title: RelyOn Nutec Agrees to Pay $2.3 Million to Resolve Allegations of PPP Loan Fraud

body_text: BOSTON – RelyOn Nutec USA LLC (RelyOn), a company headquartered in Houma, La., has agreed to pay $2,389,213 to resolve allegations that it fraudulently obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which it was ineligible. Congress enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and the Economic Security Act (CARES Act) on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were suffering the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain approved expenses through the PPP, which the Small Business Administration (SBA) administered. The PPP provided for loans in two “draws”—first draw loans became available in March 2020, with a second draw announced in January 2021. To be eligible for PPP loans, businesses were required to certify on their loan applications that they met certain size standards based on, for example, the number of employees they, and their affiliated entities, collectively employed. In determining number of employees, businesses generally were required to count all employees of U.S. and foreign affiliates. Businesses with more than 300 employees were not eligible for second draw loans. As part of the settlement , RelyOn admitted that, in January 2021, it received a $1,279,707 second draw PPP loan. RelyOn certified that it was eligible for the loan under the PPP regulations in effect at the time of the application and represented that it had 99 employees, including affiliates’ employees. RelyOn later sought and received forgiveness of the full amount of that loan. When it applied for the loan and when it applied for forgiveness, RelyOn did not qualify for the loan because it had more than 300 employees, when considering employees of its affiliates. Prior to 2021 and through 2022, RelyOn was a wholly owned subsidiary of RelyOn Nutec Holding A/S Denmark (RelyOn Denmark), a global company based in Denmark. When it applied for the second draw loan and when it applied for forgiveness, RelyOn had more than 300 employees, when considering employees of its foreign affiliates. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and the U.S. Small Business Administration made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julien M. Mundele of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit handled the matter.


title: South Texas woman arrested for posing as federal agent in two separate fraud schemes

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 29-year-old Brownsville resident is now in federal custody for impersonating a federal agent and wire fraud, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck. Mayra Collins is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Julie Hampton April 30 at 9:45 a.m. According to the now unsealed five-count indictment, Collins fraudulently posed as a federal agent with various agencies in 2022 and again in 2025. She had first allegedly posed as an immigration officer employed by the United States to carry out a Visa fraud scheme. The charges allege she falsely represented she could expedite the process for obtaining U.S. Visas and took money from four victims. In 2025, Collins pretended to be a Border Patrol agent with influence in the hiring of employees, according to the indictment. She allegedly told another victim there were job positions available, but they would have to send money to her for uniforms and ballistic vests prior to beginning employment. The charges allege Collins never worked for the United States and had no power to provide victims of her schemes with Visas or employment with BP. If convicted, Collins faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the two wire fraud counts as well as another three years for the impersonation charges. She could also be ordered to pay a possible $250,000 maximum fine. CBP - Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation in a coordinated effort with the FBI’s McAllen Border Corruption Task Force with assistance from the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Bird and Tyler Foster are prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Morgantown Night Club Owner, Two Others Convicted of Drug Conspiracy

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has announced that Mike Sheriff Scott, 47, Rachelle Gaston, 41, and Phineas Chaplin, 42, were convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances by a federal jury yesterday following a 7-day trial. Scott and Gaston were convicted of additional felony charges related to the drug operation, including Aiding and Abetting the Maintaining of a Drug-Involved Premise. The jury also returned a guilty verdict for Scott for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. “I am grateful for the swift and decisive actions taken by law enforcement that inevitably saved lives,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “This case should send a clear message to drug dealers that West Virginia is not open for business.” Evidence presented at trial established Scott utilized CowGirlz Nightclub, which was not yet open to the public, on Earl Core Road in Morgantown, West Virginia as a front to distribute drugs. Evidence presented at trial established that Scott used the nightclub to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as to store his supply of illicit drugs obtained from out-of-state. Further, evidence presented at trial established that Scott utilized individuals with substance abuse disorder to conduct renovations on the building to prepare it to operate as a nightclub and paid those individuals with controlled substances. Jurors also heard about a shooting in Monongalia County which led investigators to obtain a search warrant for the nightclub. Footage from the cameras outside showed Chaplin firing at a vehicle and Scott cleaning up the shell casings from the crime. A subsequent search of the nightclub led to the seizure of five pistols – including two of the firearms used in the shooting – and ammunition concealed inside of a hidden compartment inside of the stairs to Scott’s office in the nightclub. Also seized were methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Recorded jail calls showed that Scott continued to attempt to operate the drug trafficking organization while incarcerated and solicited others to destroy evidence. Chaplin previously pled guilty to another felony drug charge and a firearms violation connected to this case. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Eleanor F. Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Investigative agencies include the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Three Individuals Sentenced for Separate Federal Gun Crimes in Rapid City

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced three individuals for separate gun crimes. The individuals were sentenced on April 20, 2026. Oscar Ortiz-Romero, 34, a Mexican national, was convicted of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person and sentenced to time served after having been held for over a year. Ortiz-Romero was pulled over by the Box Elder Police Department on March 15, 2025, for speeding. He was driving while intoxicated. Ortiz-Romero is in the United States unlawfully and is expected to be deported. In the vehicle, Ortiz-Romero had a loaded pistol and, in his pocket, had ammunition. It is unlawful for an illegal alien to possess a firearm or ammunition. Ortiz-Romero was immediately turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement authorities. Avalon Gayton, 23, of Rapid City, was convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and sentenced to four years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. On September 5, 2025, Rapid City police officers initiated a traffic stop on Gayton’s vehicle. Gayton had a pistol in her possession. She had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by over a year in prison. It is a federal felony to possess a firearm or ammunition after such a conviction. Ashton Shaw, 20, of Rapid City, was convicted of Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment and sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. On June 12, 2025, Rapid City police officers responded to a report of shots fired from a vehicle. Law enforcement found the vehicle and determined Shaw had been inside it moments earlier. Officers found a stolen pistol with an extended magazine inside the car. Shaw received and possessed this pistol after being indicted with a felony in South Dakota State Circuit Court. It is a federal felony to receive a firearm while charged for such a crime. “These cases reflect this Administration’s ongoing commitment to reducing gun violence and keeping our communities as safe as they can possibly be,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “It is illegal under federal law for a convicted felon to possess a gun or ammunition, for an illegal alien to possess a gun or ammunition, and for someone under indictment for a felony to acquire a gun or ammunition. If you are aware of a felon in possession of a gun, or any other violation of federal gun laws, please report it to law enforcement right away. You can do so without giving your name and you may well be saving someone’s life.” These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The first case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, and the Box Elder Police Department. The second and third cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted these cases. All three individuals were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Over 9 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on April 21, 2026. Alexander Juan Cotton, age 28, was sentenced to nine years and two months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Once released from federal prison, Cotton will have to register as a sex offender. Cotton was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on January 27, 2026. The conviction stemmed from incidents between May 2, 2024, and June 13, 2024, when Cotton possessed over 300 images and videos of child pornography including of victims as young as 1-2 years old. Cotton obtained these files over the internet and through various online platforms including Telegram and Mega. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . Cotton was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: York County Man Sentenced to 12 Months' Probation For Filing False Income Tax Returns That Omitted More Than $13 Million In Income From Digital Artwork Sales

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Waylon Wilcox, age 46, of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 months' probation and a fine of $150,000 by Senior United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for filing false individual income tax returns. Previously, in 2025, Wilcox paid the IRS $3,305,238 in tax due and owing to the United States plus $ 981,583.30 in interest. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Wilcox filed a false individual income tax return for tax year 2021 that underreported his income for tax year 2021 by approximately $8,511,238 and reduced Wilcox’s tax then due and owing by approximately $2,180,452. On October 10, 2023, in Cumberland County, Wilcox filed a false individual income tax return for tax year 2022 that underreported Wilcox’s income for tax year 2022 by approximately $4,599,532 and reduced Wilcox’s tax then due and owing by approximately $1,098,623. Wilcox obtained most of this unreported income after acquiring and selling 97 pieces of digital artwork from the “CryptoPunks” collection of 10,000 unique art characters. Individual pieces from the digital artwork collection were referred to as “Punks.” Each Punk was unique and contained digital proof of ownership that could be tracked on a blockchain, a digitally distributed, decentralized, public ledger. Two Punks from the same blockchain could look identical but were not interchangeable, meaning they were non-fungible. These so-called “non-fungible tokens” (or NFTs) could be traded and sold for money or cryptocurrency. In 2021, Wilcox sold approximately 62 Punks for a total of approximately $7,402,935. In 2022, Wilcox sold approximately 35 Punks for a total of approximately $4,899,180. When a taxpayer sells an NFT, including a Punk, then the taxpayer must report sales proceeds and any gains or losses from the sale of the NFT on their tax return. “When a U.S. taxpayer deliberately falsifies a tax return, it undermines the integrity of our tax system and contributes to the tax gap that impacts every American,” stated Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office. “In this case, Wilcox made millions from the sale of NFTs but willfully evaded paying the taxes he owed. Working alongside our partners at the Joint Chiefs of Global Tax Enforcement, we are able to uncover complex schemes involving digital assets and hold offenders accountable. Let this case serve as a warning – whether income is earned through traditional employment or the sale of digital assets, all taxpayers are required to report their earnings and pay their fair share.” The J5 is an international coalition that includes the Australian Taxation Office, the Canada Revenue Agency, the Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs from the United Kingdom, and IRS-CI from the United States. The investigation stemmed from a lead generated during the J5’s 2022 Cyber Challenge, which focused on NFTs. The J5 Cyber Challenge is an annual exercise where member agencies collaborate with partners to identify and develop investigative leads, analyze complex financial and cryptocurrency-related threats, and enhance joint operational capabilities to combat transnational financial crimes. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph J. Terz prosecuted the case. # # #


title: Illegal Alien Who Possessed a Dangerous Weapon in Cook County Jail and Committed an Attempted Vehicular Hijacking Indicted for Allegedly Unlawfully Re-Entering U.S. After Deportation

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — An illegal alien who resided in a Chicago suburb has been indicted on a federal immigration charge for allegedly unlawfully re-entering the United States after a deportation. An indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago charges HECTOR DANIEL GAMBOA-MANTALVO, 30, with one count of unlawful re-entry after deportation and removal. Gamboa-Mantalvo pleaded not guilty to the charge during his arraignment on Tuesday in federal court in Chicago. A status hearing is set for May 27, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., before U.S. District Judge LaShonda A. Hunt. Gamboa-Mantalvo, a Mexican national who resided in Palatine, Ill., was removed from the United States in July 2020, the indictment states. During the arraignment hearing on Tuesday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kartik K. Raman advised the Court that Gamboa-Mantalvo was discovered in the United States in 2023 when he was arrested for committing an attempted vehicular hijacking in Palatine. He was convicted of that offense and has been serving a five-year sentence in the Illinois Department of Corrections. While in pre-trial custody in that case, Gamboa-Mantalvo possessed a dangerous weapon in the Cook County Jail. He was later convicted of a weapons offense and sentenced to a concurrent term of four years in state custody. Gamboa-Mantalvo waived his right to a detention hearing on the federal charge and has been ordered into federal custody. The unlawful re-entry charge is punishable by up to twenty years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Defendants convicted of this offense are subject to deportation. The indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Russell Hott, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Chicago. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. Among other priorities, the HSTF utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Holly youth soccer coach indicted by federal grand jury for transporting a minor from Ohio to Michigan to engage in criminal sexual activity

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: FLINT – A Holly, Michigan youth soccer coach has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of transporting a minor for criminal sexual activity and coercion and enticement of a minor, announced Jerome F. Gorgon Jr., United States Attorney of the Eastern District of Michigan. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Detroit Field Office. Charged was Chason Pointer, 42, of Grand Blanc, Michigan. According to court records, Pointer preyed on a minor child online and then traveled across state lines in the middle of the night to transport the child from the child’s northern Ohio home to a Michigan hotel to sexually abuse the child. Further investigation revealed that Pointer had traveled to Ohio previously to sexually assault the child and discussed this activity with the child through a social media messaging platform. On April 10, 2026, a federal magistrate judge in Flint held a bond hearing and detained Pointer pending trial based on clear and convincing evidence that no set of bond conditions could ensure the community’s safety with Pointer in it. Pointer pleaded not guilty at his arraignment. The magistrate judge continued Pointer’s detention pending trial on the charges. “Creeps lurk online and prey on our children. They want to hurt them just as this man allegedly did. And we are in a race to stop these monsters,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon. “Those who exploit children and transport them across state lines should know we will find them and ensure they are held accountable for their actions,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The acts described in this indictment are disturbing. The child in this case was specifically targeted, posing a danger to the minor and to our communities across both states. I am grateful to the members from our FBI Flint Resident Agency for their work in this case, alongside the critical partnership with the Fenton Police Department and Sylvania Township (Ohio) Police Department. FBI Detroit will continue to use every resource available to identify and stop those who prey on children.” If you have any information that may be relevant to this investigation and/or if you have a child who may have relevant information through the child’s contact with Pointer as a youth soccer coach in the Holly, Michigan area, please contact: Detroit FBI Field Office at 313-965-2323 or send email to tips.fbi.gov . The Federal Bureau of Investigation Flint office investigated this case with significant assistance from the Fenton Police Department and Sylvania Township (Ohio) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Grant Newman. An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent. The burden is on the government to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Eastern District of Texas observes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, continues vigorous prosecution of firearms-related offenses sentencing 17 defendants to over 261 years in federal prison

component: Office for Victims of Crime (OJP)

body_text: PLANO, Texas – Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs joins the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) and the Executive Office for the United States Attorneys (EOUSA) in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This year’s theme is “ Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities .” “Firearms are a staple in the world of drug trafficking, street gangs and cartels, and other criminal enterprises,” said U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “We are committed to making our communities safer by keeping firearms out of the hands of violent offenders. The cases below highlight our work to eradicate gun violence in the Eastern District of Texas.” On April 15, 2026, Israel Sanchez Arciga , was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine. Arciga, an illegal alien, was in possession of a firearm when he was arrested. On April 7, 2026, Brandon Elliot Bennett was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for robbing a licensed firearms store in Plano of more than 60 guns, which he sold to others. On March 24, 2026, Jaquallon Tyjuan Hargett was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for robbing an individual of $100 at an ATM machine in Daingerfield. Hargett was armed with a pistol outfitted with a machinegun conversion device, also commonly referred to as a Glock-switch. On March 10, 2026, William Charles Fincher was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm during a domestic violence disturbance. As a convicted felon, Fincher is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms. On March 5, 2026, Charles Bernard Byrd , a Houston gang member, was convicted by a jury in Beaumont in connection with a violent crime spree that included multiple burglaries, auto thefts, and the armed robbery of two ATM repair technicians. Three of Byrd’s fellow gang members had previously pleaded guilty. The defendants are awaiting sentencing and face from 20 to 45 years in federal prison. On February 26, 2026, Victor Manuel Navarette Roman , an illegal alien, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and trafficking methamphetamine. On January 22, 2026, Abigael Colin Saldana , an illegal alien, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to traffic firearms from Texas to Mexico. On January 5, 2026, Victor Heredia was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for a string of convenience store robberies, during one of which he discharged a firearm in the ceiling of the store. On December 11, 2025, Naiyme Kidd was sentenced to 117 months in federal prison for the armed robbery of a game room in Beaumont. On December 9, 2025, Santana Deangelo Powell was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison after law enforcement discovered a hidden compartment in his vehicle full of methamphetamine and cocaine. Powell was also found to be carrying a firearm during his drug trafficking activities. On October 2, 2025, Charleston Jamal Washington was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison for two armed bank robberies. On September 16, 2025, Jahtaya O’Dayjah Hamilton was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison after being stopped for a traffic violation and found in possession of four stolen handguns. On August 26, 2025, Victor Guardado Zepeda was sentenced to 231 months in federal prison for leading a violent crime spree which included robbing two convenience stores at gunpoint and severely beating a store employee. The stores were robbed of over $100,000. On July 29, 2025, Carly Melana Fowler was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, her co-defendant, Cole Ethan Schroeder had already been sentenced to 114 months in federal prison. The Jefferson County couple attempted to rob a convenience store armed with a rifle. On July 9, 2025, Brian Keith Murphy was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison after firing shots at individuals in a gas station parking lt. Murphy was identified by police after monitoring a live-stream video of the incident. On May 30, 2025, Keandre Marquis Robinson was sentenced to 405 months in federal prison for robbing a Beaumont convenience store and killing the store clerk. After shooting the clerk twice in the chest, Robinson stole cigarettes from behind the counter and fled with co-defendant Larry Nathaniel Hagan. Hagan was sentenced to 420 months in federal prison. Achieving justice for victims and protecting their rights is our highest duty, and we are honored to participate in the national observance of this special week to honor victims and victim advocates. For additional information regarding National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and resources for victims, please visit https://ovc.ojp.gov/ . ###


title: Armed Career Criminal Who Shot His Kneeling Victim in the Chest  Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: DETROIT – Today, Aaron Height, an armed career criminal, was sentenced to twenty-five years in federal prison on a charge of felon in possession of a firearm, after shooting an innocent man in the chest, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced. According to court records, this shooting was part of a crime spree committed by Height over a six-week period between late 2022 and early 2023 during which Height also shot into one home three separate times, hitting a resident in the head, and shot into another home once. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Detroit Field Division, Chief Todd Bettison, Detroit Police Department, and Chief Davis Nelson, Detroit Fire Department. Height’s shooting spree began when, in October 2022, he shot into a home, hitting a resident in the head. Two months later, Height shot into the same home on two additional occasions. After the third shooting, Height was arrested by Detroit Police officers later that day when a traffic stop resulted in police finding a firearm in Height’s car. The state court system granted Height a bond with a tether and house arrest. But Height violated this bond by threatening a witness to the house shooting. After a state court hearing, Height was again released on bond. Just two days later, Height got into an argument with a man over a pair of shoes and struck the man in the head with a liquor bottle. Height then poured Comet household cleaner into the victim’s head wound and ordered the victim and an eyewitness to their knees at gunpoint. Height then shot the victim in the chest and fled on foot. The victim suffered life-threatening and permanent life-altering injuries but survived. Height was arrested and, inexplicably, given bond again with a tether and house arrest. The case against him was eventually dismissed by the state but later adopted for federal prosecution which led to his federal conviction and sentencing today. Height has an extensive and violent criminal history spanning from 1998 to 2023. He has convictions for felonious assault, assault and/or battery, arson, and unarmed robbery. He also has multiple convictions for property-related crimes and four convictions for drug crimes. “The failure to keep vicious criminals off the street has led to notorious murders in Charlotte and Chicago. The same failure happened here. This defendant spent decades committing crimes and hurting people and a state court still set this menace free to terrorize us. But thanks to the hard work of Detroit Police, the ATF, and my office, this man will spend the next 25 years in a federal prison,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said. “Height is a poster child for ATF’s mission, to protect the public. Height was an urban terrorist who, freely roamed the streets of Detroit and preyed upon our community members. He habitually harmed Detroit residents with senseless acts of gun violence —firing into homes, ambushing residents, torturing victims, and nearly killing a man,” said ATF Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “With today’s sentence, the message is clear: Shooters beware - ATF and its partners are coming for you with one-way tickets on the accountability train destined for an extended stay in Federal prison. ATF and our law enforcement partners are relentless in taking violent offenders like Aaron Heights off our streets and out of our Michigan communities.” This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Detroit Police Department and Detroit Fire Department. The case is being prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew R. Picek and Ranya Elzein.


title: Five Admit Role in St. Louis Area Mail Theft

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – Five people have admitted involvement in the theft of mail from St. Louis area collection boxes. Roderick Orlandez Walker, 26, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Thursday to one count of conspiracy, two counts of mail theft and one count of possession of stolen mail. He admitted involvement in the purchase of an arrow key from a mail carrier in the Marine Villa neighborhood in south St. Louis on July 20, 2023. Arrow keys are used to unlock mail collection boxes. Investigators traced the car the group was driving to a rental car company and learned that Marissa Diane Worthen and Walker rented it. Walker was armed at the time of the car rental. Evidence showed that Worthen, Walker and Yahtis Niquae Bailey were present at the arrow key purchase. Walker also admitted being present when mail was stolen from a collection box in Ladue, Missouri on July 25, 2023. On Oct. 12, 2023, he used an arrow key to steal mail from a collection box in Frontenac, Missouri. U.S. Postal Inspectors tracked the vehicle used by Walker and others to an Airbnb in the 5500 block of Chippewa Street in St. Louis, then followed the vehicle to a restaurant. Walker, Tommy Earl Kilbert and another person were in the car, where they also found an arrow key that had been reported lost by the Jennings, Missouri Post Office between June and July of 2023. A subsequent court-approved search of the Airbnb found checks that had been stolen from the mail in various locations, a book of blank business-style checks and Walker’s laptop, which contained check-writing software and messages about altering checks. Forensic examinations of the laptop and multiple cell phones used by the group revealed hundreds of images of checks believed to have been stolen from the mail. The total face value of the checks exceeded $2.2 million. Two company checks stolen from the mail in Brentwood were altered to be payable to two people in Florida and were cashed, costing the company $38,576. Walker is scheduled to be sentenced on July 21. He faces up to five years in prison for each count and will be ordered to pay restitution. Worthen, 38, of Atlanta, was sentenced to eight months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy and stealing keys adopted by the Post Office. Bailey, 26, of the Atlanta suburbs, was sentenced to 15 months on charges of conspiracy, stealing keys adopted by the Post Office and mail theft. Roderick Henry Gaines, Jr., 24, also of the Atlanta suburbs, was sentenced to 12 months and a day on the conspiracy charge. All three were ordered to pay restitution of $5,680 Kilbert, 27, of St. Louis, was sentenced to 12 months and a day for conspiracy, stealing keys adopted by the Post Office, possession of stolen mail and mail theft. His restitution is $39,786. This U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Frontenac Police Department and the Ladue Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Torrie Scheider and Donald Boyce are prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Chinese National Arrested at JFK International Airport on Federal Charges for Illegally Photographing Military Aircraft at Nebraska Air Force Base

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Tianrui Liang, 21, of China, was charged by complaint for conduct related to illegally documenting Air Force planes located at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska, announced United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods and Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. Offutt Air Force Base is a key base in the Air Force’s Strategic Command. Liang was allegedly present at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota in the days leading up to his visit to the Air Force installation in Nebraska. Liang crossed the Canadian-United States border on March 28, 2026, from Vancouver, Canada, to Washington on a valid B1/B2 visa. A complaint affidavit filed in the District of Nebraska alleges that Liang drove to New York after being confronted by the FBI in Nebraska. The FBI obtained an arrest warrant for Liang who was subsequently arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Following Liang’s arrest on April 7, Liang appeared in a federal magistrate court for the Eastern District of New York on the Nebraska federal charge. The magistrate judge released Liang and refused a government request for a stay to allow federal prosecutors in Nebraska to appeal the release to a federal judge in the District of Nebraska. Federal prosecutors in Nebraska then successfully appealed Liang’s release and he was then taken back into federal custody on April 10, 2026, by order of the Chief District Court Judge for the District of Nebraska. Liang is presently in the custody of the United States Marshals Service and is being brought to the District of Nebraska for further proceedings in the case. “Any individuals who unlawfully attempt to acquire sensitive information about military aircraft located in the District of Nebraska will be held maximumly accountable under federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods. The criminal complaint is only a charge. Liang has not been convicted and is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, he is subject to a term of imprisonment of up to 1 year. The investigation into whether more serious charges are implicated by the facts in this case is ongoing. The arrest warrant was pursued to prevent Liang fleeing the country while the investigation was ongoing. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Donald Kleine and Matt Lierman with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Brendan P. Geary of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


title: Owner of Florida Security Firm Pleads Guilty in Washington D.C. for Defrauding Paycheck Protection Program

body_text: WASHINGTON – Jewral McIntyre, 44, of Venice, Florida, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to participating in a conspiracy that fraudulently obtained more than $257,980 in Paycheck Protection Program loans, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “Fraud is never a victimless crime—McIntyre’s actions diverted critical resources from the small businesses and workers who needed it most,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Our office remains committed to rooting out fraud, holding accountable those who exploit federal programs for personal gain, and safeguarding taxpayer funds.” McIntyre pleaded guilty before Judge Rudolph Contreras to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Sentencing is pending. According to court documents, McIntyre was owner of Rat Pack Worldwide Security & Consulting, a security consulting business registered as a corporation in Florida. In January 2021, an individual asked if he wanted to apply for a PPP loan in the name of Rat Pack. McIntyre agreed that the individual who had approached him would receive a portion of the PPP funds if the loan application was approved and funded. At the individual’s request, a co-conspirator created a PPP loan application for Rat Pack containing materially false statements, claiming that Rat Pack had 18 employees and an average monthly payroll of $103,192.35. In fact, Rat Pack had no W2 employees, and its payroll was only a fraction of the amount claimed. In addition, the co-conspirator created false and fraudulent supporting documents to submit with the loan application. Those documents included false financial payroll reports for 2020 and false Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return (Forms 941), for each quarter of 2020. On March 12, 2021, the Small Business Administration and Capital Bank approved McIntyre’s fraudulent PPP loan application and deposited $257,980.87 into Rat Pack’s bank account. Next, the co-conspirators prepared a loan forgiveness application for Rat Pack. It falsely claimed Rat Pack had 18 employees at the time McIntyre received the PPP loan. It also falsely claimed that, for the period of March 12, 2021, through May 14, 2021, Rat Pack spent the full amount of the loan, $257,980.87, on payroll costs. On Aug. 8, 2022, McIntyre e-signed and submitted the loan forgiveness application. As a result, Capital Bank and the SBA forgave Rat Pack’s PPP loan. The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding. Joining in the announcement were FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office, D.C. Inspector General Daniel Lucas, and Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem A. Carter of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Washington, D.C., Field Office. This case was investigated jointly by U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the FBI Washington Field Office, the District of Columbia Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Washington, D.C., Field Office. This matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Babu Kaza and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Gold. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . 25cr157


title: St. Francis Man Sentenced for Distribution of Methamphetamine

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on April 20, 2026. Julian Arcoren, age 37, was sentenced to time served through April 20, 2026, equal to approximately 15 months in custody, followed by three of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Arcoren was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 4, 2026. On January 3, 2024, in St. Francis, Arcoren distributed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case. Arcoren was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Michigan Man Sentenced to 270 Months in Prison

component: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

body_text: SOUTH BEND – On April 23, 2026, Devin Melvin, 33 years old, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to two counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Melvin was sentenced to 270 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, Melvin was the organizer and leader of a fentanyl trafficking group consisting of Clinton Rouse, Tyler Wood, Justin Hervey, and Raquan Perry. The group worked together to distribute fentanyl pills throughout Michigan City over a period of approximately 10 months, between October 2023 and July 2024. During the spring of 2024, Melvin, Wood, and Rouse lived together at a home in Michigan City, and Melvin would transport tens of thousands of pills from the Detroit area to Michigan City for further distribution by the group. Law enforcement seized approximately 10,000 of these fentanyl pills during its investigation. Last year, the other members of the drug trafficking organization pled guilty to various drug and firearm related offenses and were sentenced in federal court. On May 20, 2025, Clinton Rouse of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced to 188 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. On May 22, 2025, Tyler Wood, of Michigan City, Indiana was sentenced to 160 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and illegal use of a communications facility. On February 27, 2025, Justin Hervey, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced to 125 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and unlawful possession of a firearm. On June 6, 2025, Raquan Perry, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and unlawful possession of a firearm. “Devin Melvin and his accomplices trafficked one of the most harmful drugs into our community,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. “Twenty-two and a half years in federal prison is the price he has chosen to pay for profiting from his illegal drug enterprise. Let this message be clear to those who seek to distribute this poison into the Northern District of Indiana: our law enforcement team will work tirelessly to find you and stop you. We are safer with this crew behind bars, thanks to the partnership of the DEA and their North Central Laboratory, ATF, the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor Sean Fagan and his office,” Mildred said. “Illicit fentanyl remains the primary cause of overdose deaths and poisonings in the United States, to include northern Indiana. Often, fentanyl is hidden in the form of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills, much like the ones trafficked by Mr. Melvin. Over the course of his unethical, immoral, and illegal career as a drug dealer, Mr. Melvin brought thousands of counterfeit pills, all containing deadly fentanyl, to northern Indiana from Michigan. It is unknown how many lives and families he destroyed. The Drug Enforcement Administration celebrates the collaborative effort among law enforcement at the local, state, and federal levels in bringing Mr. Melvin to justice. He is now being held accountable for his crimes – and northern Indiana is safer and healthier because of it”, said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke. “This case is another example of the strength of our shared partnerships in Northern Indiana in addition to highlighting the effectiveness of the Homeland Security Task Force as an important tool in combatting drug trafficking. The defendants in this case put profits over human life and helped contribute to an epidemic that is causing destruction in our cities and neighborhoods. Today’s sentence sends a strong message, but our work is not done. ATF will continue to work with our HSTF and other partners to disrupt firearm and drug trafficking networks and ensure those responsible are held accountable,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. “This case reflects what is possible when agencies commit to a unified, intelligence-driven approach to public safety,” said Michigan City Chief of Police Steven Forker. “This was not a short-term effort—it was a sustained, coordinated investigation that removed a dangerous organization responsible for distributing fentanyl and contributing to violence in our community.” This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, Michigan City Police Department, the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, and the DEA North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius and Katelan McKenzie Doyle. 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 Indianapolis comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, IRS, Indiana State Police, and other partners, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana. 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.


title: Hardin County Sex Offender Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Child Enticement and Exploitation Offenses

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Jackson, TN – James Daniel McGee, 36 , of Savannah, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for using the internet to entice a minor to engage in criminal sexual acts from July to November 2024, and for committing that offense while being required to register as a sex offender under Tennessee law. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. In May 2013, McGee was convicted of solicitation of a minor and exploitation of a minor by electronic means in Hardin County, Tennessee. As a result of those convictions, he was required to register as a sex offender pursuant to Tennessee law for at least 10 years. In September 2024, McGee was removed from the Tennessee sex offender registry following his petition for removal after he completed the requisite 10-year registry period. However, it was later learned that in July 2024, McGee began communicating via social media applications and text messages with a 15-year-old minor female who resided in Campbell, Missouri. The investigation revealed that in August 2024, McGee traveled from his residence in Savannah to the minor female’s residence in Missouri and engaged in sexual acts with her. Later, in November 2024, McGee traveled to Missouri again, picked up the minor female near her home, and then traveled back to Savannah where the two again engaged in sexual activity at McGee’s home. Officers with the Savannah Police Department ultimately found the minor female in McGee’s home. She was interviewed and told the police that she met McGee on Facebook earlier that year, that McGee asked her to send him nude photos and videos of herself, and that she complied because he told her that he would get her into “deep trouble” if she did not. She also confirmed the McGee videotaped them having sexual intercourse at his home in Savannah. Following his guilty plea to the above charges, United States District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced McGee to 35 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. McGee is also facing several state charges in Hardin County and in Dunklin County, Missouri for his conduct in this case. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “With the proliferation of cell phones and social media, vulnerable children are at a high risk of solicitation and enticement for sex. This office will always aggressively prosecute and seek significant and mandatory sentences for such recidivist and predatory behavior in order to protect children and hold offenders accountable.” This case was investigated by members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Savannah Police Department, the Campbell, Missouri Police Department, and the Dunklin County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Josh Morrow prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. ### For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates


title: Six Defendants Charged With Participating in Violent Spree of Carjackings and a Home Invasion Robbery in Queens, Brooklyn, and on Long Island

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, at the federal court in Brooklyn, an 11-count indictment was unsealed charging Leny Cruz, Brandon Corona, Eddie Nunez, Jose Ramos, Savion Jones, and Justin Kenny with variously committing carjacking, attempted carjacking, Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy, being a felon in possession of ammunition, and interstate transportation of stolen property. Nunez was arrested yesterday in Mount Vernon, New York, arraigned this afternoon before United States Chief Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon, and ordered detained pending trial. The other defendants are in state custody in New York City and Suffolk County and will be arraigned at a later date. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Division (ATF), announced the charges. “As alleged, these defendants used violence to threaten and intimidate, turning their victims’ everyday routines into terrifying ordeals,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Armed carjackings and robberies strike at the core of community safety, and our Office will continue to work tirelessly to protect our community from violent predators.” “The pattern of violent carjackings and home invasion robberies alleged in this case is exactly the type of gun-related violence ATF and our partners are working to stop,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge DiGirolamo. “Through coordinated enforcement and timely intelligence sharing, we are disrupting those responsible and preventing further harm. This case reflects the impact of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to protecting our communities. Special thanks to the diligent efforts of ATF/NYPD’s Strategic Pattern Armed Robbery Technical Apprehension (SPARTA) Group, NYPD’s Queens Robbery Squad, USAO Eastern District NY, Suffolk County DA and Suffolk County Police.” As set forth in court filings, between July 12, 2025, and August 2, 2025, the defendants engaged in a sprawling and violent carjacking and robbery scheme, among other crimes, which involved stealing numerous luxury vehicles, cash, and other possessions from several victims. On July 12, 2025, Cruz and Ramos carried out a carjacking of a BMW M240i from the driveway of a home in Malba, Queens. Less than a week later, on the evening of July 17, 2025, Cruz and Corona carried out a carjacking of another victim’s BMW M3 in the parking lot of a smoke shop in Queens, New York. Several hours later on July 18, 2025, Corona and Nunez carried out an armed carjacking of a BMW 540 stopped at a red light on Prince Street in Flushing, Queens, pistol-whipping the victim. The following day, on July 19, 2025, Corona shot a victim twice in the leg on Blake Avenue in Brooklyn. Then, on July 24, 2025, Corona and Nunez carried out carjacking of a BMW X5 luxury SUV from another victim in Bayside, Queens. On July 30, 2025, Cruz engaged in an attempted home invasion robbery of an individual in Orlando, Florida, who was involved in drug trafficking. Cruz then fled from Florida to Brooklyn in a stolen vehicle used during the robbery. On August 2, 2025, Cruz, Jones, and Kenny engaged in a home invasion robbery of a residence in North Amityville, Long Island, where they entered the residence with firearms and stole a large quantity of money. The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of all charges, Cruz, Corona, and Nunez face up to life imprisonment; Ramos faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment; and Jones and Kenny face up to 20 years’ imprisonment. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen H. Petraeus and Alessandra V. Rafalson are in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Marlane Bosler. The Defendants : LENNY CRUZ Age: 23 Brooklyn, NY BRANDON CORONA Age: 23 Brooklyn, NY EDDIE NUNEZ Age: 28 Brooklyn, NY JOSE RAMOS Age: 21 Bay Shore, NY SAVION JONES Age: 22 Huntington Station, NY JUSTIN KENNY Age: 24 West Babylon, NY E.D.N.Y. Docket No 26-CR-103 (PKC) 26-cr-103_detention_letter_filed.pdf


title: Hampton trio pleads guilty in a $3.6M Treasury check scheme

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – Three conspirators from Hampton pled guilty to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges. According to court documents, Katie Anne Keller, 44; Christopher Allen Lee Krall, 34; and David Henry Graham, 53, along with other co-conspirators, obtained checks issued by the U.S. Treasury intended for various residents of New York state without the knowledge or consent of the victims. Using fraudulent identification documents, Keller, Krall, and Graham opened bank accounts in the names on the Treasury checks. They would then deposit the checks, withdraw the funds, and share them among the co-conspirators. From August 2023 to January 2024, the conspirators deposited or attempted to deposit more than 12 forged U.S. Treasury checks totaling approximately $3,600,177. Keller was arrested in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 25, 2024, when she and Graham attempted to open a bank account using the PII and fraudulent identification of two victims. Keller continued the scheme after her arrest. In April 2025, Keller opened an account at a bank in Tennessee and deposited a $10,047 Treasury check. Keller also was on site at a bank in Alabama with co-conspirators who attempted a similar scheme in September 2025. On October 28, 2025, the FBI searched Keller’s residence in Hampton and recovered approximately 25 sets of identity documents in the names of different individuals, packaged with credit cards, social security cards, and sometimes financial or other identification documents from 10 different states. The documents were packaged with approximately 18 apparent burner phones. When Graham was arrested, he was in possession of two different fraudulent identity documents. Keller is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 4 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, plus a mandatory minimum consecutive term of two years. Krall is scheduled to be sentenced on AUG. 6 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, plus a mandatory minimum consecutive term of two years. Graham is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 5 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, plus a mandatory minimum consecutive term of two years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Gantt is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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. 2:25-cr-115.


title: Felon Convicted on Drug-Trafficking and Firearm Charges

component: USAO - Alabama, Northern

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A convicted felon has been found guilty by a federal jury for drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby. The jury returned a guilty verdict against Dimarcus DeSean Hodge, 34, of Birmingham, after two days of testimony before U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke. Hodge was convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to evidence presented at trial, between October 26, 2023, and February 15, 2024, Hodge sold more than 140 grams of methamphetamine and a gram of fentanyl to a law enforcement source over a series of controlled purchases. On February 21, 2024, a search warrant was issued for two of Hodge’s vehicles. Officers recovered 4.5 pounds of methamphetamine, over an ounce of heroin, three firearms, a bag of 9mm ammunition, two iPhones, digital scales, and $1,790 in cash. Hodge is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions in Jefferson County, Alabama. HSI investigated the case, along with the Leeds Police Department. Irondale Police Department and Birmingham Police Department assisted in executing the arrest warrant. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan S. Kirk and Ryan S. Rummage prosecuted the case.


title: Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Threatening Federal Official

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Eagle Butte, South Dakota, convicted of Threatening a Federal Official. The sentencing took place on April 20, 2026. Joseph Lafferty, age 68, was sentenced to four years of probation and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Lafferty was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2025. He was convicted following a jury trial in federal district court in January 2026. The evidence presented at trial established that on July 21, 2025, Lafferty threatened to get his gun and kill a federal official employed by Indian Health Service, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The Defendant made the threat in Eagle Butte, in the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation. This case was investigated by the FBI and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.


title: Florida Man Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Florida man has been indicted on child exploitation charges, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby. A four-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court charges Kyle David Dudick, 36, of Royal Palm Beach, Florida with production of child pornography, attempted production of child pornography, transfer of obscene material to minors, and distribution of child pornography. The incidents allegedly occurred in August 2025 in Jefferson County, Alabama. On April 16, 2026, Dudick was arrested in South Carolina. If you suspect or become aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact law enforcement. Reports can be filed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or online at www.cybertipline.org. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel S. McBrayer is prosecuting the case. An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: Detroit Man Sentenced to Over Two Years for Selling Cocaine While on Federal Supervised Release Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on April 23, 2026, Terry Dawayne Catchings, 31, of Detroit, Michigan, a/k/a “Biggs” was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 30 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. On March 10, 2026, Catchings pleaded guilty to two charges of distribution of cocaine and cocaine base in December 2025, as well as a charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine in January 2026. Catchings was still serving a federal sentence of supervised release at the time of the distributions of cocaine in 2025. According to court records, in a prior case in 2024, Judge William K. Sessions III sentenced Catchings to 18 months of incarceration and a year of supervised release for an offense related to drug distribution in Vermont. At the time, Judge Sessions specifically warned Catchings that if his criminal activity continued, “it’s only a matter of a short time before you get arrested” and “you find yourself in a prison setting for longer and longer periods of time.” While on supervised release from that sentence in December 2025, Catchings was caught selling cocaine and cocaine base in Vermont and was then arrested after returning from New York with over 100 grams of cocaine to sell in Vermont concealed in the fabric ceiling of his car. In imposing sentence today, Judge Lanthier acknowledged the fact that Catchings sold drugs while on supervised release and reminded Catchings of the warning Judge Sessions had given him after his first sentence. First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force, FBI, Morristown Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and Vermont State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill. Catchings was represented by Kevin Henry, Esq. 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.


title: Fort Worth Federal Jury Convicts Keller Man for Firearm Crime at DFW Airport

body_text: A Fort Worth federal jury convicted a Keller man of a firearm crime at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. Following a three-day trial, the jury convicted Xavier Lamar Mottley, also known as Xavier Thomas, 44, of Keller, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, of being a felon in possession of a firearm. “DFW is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, and as the North Texas area continues to grow, it is important that we remain vigilant to keep the millions of people who travel through our airports annually safe. I am committed to investigating and prosecuting any case that impacts the safety of our North Texas residents who use and travel through our airports,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Congratulations to the trial team and the agents who worked tirelessly for the defendant to be held accountable.” “Through collaborative efforts with our law enforcement partners, we were able to identify and seize an unsecured firearm. This quick response ensured the safety of all those who traverse DFW Airport,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. According to evidence presented at trial, on July 24, 2024, while at DFW Airport, Mottley checked in a bag under the name of his minor daughter containing an unsecured and loaded Sig Sauer pistol. The jury heard that after authorities with the Transportation Security Administration and DFW Airport Department of Public Safety confronted him, Mottley lied about his felony status and weaved a story initially claiming, then disclaiming, his ownership of the gun. The jury also heard evidence that Mottley had two prior felony convictions, a federal conviction for access device fraud and a state conviction for theft of property valued over $1,500. Mottley and his wife testified that the gun belonged to his wife and that she had forgotten to remove it from the backpack after taking a trip the year prior. Mottley is set for sentencing on August 7, 2026, before Chief U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor, who presided over the trial. Mottley faces up to 15 years in federal prison. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and DFW Airport Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Transportation Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric B. Chen and Matt Capoccia prosecuted this case.


title: Twenty-Nine Members and Associates of Jersey City Drug Trafficking Organization Arrested with Narcotics and Firearm Offenses

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – Twenty-nine members and associates of a Jersey City-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) were arrested this week with fentanyl and cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. This week’s charges are the result of a long-term wiretap investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office (HCPO); Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); the New Jersey State Police; and the Jersey City Police Department. The charges—against 31 individuals—include conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl and cocaine; possession with intent to distribute controlled substances; and possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. (See chart below). Twenty-nine defendants have been arrested in this operation so far. Twenty-six of the arrested defendants had their initial court appearances yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judges Jessica S. Allen and Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court. Three additional defendants had their initial court appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jessica S. Allen. “These defendants operated a large-scale drug trafficking enterprise that distributed massive quantities of dangerous drugs, like fentanyl and cocaine. That ended this week. Through the incredible, collaborative work of our federal, state, and local partners, we arrested 29 of these purveyors of poison, seized kilogram quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, and took numerous firearms off the street. We will continue to work tirelessly to accomplish our mission – protect the people of New Jersey, drive down violent crime, and shut the flow of dangerous drugs into this District .” - U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer “Homeland Security Investigations Newark remains steadfast in its commitment to protect New Jersey communities from the threat of criminal organizations trafficking deadly drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl,” said HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy. “Through the Homeland Security Task Force framework, and in close partnership with our federal, state, and local counterparts, we are sharing intelligence and resources, identifying regional distributors and suppliers, and dismantling violent gangs linked to transnational criminal networks. Today’s operation marks a decisive step forward in our ongoing efforts to stem the flow of illicit opioids, secure our borders, and confront the fentanyl crisis that endangers lives across our state. New Jersey is safer as a result of these actions, and HSI Newark will continue to pursue those who threaten our communities with relentless determination.” “These arrests send a clear message that ATF, alongside our federal, state and local law enforcement partners will not tolerate the dangerous combination of drug trafficking and firearms. This case exemplifies our dedication to dismantling criminal enterprises that threaten the safety of our communities and the lives of our citizens,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s New York Field Office is proud to have contributed to this operation alongside our federal, state, and local partners,” said New York Director of Field Operations Frank Russo. “More than 70 CBP officers, including SRT warrant entry teams, brought critical expertise to this effort, while CBP’s Air and Marine Operations provided essential aerial support. The arrest of dozens of suspected gang members and associates, along with the seizure of firearms, narcotics, and illicit proceeds reflects the professionalism and dedication of the task force teams. We remain committed to protecting our communities and disrupting violent criminal organizations.” “This outcome is the direct result of law enforcement at all levels, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI, and ATF, working together to make neighborhoods safer. I commend the members of the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics and Gang Task Force for their professionalism throughout this investigation, and thank all of our law enforcement partners who made this operation a success,” said Prosecutor Wayne Mello of the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office. “This takedown sends a clear and unmistakable message: drug trafficking will not be tolerated in our communities. This operation is the result of seamless coordination among federal, state, county, and local law enforcement—standing united against those who profit from poisoning our streets,” said Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “These dangerous drugs destroy lives, fuel violence, and erode the safety of our neighborhoods. This operation strikes at the heart of that threat, but our work is far from over. We will relentlessly pursue, dismantle, and hold accountable those who endanger our communities, with unwavering resolve and an unyielding commitment to public safety.” According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: The defendants are members and associates of a Jersey City-based drug trafficking organization that operated and distributed narcotics in the areas of Mrytle Avenue and Mallory Avenue in Jersey City and elsewhere. During the investigation, law enforcement obtained multiple court orders authorizing the interception of wire and electronic communications occurring over multiple cell phones used for the drug trafficking organization’s activities. Law enforcement also used other investigative techniques including controlled drug purchases using confidential sources, mobile and fixed surveillance, and phone record analysis. The investigation revealed that the DTO distributes large quantities of suspected fentanyl and cocaine. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted more than a dozen controlled drug buys, including substances that tested positive for fentanyl, from various members of the organization. On April 22, 2026, law enforcement executed dozens of search warrants for premises, vehicles, and other locations and seized more than approximately 15 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, three kilograms of suspected cocaine, a kilogram press, nineteen firearms, high-capacity magazines, a bulletproof vest, and more than $160,000 in cash. Two additional firearms were seized earlier in the investigation. The count charging conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute carries a maximum potential penalty of 40 years’ imprisonment, a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment, and a maximum fine of $5 million. The counts charging possession with intent to distribute each carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. The counts charging possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon carry a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents and task force officers with HSI, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy; special agents with ATF, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka; the HCPO, under the direction of Prosecutor Wayne Mello; special agents of the IRS-CI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan; the Jersey City Police Department, led by Chief of Police Robert J. Kearns; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Acting Superintendent Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Jeanne Hengemuhle; and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Port Director TenaVel Thomas, with the investigation leading to the charges in this case. This investigation was conducted as part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department, for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate to strategize and prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, the Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center. This investigation is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), which 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. This investigation is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Maloy with the Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark, with invaluable assistance from Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Assistant Prosecutor Erica Bertuzzi. The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ### DEFENDANTS Defendant Name Charges Potential Penalties Defense Counsel JAMAAR MCGEACHY, a/k/a “Mooky” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Aidan O’Connor, Esq. JOHNEL DUNLAP, a/k/a, “Supreme” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Michael T. Simon, Esq. ALBERT CLAWSON, a/k/a, “Pop” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Laurie M. Fierro, Esq. ROBERT SAWH 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years John Azzarello, Esq. NAKIA WIGGINS 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Stacy Biancamano, Esq. KION AMAKER, a/k/a, “Scooby” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Maximillian A. Novel, Esq. KENNETH HAYWARD, a/k/a, “Cutty” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years TBD JIMMY LEE COOPER, a/k/a “Flip” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Pasquale Giannetta, Esq. CHRISTOPHER DANGELO, JR. 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Joseph Amsel, Esq. SHANE IRBY 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Adrien Moncur, Esq. RAHEAN BROWN, a/k/a, “Rah Rah” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years TBD SHAON GRIFFIN 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Charles Alvarez, Esq. DURAN WILLIAMS, a/k/a, “D Nice” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years David E. Schafer, Esq. OMAR SISAY 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Michael Pappa, Esq. HENRY BEATO 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Roberto Espinosa, Esq. KEVIN HAMPTON, a/k/a, “CB” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Jacqueline E. Cistaro, Esq. DWIGHT MCGEACHY 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Julian Wilsey, Esq. BRUCE TAYLOR 21 U.S.C. § 846, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years; up to 15 years Linda Foster, Esq. JAMAHL DANIELS 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Charles McKenna, Esq. THOMAS NESMITH 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Ernesto Cerimele, Esq. YUSEF GREENE 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Alyssa A. Cimino, Esq. IKECHI ANAELE, a/k/a “Ike” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Bruce A. Levy, Esq. RASHONDA RIVERS 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Laura K. Gasiorowski, Esq. SEQUANNA RIVERS 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Joel Silberman, Esq. RAMERE PARKER, a/k/a “Parks” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Michael Rubas, Esq. ABDUL RAMSEY 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Kathleen Theurer, Esq. JEREMY POWELL, a/k/a “O Dog" 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years William Strazza, Esq. KASIB JOHNSON, a/k/a “Peso” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Kevin A. Buchan, Esq. BASHIR ALLEN, a/k/a “Barshir Allen” 21 U.S.C. § 846 5 year mandatory minimum, up to 40 years Perry Primavera, Esq. SHAYNE LOVE 21 U.S.C. § 841 Up to 20 years TBD MANEL SMITH 21 U.S.C. § 841, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) Up to 20 years; up to 15 years TBD RASHID SALEEM 21 U.S.C. § 841, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) Up to 20 years; up to 15 years TBD


title: Diamond District Fence Sentenced to 46 Months in Connection with Large Scale Transnational Stolen Property Operation

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Dimitriy Nezhinskiy was sentenced by United States District Judge William F. Kuntz II to 46 months in prison for conspiring to receive stolen property that had been transported in interstate commerce. In addition to the terms of imprisonment, Judge Kuntz ordered the defendant forfeit $2,500,000 and restitution will be determined at a later date. The defendant and his co-defendant Juan Villar pled guilty in July 2025 . Villar was sentenced in February 2026 to 46 months’ incarceration along with restitution and forfeiture. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James C. Barnacle, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD); and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) announced the sentence. “Dimitriy Nezhinskiy and Juan Villar used the cover of their Diamond District store to encourage, coordinate, and profit from theft groups conducting burglaries nationwide,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “The defendants tried to make a quick buck by buying stolen valuables from transnational criminals, and in doing so, bought themselves lengthy prison sentences.” “Dimitriy Nezhinskiy and Juan Villar facilitated the sale of stolen goods obtained from criminals for profit. The goods stolen came from across the United States, impacting victims nationwide. The FBI and its partners have worked diligently to bring charges against these two individuals for their unlawful activity,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “What started with criminals trying to commit burglaries in Nassau County, has now ended in multiple arrests and guilty pleas; including these defendants,” stated NCPD Commissioner Ryder. “When you try and buy stolen goods that were taken from hard working people, we will work with our great partners to find you, and hold you accountable. Today, that accountability came.” “For years, the defendant participated in a large-scale transnational operation of brazen burglaries,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “This international pipeline targeted residential homes and commercial vendors to receive and purchase stolen property, contributing to dangerous criminal activities. Thanks to the work of our detectives, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, we have shut down this enterprise, and this sentencing ensures those responsible are being held accountable.” Nezhinskiy and Villar regularly served as “fences” for burglary crews from South America, who traveled around the United States, including the Eastern District of New York, committing burglaries, typically targeting wealthier neighborhoods in Nassau County and elsewhere or jewelry vendors, and stealing luxury accessories. According to court filings and statements Nezhinskiy made at his earlier guilty plea, between approximately 2020 and 2025, he conspired with Villar and others to receive and purchase stolen property, including jewelry, watches, handbags, and assorted luxury items that had been stolen and transported into New York. Nezhinskiy and Villar’s operation, which consisted of purchasing stolen property from these crews for cash, provided an essential market for the stolen goods, perpetuating the dangerous criminal activities of the burglary and theft crews composed largely of foreign nationals. Evidence linked Nezhinskiy and Villar to residential and commercial burglaries around the country, including burglaries from at least one professional athlete. The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division and the Office’s General Crimes Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael R. Maffei, Katherine P. Onyshko, and Sean M. Sherman are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Special Assistant United States Attorney Marsalla M. King with respect to forfeiture matters. The Defendants : DIMITRIY NEZHINSKIY Age: 44 North Bergen, New Jersey JUAN VILLAR Age: 48 Queens, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-40 (WFK)


title: Alleged shooter who posted videos on social media faces federal charges

body_text: HOUSTON – A 36-year-old Michigan man known as Allstar JR, who allegedly opened fire at a Houston restaurant, is now in custody for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck. Jeremy Christopher Ford made his initial appearance in Detroit, Michigan. He remains in custody pending a detention hearing set for April 27. Ford allegedly possessed a handgun during a shooting April 8 at a restaurant on Kirby Drive in Houston. According to the criminal complaint, authorities responded to reports of a shooting in progress and discovered two gunshot victims at the scene. Court documents allege gunfire also struck a third person. The charges allege Ford was involved in a confrontation with several individuals inside the restaurant, during which a handgun fell to the floor. Ford picked it up and began firing as people fled, according to the allegations. He allegedly continued shooting as individuals ran towards an elevator but returned to where one victim lay motionless on the ground and fired additional rounds into that individual. Law enforcement located a handgun Ford allegedly hid at the scene before fleeing, according to the charges. The complaint also alleges Ford later posted multiple videos on social media referencing and taunting individuals involved in the altercation and released a music video that referred to the shooting. Court documents further allege Ford has a prior felony conviction. As such, federal law prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition. If convicted of these charges, Ford faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Keri L. Fuller is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Partners with Judi’s Place for Kids for Therapy Dog to Support Crime Victims and Witnesses

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky has partnered with Judi’s Place for Kids, a children’s advocacy center, headquartered in Pikeville, Ky., for use of their certified facility dog throughout the district. A highly trained facility dog used in proper circumstances can reduce the stress experienced by victims and witnesses, foster connections with the prosecution team, encourage communication, and inspire a sense of trust. Leslee is the Facility Dog for Judi's Place. Leslee or "Les" has been serving with Judi’s Place for the past seven years. Les's role is to support the children at their office and in judicial proceedings. This involves cuddling with children before and after therapy sessions, walking them to their sessions, and accompanying children as they testify in court. Les also attends many education and community events for Judi's Place. Les knows over 50 commands. Before coming to Judi's Place, Leslee trained for two years to become certified through Canine Companions. “Protecting children and pursuing those who exploit them remains a top priority for our Office,” said Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “This partnership with Judi’s Place for Kids enhances our ability to support victims in a trauma-informed way, strengthening our cases and our commitment to justice. During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we are proud to take this step forward in better serving our communities.” “Leslee and Judi’s Place for Kids are honored for a chance to serve even more children and victims throughout the Commonwealth,” said Judi’s Place for Kids. “We cannot wait to show the difference a canine can make in the life of child victim.” Judi’s Place for Kids – a bright solution for abused children – is a community working together promoting safety and justice, offering hope and healing so that all may thrive and reach their full potential. Judi’s Place is a non-profit established in 1999 with locations in Pikeville and Prestonsburg, serving Pike, Floyd, Johnson, Martin, and Magoffin Counties in eastern Kentucky. Judi's Place for Kids provides two programs: accredited children's advocacy center services and CASA (court-appointed special advocates) of Eastern Kentucky. – END –


title: Shreveport Man Whose House Shamar Elkins Fled to Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms While under Domestic Violence Injunction

body_text: SHREVEPORT– On April 23, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Michael Mayence, a 54-year-old Shreveport resident, by criminal complaint with illegally possessing a firearm while being subject to a domestic violence injunction. Mayence faces up to 15 years in federal prison for the charge. “Shamar Elkins’ heinous acts have shined a bright light on the danger that domestic violence presents, and the fact that he fled to the home of a man who himself illegally possessed firearms while being subject to a domestic violence order reflects the need to deter this illegal conduct,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This ongoing investigation shows our Office’s commitment alongside our law enforcement partners to fully investigate this tragic situation.” “The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF)’s mission is to prevent, reduce, and solve violent crime, especially firearm related violence,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “This arrest by ATF is to prevent further risk to the public from an individual who is prohibited to have firearms and demonstrated to law enforcement, through the ongoing mass shooting investigation, as a continued threat to public safety.” After committing a mass shooting on April 19, 2026, Shamar Elkins fled from law enforcement to his associate Mayence’s home in Bossier Parish. After the scene was made safe, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Mayence’s home, which revealed that several firearms were inside the home. A review of Mayence’s criminal history revealed that he had been subject to an active domestic violence protection order since October 2024, with the order having been served on Mayence in December 2024 and lasting until May 2026, all of which prohibits him from possessing firearms under federal law. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. ATF investigated this case alongside the Louisiana State Police, Shreveport Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer . The case number for this matter is 26-mj-00107-01. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA