortion Prevention Act (FEPA) matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA and FEPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
30th Street Station Contractor and Its Owner Agree to $7.2 Million Resolution of Civil Claims Arising from Kickbacks Paid to Amtrak OfficialRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced today that Mark 1 Restoration Company (“Mark 1”) and its owner Mark Snedden have agreed to a $7,257,232.12 resolution of civil claims arising from kickbacks that Mark 1 paid to an Amtrak official to obtain favorable changes to a contract to renovate the façade of William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in Philadelphia.
Snedden previously pleaded guilty to criminal charges arising out of the kickback scheme, as did Mark 1 executives Donald Seefeldt, Lee Maniatis, and Khaled Dallo. The criminal cases are United States v. Mark Snedden, No. 25-cr-120 (E.D. Pa.); United States v. Donald Seefeldt, No. 24-cr-419 (E.D. Pa.); United States v. Lee Maniatis, No. 24-cr-260 (E.D. Pa.); and United States v. Khaled Dallo, No. 24-cr-079 (E.D. Pa.).
As detailed in the criminal informations and admitted by Snedden during his guilty plea, he and the other Mark 1 executives who pleaded guilty conspired to provide an Amtrak employee overseeing the 30th Street Station renovation project with gifts and other things of value totaling approximately $323,686, including paid vacations, jewelry, cash, dinners, entertainment, a dog, and training for that dog.
In return, per the criminal filings and guilty pleas, the Amtrak employee used his position to help obtain a series of change orders or contract modifications that increased the total cost of the renovation project. As admitted by Snedden, those contract modifications falsely inflated the true costs of some of the work to be performed and caused more than $2 million in overbilling to Amtrak.
As part of the civil resolution, Mark 1 and Snedden agreed to make a payment of $2,400,000 and to release Amtrak from any claim to $4,857,232.12 in additional funds that Amtrak retained or otherwise did not pay to Mark 1 after learning of the kickback scheme.
“Integrity in federal contracting isn’t optional,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “If you try to buy favors or submit false certifications, expect both civil and criminal consequences.”
“Bribery strikes at the heart of the rule of law,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division. “Stealing and misusing federal funds is not only a crime, but it betrays the trust of the communities we serve and erodes confidence in the systems they rely on. Together with our partners, the FBI is committed to investigating corruption, protecting the integrity of our institutions, and holding accountable those who abuse their positions for personal profit.”
“When contractors and insiders manipulate the procurement process through bribes and overbilling, taxpayers ultimately pay the price,” said James Harper, Special Agent in Charge of Amtrak OIG’s Eastern Field Office. “This case resolution reflects the close collaboration among our office, the FBI, the Department of Transportation OIG, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our shared commitment to protecting Amtrak’s resources and taxpayer dollars by holding wrongdoers accountable.”
“Kickback schemes that erode the integrity of federally funded transportation projects undermine public trust and divert resources from the communities they are meant to serve,” said Brian C. Gallagher, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General’s Northeastern Region. “Working alongside our partners at the FBI and the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, we remain committed to exposing fraud, holding accountable those who abuse their positions of trust, and safeguarding taxpayer dollars across our transportation system.”
The civil matter was handled in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter Carr and Landon Y. Jones. The FBI, the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
16 July 2026
Woman Arrested for Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding an Officer at the U.S./Canadian BorderRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Maddesyn Jones, 22, of Copenhagen, NY, has been charged by complaint with assaulting, resisting, or impeding an officer engaged in the performance of official duties.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Acting Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Buffalo Field Office Anthony Patrone, made the announcement.
At the Alexandria Bay Port of Entry, Jones defied lawful commands and fled from law enforcement. During the chase, she lost control of her vehicle and came to rest in a ditch. She was subsequently taken into custody. Jones was arraigned June 25th, 2026, in Syracuse, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric.
“In the Northern District of New York, we have zero tolerance for those who endanger federal officers by refusing lawful commands and fleeing from them,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone. “As alleged, this defendant’s actions represent conduct that is unaligned with a nation of laws and Ms. Jones will be held accountable in the court of law.”
HSI Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said, “The brazen assault, resistance, and obstruction alleged in this complaint strike at the heart of the rule of law at our border. HSI Syracuse, working alongside our law enforcement partners, remains relentless in defending our officers, securing our ports of entry, and ensuring that those who threaten the safety and integrity of our border are brought to justice.”The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge filed against Jones carries a maximum sentence of 8 years in prison, a maximum term of supervised release of 3 years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute(s) the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone is prosecuting the case.
West Bloomfield Resident Charged for Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A West Bloomfield resident was charged in a criminal complaint for his alleged role in a scheme to obtain millions of dollars in investment funds based on false pretenses, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The complaint charges Kenneth Bardwell, 66, of West Bloomfield with one count of wire fraud. According to the complaint, Bardwell is the operator of a company called “Motown Sports Group Holdings, Inc.” and several related business entities. Through these entities, Bardwell has solicited and obtained millions of dollars from investors for a project involving the purported development of a multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment complex in Romulus, Michigan. Bardwell represented to investors that their money would be used to purchase land and develop the project, but if the land could not be purchased, the money would be returned to investors from an escrow account. According to the complaint, Bardwell has made almost no effort towards the purchase of the land to develop the project. He instead spent most of the investor funds on gentlemen’s clubs, luxury retail goods, rental cars, and lifestyle expenses for himself and his associates.
A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Trial cannot be held on felony charges in a complaint. When the investigation is complete, a determination will be made whether to seek a felony indictment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert Moran. The investigation
is being conducted by the FBI Detroit Fraud and Financial Crimes Task Force, Birmingham Police Department and Bloomfield Township Police Department, with assistance from West Bloomfield Police Department.
The FBI is seeking information from any individuals who may have invested money with Motown Sports Group Holdings, Inc. or Kenneth Bardwell, or who may otherwise have information pertinent to this investigation. Please visit https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-motown-sports-group-holdings-inc-investigation for further information.
Washington woman sentenced to 10 years in prison for trafficking meth into MontanaRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Washington woman who was funneling meth into Montana was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Kasey Ann Willard, 52, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided at sentencing.
The government alleged in court documents that Willard had been dealing significant quantities of methamphetamine from Washington into Montana. In September 2025, law enforcement arranged to buy meth from Willard through an informant. The informant successfully purchased two pounds of meth from Willard and then asked to buy several more.
Willard made the sale and on Oct. 18, 2025, traveled from Washinton to Montana to make the delivery. She was pulled over in Saltese, Montana, where law enforcement found eight pounds of meth in a bag at her feet. Willard had previously been convicted in Washington of distributing methamphetamine in 2009.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Missoula Drug Task Force and the DEA conducted the investigation.
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United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia Prosecuting Multiple Project Safe Childhood CasesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men appeared in federal court this week on charges involving child pornography and sex offender registration, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.
Robert Allen Welborn, 58, of Joppatowne, Maryland, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for failing to update his sex offender registration. Welborn was convicted of a crime against a child in North Carolina that required lifetime sex offender registration. In 2023, Welborn was living and working in Fairmont, West Virginia, but did not notify law enforcement of his change of address.
Brian Richard Pack, 57, of Fairmont, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. According to statements made during the plea hearing, the FBI received a tip regarding the downloading of child sex abuse material leading to Pack’s address. A search warrant was executed on Pack’s home, and officers seized an iPhone, along with multiple flash drives, hard drives, and a laptop, finding more than 500 images and videos containing child sex abuse material. Pack faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the Pack case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Rhee prosecuting the Welborn case.
Investigative agencies include West Virginia State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Marshals Service.
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. 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.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided over the Pack hearing.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh conducted the Welborn sentencing.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts Federal Fraud Forum and Announces Creation of Fraud Task Force in Southern District of IndianaRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – United States Attorney Thomas E. Wheeler II and federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office convened a forum of 20 federal law enforcement agencies to discuss enhanced collaboration and whole-of-government strategies to eliminate fraud and theft from taxpayer-funded programs in Indiana.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler also announced the creation of the Southern District of Indiana (SDIN) Fraud Task Force—consisting of federal prosecutors and special agents, forensic accountants, analysts, and others from federal law enforcement agencies—which, through data-sharing and investigative cooperation, will detect, investigate, and prosecute those who defraud and steal from taxpayers. This Task Force will further strengthen federal partnerships by formalizing coordination processes and refocusing joint efforts to prioritize federal resources for identifying, investigating, and prosecuting fraud involving taxpayer-funded programs, cybercrime, and predatory schemes targeting citizens across Indiana.
These efforts are part of the nationwide initiative to combat fraud led by the White House and Department of Justice. On March 16, 2026, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 14395, directing federal agencies to coordinate and accelerate a comprehensive strategy to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse within federal benefit programs, to be led by the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance.
In 2026, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has already secured federal charges or prison sentences and restitution orders against 19 individuals for fraud-related crimes. Most recently, eight defendants were sentenced for their roles in a $1.2 million travel insurance kickback scheme. In a separate case, Shayna Williams pleaded guilty to orchestrating a $500,000 elder fraud scheme. Hoosiers should expect to see an increase in similar investigations and prosecutions as federal agencies expand their coordinated efforts.
“Today’s forum is a major step in reaffirming our commitment to rooting out fraud in Indiana. This is also designed to provide a framework for a consistent approach to these important matters on the federal side as we continue our strong working relationships with our state and local partners to strengthen a whole-of-government approach,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Fraudsters should be aware—the federal government is watching at every level. We will leverage the full resources of law enforcement to find you, uncover your schemes, and ensure you are held accountable for every penny.”
U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked the following federal agencies for their participation in the Federal Fraud Forum and their collaboration and commitment to the SDIN Fraud Task Force:
- Air Force, Office of Special Investigations
- AMTRAK, Office of Inspector General (hereafter “OIG”)
- Department of Commerce, OIG
- Department of Education, OIG
- FBI Indianapolis
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations
- U.S. Department of Commerce, OIG
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, OIG
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, OIG
- U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards
- U.S. Department of Labor, OIG
- U.S. Department of Transportation, OIG
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, OIG
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service
- U.S. Postal Service, OIG
- U.S. Secret Service
- U.S. Small Business Administration, OIG
- U.S. Social Security Administration, OIG
- U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
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.
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U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal Announce Results of Community Safety Sweep to Arrest Fugitives and Violent Offenders in Operation Repeat Offender ProjectRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons, United States Marshal Dan Satterlee, and Sioux Falls Chief of Police Jon Thum, along with representatives of other law enforcement agencies, held a joint press conference at the Sioux Falls Police Department on Thursday, July 16, 2026, to announce the overall impact of a local three-day Homeland Security Taskforce, Operation Repeat Offender Project.
Operation Repeat Offender Project was a collaborative federal, state, and local law enforcement operation in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area conducted the week of July 6, 2026, that targeted fugitives, parole absconders, gang members, and their associates. The operation resulted in the arrest of 35 individuals, 11 of whom received additional new felony state charges.
“With surgical precision, this successful joint operation, conducted by a team of dedicated law enforcement officers risking their lives, has removed dangerous fugitives from our community and returned them to where they belong—behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
“These operations highlight the great work that goes on every day in South Dakota. Partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies are the backbone to South Dakota’s law enforcement efforts and continue to keep our communities as safe as possible,” said U.S. Marshal Satterlee. “Deputy U.S. Marshals and our task force partners carry out this dangerous work on a daily basis throughout the state and will continue to do so for a safer South Dakota.”
“The success of this three-day operation highlights the power of collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies,” said HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy. “By joining forces as a unified law enforcement community, we are able to deliver meaningful results and advance our shared mission of safeguarding the public. This operation is a clear demonstration of our unwavering commitment to public safety.”
“We continue to demonstrate within our community that we are strongest when collaborating together. This joint law-enforcement operation is another classic example of how effective we can be when we join forces. When law-enforcement works well together, it has a direct positive result to public safety within our communities, and I am incredibly proud of our combined effort,” said Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum.
Operation Results:35 targeted and collateral individuals arrested:
Of those arrested, 11 received new felony state charges. These charges include Possession of Controlled Substance, Weapons Possession, and Aggravated Eluding.
A total of 55 outstanding warrants cleared.
8 Parole Absconders Arrested.
- 2 firearms seized
- 34 grams of methamphetamine seized.
- 9.7 grams of fentanyl seized.
(close to 5,000 lethal doses of fentanyl).
Agencies that assisted with the Repeat Offender Project:
United States Attorney’s Office
U.S. Marshals Service
Homeland Security Investigations
Sioux Falls Police Department
South Dakota Highway Patrol
South Dakota Department of Corrections / Parole Services
Brandon Police Department
South Dakota Fusion Center
Beadle County Sheriff’s Office
Moody County Sheriff’s Office
U.S. Attorney Aaron Reitz statement on the shooting and death of Lorenzo SalgadoRead the Press Release
Link to Video
"My name’s Aaron Reitz. I’m the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Texas, and I want to provide a statement on the shooting and death of Lorenzo Salgado here in Houston.
I want to assure the public that the appropriate law enforcement agencies are looking into this matter. That includes my office, the FBI, DHS, and other state and local partners. Based upon preliminary information my office has been provided to date, and without drawing any final conclusions while the investigation is ongoing, here’s what we have reason to believe happened:
On the morning of Tuesday, July 7th, federal officers were investigating two Guatemalan men known to be driving a white van. These men had previously evaded arrest and were potentially subject to deportation. While looking for the suspects’ white van, officers received a report of a similar van in the area. The officers’ two vehicles—each with two officers inside—turned on their police lights and attempted to pull over the van and the men that fit the suspects’ description. The aliens then fled, conducting a rapid U-turn and hopping a median to get away. The agents chose not to pursue. Later that morning, the agents came across the van again. And again, the illegal aliens attempted to flee, but this time the agents successfully surrounded the vehicle. At some point, two of the four officers got out of their vehicles and instructed the non-compliant aliens to put the van in park. Preliminary information indicates the driver shifted the van into reverse, then forward again, while an officer was partially inside the van or immediately next to it.
During this confrontation between federal agents and a group of illegal aliens attempting to flee, one of the officers fired a single shot. The round struck Lorenzo Salgado. The other federal officers on scene immediately began rendering first aid to preserve Mr. Salgado’s life. Yet sadly, as we know, Mr. Salgado later died at the hospital.
Meanwhile, officers saw in plain view several small bags of a white, crystal-like substance inside the van. As a result, just yesterday the FBI executed a search warrant on the van in connection with possible narcotics trafficking and drug offenses.
I want to reiterate: This assessment is based on preliminary information given to my office. We draw no decisive conclusions and believe federal law enforcement will conduct a thorough investigation.
We are doing everything we can to seek the truth and do the right thing. In the meantime, I encourage the public to give the FBI and DHS the opportunity to investigate. Let the justice system work. And pray for safer communities in which law, order, and justice prevail.”
Two sentenced in connection with drug trafficking in Seattle’s International District and homeless encampments along I-5Read the Press Release
Seattle – Two Seattle-area men were sentenced late yesterday in U.S. District Court in Seattle for drug and gun crimes related to Seattle’s International District and the homeless encampment on I-5 called “The Jungle,” announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Isai Gamboa Pacheco, 56, of Everett, Washington was sentenced to six years in prison and Sang Tran, 55, of Kent, Washington, was sentenced to 66 months in prison. At Pacheco’s sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Tana Lin said, “Despite a previous conviction for the same offence, you came back to this country and did it again… but on a much larger scale…. You were a source of a significant amount of cocaine to members of this community. Cocaine is one of the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths. What you did contributed to that suffering.”
“Both these defendants had one job and one job only – selling large amounts of meth and cocaine for distribution in the areas of our community plagued by crime and unhoused, vulnerable people dealing with addiction,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “Tran had prior arrests and Gamboa Pacheco had a prior conviction and removal from the U.S. Still their greed kept them selling these poisons and carrying high-powered firearms to protect their drug trade.”
“Mr. Pacheco and Mr. Tran sought to profit from the addictions and suffering of others by redistributing huge quantities of dangerous drugs, and both were found in possession of even more drugs, along with firearms, during searches of their residences," said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. "The FBI and our partners will continue to hold accountable the members of this conspiracy and others like them as we combat drug trafficking and violent crime in Seattle and throughout the state of Washington.”
“These defendants fueled addiction and violence by trafficking large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine while arming themselves with high-powered firearms,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Every drug trafficking organization dismantled, and every pound of poison seized makes our communities safer. DEA and our law enforcement partners are relentlessly disrupting the criminal networks, holding drug traffickers accountable, and working to build a Fentanyl Free America.”
According to records filed in the case, the investigation began in November 2023, with the Seattle Police, FBI, and DEA focusing on drug trafficking organizations dealing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin in the homeless encampments of Seattle and in drug trafficking areas of the International District at locations such as 12th and Jackson. Tran was in the first group of defendants arrested in January 2025. During the first arrest operation law enforcement seized 17 firearms and 23 kilos of a suspected narcotic powder.
Tran had been heard on the wiretap arranging to purchase a pound of methamphetamine and redistribute it to another individual. When law enforcement searched his home, they found about 330 gross grams of cocaine, a loaded
Tauris 12 shotgun, ammunition, and proceeds of his drug trafficking activities in the form of United States currency, jewelry, and Rolex watches. In his garage, investigators found two more rifles. Tran admitted he kept the guns to protect his drugs and drug proceeds. He also pleaded guilty to money laundering for his efforts to hide drug proceeds by laundering tens of thousands of dollars through a nail salon.
The second defendant sentenced yesterday, Isai Gamboa Pacheco was arrested in the second takedown involving this drug trafficking conspiracy. Following the January takedown, law enforcement continued the investigation into drug traffickers who were distributing in Washington state. This organization made frequent trips into Oregon and California. In March 2025 alone, law enforcement seized 100 pounds of methamphetamine, 111 kilos of cocaine, 19 kilos of fentanyl powder, 250,000 fentanyl pills, and four kilos of heroin. The street value of the narcotics was nearly $3 million.
On May 29, 2025, law enforcement executed 16 search warrants in Federal Way, Vancouver, Everett, Pacific, Tukwila, Kent, Issaquah, Seattle, Woodlake, California and Beaverton, Oregon. Investigators seized more than seven kilograms of cocaine, 18 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 57,000 fentanyl pills, and 17 firearms. They also seized more than $353,000 in cash
Gamboa Pacheco was picked up on the wiretap making kilogram quantity deals of cocaine. When investigators served a search warrant at Gamboa Pacheco’s residence, they recovered more than $16,000 in drug proceeds. Investigators searched two of Gamboa Pacheco’s vehicles and found further
evidence of Gamboa Pacheco’s crimes. Inside a Honda, investigators found almost three kilograms of methamphetamine and an unloaded Colt AR15 rifle with a drum magazine.
Gamboa Pacheco pleaded guilty in March 2026 to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and being an alien in possession of a firearm.
In asking for a 90-month prison sentence, prosecutors noted this is Gamboa Pacheco’s second drug trafficking conviction. “Even after being caught previously and after receiving a considerable prison sentence, he voluntarily re-engaged in drug trafficking activities solely for his personal profit. Moreover, while engaging in his drug trafficking activities, he obtained a firearm knowing he could not legally possess it.” Gamboa Pacheco has no legal status in the U.S. and was previously removed to Mexico.
This investigation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Seattle comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), The United States Marshals Service (USMS), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the United States Secret Service (USSS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.
The investigation was led by the FBI, Seattle Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with significant assistance from the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program (HIDTA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Washington National Guard Counterdrug Program. Investigators also worked with the Oregon State Police and Clark County, Washington Sheriff’s Office.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne.
Two TD Bank Insiders Sentenced for Facilitating Money Laundering, FraudRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A New York-based former employee of TD Bank, N.A. was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for facilitating a money laundering network’s movement of millions of dollars through TD Bank accounts. A second New York-based former employee of TD Bank, N.A. and another financial institution was sentenced yesterday to 24 months in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud affecting a financial institution and making false bank entries or reports as a bank employee, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.
According to court documents, Wilfredo Aquino, 47, of Manhattan, New York, leveraged his position as a TD Bank assistant store manager to facilitate a money laundering network’s movement of hundreds of millions of dollars through TD Bank accounts from 2019 to February 2021. During that time, the leader of the network, Da Ying Sze, also known as David, and his co-conspirators moved approximately $474 million through TD Bank accounts by depositing cash at TD Bank stores in New York, New Jersey, and elsewhere. In February 2022, David pleaded guilty to coordinating a $653 million money laundering conspiracy, operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, and bribing bank employees in connection with financial transactions.
During David’s money laundering scheme, Aquino processed approximately 1,680 official bank checks at TD Bank for David and his co-conspirators, totaling more than approximately $92 million. Nearly all of these bank checks were funded with a corresponding cash deposit exceeding $10,000, which triggered TD Bank’s legal requirement to file a currency transaction report (CTR). Although Aquino knew that David was conducting these cash deposits, Aquino never identified David as the “conductor” on the CTR. Aquino also knew that TD Bank had closed other accounts linked to David for suspicious activity; one colleague even warned Aquino that David’s activity “looks like money laundering.” In February 2021, Aquino facilitated three of David’s money laundering transactions, totaling almost $2 million in cash, in a third party’s account. He failed to report David as the conductor of the transactions, thus concealing David’s role in the money laundering scheme.
Aquino accepted numerous retail gift cards from David totaling over $11,000 in return for his facilitation of this scheme, including for the three transactions in February 2021.
In January 2026, Aquino pleaded guilty to conspiring to launder monetary instruments.
According to court documents, from January 2021 through May 2021, Edward Low, also known as “a Mang Wah Low” and “Eddie Low,” 31, of Flushing, New York, accepted bribes and leveraged his position as a TD Bank, N.A. retail employee to fraudulently obtain confidential customer information that he passed to outside co-conspirators, who used it to take over accounts and steal money from customers. Low also processed some of their illicit transactions. In total, Low received at least $26,700 in bribes and facilitated $484,572.16 in fraud at TD Bank.
Then, from May 2022 through August 2022, while employed at another financial institution, Low accepted a bribe to falsify bank records to open an account in the name of a shell company. Low’s co-conspirators then used that account to commit at least $47,195 of fraud.
In February 2026, Low pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud affecting a financial institution and making false bank entries or reports as a bank employee.
U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer for the District of New Jersey; Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Newark Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Patricia Tarasca of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG) New York Region made the announcement. The Department also thanks the Morristown Police Department for its assistance with the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marko Pesce, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorneys D. Zachary Adams and Chelsea Rooney of the Bank Integrity Unit of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section prosecuted the case.
The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers and employees whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
###
Defense counsel:
Aquino – Richard J. Verde, Esq.
Low – Michael P. Koribanics, Esq.
Two Montana women plead guilty to drug chargesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A woman from Corvallis and another from Helena who were bringing methamphetamine into Montana from Washington admitted to charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Amanda Lynn Montoya, 42, from Corvallis, pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Montoya faces 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine, at least five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
Cristina Dallas Kunz, 36, from Helena, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Kunz 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 Donald W. Molloy presided at the hearings and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Both defendants will be sentenced on November 13, 2026 and remained released on conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Montoya was distributing methamphetamine in Missoula. On May 28, 2026, law enforcement learned Montoya was travelling back to Montana from Washington and arranged a traffic stop to further investigate. Montoya was driving the car, and Kunz was in the passenger seat. In the vehicle, officers found two pounds of methamphetamine and $1,700 in cash. Searching Kunz’s phone, officers found messages detailing plans between Kunz and Montoya to distribute methamphetamine, and their plan to travel to Washington to purchase drugs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Missoula Drug Task Force conducted the investigation.
XXX
Two Members of Chinese Money Laundering Network Charged with Laundering Investment Fraud ProceedsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Zhuoying Chen, also known as “Jolene,” and Haojie Zhang, also known as “Kevin,” with money laundering conspiracy in connection with their participation in a scheme to launder funds derived from cyber investment fraud scams, or “pig butchering” scams. The defendants were arrested today and will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho.
Joseph Nocella Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; A. Tysen Duva, Assistant Attorney General, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; John A. Condon, Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI New York); and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge, United States Postal Inspection Service, New York Division (USPIS) announced the arrests and indictment.
“As alleged, the defendants were key members of a sophisticated money laundering network that funneled over $40 million in victim funds to bank accounts in China,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Our Office will continue in its strong tradition of holding accountable anyone who seeks to prey on vulnerable victims with investment fraud schemes.”
“As alleged in the indictment, the defendants laundered fraud proceeds, enabling scammers to continue to victimize Americans and deprive them of their hard-earned money,” stated Assistant Attorney General Duva. “Dismantling Chinese money laundering networks that support investment fraud schemes is critical to protecting Americans. The Criminal Division will relentlessly pursue the financial networks that fuel and profit from these fraud schemes.”
“For nearly two years, these two Chinese nationals allegedly ran a sophisticated, illicit network that laundered funds stolen from unsuspecting victims’ life savings,” stated HSI Acting Executive Associate Director Condon. “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of HSI and our partners on the Homeland Security Task Force, this dangerous criminal enterprise has been exposed. HSI special agents remain relentless in their pursuit to dismantle money laundering networks and bring to justice anyone who seeks to profit from defrauding hard-working Americans.”
“The defendants' alleged operation laundered more than $40 million from American victims and deposited them directly in Chinese accounts overseas. The FBI is committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle scam compounds that seek to steal the hard-earned money of our citizens,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.
“Today’s indictment shows we’re not backing down against fraudsters who target innocent people—justice is coming for those who steal from hardworking Americans,” stated IRS-CI New York Special Agent in Charge Chavis. “This case reflects how IRS‑CI and our partners work side‑by‑side to uncover money‑laundering networks and protect the public. Together, we’re pushing forward to ensure Americans’ hard‑earned money is safe from schemes like these.”
“Investment fraud schemes exploit the trust of victims through false promises of favorable returns,” stated USPIS Inspector in Charge Larco-Ward. "The US Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigating fraud and protecting the community from those who seek to profit through deception.“
As alleged in the indictment, between 2020 and 2022, Chen and Zhang managed a network of more than a dozen individuals based in Queens and Brooklyn, New York who opened bank accounts in the name of shell companies to launder proceeds of investment scams known as “pig butchering” fraud schemes, a term derived from a foreign-language phrase used by perpetrators to describe the crimes. These schemes consist of perpetrators contacting victims via messaging services or social media applications. The perpetrators then initiate relationships with the victims and gain their trust, convincing victims to send money for lucrative investment opportunities. The perpetrators also show the victims fake profits on the purported investment and encourage the victims to invest more. Ultimately, the perpetrators steal the victims’ funds.
Chen and Zhang allegedly conspired with China-based co-conspirators to transfer the funds involved in pig butchering fraud schemes abroad. Chen, Zhang and other co-conspirators oversaw the use of approximately 45 shell companies and 140 company bank accounts located primarily in the Eastern District of New York to launder at least $43 million in criminal proceeds from these schemes.
The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.
This prosecution is also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section and by the Department of Justice’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Weintraub and David I. Berman, and Trial Attorneys Claire Galasso, David Ginensky, and Adrienne Rosen are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Laura Mansour.The Defendants:
ZHUOYING CHEN (also known as “Jolene”)
Age: 27
Brooklyn, New YorkHAOJIE ZHANG (also known as “Kevin”)
Age: 38
Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 26-CR-205 (KAM)
Two Key Members of Chinese Money Laundering Network Charged with Laundering $43 Million in Investment Fraud ProceedsRead the Press Release
A New York man and woman made an initial appearance today in Brooklyn, New York on charges of conspiracy to launder money derived from cyber investment fraud scams.
According to the indictment unsealed today, between 2020 and 2022, Zhuoying Chen, 27, of Brooklyn, New York and Haojie Zhang, 38, of Queens, New York managed a network of more than a dozen individuals based in Queens and Brooklyn, who opened 140 bank accounts in the name of approximately 45 shell companies to launder at least $43 million in proceeds of investment scams. Then, Chen and Zhang allegedly conspired with China-based co-conspirators to transfer the funds involved in the fraud schemes abroad.
According to the indictment, the fraud schemes consist of perpetrators contacting victims via messaging services or social media applications. The perpetrators would initiate relationships with the victims and gain their trust, convincing victims to send money for lucrative investment opportunities. The perpetrators would show the victims fake profits on the purported investment and encourage the victims to invest more. The perpetrators would then steal the victim’s funds.
“As alleged in the indictment, the defendants laundered fraud proceeds, enabling scammers to continue to victimize Americans and deprive them of their hard earned money,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Dismantling Chinese money laundering networks that support investment fraud schemes is critical to protecting Americans. The Criminal Division will relentlessly pursue the financial networks that fuel and profit from these fraud schemes.”
“As alleged, the defendants were key members of a sophisticated money laundering network that funneled over $40 million in victim funds to bank accounts in China,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. for the Eastern District of New York. “Our Office will continue in its strong tradition of holding accountable anyone who seeks to prey on vulnerable victims with investment fraud schemes.”
“The defendants’ alleged operation laundered more than $40 million from American victims and deposited them directly in Chinese accounts overseas,” said Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “The FBI is committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle scam compounds that seek to steal the hard-earned money of our citizens.”
“For nearly two years, these two Chinese nationals allegedly ran a sophisticated, illicit network that laundered funds stolen from unsuspecting victims’ life savings,” said Acting Executive Associate Director John A. Condon of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of HSI and our partners on the Homeland Security Task Force, this dangerous criminal enterprise has been exposed. HSI special agents remain relentless in their pursuit to dismantle money laundering networks and bring to justice anyone who seeks to profit from defrauding hard-working Americans.”
“Today’s indictment shows we’re not backing down against fraudsters who target innocent people — justice is coming for those who steal from hardworking Americans,” said Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis Jr. of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York. “This case reflects how IRS‑CI and our partners work side‑by‑side to uncover money‑laundering networks and protect the public. Together, we’re pushing forward to ensure Americans’ hard‑earned money is safe from schemes like these.”
“Investment fraud schemes exploit the trust of victims through false promises of favorable returns,” said Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS)’s New York Division. “The US Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigating fraud and protecting the community from those who seek to profit through deception.”
The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
The case is being investigated by FBI New York, HSI New York, IRS-CI New York, and USPIS New York.
Trial Attorneys Claire Galasso, David Ginensky, and Adrienne Rosen of the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Weintraub and David Berman for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting this case. MNF Financial Investigator Sheila Olander supported the investigation alongside former MNF Financial Investigator Kelly O’Mara.
The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims.
This prosecution is also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two D.C. Men Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for 2024 Shooting of Dunbar High School StudentRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Saki Frost, 19, and Azhari Graves, 20, of Washington, D.C., were sentenced today for charges related to a shooting near Dunbar High School in May 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
“These defendants opened fire just steps from a school, injuring multiple students, including one who was struck in the head by a bullet and endangering countless others,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Students should be able to learn without fear of violence, and those who seek to disrupt that safety will be met with decisive action.”
Frost and Graves each pleaded guilty to aggravated assault while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a pistol without a license on December 19, 2025. Frost, who was 17 years old at the time of the shooting, was prosecuted as an adult under Title 16. As part of their sentences, both defendants will be required to register as gun offenders. The Honorable J. Michael Ryan ordered both defendants to 84 months in prison, suspended as for all except for 60 months, to be followed by two years of supervised probation.
According to the government’s evidence, on the morning of May 3, 2024, Graves and Frost went to the area of Kirby Street NW, near Dunbar High School, and opened fire on a sedan that was driving down that street, before fleeing the area in a vehicle. A witness reported hearing machine gun fire and surveillance video captured Frost and Graves running down an alleyway holding firearms prior to the shooting. Surveillance video also captured the shooting, in which an individual appearing to be Frost, fires a gun toward the sedan. Investigators recovered a total of 29 shell casings from the scene of the shooting and numerous fragments from the exterior of Dunbar High School, as well as from classrooms inside the school. Investigators also observed at least six bullet strikes to the N Street side of Dunbar. During the shooting, one Dunbar student suffered a graze wound to the head from the gunfire.
Joining in the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Dal Lago, who prosecuted the case.
2024 CF1 004330
2024 CF1 004346
Tuscaloosa Man Charged with Christmas Eve KidnappingRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Tuscaloosa man charged with kidnapping has been arraigned in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
A one-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Randall Latroy Richardson, 42, with kidnapping. The alleged incident occurred in the early morning hours of December 24, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. By sunrise, Richardson was apprehended and arrested.
“The people of Tuscaloosa County and the Northern District of Alabama should be proud of their local law enforcement officers quickly apprehending the defendant following this incident,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. “We now look forward to prosecuting the defendant federally for kidnapping as alleged in the indictment.”
“Thanks to the swift, collaborative efforts of our agents and our law enforcement partners, we were able to remove this dangerous fugitive from our community,” said David R. Fitzgibbons, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Birmingham. “We will continue working together to keep our communities safe and to strengthen trust with Alabamians.”
“We're grateful this case is being prosecuted federally,” said Tuscaloosa Police Chief Michael Baygents. “Our officers, the Tuscaloosa County Violent Crimes Unit, the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office each played an important role in bringing it to this point, and we'll continue working together as the case moves through the federal court system.”
The maximum penalty for kidnapping is life imprisonment.
The FBI investigated the cases along with the Tuscaloosa Police Department and the Tuscaloosa County Violent Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan S. Cross and Brittany T. Byrd are prosecuting the case.
An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Charged in Money Laundering Conspiracy Using New Hampshire Business to Conceal FundsRead the Press Release
Three Charged in Money Laundering Conspiracy
Using New Hampshire Business to Conceal Funds
CONCORD – An indictment unsealed yesterday charges three men with a money laundering conspiracy related to numerous business email compromise fraud schemes targeting companies throughout the United States.
Bill Ying Li, 51, Bing Xun Gong, 56, and Sabir Magdeev, 33, were indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. Li appeared in federal court in California yesterday and will appear in New Hampshire for an initial appearance on July 29, 2026. Gong appeared in federal court in Illinois yesterday and will appear in New Hampshire for an initial appearance on July 29, 2026. Magdeev is currently awaiting extradition from Cyprus.
According to the charging documents and public record, the defendants are alleged to have conspired to launder proceeds derived from wire‑fraud schemes targeting compromised business email accounts. These compromised accounts were used to change bank payment information in order to divert legitimate payments from their intended recipients to various bank accounts, shell entities, and cryptocurrency wallets controlled by the defendants to conceal the source and ownership of the funds. The charging documents further allege that, beginning in late 2022, the conspirators routed portions of these illicit proceeds through Market Shark LLC, a company registered with the New Hampshire Secretary of State, which they sought to use as an additional vehicle to receive and transfer laundered funds. The defendants are alleged to have conspired to launder more than $3 million in fraud proceeds.
The charge of money laundering conspiracy carries a maximum prison term of 20 years. 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 details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John J. Kennedy and Yasir Sadat are prosecuting the case.
This action is part of Operation Riptide, an ongoing FBI campaign targeting the criminal actors, infrastructure, and financial networks behind cybercrime, cyber-enabled crime, and fraud against the American people. Last year, Americans reported over $20 billion in losses to cybercrime, a 26 percent single-year increase. Operation Riptide is the FBI’s sustained enforcement response to that threat.
The Department of Justice Sues Maryland, Challenging its State Laws that Provide In-State Tuition to Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice sued Maryland, challenging its state law and regulation that provide in-state tuition and financial assistance for illegal aliens. The Department alleges in its filing that these laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens who are not afforded the same reduced tuition rates or scholarships, create incentives for illegal immigration, and reward illegal aliens with benefits that U.S. citizens are not eligible for, all in direct conflict with federal law.
“Congress long ago made clear that Maryland cannot deny educational opportunities to American citizens that it gives to illegal aliens in the State,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “By granting illegal aliens in-state tuition, Maryland is not only violating federal law but subsidizing education for illegal aliens, costing Maryland taxpayers roughly $9M for just one academic year. This Department of Justice is committed to fulfilling President Trump’s promise that illegal aliens will not obtain taxpayer benefits or preferential treatment over our own citizens.”
“This is a simple matter of federal law: colleges cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This Department of Justice will not tolerate American students being treated like second-class citizens in their own country.”
In the complaint, the United States seeks to enjoin enforcement of a Maryland statute and regulation that requires colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition rates for all aliens who maintain in-state residency, regardless of whether those aliens are lawfully present in the United States. Additionally, the complaint seeks to enjoin Maryland from enforcing those laws to afford financial assistance and scholarships to illegal aliens.
Today marks the Department’s 13th lawsuit challenging in-state tuition for illegal aliens. The Department’s efforts have already delivered wins for the American people, as four similar lawsuits in Texas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Nebraska have resulted favorable orders permanently enjoining and declaring unconstitutional analogous laws that gave reduced tuition to illegal aliens, including an order from the Fifth Circuit. Lawsuits against other states that similarly put illegal aliens ahead of U.S. citizens are pending across the country in Illinois, Minnesota, Virginia, California, New Jersey, Kansas, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Texas Resident Sentenced for Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald James Yates, age 61, of Tyler, Texas, was sentenced to 123 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Regional Laboratory.
On October 6, 2025, Yates pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on February 24, 2025, Hugo officers received a tip from TDPS that Yates, who was wanted for a federal probation violation, had crossed from Texas into Oklahoma. Officers apprehended Yates at a Hugo business, and upon arresting Yates on the warrant, discovered Yates in possession of 148.6 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. At the time of arrest, Yates was serving a term of supervised release after having been previously convicted of one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas.
“The investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the defendant is a textbook example of state, local, and federal law enforcement working together to combat illegal drug trafficking,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “I commend all the agencies that assisted in taking a repeat drug offender off the streets.”
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Yates will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.
Texas Man Sentenced to Nearly Four Years in Prison for Smuggling Six Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Texas man has been sentenced for smuggling six kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr.
U.S. District Judge Annmarie C. Axon sentenced Brandon Azael Lopez, 30, of McAllen, Texas, to 46 months in prison. In October 2025, Lopez pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
“Those who use the interstate highways in the Northern District of Alabama to transport narcotics will be held accountable for their actions,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. “We are grateful for the outstanding interdiction work of the 17th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force.”
“Drug traffickers are routinely finding creative ways to hide their illicit cargo, but our partners at the 17th Circuit Judicial Drug Task Force proved that solid investigative work will always defeat these tactics,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott. “To anyone attempting to use Alabama’s highways as a pipeline for poison: no matter how well you think you’ve hidden your drugs, we will find them, and you will go to federal prison.”
According to the plea agreement, on December 12, 2023, an agent with the 17th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force conducted a traffic stop on Lopez for changing lanes without using a signal on Interstate 20/59 in Greene County, Alabama. The agent told Lopez that he would be writing him a warning. Lopez appeared to be extremely nervous during the conversation. Lopez told the agent that he and his brother were traveling to Charlotte, South Carolina, for three weeks to work for an oil company. When asked by the agent if he meant Charlotte, North Carolina, Lopez agreed that he meant North Carolina rather than South Carolina. The agent asked if he could search the vehicle and Lopez consented. Underneath the front passenger seat, the agent found a new battery jump box; and on the back floorboard, he found a set of jumper cables. The agent looked under the hood and noticed two batteries that had extensive tooling on the battery cable and the nuts holding the cable onto the battery. There were also pry marks and glue. The agent picked up the battery and noticed that it felt significantly lighter than a typical car battery. Upon searching the batteries, agents found six bundles of cocaine, which weighed one kilogram each.
DEA Birmingham Division investigated the case along with the 17th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany T. Byrd prosecuted the case.
Texas Drug Dealer Gets 18 Years in Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Mark Anthony Cavello, 52, of Dallas, Texas, to 18 years in federal prison. He had previously pleaded guilty on May 30, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of meth, distribution of more than 50 grams of meth, and money laundering.
“This is another example of federal, state, and local law enforcement working together to rid the poison that Cavello pushed into Eastern North Carolina.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “The residents of Eastern North Carolina will be safer while he’s locked up. Simple Lesson: Drugs Kill; Prison Awaits – Do Right.”
The investigation began in March 2021 after federal law enforcement identified Cavello as a key supplier, who led a drug trafficking organization (DTO) based in Dallas, TX. Cavello’s drug trafficking spanned at least a decade. Cavello regularly handled large quantities of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth. His DTO ran its drug business through mailing packages, wire transfers, and phone communication, with occasional in‑person meetings. To evade detection, Cavello used multiple homes to conceal his locations, used a post office box to handle money, changed phone numbers often, and worked a regular construction job during the day. He used his lawful business, and even a bank account under a relative’s name, to hide and launder his drug money. Cavello relied heavily on family members within his DTO and sometimes using drug runners to deliver drugs and collect cash. From 2017 to 2022, Cavello was a major supplier of meth traveling from Texas to Eastern North Carolina.
Between September 2021 and March 2022, ATF made three controlled drug purchases from Cavello, totaling about 11 pounds of highly potent meth. He mailed the drugs from Texas to Eastern North Carolina in the mail and received money payments back in the mail to various locations in Texas.
“Drug dealing and violent gun crimes are always closely connected,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “When we take down a drug trafficking network, we’re cutting off the flow of dangerous drugs and reducing the level of violence and gun crimes that threaten our communities.”
“This investigation highlights the reach and impact of interagency cooperation. This is a testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of our local, state and federal partners to keeping our communities safe,” said Chief Ashley L. Weaver, Jacksonville Police Department.
This prosecution is part of Operation Polar Bear 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.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. ATF, DEA, Jacksonville Police Department, and Goldsboro 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 5:24-CR-121-M
Ten-Time Felon Sentenced to Decade in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Ten-time felon Robert Stokes of San Diego was sentenced in federal court today to 10 years in prison for his latest crimes: Trafficking PCP and methamphetamine and illegally possessing multiple firearms as a convicted felon.
According to court records, on August 28, 2025, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Narcotics Task Force and the San Diego Police Department were conducting proactive patrols in Logan Heights when they observed what appeared to be a drug sale involving Stokes and another individual. Officers stopped Stokes’ Jeep and found 67 small vials of PCP and several baggies of methamphetamine inside.
That seizure led investigators to identify two RVs Stokes owned in Julian, California. On September 18, 2025, law enforcement searched the RVs and recovered more than a kilogram each of PCP and methamphetamine, along with digital scales and six loaded firearms, including rifles and a handgun equipped with a suppressor.
Stokes was not present during the RV search. But within hours, investigators found him in Southeast San Diego driving another vehicle carrying additional PCP and methamphetamine packaged identically to the drugs seized during the August 28 traffic stop.
Stokes pleaded guilty to the most recent charges in April. The defendant is prohibited from possessing firearms because of his nine prior felony convictions. Court records show his criminal history in San Diego County includes burglary, robbery and drug crimes.
“Four decades of crime. Ten felony convictions. Finally, after this federal conviction, one problem solved,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon.
“Drug trafficking and the illegal possession of firearms are a dangerous combination that threatens the safety of our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge James Nunnallee. “For decades, the defendant has engaged in criminal activity that put lives at risk. DEA and our law enforcement partners remain committed to holding violent and repeat offenders accountable and protecting the communities we serve.”
“A combination of proactive police work, investigative follow-up and great prosecution is keeping San Diego communities safer,” said San Diego Police Deputy Chief Shawn Takeuchi. “This sentence keeps someone who was committed to criminal activity off our streets for a long time. We are grateful for the continued collaboration between local, state and federal law enforcement here in San Diego to hold criminals accountable.”
DEFENDANT Case Number 25-CR-4665-JES
Robert Thomas Stokes Age: 62 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Possession with intent to distribute 1 or more kilograms of PCP — 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison and $10 million fine
Possession with intent to distribute 50 or more grams of methamphetamine — 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison and $10 million fine
Felon in Possession of a Firearm — 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(1)
Maximum Penalty: Fifteen years in prison and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Drug Enforcement Administration
San Diego Police Department
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
This investigation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Diego comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and INTERPOL, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California.
Ten Charged in Alleged Peach County Armed Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes today announced the unsealing of a 38-count federal indictment charging 10 Fort Valley, Georgia, men with alleged crimes associated with an armed drug trafficking ring resulting from an Operation Take Back America investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office.
The ATF, the United States Marshals Service, and Peach County deputies assisted in executing arrest warrants early this morning in Peach County, Georgia, and Miami, Florida, resulting in six arrests. As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement seized 68 firearms, two of which were equipped with switches that converted them into machine guns. The initial appearances for the defendants will occur at times determined by the Court.
The federal indictment in Case No. 5:26-CR-00029-MTT-CHW, filed on July 14 and unsealed on July 16, charges the following individuals, all of Fort Valley:
Kerry Ross, 52, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, six counts of distribution of cocaine base, seven counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of distribution of powder cocaine, and one count of use of a communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of a felony under the controlled substances act and faces life in prison.
Bruce Jolly, 37, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of cocaine base, and four counts of distribution of methamphetamine and faces life in prison.
Chris Jolly, 19, is charged with one count of illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment and one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces 20 years in prison.Danny Hicks, 60, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and faces life in prison.
Paul Leslie, 38 , is charged with two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and seven counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 30 years in prison.
Darius Dassau, 37, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison.
Taqwan McCrary, 32, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison.
Dextric Harris, aka “Young Jefe” and “Jefe Sackright,” 34, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison.
Michael Joseph, 59, is charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces 20 years in prison.
Jamiei Leslie, 36, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison.
According to the indictment, the defendants conspired in an armed drug trafficking ring, distributing cocaine and methamphetamine in Middle Georgia. Sixty-eight firearms, including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and two machine guns, were seized as part of the ongoing investigation. Six defendants are in custody. Bruce Jolly, Chris Jolly, Kerry Ross, and Dextric Harris are at large. If you have information about their whereabouts, please contact the ATF or the Peach County Sheriff’s Office at 478-825-8269; the USMS at 478-870-1017; or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.
The collaborative effort is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
The ATF and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case in partnership with the USMS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Lynes is prosecuting the case for the Government.
An indictment and criminal complaint are merely allegations of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sumter County Men Sentenced to More than 17 years in Federal Prison for Armed Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Three Sumter County men have been sentenced to a combined 205 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and fentanyl.
- Zuri Laxenda Cokley, 23, of Sumter
- Jashai Dyrell Mellette, 26, of Sumter
- Denetrick Devontae Holland, 24, of Sumter
According to facts presented in court, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, launched an investigation in 2023 after receiving a tip that the men were operating a stash house containing large quantities of various narcotics. Agents determined that Cokley was managing the drug operation and that Mellette and Holland used the stash house to sell narcotics. Agents utilized confidential informants to conduct controlled purchases of fentanyl and crack cocaine from the residence. Cokley, Mellette, and Holland each sold informants fentanyl and crack cocaine during those transactions.
On Aug. 31, 2023, agents executed a search warrant at the property. During the search, investigators recovered 45 grams of fentanyl, 109 grams of crack cocaine, 415 grams of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, cash, a stolen pistol, and a semiautomatic firearm. Cokley and Mellette were present and arrested at the scene.
Cokley was released on bond in October 2023 but continued distributing narcotics. In April 2024, he sold additional fentanyl to an informant while on bond. He was arrested again in June 2024 and charged with distribution of a controlled substance.
All three defendants had prior criminal histories. Cokley had multiple prior drug‑related convictions and convictions for failure to stop for blue light, driving under suspension, and hit-and-run resulting in property damage and minor injury. Mellette had prior convictions for failure to stop for a blue light, driving under suspension, unlawful distribution to a minor, and public disorderly conduct. Holland had multiple convictions for assault and battery, possession of marijuana, and unlawful firearm possession.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Cokley to 78 months’ imprisonment, Holland to 70 months’ imprisonment, and Mellette to 57 months’ imprisonment, each to be followed by a three-year term of court ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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Successful Transfer of Abdikerm Eidleh from Somalia to Minnesota to Face Charges for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was successfully transferred to Minnesota on July 16, 2026, after his lawful surrender in Somalia.
Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme in September 2022 and is facing 31 charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering.In September 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota signed a warrant for Eidleh’s arrest.
Almost four years later in June 2026, Eidleh was located by law enforcement in Somalia. As a result of strong international law enforcement partnerships between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia, and the Somali Police Force, Eidleh was escorted to the District of Minnesota by Special Agents of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Eidleh’s return to the United States.
“Fraudsters like Abdikerm Eidleh should know full well that they cannot escape the full weight of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “I commend our law enforcement partners for swiftly and securely returning Eidleh to the United States, where he will now face justice for his crimes.”
“Abdikerm Eidleh is second only to Aimee Bock in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. His capture and transfer back to Minnesota show how far the arm of American law enforcement can reach, and that you can run, but you cannot hide,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Today is a historic moment in this FBI’s war on fraud,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The transfer of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota – where this FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department. These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic – and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation. He fled overseas after being charged in 2022, but thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, our partners at the Justice Department, and counterparts in Somalia, this FBI got him. Criminals around the world should note: this is the 25th such transfer executed by this FBI in the last month alone, meaning no matter where you try to hide, we will find you.”
“The FBI will exercise all of its lawful authorities at home—and all of its extensive law enforcement partnerships abroad—to bring alleged criminals and fraudsters to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “There is no safe harbor for criminals, no corner of the planet, where we will not work to seek justice for crime victims and the American taxpayer. The FBI extends its sincere gratitude to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia and the Somali Police Force for their dedicated work in locating and apprehending an alleged leader in one of the most significant frauds against the American taxpayer ever detected in Minnesota. We also recognize the cooperative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Federal Republic of Somalia in facilitating this defendant’s transfer to the United States to answer the charges brought in this case.”
“While families relied on a vital assistance program to feed their children during the pandemic, Abdikerm Eidleh stole from it and fled the country rather than face justice,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “His return makes clear that time and distance cannot shield those who steal from the American people. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents used their forensic accounting expertise to follow the money, unravel this massive fraud scheme, and help bring Eidleh back to answer for his crimes alongside his already convicted co-conspirators.”
Eidleh is expected to make his initial appearance on July 17, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.
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.
Note: Previous press release detailing Eidleh’s apprehension here.
Successful Transfer of Abdikerm Eidleh from Somalia to Minnesota to Face Charges for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was successfully transferred to Minnesota on July 16, 2026, after his lawful surrender in Somalia.
Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme in September 2022 and is facing 31 charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering.
In September 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota signed a warrant for Eidleh’s arrest.
Almost four years later in June 2026, Eidleh was located by law enforcement in Somalia. As a result of strong international law enforcement partnerships between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia, and the Somali Police Force, Eidleh was escorted to the District of Minnesota by Special Agents of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Eidleh’s return to the United States.
“Fraudsters like Abdikerm Eidleh should know full well that they cannot escape the full weight of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “I commend our law enforcement partners for swiftly and securely returning Eidleh to the United States, where he will now face justice for his crimes.”
“Abdikerm Eidleh is second only to Aimee Bock in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. His capture and transfer back to Minnesota show how far the arm of American law enforcement can reach, and that you can run, but you cannot hide,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Today is a historic moment in this FBI’s war on fraud,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The transfer of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota – where this FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department. These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic – and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation. He fled overseas after being charged in 2022, but thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, our partners at the Justice Department, and counterparts in Somalia, this FBI got him. Criminals around the world should note: this is the 25th such transfer executed by this FBI in the last month alone, meaning no matter where you try to hide, we will find you.”
“The FBI will exercise all of its lawful authorities at home—and all of its extensive law enforcement partnerships abroad—to bring alleged criminals and fraudsters to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “There is no safe harbor for criminals, no corner of the planet, where we will not work to seek justice for crime victims and the American taxpayer. The FBI extends its sincere gratitude to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia and the Somali Police Force for their dedicated work in locating and apprehending an alleged leader in one of the most significant frauds against the American taxpayer ever detected in Minnesota. We also recognize the cooperative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Federal Republic of Somalia in facilitating this defendant’s transfer to the United States to answer the charges brought in this case.”
“While families relied on a vital assistance program to feed their children during the pandemic, Abdikerm Eidleh stole from it and fled the country rather than face justice,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “His return makes clear that time and distance cannot shield those who steal from the American people. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents used their forensic accounting expertise to follow the money, unravel this massive fraud scheme, and help bring Eidleh back to answer for his crimes alongside his already convicted co-conspirators.”
Eidleh is expected to make his initial appearance on July 17, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.
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.
Note: Previous press release detailing Eidleh’s apprehension here.
Sterling man sentenced to five years in prison for trading in child sexual abuse materialRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Sterling man was sentenced today to five years in prison for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, in June of 2024, John Joseph Chanel, 37, uploaded two videos depicting CSAM to an Internet-based cloud storage platform and requested and received images and videos depicting CSAM via an Internet-based peer-to-peer platform. Forensic analysis of Chanel’s devices and social media accounts revealed that in June 2024, a user on the KiK social media platform asked the Chanel if he had child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to trade. Chanel confirmed he did and provided a link to his Dropbox account, which contained numerous images and videos of CSAM. The other user reciprocated. Chanel asked for more, and the other user provided more. A similar exchange occurred on the same messaging platform three days later.
On Sept. 25, 2024, law enforcement searched Chanel’s residence in Sterling and seized Chanel’s cellphone and computer. Investigators identified dozens of CSAM files on his devices, as well as in his social media and cloud storage accounts. The files included graphic depictions of the sexual abuse of children.
Chanel pled guilty on March 13.
The FBI Washington Field Office investigated this case. Former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndi McVey and Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa Strobbe prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-44.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to Nine Years for Racially Motivated ShootingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced that Jonathan Andrew Felkel, 34, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Columbia, South Carolina to 9 years in prison for violating the housing rights of his black neighbor, J.M., in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 3631.
“Today, we have delivered justice for Jonathan Andrew Felkel’s disturbing, racially motivated attack on the victim,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Hate crimes not only harm individuals, but undermine the fabric of our communities. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute such cases to restore safety and confidence in our neighborhoods.”
“Racially motivated violence will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina.
“The defendant’s violent actions last July caused irreparable harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “It is our hope that the victim and this community can begin to heal, knowing that we remain fully committed to their safety. Anyone who commits a crime motivated by race or by any other class under the Fair Housing Act will be met with the full weight of the justice system.”
At his earlier plea hearing, Felkel admitted that on July 17, 2025, he was driving into the community where both he and J.M. lived when he fired a gun and shouted at J.M., “You better keep running, boy!” while J.M. was standing at the community gate. During the investigation, Felkel admitted to law enforcement officers that he believed black people were committing crimes in his neighborhood, that he had assumed J.M. was a criminal due to his race, and that he had hoped to convey to J.M. that he should “leave” and “not be around this area.”
The FBI Columbia Field Office and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle Klein and Lamar Fyall of the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Racially Motivated ShootingRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. —The Justice Department announced that Jonathan Andrew Felkel, 34, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Columbia, South Carolina to nine years in federal prison for violating the housing rights of his black neighbor, J.M., in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 3631.
“Today, we have delivered justice for Jonathan Andrew Felkel’s disturbing, racially motivated attack on the victim,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Hate crimes not only harm individuals, but undermine the fabric of our communities. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute such cases to restore safety and confidence in our neighborhoods.”
“Racially motivated violence will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina.
“The defendant’s violent actions last July caused irreparable harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “It is our hope that the victim and this community can begin to heal, knowing that we remain fully committed to their safety. Anyone who commits a crime motivated by race or by any other class under the Fair Housing Act will be met with the full weight of the justice system.”
“It’s sad that we’ve got individuals, like Felkel, who have hate in their heart,” said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. “Today, justice was served. Our partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office shows that crimes like this are not going to be tolerated.”
At his earlier plea hearing, Felkel admitted that on July 17, 2025, he was driving into the community where both he and J.M. lived when he fired a gun and shouted at J.M., “You better keep running, boy!” while J.M. was standing at the community gate. During the investigation, Felkel admitted to law enforcement officers that he believed black people were committing crimes in his neighborhood, that he had assumed J.M. was a criminal due to his race, and that he had hoped to convey to J.M. that he should “leave” and “not be around this area.”
The FBI Columbia Field Office and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle Klein and Lamar Fyall of the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.###
Six defendants plead guilty to conspiracy to steal crude oil in the Permian BasinRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK – Six men and women have pleaded guilty to charges arising from a seven-count indictment alleging that 14 defendants conspired to steal crude oil from Permian Basin oil producers and resell it for significant profit announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
On July 15, Gyardo Gonzalez, 47, Mario Mendoza, 40, Miguel A. Soto, 41, all of Lovington, New Mexico; Luis Rojo, 51, of Seminole, Texas; Diana Marquez Rojo, 47, and Jesus Martin Hernandez-Borja, both of Hobbs, New Mexico; have all pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to steal crude oil.
“Oil theft is not a victimless crime. Every barrel stolen weakens our energy infrastructure and threatens our energy security. The defendants placed personal profits and greed over the pocketbooks of Texans,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “My office is committed to continuing to investigate and prosecute these fuel theft schemes.”
“Oil theft isn’t a harmless shortcut. It’s a crime that hurts honest producers and disrupts fair markets,” said Eric Kriley, BLM Director of Law Enforcement. “Conspiring to steal and transport crude oil across state lines is a serious federal offense, and today’s guilty pleas show the commitment the BLM and our law enforcement partners have to pursuing these cases.”
“In collaboration with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, we were able to disrupt an organized theft group responsible for stealing tens of thousands of barrels of crude oil across Texas and New Mexico,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to combat the large-scale theft and distribution of stolen goods.”
In filed plea papers, the defendants admitted to stealing tens of thousands of barrels of crude oil from producers in Eastern New Mexico and selling it to Louis George Edgett, 69, of Lovington, New Mexico, and Brenden Floyd Strickland, 26, of Hobbs, New Mexico, who are also charged in the case. The defendants further admitted that Edgett and Strickland purchased the stolen crude oil at prices significantly below West Texas Intermediate, most often at between $10 and $15 per barrel.
For example, according to plea papers, one conspirator sold 10,975 barrels of stolen crude oil to Edgett and Strickland between June 2022 and July 2024. That oil had an approximate fair market value of $888,975, but Edgett and Strickland paid only $15 per barrel, for a total of $164,625. Another conspirator sold 9,090 barrels of stolen crude oil to Edgett and Strickland during a six-month period between January and June 2024. That oil had a market value of $724,200.30, but Edgett and Strickland paid approximately $136,350. Another conspirator admitted in plea papers that the crude oil he stole was valued at up to $1.5 million.
Plea papers also indicated that James Darrell Reid, 65, and Randell Reid, 41, both of Electra, Texas, also charged in the case, purchased the stolen oil from Edgett and Strickland at prices significantly below WTI and transported it across the New Mexico-Texas state line to their business site in Seminole, Texas. The Reids then sold the stolen crude oil to midstream buyers at prices below WTI.
Each defendant who pleaded guilty, except for Diana Marquez Rojo, faces up to five years in federal prison. Diana Rojo faces up to three years in federal prison. These defendants also face a $250,000 fine, payment of restitution to victims of the theft, and forfeiture. The Court has not yet set sentencing dates.
A seventh defendant, Tavares Montrail Cole, 49, has admitted in filed plea papers to participating in the conspiracy and his rearraignment is scheduled for August 3.
The remaining seven defendants who were also indicted in the oil theft conspiracy, some of whom are charged with transportation of stolen property in interstate commerce, face imprisonment for terms ranging from five years up to 65 years imprisonment and millions of dollars in fines.
The Bureau of Land Management; FBI; Texas Department of Public Safety-Criminal Investigation Division; Lea County, New Mexico, Sheriff’s Office; and Eddy County, New Mexico Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey R. Haag is prosecuting the case. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Howey previously spearheaded this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. The outstanding defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on July 14, 2026.
Anthony Little Hoop, age 36, was sentenced to 2 years and 4 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Little Hoop was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2026. He pleaded guilty on May 7, 2026.
Little Hoop was convicted of Sexual Abuse in United States District Court, District of South Dakota in September 2012. As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or change in employment or student status. In November 2025, Little Hoop updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at a residence in Sioux Falls. Little Hoop left that residence in December 2025 and did not update his registration. An arrest warrant was issued, and on March 11, 2026, Little Hoop was arrested in Sioux Falls.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case.
Little Hoop was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Crypto Investor Indicted for Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, Bank Fraud, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man on charges of Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, Bank Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft.
Benjamin Paul Wiener, age 43, was indicted last month on 29 counts. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 10, 2026, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Wire Fraud and Money Laundering is up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both imprisonment and a fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Bank Fraud is up to 30 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both imprisonment and a fine, up to 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Aggravated Identity theft is a mandatory minimum consecutive term of two years’ imprisonment in addition to any term of imprisonment imposed for any other counts of conviction.
According to the indictment, Wiener devised a fraud scheme to obtain money and digital currency from victims who invested with Wiener’s companies. Wiener made materially false statements and fraudulent representations to induce his victims to invest money with his companies. His fraud scheme has negatively impacted dozens of victims throughout the region, including in South Dakota and Minnesota.
After obtaining funds from his victims, Wiener then allegedly moved victims’ funds to conceal and disguise the location, source, ownership, and control of the funds. In other words, as alleged in the indictment, Wiener laundered the fraud proceeds through and into various financial institutions and cryptocurrency exchanges to cover his conduct and to control and expend the funds on personal expenses. In furtherance of this scheme, as alleged, when victims’ funds became depleted or a certain investor requested the return of their investment, Wiener would seek new investors to then use new funds to use on personal expenses and to pay back previous investors. As a result of Wiener’s conduct, the government alleges the estimated total loss is approximately $20 million.
Wiener allegedly used the following entities to perpetrate the fraud scheme and money laundering activities: Benaiah Capital LLC; Benaiah Holdings, Inc.; Benaiah Digital Fixed Income LP; Benaiah Digital LP; Benaiah Management Company, Inc.; Benaiah Enterprises, LLC; Aslan Management, LLC; and Runway Four10.
In addition, the indictment alleges Wiener defrauded a financial institution located in Sioux Falls. In April 2025, as alleged, he secured a line of credit for $1,000,000 by falsifying to the bank various documents, information, and correspondence. To do so, he utilized, without authority, another individual’s personal identifying information.
As with any indictment, the charges are merely accusations, and Wiener is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation is being conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the FBI, and the United States Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Wiener was released on bond pending trial. A trial date of September 15, 2026, has been set.
Sioux City Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty July 15, 2026, in federal court in Sioux City.
Damian Havens, 52, from Sioux City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, Havens admitted that between March and May 2026, he and others conspired to distribute methamphetamine in Sioux City. Evidence showed that in those two months Havens was involved in the distribution of more than 1 ½ pounds of methamphetamine. On May 7, 2026, law enforcement was called to check on a suspicious person (and oddly parked vehicle), later identified as Havens. Officers seized about ¼ pound of methamphetamine and an airsoft pistol in Havens’ backpack. Havens admitted he planned to distribute the methamphetamine.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Havens remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Havens faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 26-4026. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Shelburne Man Charged with Four Counts of Bank FraudRead the Press Release
BURLINGTON – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on July 2, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Myrkel Latroy Staley, 43, of Shelburne, Vermont, with bank fraud. Staley entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on July 14, 2026 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered Staley released on conditions.
According to the indictment, between June 2021 and March 2023, Staley devised a scheme to defraud TD Bank by submitting fraudulent documents in connection with a mortgage loan on a property in Shelburne, Vermont and a home equity loan on the same property. To obtain the loans, Staley submitted fraudulent tax returns to TD Bank. He also fraudulently obtained $283,000 from another person and used those funds to pay for the downpayment on the Shelburne property. To legitimize the source of funds for the downpayment on the property, Staley submitted additional fraudulent documents to the bank.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Staley is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Staley faces up to 30 years and a $1,000,000 fine, or both, if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI, the United States Secret Service and the IRS-Criminal Division.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Wendy L. Fuller. Staley is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.
Ross Township Resident Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Production and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Ross Township, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his convictions of production and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Ralph Talerico, 46, on July 15, 2026.
According to information presented to the Court, in and around June through July 2023, Talerico produced videos of two children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, on or about June 6, 2024, Talerico possessed videos and still images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom were prepubescent and under 12 years of age.
Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Talerico.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.