title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Two in the Middle District of Pennsylvania

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: Harrisburg – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” “Operation Restore Justice illustrates our longstanding commitment and partnership with the FBI to vigorously prosecute crimes against children,” said Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus. “It’s through these partnerships that we are able to hold child predators accountable for these crimes.” “The men and women of FBI Philadelphia work every day to protect and support children across all the communities we serve,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “Operation Restore Justice underscores our unwavering commitment to combatting crimes against children—among the most heinous offenses we investigate. Together with our partners, the FBI will continue to pursue those who prey on the vulnerable and work tirelessly to educate the public on how to prevent, recognize, and report child abuse.” Cases charged in the Middle District of Pennsylvania: Robert Haley, 41, of York County, Pennsylvania, was charged on April 23, 2025, with producing and possessing child pornography. The indictment alleges that Haley enticed an 11-year-old minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing four videos. It is further alleged that Haley possessed a SanDisk 64 GB micro-SD card that contained images of child pornography involving a minor who had not attained 12-years of age. Charles Edward Slate, 60, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on April 23, 2025, for allegedly distributing child pornography and possessing material that contained child pornography. Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Electronic Press Kit Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Four Pierre Residents Sentenced to Substantial Terms in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced four Pierre, South Dakota, residents convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencings took place on May 5, 2025. Whitney Marrowbone, age 30, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Wendy Mealer, age 49, was sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Brent Larvie, age 36, was sentenced to four years and six months in federal prison, followed by three of supervised release. David Rinehart, age 33, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. All four defendants were each also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. These convictions stemmed from a drug distribution conspiracy beginning in June 2023 and continuing until September 2024. Marrowbone, Mealer, Larvie, and Rinehart were involved in an extensive conspiracy with several other individuals to distribute methamphetamine in and around Pierre and surrounding areas. The four co-defendants received significant quantities of methamphetamine from two other co-defendants, Heather and Misty Stahlhoefer, and then further distributed it. During the course of the investigation law enforcement recovered over 550 grams of pure methamphetamine. Heather Stahlhoefer is scheduled to be sentenced May 14, 2025, and Misty Stahlhoefer is scheduled to be sentenced July 14, 2025. This case was investigated by the FBI North Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, the Chamberlain Police Department, and the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meghan Dilges. Marrowbone, Rinehart, Mealer, and Larvie were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” As part of this operation, the FBI Omaha Field Office, with the assistance of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, arrested 3 people, served 4 federal search warrants, and identified 15 victims from approximately 1,000 images submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Yesterday, a federal grand jury in Davenport returned a two-count indictment charging Anthony Charles VanMeter, 55, of Davenport, with receipt and possession of child pornography. VanMeter is serving an eight-year term of supervised release for a 2016 possession of child pornography conviction. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. “The harm child sexual predators inflict is vast. Locking them up is one of the most important actions the FBI and our law enforcement partners can take to protect children,” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “We are proud of the work of our Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force in Operation Restore Justice and will remain relentless in our pursuit of these criminals to ensure the safety of the most vulnerable members of our community.” Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, New York. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids


title: Passaic County Man Sentenced to 48 Months’ Imprisonment for Failure to Pay Payroll Taxes

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 48 months in prison for his role in a $3.5 million payroll tax evasion scheme, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced. Walter Hass, 63, of Hewitt, New Jersey previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin to an Information charging him with failure to collect, account for, and pay over payroll taxes. Judge Padin imposed the sentence in Newark federal court. Hass was also ordered to pay $3,527,645 in restitution. “Walter Hass spent a decade failing to pay payroll taxes. Instead paying taxes rightfully due to our Country, he chose to keep the money for himself to fund his extravagant lifestyle. We will not tolerate such blatant disrespect for the law. We also have no tolerance for lying to the Court, lying to the Government, or the lying to the U.S. Probation Office.” - U.S. Attorney Alina Habba “Employment taxes are crucial for funding federal programs millions of Americans depend on every day. For nearly a decade, Walter Hass chose to fuel his lavish lifestyle over paying these taxes to the IRS, turning his employees into victims along the way,” stated Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office. “This sentence showcases IRS-CI’s commitment to accountability and enforcing our laws.” According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Hass was the owner and operator a shipping/logistics company located in Oakland, New Jersey. Since 2014, he has operated the company under three different names. He failed to collect, truthfully account for, and pay over payroll taxes to the IRS on behalf of each of these companies from 2014 to 2022. In total, he failed to pay over to the IRS at least $3.5 million in payroll taxes. Instead of paying over payroll taxes to the IRS, Hass used company money to fund his personal lifestyle, including the purchase of luxury vehicles, including Aston Martins and McClarens, high-end watches and jewelry, designer clothing items and accessories, tickets to sporting events, home renovations, vacations, water sports vehicles, and extravagant meals. Hass signed his guilty plea in October 2023. He then embarked on a years-long campaign of deceit to avoid accepting responsibility for his conduct. He lied to the Court, to the U.S. Probation Office, and the Government about a purported cancer diagnosis to delay the entry of his guilty plea and the date of his sentencing. In doing so, Hass fabricated three letters from physicians asserting that he had medical conditions—including kidney cancer—that prevented him from attending court proceedings. Hass did not have cancer and attempted to travel throughout the United States and around the world during this time. Only when law enforcement discovered his deception did he ultimately admit to his conduct. In addition to the prison term and restitution, Judge Padin sentenced Hass to 3 years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan, with the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Calle, Acting Chief of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit, and Edeli Rivera of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark. ### Defense counsel: Guillermo Arango, Esq. and Mark Anderl, Esq.


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice:

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” In Delaware, Justin Enright, 51, of Millsboro, Delaware, a felon previously convicted on federal child sexual abuse charges, was arrested for violating terms of his probation including intent to view visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct or attempting to do so. Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware Shannon T. Hanson, stated, “Enright is a repeat child predator, and his conduct underscores the importance of coordinated, nationwide law enforcement efforts such as Operation Restore Justice. Our communities and children are safer thanks to the FBI’s efforts. Collectively, we will continue to send the message that our children deserve to live in a safe environment without fear of harm or abuse and that predators who seek to prey upon our children will be found and held accountable.” Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. “Every arrest made in these cases delivers justice and sends a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated,” says FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno. “This operation highlights efforts FBI Baltimore, our Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, and our dedicated law enforcement partners continually make to protect children from the dangerous and predatory monsters seeking to exploit, harm and abuse.” In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Electronic Press Kit Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Muscatine Woman Sentenced to 45 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa –A Muscatine woman was sentenced today to 45 years in federal prison for producing and possessing child pornography. According to public court documents, Jessica Rochelle Peters, 37, produced seven videos and three photos containing child sexual abuse material in July 2021, including videos of Peters sexually abusing a minor victim. Peters sent the videos and photos to a man in Indiana, who sent Peters money. The Indiana man was charged with felony child endangerment and possession of child pornography. The charges were dismissed following the man’s death. After completing his term of imprisonment, Peters will be required to serve a 10-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Rapid City Man Sentenced to 34 Months in Federal Prison for Being a Drug User in Possession of a Stolen Firearm

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 5, 2025. Jeremy Highhorse, 19, was sentenced to two years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Highhorse was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Stolen Firearm by a federal grand jury in October 2024. He pleaded guilty on February 11, 2025. In April 2024, law enforcement received a report of shots fired. Highhorse was the driver of a vehicle that matched descriptions of a vehicle seen speeding away after shots were fired. Law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop of the vehicle Highhorse was driving. Instead of pulling over, Highhorse led law enforcement on a high-speed car chase. When the car came to a stop, Highhorse was arrested, and inside the vehicle was a firearm. Highhorse discharged this firearm that day, and he had come into possession of the firearm by stealing it. The vehicle Highhorse was driving was reported stolen by the same person he stole the firearm from. Highhorse was using controlled substances that day as well. It is unlawful to possess a firearm as an active user of controlled substances. 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. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case. Highhorse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Statement Of U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton On The Convictions Of Own Every Dollar “OED” Gang Members

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Today, a jury held three violent members of a Manhattan-based gang, “Own Every Dollar,” or OED, responsible for four murders, 10 attempted murders, drug trafficking, and gun running. Gang violence is a plague on our city, and today’s convictions make clear that rival gang members are not the only victims. All too often, innocent bystanders are caught in the crossfire, and entire communities are terrorized by gangs, guns, and deadly drugs. This prosecution, in which 24 members of OED have been charged with committing senseless acts of violence, is a testament to the commitment of the Federal Government, this Office, and our law enforcement partners to ending the gang and gun violence that has kept New Yorkers in fear for far too long. Because of the excellent work of our prosecutors and partners, Jowenky Nunez, Jr., Brian Hernandez, and Iyaury Rodriguez-Rosario face mandatory life sentences. They will never again terrorize this city. Other gang members are on notice.


title: Muscatine Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Muscatine man was sentenced yesterday to 27 years in federal prison for production and possession of child pornography. According to public court documents, law enforcement received CyberTips that an account, later determined to be associated with Calvin Shawn Carter, 29, contained files with child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Carter’s residence. The seized electronic devices had videos and images containing child sexual abuse material that Carter produced of a minor victim between 2021 and 2023. Carter’s phone also contained additional images and videos of child sexual abuse material of minor males. After completing his term of imprisonment, Carter will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Federal Charges Unsealed Related to   Kidnapping of Garner Family

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Three Raleigh-based individuals appeared in federal court today to face charges for kidnapping a mother and toddler from their Garner, North Carolina home. Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, age 37, and siblings Paola Duran Duran, age 25, and Miguel Duran Duran, age 23, are charged in federal criminal complaints with kidnapping and aiding and abetting. The complaints were unsealed today at the defendants’ initial appearances. Their federal detention hearings are scheduled for May 12, 2025. The federal criminal complaints allege that Paola, Miguel (wearing a ski mask) and Hernandez (wearing a ski mask and armed with a semi-automatic handgun) forcibly entered a home in Garner on the evening of April 28, 2025. Inside the home was a husband and wife and their 13-month-old child. The complaints allege that Hernandez and Miguel overpowered the husband, taped his hands behind his back and covered his eyes and mouth, and then demanded $1 million. Miguel and Paola forced the mother and toddler out the back door of the house and into a car, according to the complaints. Hernandez left the house a short time later. Once alone, the complaints allege that the husband was able to free himself and call police. He provided law enforcement with a description of a car he believed the kidnappers were driving. Police issued an Amber Alert, and a short time later, the complaint alleges that the kidnappers dropped the mother and child off on a dirt road approximately 30 miles away from their house. The victims were able to walk to a nearby house and contact police and were returned home safely. The FBI arrested Paola and Miguel on April 29, 2025. They have been detained since that date on related state charges. The FBI arrested Hernandez on May 2, 2025. According to information presented in court today, all three defendants are allegedly illegally present in the United States. “These significant federal charges result from the prompt response of law enforcement and demonstrate the close partnership between all of the agencies involved,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Investigating and prosecuting violent crimes like those alleged in the complaints will remain a top priority for our office.” “When our partners at the Garner Police Department requested FBI assistance with a kidnapping, we surged resources from across the state in the middle of the night. Alongside local and state partners, a fast-moving and complex case unfolded. Through the combination of investigative technology, tactics, and tools, thankfully the victims were recovered safely. The FBI will continue to support our partners and work towards justice for innocent victims caught up in violent criminal actions,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, Paola Duran Duran and Miguel Duran Duran are all charged with Kidnapping and Aiding and Abetting. All three face a maximum punishment of life in prison if convicted. Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The FBI Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Garner Police Department, NC State Bureau of Investigation, and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Avera is prosecuting the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case Nos.5:25-MJ-1559 and 5:25‐MJ‐1571. A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.


title: Texas Man Convicted of Making Threats to Kill Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk

body_text: David Aaron Bloyed, 60, of Frost, Texas, was found guilty today by a federal jury of one count of communicating a threat in interstate commerce to lynch and kill Glenn Funk, the elected District Attorney General (DA) for Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee. “The defendant’s heinous threats strike at the heart of our justice system and the safety of those who have chosen to serve. As today’s verdict demonstrates, violent threats and intimidation against government officials and law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said Sue J. Bai, Head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “I am grateful to our law enforcement partners and prosecution team for their swift and determined work to bring justice in this case.” “Antisemitic hate has no place in Nashville or anywhere, and this verdict shows these hateful threats for what they are: a crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee. “Our office will do whatever it takes to defend our community, and the prosecutors who serve it, from being threatened by these hatemongers.” “The conviction of David Bloyed is yet another example of the FBI's commitment to holding those accountable who threaten public officials and the Jewish community,” said Assistant Director in Charge David J. Scott of the FBI's Counterterrorism Division. “This criminal behavior and these disgusting threats will not be tolerated. The FBI will continue to work with our partners across the nation to investigate, identify, and hold those accountable who threaten violence and harm to specific communities and people.” According to court documents, on July 14, 2024, members of the Goyim Defense League (GDL) – a national and international network of antisemitic provocateurs who espouse vitriolic antisemitism via the internet, through propaganda distributions and in street actions – were protesting in downtown Nashville on their “Name the Nose Tour” where its members travel to cities across the country to protest in the vicinity of synagogues and walk through the downtown hubs of cities with Nazi flags and yell antisemitic slurs at any individuals they encounter. GDL members encountered an employee of a local bar and a fight broke out. A GDL member was arrested and charged with aggravated assault for hitting the bar employee repeatedly using a metal flagpole with a swastika affixed to the top. While in Nashville, GDL members routinely posted about their activities on various social media platforms, including Telegram. Following the arrest of the GDL member, a Telegram user associated with GDL posted threats against DA Funk that included a photograph of DA Funk with the caption, “Getting the rope,” and an emoji finger pointed towards Funk’s image. The posts also included a photograph of a person hanging by the neck from a gallows, with the phrases, “The ‘Rope List’ grew by a few more Nashville jews today,” and “Will you survive the day of the rope?” Law enforcement subsequently identified another social media account with an almost identical username, belonging to Bloyed and containing threats nearly identical to those posted on the Telegram account. At sentencing, Bloyed faces up to five years in federal prison. The FBI Nashville Field Office and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department are investigating the case.


title: Inmate Pleads Guilty to Possessing Weapon at FCI McDowell

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Demetrius McKinney, 45, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) McDowell, pleaded guilty today to possession of a weapon by an inmate at a federal prison. According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 24, 2024, McKinney was involved in an altercation while an inmate at FCI McDowell. After the altercation, an FCI McDowell staff member conducted a search of McKinney and found a handcrafted weapon commonly known as a “shank” in his right front pants pocket. The shank was a piece of metal about six and a half inches long, with one end sharpened to a point and a cloth handle on the other end. McKinney is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-31. ###


title: Grandview Tax Preparer Sentenced for Filing False Tax Returns

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Grandview, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for filing false tax returns for others. Sandra Mondaine, 64, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 33 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Mondaine to pay restitution of $1,113,215.90 to the Internal Revenue Service. On Nov. 13, 2024, Mondaine plead guilty to one count of aiding and abetting the preparation and filing of false tax returns. Mondaine was an ex-IRS employee and Missouri-based return preparer who prepared returns for clients in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Mondaine obtained tax return information from clients either by meeting them in person or through the mail. Mondaine then prepared returns with false information, namely, false residential energy credits, charitable contributions, medical expenses, dependents, etc. Finally, she retained a portion of the claimed refund before providing the rest of the refund to her clients. Mondaine also appears to have submitted doctored and fake substantiation documentation when her clients were audited by the IRS. According to the IRS review, the total tax loss related to the counts of conviction was $1,113,215.90. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.


title: Kansas City Woman Pleads Guilty to COVID-19  Fraud and Treasury Check Thefts

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman plead guilty to wire fraud, money laundering, and theft of government funds relating to a counterfeit check scheme and stolen United States Treasury checks. The defendant, Briauna Adams, 28, also plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering relating to a scheme to fraudulently obtain Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) loans, guaranteed by the SBA under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). According to court documents, Adams rented a townhome in Raymore, Mo., using the name and personal identification information of another person. On July 27, 2024, Adams opened an individual investment account from the Raymore residence. On Aug. 15, 2024, Adams deposited a Treasury check worth $1,445,443.69 in her name to the investment account. Fraud investigators with the investment account company determined the $1,445,443.69 Treasury check was fraudulent and reversed the deposit before suffering a financial loss. On Nov. 14, 2024, a search warrant was executed on Adam’s rental townhome in Raymore. Approximately 253 stolen Treasury checks were found in the residence. The total value of the checks was approximately $700,000. Finally, Adams conspired with others to prepare and file fraudulent PPP loan applications on their behalf. Adams filed false PPP loan applications for numerous persons resulting in a loss of approximately $540,302. Adams faces up to 92 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentence of the defendant will be determined by the court based upon the advisory sentencing guidelines and other factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department.


title: Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl Conspiracy

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two men were sentenced to federal prison yesterday for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. According to public court documents, between 2022 and 2023, Zachariah Terrell Ross, 27, of Davenport, and co-defendant, Cristian Inostros-Aquino, 29, of Los Angeles, California, conspired to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills in the Quad Cities area. In furtherance of their conspiracy, Inostros-Aquino shipped numerous packages containing controlled substances, including thousands of fentanyl pills, from California to Ross, in Iowa. Law enforcement searched Ross’s residence and located two loaded firearms. Text message evidence showed Ross discussed purchasing a firearm from Inostros-Aquino. Inostros-Aquino was also found in possession of a firearm in May 2022. On May 6, 2025, Ross received a 108-month prison sentence, followed by a four-year term of supervised release. Inostros-Aquino was sentenced to 80 months in federal prison, followed by a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and the Davenport Police Department. Fentanyl is the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl deaths for youth ages 15 to 24 more than doubled between 2018 and 2022. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about the dangers of fentanyl and the One Pill Can Kill program. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN .


title: Hancock County Man Sentenced for Theft of Black Lung Benefits

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Gary Barber, age 75, of Weirton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to three years of probation for the theft of public money, property or records. According to court documents and statements made in court, Barber’s father was a coal miner who was awarded Black Lung benefits. Upon his father’s death, those benefits transferred to Barber’s widow, Barber’s mother. Barber became the payee for the benefits when his mother’s health failed, but once his mother passed, he continued to claim the benefits, falsely reporting each month for nearly ten years, that he used the funds for the care of his mother. Barber fraudulently collected $85,604 from the US Trust Fund. Barber was ordered to pay $85.604 in restitution. “Gary Barber engaged in a scheme to embezzle more than $85,000 in Black Lung benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). Barber stole money intended for injured coal miners and their survivors who were eligible for those vital resources. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and OWCP to protect the integrity of DOL benefit programs," stated Syreeta Scott, Special Agent-in-Charge, Mid-Atlantic Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. Barber was ordered to pay $85,604 in restitution to the US Trust Fund. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General investigated. U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Six in the Southern District of Florida

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. The Southern District of Florida is prosecuting the following cases as part of this operation: Benjamin Tokoma Sanders, 23, of Oakland, Fla., was charged with possession and production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on April 24. FBI Miami and the Broward Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60092. Tre’ Anthony Roberts, 25, of Miami, Fla., was charged with child sexual exploitation on Feb. 27. FBI Miami, FBI Jacksonville and the Tallahassee Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60042. Katriel Victor Marmol, 57, of Davie, Fla., was charged with enticement of a minor on April 30. FBI Miami and the Davie Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-06969. Dariel Manresa, 34, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., was charged with possession and distribution of CSAM on April 24. FBI Miami and the Pembroke Pines Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60090. William Neal, 44, of Tampa, Fla., was charged with possession of CSAM on April 30. FBI Miami and FBI Tampa are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-02902. Brian Jones, 38, of Evanston, Illinois, was charged with distribution of CSAM on April 15. FBI Miami and FBI Chicago are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-02747. Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, this effort and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov . ###


title: Repeat Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Pornography Charges

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A registered sex offender was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for child pornography charges. Corey Bouchard, 34, of Douglas, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In January 2025, Bouchard pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with accessing with intent to view child pornography. Bouchard was charged by complaint in April 2024. During a November 2023 search of Bouchard’s home, a cache file was found on Bouchard’s cell phone, which contained approximately 72 videos depicting child pornography. The file names of approximately 56 of those videos matched the file names from media files shared by others to Kik messenger group chats that Bouchard was in. Bouchard admitted to accessing child pornography with the intent to view it. United States Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Uxbridge and Douglas Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin J. Brown of the Worcester Branch Office 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 .


title: Guatemalan National Indicted for Illegal Reentry

body_text: BOSTON – A Guatemalan national was indicted by a federal grand jury for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation. Agustin Morente, 70, was indicted on one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. According to the charging documents, on or about Feb. 28, 2025, Morente was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States to Guatemala on or about March 17, 2010. The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant will also be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Soto and David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown,  Including Six in North Carolina

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” The FBI’s Charlotte Field Office arrested six people as part of this operation across North Carolina. John Matthew Miller , of Wilmington , 35, is charged with sex trafficking of a minor; enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct; and producing, distributing, receiving, and possessing child sexual abuse material. Miller was previously convicted of sexual battery and was a registered sex offender at the time of the offense. Miller faces at least 25 years and up to life in prison if convicted on all counts. Jesse Lonzo Teal , of Bolivia , 72, also known as “Lonnie” and “Mark,” is charged with sex trafficking of a minor, enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual conduct, producing child sexual abuse material, and using the internet to promote an illegal prostitution business enterprise. He faces at least ten years and up to life imprisonment if convicted on all counts. William Justin Lewis , of Louisburg , 54, is charged with distributing child sexual abuse material and possessing child sexual abuse material. He faces at least five years in federal prison and up to twenty years on each distribution count and up to twenty years on the possession count. Donte Melvin Peek , of Durham , 34, is charged with attempted enticement of a minor, distribution of child sexual abuse material, receipt of child sexual abuse material, and possession of child sexual abuse material. He faces at least 10 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment on the enticement charge and up to twenty years in federal prison on the possession count, if convicted. Jonathan Robert Davlin , of Huntersville , 48, is charged with transportation of child sexual abuse material and possession and access with intent to view child sexual abuse material involving prepubescent minors. He faces at least five years and up to twenty years imprisonment on the transportation count and up to twenty years imprisonment on the possession count. Terrell Shawn Anderson , previously of Charlotte , 30, is charged with distributing child sexual abuse material and possession child sexual abuse material. He faces at least five years in federal prison and up to twenty years on each distribution count and up to twenty years on the possession count. He was arrested by FBI Atlanta . “These important cases reflect the unwavering commitment of our office and our justice system to protect the most vulnerable members of our community—our children. We will continue to work closely with the FBI and our other law enforcement partners to ensure that those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “There is no place in our community for those who prey on children, and we will do everything we can to not only seek justice for the victims, but to prevent additional child exploitation crimes.” “Producing and exchanging child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is a sickening reality in our world and it’s not just happening on the dark web. Pedophiles use the same platforms your family and friends use. No matter where this crime is occurring the FBI will find you. The Violent Crimes Against Children (VCAC) program is uniquely positioned to work complex global and multijurisdictional crimes against children with the capacity to counter threats of abuse and exploitation of children,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Electronic Press Kit Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Randolph County Man Admits to Drug Trafficking

body_text: ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Gary Duane Cool, age 41, of Monterville, West Virginia, has admitted to possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, Cool crashed his car in Valley Head, West Virginia and fled the accident on foot. A witness reported Cool dropped some items in a nearby yard. Officers recovered a backpack with nearly 500 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm. Cool is facing at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.


title: Phoenix Man Sentenced to Prison for His Role in Online Romance Scams

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Kingsley Sebastian Ibhadore, 40, of Glendale, was sentenced on May 5, 2025, by United States District Judge John J. Tuchi to 17 months in prison. Ibhadore, a Nigerian citizen and lawful U.S. resident, previously pleaded guilty to Conspiring to Commit Structuring for his role in withdrawing over $500,000 in criminal proceeds from bank accounts, in amounts below federal reporting requirements to avoid detection by authorities. Ibhadore served as a “money mule” in a criminal scheme by transferring fraud proceeds, in relatively small amounts, between fictitious bank accounts to avoid federal reporting requirements and detection. Specifically, Ibhadore used 24 bank accounts under multiple aliases to conceal and distribute funds obtained through online romance scams that were initiated by other individuals. Romance scams are online scams where criminals impersonate individuals to gain trust and affection from their victims, ultimately with the goal of stealing money. These scammers often build fake online profiles, engage in elaborate deception, and manipulate their victims to send them money under various pretexts, such as medical emergencies, travel expenses, or investments. Between July 2019 and March 2020, Ibhadore deposited romance scam proceeds into accounts opened with false names and passports, then withdrew sums in amounts designed to avoid triggering financial institutions’ currency reporting requirements. Even after Ibhadore confirmed that the money he was depositing came from romance scams, he continued to withdraw large sums of cash in ways meant to evade federal reporting. Surveillance footage also captured him conducting transactions using fraudulent identities at major banks across Arizona. The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation in this case. Kristen Brook and Raymond Woo, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-01392-PHX-JJT RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-072_Ibhadore # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Prince George’s Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Laurel Business

body_text: Greenbelt , Maryland – Clarence Antonio Lynch, 22, of Prince George’s County, Maryland, has pleaded guilty to Interference with Interstate Commerce by Robbery and Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office, and Chief Malik Aziz, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD). According to the guilty plea, on August 4, 2023, Lynch — who was driving a dark-colored sports utility vehicle — traveled to a convenience store (Business-1), located in Laurel, Maryland, with the intention of robbing it. He was armed with at least one firearm. Lynch entered the store and used physical restraint to force an agent and employee (Victim-1) of Business-1 into an office by pulling Victim-1 by his collar and breaking his necklace. Then Lynch used a hydraulic tool to forcefully open the store’s automated teller machine (ATM). Lynch took $65,780 in cash from the ATM’s trays. He also took Victim-1 into the store office and used a firearm to take $6,940 in cash from the office along with $11,852 in cigarettes. Both the cash and cigarettes were property of Business-1, and the ATM cash was also property of a financial institution. Lynch faces a minimum mandatory sentence of five years and a maximum of life in federal prison followed by up to five years of supervised release for these offenses. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Lydia K. Griggsby scheduled sentencing for September 2, 2025, at 1 p.m. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and PGPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Rosenthal and William Moomau who are prosecuting the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Justice Department announces results of Operation Restore Justice: more than 205 child sex abuse offenders arrested in FBI-led nationwide crackdown including an arrest in the Eastern District of Texas

body_text: PLANO, Texas – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and our best hope for the future and here in the Eastern District of Texas, we will do all we can to ensure that they are protected and have the means of achieving the future they deserve free of vicious predators,” said Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. “Operation Restore Justice leveraged the resources of federal, state, and local law enforcement to track down these predators who prey on our most vulnerable and I thank our law enforcement partners for the tireless work they committed to this operation. The message should be clear: In the Eastern District of Texas, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent because protecting our children demands such.” “Protecting children is a top priority of the FBI and our partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement allow us to combine resources and collectively tackle this heinous crime,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “Every arrest made in these cases delivers justice and also sends a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated.” In the Eastern District of Texas, Yehudra-Ari Nathan Esquenazi, 25, of Dallas, Collin County, Texas, was arrested on April 30, 2025, after being identified during an investigation initiated by the FBI in North Carolina. Esquenazi is alleged to have engaged in social media and communications applications in which he actively engaged in chats about the sexual exploitation of children. Esquenazi sought out children to abuse within the Eastern District of Texas, traded child pornography with others, and encouraged others to sexually abuse children. The FBI served a search warrant at his home in February 2025 and he was indicted by a federal grand jury in April. Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Electronic Press Kit Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Maryland fentanyl supplier sentenced to seven years in prison

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

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Maryland man was sentenced today to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, Mamud Sesay, 36, of Bowie, was a source of supply for fentanyl for customers, which included fentanyl redistributors. Sesay also sold fentanyl pills from his home. The pills Sesay distributed were light blue and imprinted with “M” on one side, and “30” on the other to resemble legitimate, 30-milligram oxycodone pills. On Nov. 26, 2023, Phillip Donnell Mosby, 36, of Alexandria, contacted Sesay asking for 2,000 fentanyl pills. On November 27, 2023, Sesay met Mosby and distributed the pills to him. Mosby redistributed the pills in Arlington County later that day. On April 15, 2024, Mosby contacted Sesay again asking for 4,000 fentanyl pills, and Sesay met Mosby at a gas station later that day and distributed the pills to Mosby. The following day, Mosby was arrested in Maryland in connection with his involvement in the conspiracy. Law enforcement searched Mosby’s Lexus and found approximately 4,000 fentanyl pills. On Oct. 17, 2024, law enforcement searched Sesay’s residence and seized over 5,000 pills and approximately $2,500. Mosby pled guilty on June 20, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced on Sept. 25, 2024, to 10 years in prison. Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher M. Carter and Catherine Rosenberg prosecuted 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. 1:25-cr-1.


title: East Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Charge

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge related to the sexual exploitation of minors and admitted to violating the conditions of supervised release from a previous conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Richard Snyder, 54, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from on or about July 15, 2023, until August 3, 2023, Snyder knowingly possessed and accessed with intent to view on social media visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, the Court was advised that Snyder violated the conditions of his supervised release (imposed in 2012 upon a conviction for receipt of child pornography) by committing the instant offense. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for September 10, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, Snyder remains detained. Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations-Pittsburgh conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Snyder. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Fayette County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

body_text: BECKLEY, W.Va. – Daemien Thompson, 39, of Oak Hill, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, Thompson admitted to conspiring with other individuals to obtain methamphetamine and distribute it within the Southern District of West Virginia from on or about November 27, 2022, until on or about December 6, 2023. On November 27, 2022, Thompson and a co-conspirator sold 446 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in exchange for $2,600. Thompson admitted to the transaction and further admitted that his co-conspirators sold methamphetamine to the same confidential informant on other occasions, usually in quantities of 1 pound or more, at various locations including an Oak Hill trailer park. As part of his guilty plea, Thompson admitted to being involved in controlled buys of high-purity methamphetamine on December 5, 2022, December 14, 2022, and February 2, 2023, with a total amount of approximately 2.59 pounds of actual methamphetamine. Thompson is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2025, and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release, and a $10 million fine. Thompson is among four individuals indicted by a federal grand jury on charges alleging they participated in the drug trafficking conspiracy. All four pleaded guilty. Phillip Gray, 41, of Oak Hill, pleaded guilty on April 17, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 8, 2025. Leondus Whittenburg, 43, of Beckley, pleaded guilty on March 3, 2025, to distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 3, 2025. John Gray, 39, of Oak Hill, pleaded guilty on September 24, 2024, to distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine and awaits sentencing. Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), and the Central Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy D. Boggess and Brian D. Parsons and former Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Andrew D. Isabell have prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-31. ###


title: Federal Indictment Charges Three Alleged Members or Associates of Chicago Street Gang With Racketeering Conspiracy Involving Multiple Murders and Carjackings

body_text: CHICAGO — A federal superseding indictment returned today charges three alleged members or associates of a Chicago street gang with conspiring to commit multiple murders and carjackings in the city and suburbs. EDSON RESENDEZ, MAVERICK CELA, and PREZILA APREZA committed the violence as part of their membership or association with the Spanish Gangster Disciples street gang, a criminal organization based on the Northwest Side of Chicago, according to a second superseding indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Cela was among the leaders of the gang, the indictment states. The indictment alleges that in furtherance of a racketeering conspiracy, Resendez, Cela, Apreza, and other gang members and associates committed three murders, two attempted murders, four carjackings, an attempted carjacking, and an act of arson. The violence occurred in a two-week period in 2020, the charges allege. Resendez, 23, Cela, 24, and Apreza, 24, all of Chicago, are in law enforcement custody. Arraignments on the new superseding charges have not yet been scheduled. The superseding indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the Skokie, Ill. Police Department, Chicago Police Department, Morton Grove, Ill. Police Department, and Berwyn, Ill. Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cornelius A. Vandenberg and Simar Khera. “Combating the unacceptable level of gang violence in the Chicago area has been and will continue to be a top priority in our Office,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “As I mark my first 30 days as the United States Attorney, I want to emphasize that we are using every available federal law enforcement tool to bring impactful cases that hold violent gang members accountable and reduce violent crime.” "The FBI is committed to eradicating neighborhood street gangs and the violence unleashed in our communities,” said FBI Chicago SAC DePodesta. “This investigation is just one of many cases worked by FBI Chicago’s Violent Crime Task Force along with our dedicated Task Force Officers (TFOs) and local law enforcement partners. We remain united in using all available resources to ensure that groups like these can no longer harm Chicago’s residents.” The second superseding indictment in this case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. resendez_et_al_second_superseding_indictment.pdf


title: Former Middle School Teacher Pleads Guilty To Enticing A Minor To Engage In Sexual Activity And Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Italo Rafael Brett Bonini (25, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and one count of production of child sexual abuse material. Brett Bonini faces a minimum of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 30, 2025. Brett Bonini has agreed to forfeit a computer, which he used to commit the offenses. He has also agreed to pay restitution to the victims of his offense, as well as to any other identifiable minor victims targeted through his conduct. According to the plea agreement, on January 12, 2025, Brett Bonini video chatted with two child victims in Maryland through an online communication platform. During that video chat, both child victims pulled down their pants, and one of the child victims complied with Brett Bonini’s request to display his genitals on screen. In messages from Brett Bonini to the victims, Brett Bonini offered currency in an online videogame in exchange for the victims to show their genitalia on screen. The FBI executed a search warrant at Brett Bonini’s residence on February 4, 2025. Concurrent with the execution of the search warrant, the FBI interviewed Brett Bonini, who identified himself as a middle school teacher who also taught private music lessons to children. During that interview, Brett Bonini stated that his intention for joining the online communication platform was to have conversations and have fun sexually. Evidence from the online chats revealed that Brett Bonini attempted to victimize at least 20 other children using the internet. Each chat with potential victims followed a similar pattern of Brett Bonini lying about his identity, making sexual advances, and attempting to have a video call with the children who identified themselves as minors. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Osceola County Sherriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police, and the Harford County Child Advocacy Center. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Cruz. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: PDS Gang Member Sentenced to 10 Years for Gun Battle in Southeast Washington Neighborhood

body_text: WASHINGTON – Isjalon Jermiah Armstead, 22, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison in connection with a June 2023 shootout in a residential neighborhood in Southeast. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Washington Field Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. Armstead, aka “Smaut,” was a member of the Push Dat Shit street crew. He pleaded guilty Jan. 30, 2025, to discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. In addition to the 120-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Amy B. Jackson ordered Armstead to serve four years of supervised release. According to court documents, on June 5, 2023, Armstead was in possession of a half-pound of marijuana and intended to sell it. About 3:15 p.m., Armstead — who was seated in the front passenger seat of a 2005 Nissan Altima near the intersection of Third and Atlantic Streets, SE — engaged in a gun battle with the driver of another car. During the shootout, Armstead fired a .300 caliber AR-Pistol from the passenger seat before the Altima he was riding in became disabled and crashed through a fence and stopped in a grassy area next to an apartment building on Atlantic Street. Armstead, who suffered bullet wounds to his wrist and chest during the shootout, and the driver of the vehicle both fled on foot through a wooded area between Atlantic Street and Valley Avenue, stopping to discard the AR-Pistol in a trash receptacle. Responding MPD officers apprehended Armstead about 3:18 p.m. at the intersection of Fourth Street and Valley Avenue, SE, retraced Armstead’s steps, and found the AR-Pistol which was later determined to have Armstead’s DNA on it. According to court documents, PDS maintained gang territory in the 3300 – 3500 blocks of Wheeler Road, SE, and operated an open-air drug market outside a market. In August 2018, PDS allied with a neighboring street gang known as Jugg Gang. The combined gang also conspired to carry firearms – including machine guns – to protect themselves, their drugs, their cash, and their territory from rival crews with whom they had “beefs.” This sentence is part of an ongoing joint investigation which has resulted in 26 convictions and the seizure of two vehicles, 35 firearms, four machine guns, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, approximately 60 pounds of marijuana, 41 grams of cocaine base, dozens of oxycodone pills, and approximately $500,000 in cash. The case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office's Cross Border Task Force, the ATF’s Washington Field Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James B. Nelson. 23cr379


title: Raleigh County Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Fraud Scheme

body_text: BECKLEY, W.Va. – Ryan Keith Bailey, 47, of Beaver, pleaded guilty today to theft of government money. Bailey obtained $2,166,517.40 in loans through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for his business and instead converted nearly all of the proceeds for his personal use. According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 20, 2020, Bailey applied for a $166,517.40 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan available under the CARES Act on behalf of his business, RKB Inc. Guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA), PPP loans were a source of emergency financial assistance provided by the CARES Act to Americans suffering the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bailey certified that he would use the PPP loan proceeds only for permissible expenses, specifically to maintain payroll and cover lease, mortgage interest and utility costs. Bailey’s PPP loan application was approved and the $166,517.40 was deposited in the business checking account for RKB Inc. on May 1, 2020. On November 30, 2020, Bailey certified that the PPP loan proceeds were used only on permissible expenses when he applied to have RKB Inc.’s loan forgiven. Loan forgiveness was allowed under the PPP program when proceeds went solely to eligible purposes. The SBA ultimately forgave $157,456.50 of the $166,517.40 PPP loan for RKB Inc. As part of his guilty plea, Bailey admitted that his certifications were false and that only $6,517 of the PPP loan proceeds were spent for RKB Inc.’s legitimate business expenses. Between April 2020 and May 19, 2020, Bailey transferred $160,000 of the PP loan proceeds to his personal bank accounts and a personal brokerage account, using those proceeds for his personal benefit. Bailey also admitted to relevant criminal conduct as part of his guilty plea. Bailey obtained an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) for RKB Inc. from the SBA on January 6, 2021, and later successfully applied several times to increase its amount from $150,000 to the maximum allowable amount of $2,000,000. The CARES Act authorized the SBA to provide EIDL program loans of up to $2 million to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruption because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bailey admitted that he transferred over $1,974,900 of the EIDL proceeds to his personal bank accounts, his personal brokerage account and a cryptocurrency exchange platform for his own personal benefit. Bailey is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Bailey also owes at least $2,219,163.97 in restitution, with a final amount to be determined by the Court. Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Office of Inspector General (NASA OIG), the United States Secret Service, the West Virginia State Police-Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI) and the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU). NASA OIG is an active member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations. United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is prosecuting the case. The United States filed a parallel civil action against Bailey and RKB Inc. and a civil complaint for forfeiture. The lawsuit seeks damages and civil penalties, alleging violations of the False Claims Act and Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act and unjust enrichment based upon Bailey’s receipt of the PPP and EIDL proceeds. The forfeiture action targets $1,348,249.81 in Bailey’s bank and brokerage accounts. Both cases are pending in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to 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 . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:24-cr-106 (criminal), 5:24-cv-456 (civil) and 5:23-cv-406 (forfeiture). ###