title: Two Individuals Arrested for Publishing AI Deepfake Pornography In Violation Of TAKE IT DOWN Act

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, two criminal complaints were unsealed charging Cornelius Shannon and Arturo Hernandez with violations of the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which was enacted one year ago and prohibits the nonconsensual publication of AI-generated digital forgeries (deepfake) pornography. Shannon and Hernandez allegedly posted thousands of images and videos that appeared to depict real people nude and/or engaging in sexual acts. The victims included actresses, singers and political figures. Hernandez also posted hundreds of depictions of non-public figures appearing to engage in sexual acts. Hernandez was arrested today in Bedias, Texas, and will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date. Shannon was arrested today in New Jersey and will appear this afternoon in Brooklyn before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Cross-Goldenberg. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the arrests. “As alleged, the defendants used cutting-edge digital technology to create images that degraded and violated victims across the United States,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “This case makes clear that posting deepfake pornography is not a victimless crime, and our Office will pursue the criminals who engage in this reprehensible conduct with all the legal resources that the federal government can bring to bear, including new authorities granted by Congress to address these emerging forms of psychological, reputational, and financial abuse.” Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the FBI field offices in Houston, Texas, and Newark, New Jersey, for their assistance with the case. “The individuals arrested today are being charged for their alleged roles in a scheme to create and distribute vile deepfake pornography using artificial intelligence,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “This predatory conduct represents a disturbing abuse of technology that inflicts emotional harm on victims, violating their privacy, dignity, and security. The use of this emerging technology to victimize individuals is not innovative – it is criminal and will be pursued with the full force of the law.” On April 28, 2025, Congress passed the TAKE IT DOWN Act, a bill that criminalizes the nonconsensual publication of intimate images, including deepfakes. The TAKE IT DOWN Act is an acronym that stands for “Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks Act.” The TAKE IT DOWN Act was intended to combat so-called revenge porn, or pornography posted of an intimate partner without their consent, and non-consensual deepfake material created to simulate a real person. United States v. Cornelius Shannon As detailed in court filings, Shannon has published deepfake pornographic material depicting female victims to an image- and video-sharing internet platform designed for creators to share adult and explicit content. Since May 19, 2025, Shannon has published at least 360 albums containing AI deepfake pornography depicting approximately 90 different female victims. The content published by Shannon has been viewed millions of times. United States v. Arturo Hernandez Hernandez is similarly alleged to have published deepfake pornographic material depicting female victims to a website. Since approximately May 19, 2025, Hernandez has published approximately 113 albums on the website which contained deepfake content depicting approximately 50 different identifiable female victims, including individuals who are not public figures. The albums contain non-explicit images of identifiable individuals which morph into deepfake depictions of the individuals in various stages of undress or engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The content published by Hernandez has been viewed nearly a million times. The charges in the complaints are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charge, the defendants each face up to two years’ imprisonment. If you are aware of non-consensually published intimate visual depictions posted on the internet, you can advise the authorities through the Internet Crime Complaint Center, https://www.ic3.gov/, or through the FBI tip line: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). As part of its enforcement role, the Federal Trade Commission has launched TakeItDown.ftc.gov , a website allowing victims and survivors to submit complaints about platforms that have failed to act on valid requests for the removal of nonconsensual intimate images. The website also accepts complaints about platforms that have failed to create a process for people to request removal of these images. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security & Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas J. Moscow and Molly N. Delaney are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Eastern District of New York Investigator Jeffrey Tarkin and Paralegal Specialist Emily Woodruff. Assistant United States Attorney Madeline O’Connor of the Office’s Asset Forfeiture Section is handling forfeiture matters. The Defendants : CORNELIUS SHANNON Age: 51 Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey ARTURO HERNANDEZ Age: 20 Bedias, Texas E.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 26-MJ-96 and 26-MJ-97 hernandez_complaint_redacted.pdf shannon_complaint_redacted.pdf


title: Man with Dual Citizenship Sentenced for Sharing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A man with dual citizenship in the United States and Pakistan was sentenced today for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Razwan Asghar, 41, to 121 months imprisonment, followed by ten years of supervised release. Upon his release, Asghar will also be required to register as a sex offender. Judge Hill further ordered Asghar to pay $3,000 in restitution. In January 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip from Kik that a user uploaded photographs consistent with child pornography. Officers issued a search warrant and discovered that the email address associated with the account was Asghar’s college email address. They further discovered that one of the IP addresses used by Asghar traced back to a public Wi-Fi at his workplace. When officers spoke with Asghar, he admitted to using his cellphone to view child sexual abuse material, with some children being ages 4-5 years old. Asghar explained that he has “a lot of porn,” but working as a nurse keeps him busy. He told agents that he knew trading images and videos of children being sexually abused was illegal. However, Asghar believed it was not a crime because he was not sexually abusing a child. After speaking with agents, court documents show that Asghar sold his car, left the United States, and flew to Bahrain to stay with his family. When Asghar returned to the United States, he was arrested at the Tulsa International Airport. The images and videos found on his devices were sent to the National Child Victim Identification System, managed by the NCMEC, for identification. One individual was identified and allowed to submit a victim impact statement to the court. Restitution paid by Asghar will go directly to the victim who requested restitution. Asghar was born in Bahrain and is a citizen of Pakistan. He is also a naturalized citizen of the United States and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The Tulsa Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, local, and tribal resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: Dominican National Pleads Guilty Pleads Guilty for Role in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in Case Brought by New Hampshire Homeland Security Task Force CONCORD – Donaida Gonzalez, a.k.a. “Yijana Rodriguez,” age 54, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty today in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. According to court documents and statements, in early 2024, law enforcement agencies began investigating a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) based in Massachusetts and operating in New Hampshire. During the course of the conspiracy, the DTO trafficked multiple kilograms of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Gonzalez helped run the DTO’s “stash” house in Methuen, Massachusetts, which was used to store and package drugs before sale. Gonzalez has been detained since her arrest in October 2024. The charge of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substances carries a sentence of up to 20 years’ incarceration, not less than 3 years of supervised release, and a fine up to $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Department of Homeland Security led the investigation with valuable assistance from the Strafford County Sheriff’s Office and New Hampshire State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Shannon and Yasir Sadat are prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: United States Unseals Superseding Indictment Charging Raul Castro and Five Castro Regime Co-Defendants for 1996 Shoot-Down of Brothers to the Rescue Aircraft

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Raul Modesto Castro Ruz The U.S. Department of Justice today announced the unsealing of a superseding indictment charging Raul Modesto Castro Ruz, 94, of Holguin, Cuba; along with Lorenzo Alberto Perez‑Perez of Las Tunas, Cuba; Emilio José Palacio Blanco; José Fidel Gual Barzaga; Raul Simanca Cardenas; and Luis Raul Gonzalez‑Pardo Rodriguez, for their alleged roles in the Feb. 24, 1996 shoot‑down of two unarmed U.S. civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue (BTTR), also known as Hermanos al Rescate, over international waters. “Over three decades later, we are committed to holding those accountable for the murders of four brave Americans: Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre Jr., Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “For the first time in nearly 70 years, senior leadership of the Cuban regime has been charged in the United States for alleged acts of violence resulting in the deaths of American citizens. President Trump and this Justice Department are committed to restoring a simple principle: if you kill Americans, we will pursue you. No matter who you are. No matter what title you hold.” “Today’s superseding indictment of Raul Castro and five Castro regime co-defendants is a major step toward accountability in the 1996 murders of four Brothers to the Rescue members - including three U.S citizens - Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre Jr, Mario de la Pena, and Pablo Morales,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “For 30 years these families have waited for answers - and this FBI never forgot. We will continue working with our Justice Department partners to bring to justice those who attacked our civilians.” “For 30 years, the families of these men have waited. The Miami community has waited. Our country has waited. Today is a step toward accountability,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “This passage of time does not erase murder. It does not diminish the value of these lives. And it does not weaken our commitment to the rule of law.” BTTR was an organization based in Miami that conducted humanitarian flight operations across the Florida Straits to search for Cuban migrants in distress. As alleged, beginning in the early 1990s, Cuban intelligence agents infiltrated the organization and relayed detailed information about its flight operations back to the Cuban government. These reports were allegedly used by military leadership in planning the Feb. 24, 1996 operation. The superseding indictment charges conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals, two counts of destruction of aircraft, and four counts of murder. According to the allegations, on Feb. 24, 1996, three BTTR aircraft flew from South Florida toward Cuba. Cuban military fighter jets under the chain of command overseen by Raul Castro fired air‑to‑air missiles at two unarmed civilian Cessna aircraft — destroying them without warning while they were flying outside Cuban territory, killing four U.S. nationals, including three U.S. citizens: Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre Jr., Mario de la Peña and Pablo Morales. Rodriguez in a MiG fighter jet The indictment further alleges that, in the weeks prior to the attack, Cuban military pilots conducted training exercises designed to locate and intercept slow‑moving civilian aircraft. On the day of the incident, three BTTR planes departed from Opa‑locka Airport for a planned humanitarian flight south of the 24th parallel. Two of the aircraft — tail numbers N2456S and N5485S — were allegedly targeted and shot down in international airspace, resulting in the deaths of all four victims. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment on the murder and conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals counts. Castro Ruz and Perez-Perez face up to five years in prison for each of the destruction of aircraft counts. The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as the sentencing of any defendant will be determined by a judge. Luis Raul Gonzalez‑Pardo Rodriguez , 65, of Havana, Cuba, is in U.S. custody pending sentencing later this month in the Middle District of Florida for making false statements in an immigration document. Luis Raul Gonzalez-Pardo Rodriguez and Lorenzo Alberto Perez-Perez The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledged the assistance of the Florida Attorney General’s Office. “We are grateful for the support provided by Attorney General James Uthmeier and his team during this investigation,” said U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones. Today’s announcement is in conjunction with a ceremony at the Freedom Tower in Miami to honor the victims. Participants at today’s press conference included Acting Attorney General Blanche, U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones, U.S. Senator Ashley Moody, Deputy Director Christopher G. Raia of the FBI, and Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Abbie D. Waxman and Michael E. Gilfarb for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case, with the investigation led by the FBI Miami Field Office. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Repeat Sex Offender to Spend 15 Years in Federal Prison for Trading Child Sexual Abuse Material Online

component: USAO - Indiana, Southern

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Christopher David Sheese, 43, of Bloomfield, Indiana, has been sentenced to 15 years, eight months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, after pleading guilty to distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material. According to court documents, on June 29, 2024, investigators with the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, operating through the Bloomington Police Department, received a cyber‑tip indicating that Sheese had uploaded twenty‑one images and videos depicting child sexual abuse to the social media messaging application Kik. Using the account name “lovechicks0S6,” Sheese traded files involving the sexual exploitation of minors under the age of twelve—including infants and toddlers—with another Kik user. Investigators later seized Sheese’s cell phone, which contained thousands of additional images and videos of child sexual abuse. Sheese is a registered sex offender. In 2014, he was convicted in Owen County, Indiana for possessing a device containing thousands of files of child sexual abuse material. Five years later, he was convicted again for the same conduct after authorities discovered additional devices containing thousands more illicit files. “This repeat sex offender remains a serious threat to children, having consistently demonstrated a refusal to cease this conduct and continuing to support a market rooted in the exploitation of society’s most vulnerable victims,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will use every tool available to protect children, support victims, and ensure that individuals who perpetuate this abuse are removed from our communities for as long as the law allows.” Homeland Security Investigations and Bloomington Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Eakman, who prosecuted this case. This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a multiagency task force led by the Indiana State Police that investigates and prosecutes persons who use the internet to sexually exploit or entice children. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. Visit https://www. internetcrimesagainstkids.com to learn more about their efforts. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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. If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood ###


title: Bissonnet sex trafficker convicted for conspiracy involving adult and child victims

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON - A federal jury has returned a guilty verdict against a Houston man on charges of conspiracy and sex trafficking of children as well as forcing and coercing adults to engage in commercial sex acts, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck. The jury deliberated for less than three hours before finding Jonathan Smith-Byrd, 35, guilty on six counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion as well as three counts of enticing and coercing another to travel in interstate commerce for prostitution following a seven-day trial. From January 2014 to October 2022, Smith-Byrd used force, fraud and coercion to cause five women to engage in commercial sex. Three of the victims were minors when he trafficked them. He posted commercial sex advertisements on Backpage.com and trafficked the victims on the Bissonnet “track” in Houston - an area near I-59 Southwest Freeway and Bissonnet Street. Smith-Byrd also made them engage in sex acts across state lines such as Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New Mexico and others using force and violence during travel to maintain control. One or more of the victims made multiple attempts to escape, but Smith-Byrd responded with threats and severe physical assaults, causing the victims to lose consciousness and sustain serious injuries. Testimony revealed details of the sex ads as well as Smith-Byrd’s horrible assaults, some by using a padlock put inside a sock and belt that was broken as a result of the beatings. One of the victims suffered sustained multiple fractures to her jaw, requiring reconstructive surgery and resulting in partial facial paralysis. The jury also saw evidence of the injuries to include hospital records, photographs and physical items used to brutalize the victims. He kept 100% of the proceeds. Smith-Byrd seemed to acknowledge in his defense that he may have assaulted some of the women, but that it was not trafficking, just domestic violence. He further attempted to convince the jury the women were acting as independent contractors in prostituting themselves and the case was simply a love triangle gone wrong. The jury did not believe his claims and found him guilty as charged. U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks presided over the trial and set sentencing for Aug. 3. At that time, Smith-Byrd faces up to life in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. The FBI conducted the investigation as part of the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine J. Lu and Sherin S. Daniel are prosecuting the case. HTRA law enforcement includes members of the Houston Police Department, FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Attorney General’s Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor, DOL – Wage and Hour Division, Department of State, Texas Alcoholic and Beverage Commission, Texas Department of Public Safety, Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General, Social Security Administration – OIG and Sheriff’s Offices in Harris and Montgomery counties in coordination with District Attorney’s offices in Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties. Established in 2004, the U.S. Attorney’s office in Houston formed HTRA to combine resources with federal, state and local enforcement agencies and prosecutors, as well as non-governmental service organizations to target human traffickers while providing necessary services to those that the traffickers victimized. Since its inception, HTRA has been recognized as both a national and international model in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking and prosecuting those engaged in trafficking offenses.


title: Canadian Steel Companies and Owner to Pay $19M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Evaded Customs Duties

component: Civil Division

body_text: Two Canada-based steel companies, Farjess Inc. and Royal Canadian Steel Inc., along with their part-owner and president, Feroz Jessani, have agreed to pay $19 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly failing to pay duties owed on flat-rolled steel that was manufactured in Europe and Asia. “Import duties serve an important role in protecting our national interests generally and the American steel industry in particular,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will zealously pursue anyone who fraudulently evades the duties owed on steel products imported into this country.” “Our border is the frontline of American industry. Approximately half of all U.S.-Canada land trade flows through our district.” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan. “And we will continue to protect our businesses from foreign fraudsters,” “This settlement underscores the United States’ strong commitment to enforcing trade laws and maintaining the integrity of our supply chains. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proud to have supported the Department of Justice in this cross-border investigation, ensuring that all duties owed to the government are collected and that fair competition is preserved,” said Acting Director Jonathan Restivo of Center of Excellence and Expertise (CEE), Base Metals. “This case sends a clear message that CBP, in partnership with our federal counterparts, will continue to uphold the rule of law and protect the interests of American businesses and consumers.” “Since 1789, the United States has imposed tariffs and collected customs duties on imports to fund government operations, provide public services and protect American industry,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey of Homeland Security Investigations’ Detroit field office. “This record-setting settlement underscores HSI’s commitment to protecting American manufacturers and consumers from unfair trade practices and ensuring the integrity of our nation’s economic policies.” To enter goods into the United States, an importer must declare, among other things, the country of origin of the goods, the value of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, and the amount of duties owed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects applicable duties. The settlement resolves allegations that, from May 2019 through January 2025, Farjess Inc., Royal Canadian Steel Inc., and Feroz Jessani avoided duties owed to the United States by knowingly misrepresenting to CBP that the country of origin of certain flat-rolled steel was Canada or the United States, when in fact they knew the true country of origin was China, Indonesia, Italy, Turkey, or Vietnam. The settlement resolves a civil lawsuit filed by Shamsh Dhala, a broker who worked with Farjess Inc., under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The lawsuit was filed in the Eastern District of Michigan and is captioned United States ex rel. Dhala v. Royal Canadian Steel Inc. et al. , No. 2:23-cv-12097 (E.D. Mich.). As part of today’s resolution, Mr. Dhala will receive approximately $3,610,000 of the settlement proceeds. This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The Civil Division coordinated this action through the Department of Justice’s Trade Fraud Task Force, a cross-agency law enforcement effort. The Task Force was created to leverage all of the Department’s tools and authorities to prevent trade fraud that deprives the government of vital revenue, threatens critical domestic industries, undermines consumer confidence, and weakens national security. The Task Force is designed to pursue enforcement actions against parties who seek to evade tariffs and other duties, as well as smugglers who seek to import prohibited goods into the American economy. The Justice Department encourages whistleblowers to alert the government to credible allegations of fraud, including utilizing the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act or through the Department’s Corporate Whistleblower Program at CorporateWhistleblower@usdoj.gov using the form available here . The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of the Associate Chief Counsel, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Justice Department’s Office of Foreign Litigation. The matter was handled by Trial Attorney James Nealon and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Postulka for the Eastern District of Michigan. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Former DOJ Attorney Indicted for Concealment, Theft of Government Records

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Fort Pierce, Florida – Carmen Mercedes Lineberger, 62, of Port St. Lucie, has been indicted in federal court for two counts of theft of government money or property, valued less than $1,000.00; destruction, alteration, or falsification of records in federal investigations; and concealment, removal, or mutilation of public records. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges. The indictment alleges at the time of the offenses the defendant served as the Managing Assistant United States Attorney (MAUSA) of the Fort Pierce branch of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida. In separate instances in late-2025, the defendant altered the electronic file names of government records that she received in her official capacity as the MAUSA in order to conceal her unauthorized electronic transmission of those records to personal email accounts belonging to her without being detected. The altered government records included a document compiled by the defendant consisting of portions of internal DOJ electronic messages and an internal DOJ memorandum, and a DOJ report related to a criminal prosecution in the SDFL that had been court-ordered to remain under seal and prohibited from distribution or disclosure outside of DOJ. As alleged in the indictment, the defendant concealed her actions by saving electronic copies of the government records in question under the misleading files names “chocolate cake recipe” and “bundt cake recipe” before electronically transmitting those records to her personal email accounts. As to the DOJ report, the indictment further alleges the defendant acted knowing that her transmission of the record outside DOJ directly violated the court order and impaired the proper administration of the underlying criminal prosecution. Lineberger appeared in federal court today for her arraignment before Southern District of Florida Chief United States Magistrate Judge William Matthewman in West Palm Beach, Florida. If convicted, Lineberger faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment for destruction, alteration, or falsification of records in federal investigations, three years’ imprisonment for concealment, removal, or mutilation of public records, and up to one year imprisonment on each count of theft of government property valued at less than $1,000. The case is being jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt from the Northern District of Florida, who was assigned as a special prosecutor to avoid conflicts of interest with the investigation and prosecution of this matter. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Cleveland Shootout Lands Convicted Felons in Federal Prison

body_text: OXFORD, Miss. – Jamarcus Miller, 38, of Cleveland, Mississippi, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown, to 80 months in prison. He had previously pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition as a prior convicted felon. Earlier this year, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Jamario Hodges, 32, also of Cleveland, to 70 months imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Hodges had previously pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm. The ammunition was recovered by the Cleveland Police Department when officers responded to a shooting at a local convenience store. Video surveillance showed Miller and Hodges, engaging in a shootout near gas pumps before fleeing the area. The shell casings near where Miller had been shooting were seized. When officers located Hodges, he was in possession of a firearm with a Glock switch. Both Miller and Hodges were convicted felons. The two were charged separately by a federal grand jury for possessing ammunition or firearm as felons and pled guilty. Miller and Hodges are also under state indictment for the shooting in the Circuit Court of Bolivar County, Mississippi, where the charges remain pending. U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “The Mississippi Delta is an important part of our district. There is no room here for violent criminals such as Jamarcus Miller and Jamario Hodges. They both put innocent people in danger with their actions and we are not going to allow that to happen. As prior convicted felons, a firearm should never have been in their hands. Our office, along with our partners in the federal and local law enforcement agencies, are making sure those who are violent offenders are arrested and taken off our streets.” Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, “Miller’s and Hodges’ actions instilled fear and put innocent members of the community at risk. Their conduct showed a blatant disregard for the law and the safety of the public. The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, remains firmly committed to protecting the community and ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable for their crimes.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cleveland Police Department, along with the United States Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced For Hobbs Act and Felon in Possession Violations

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – JEREMIAH MILLS , ( “MILLS” ), age 28, was sentenced on May 12, 2026, by Chief United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter, after previously pleading guilty to a four-count indictment. Count One charged MILLS with Hobbs Act Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a). Count Two charged MILLS with discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(iii). Count Three charged MILLS with attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a). Count Four charged MILLS with felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. MILLS was sentenced to 240 months as to Counts One, Two, Three and Four. This term of imprisonment consists of 120 months as to each of Counts One, Three and Four, to be served concurrently with each other, and a term of 120 months as to Count Two, to be served consecutively to the term of imprisonment imposed for Counts One, Three and Four. MILLS also received three years of supervised release as to all four counts, with all terms to be served concurrently with each other. He also was ordered to pay a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. According to court records, on July 17, 2025, at approximately 4:32 a.m., MILLS entered the Food Mart convenience store at a gas station located on South Claiborne Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana. MILLS brandished a firearm, a Brigade BM-F9 Rifle at the employee, and shouted, “if you move, I will kill you.” MILLS then discharged the rifle, firing one round of ammunition into the ceiling. MILLS then pointed the rifle at the employee. and demanded he open the register. The employee then opened the cash register and began dropping money inside a clear garbage bag for MILLS . MILLS then went behind the counter and began removing cigarettes and cigars. MILLS then removed two firearms, a Taurus 357 Magnum Revolver and a Smith & Wesson 357 Magnum Revolver from underneath the counter near the cash register. After obtaining the firearms, MILLS went back to the front door, retrieved his brown book bag, and fled the store towards Washington Avenue. On July 20, 2025, at around 6:00 a.m., New Orleans police officers (NOPD) responded to a suspicious person incident at the Food Mart. Upon arrival, the same employee explained that the same suspect who committed the armed robbery at the Food Mart on July 17, 2025, had returned to the location, but the employee locked the door before the suspect could enter. On July 20, 2025, at around 11:00 a.m., an NOPD detective conducting surveillance of MILLS ’ New Orleans residence, observed MILLS pick up a package off his porch. The detective immediately recognized the man as MILLS . After obtaining a search warrant for the residence, NOPD conducted a callout over an intercom. After about two hours, MILLS exited the residence and was taken into custody. During a search of the residence, NOPD located the clothes that MILLS wore during the robbery, a brown backpack, cigars, cigarettes, cash, a Brigade BM-F9 Rifle, a Taurus 357 Magnum Revolver, and a Smith & Wesson 357 Magnum Revolver. MILLS admits that he knowingly possessed the Brigade BM-F9 Rifle, the Taurus 357 Magnum Revolver, and the Smith & Wesson 357 Magnum Revolver, even though he was a convicted felon in Orleans Parish. United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crime Unit. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. * * *


title: South Dayton man going to prison for receipt of child pornography

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Joseph A. Buelow, 31, of South Dayton, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J Vilardo. In February 2024, the West Seneca Police Department seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having online. A search of the phone recovered six images of child pornography that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August 2022, and November 2023. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors and violence against children. In addition, Buelow admits that he engaged in the sexual abuse, exploitation, or attempted sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor on two or more occasions. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Corey Flatau, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone. # # # #


title: Guam Bingo Operators Receive Federal Prison Sentences  for $34 Million Fraud Scheme

body_text: Hagåtña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announces the following sentencings: Jose Arthur D. Chan, (Art Chan) Jr., his spouse, Christine C. Chan, and Michael L. Marasigan received custodial sentences set forth below. On May 13, 2025, they were convicted by a jury in the District Court of Guam for Conspiracy to Operate Illegal Gambling Business in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 1955(a), Money Laundering Conspiracy in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§1956(h), 1956(a)(1)(B)(i) and 1957, and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1349 and 1343. Christine Chan and Marasigan were also found guilty of multiple counts of Money Laundering in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1957. Jose Arthur D. Chan, Jr., age 77, from Dededo, sentenced on May 12, 2026, to 60 months in federal prison, joint and several restitution of $10,750,804 to the Aloha Shriners, $339,013 money judgment forfeiture, and $300 mandatory assessment fee. Christine C. Chan, age 64, from Dededo, sentenced on May 12, 2026, to 70 months in federal prison, $10,750,804 joint and several restitution to the Aloha Shriners, $871,500 money judgment forfeiture, and $2,700 mandatory assessment fee. Fugitive Michael L. Marasigan, age 54, from Dededo, was sentenced in absentia on May 18, 2026, to 262 months in federal prison, $10,750,804 joint and several restitution to the Aloha Shriners, $5,871,493 money judgment forfeiture, and $6,500 mandatory assessment fee. Evidence at trial showed that between March 2015 and December 31, 2021, the Chan couple, Marasigan and other defendants participated in a conspiracy, fraud scheme, and illegal gambling operation involving the Guam Shrine Club (“GSC”) and its Hafa Adai Bingo parlor in Tamuning. Art Chan served as Vice-President and President of the GSC, a non-profit organization that purported to fund the travel expenses of children and one parent or guardian to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Hawaii for medical care. The defendants defrauded the public and bingo patrons based on false representations that bingo fundraising proceeds would be used for GSC’s charitable purpose. During the conspiracy, Hafa Adai Bingo generated approximately $34 million gross bingo proceeds. The defendants diverted and laundered $10,750,804 net bingo proceeds for their personal gain that should have gone to the Aloha Shriners, which has Shrine jurisdiction over Guam. According to GSC bank records, during 2015-2020 approximately $140,378 of bingo proceeds were used to pay the Aloha Shriners and for air transportation, and in 2021, no bingo proceeds were used for GSC’s charitable purpose. The following defendants entered guilty pleas and testified for the government at trial: Juanita Capulong, age 73, from Tamuning, pled guilty to conspiracy to operate illegal gambling business; money laundering conspiracy, and money laundering, and on May 13, 2026, received a concurrent sentence of four years of probation. She was ordered to pay a $500 fee, restitution of $479,075.97 to the Aloha Shriners, and money judgment forfeiture of $138,854. Minda C. San Nicolas, age 71, from Dededo, pled guilty to conspiracy to operate illegal gambling business, and money laundering, and on May 13, 2026, received a concurrent sentence of three years of probation. She was ordered to pay a $300 fee, restitution of $433,921.58 to the Aloha Shriners, and money judgment forfeiture of $147,599. Alfredo Leon Guerrero, age 90, from Tamuning, pled guilty to money laundering conspiracy and on May 13, 2026, received a sentence of time served (one day), one-year supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 fee, and restitution of $1,095,907.95 to the Aloha Shriners. Won Sun P. Min, age 62, from Sinajana pled guilty to money laundering conspiracy on February 8, 2023. On May 19, 2026, she was sentenced to time served (one day), three years supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 fee, restitution of $2,326,180.23 to the Aloha Shriners, and money judgment forfeiture of $906,400. “These defendants traded on the reputation of the Shriners Children’s healthcare system to perpetrate their multi-million-dollar fraud,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “It was an unconscionable means to personal gain. We will make every effort to enforce restitution and ensure that Marasigan and the Chans spend every day of their sentences in federal prison.” “Being charitable demonstrates the best in people – it is selflessness in action. This is in stark contrast to the selfishness and greed displayed in this case, which deliberately preyed on the charity of our friends and neighbors and stole millions of dollars from those who needed it most,” said Special Agent in Charge Carrie Nordyke, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Seattle Field Office. “Financial crime is not victimless; real people suffer its devastating effects. Protecting our communities from financial crime is core to our agency, and we are fully committed to carrying out this mission each and every day.” “These defendants defrauded their own community, taking charity money meant for sick children and using it for their own financial gain,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “These crimes are particularly offensive because they undermine the public’s faith in charitable giving. The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue these cases and hold criminals accountable.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS-CI. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Marivic David prosecuted the case in the District of Guam.


title: Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Providing Material Support to Cartel Designated as Foreign Terrorist Organization Following a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National has pleaded guilty in federal court today for providing material support to a Michoacan, Mexico-based cartel which was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Jose C. Valencia-Soriano, aka Jose C. Soriano-Valencia, 34, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge D. Greg Kays to an information charging him with one count of providing material support to a designated FTO in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2339B(a)(1). According to court documents, Valencia-Soriano admitted to providing material support to Cárteles Unidos, aka United Cartels, which is a Mexico-based transnational criminal and drug trafficking organization that controls large areas of Michoacán, Mexico. On Feb. 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State, in consultation with the Attorney General, designated Cárteles Unidos, as both an FTO and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224, after finding that the organization engages in terrorist activity. Beginning on or around Feb. 20, 2025, and continuing until March 27, 2025, Valencia-Soriano admitted that he knowingly and intentionally provided material support and resources, including himself and currency, to Carteles Unidos. Specifically, Valencia-Soriano obtained large shipments of methamphetamine often concealed in liquids from Cárteles Unidos members. He then extracted the methamphetamine from the liquid, sold it for profit, and conspired to make the U.S. currency and profits from the drug distribution to fund Cárteles Unidos in Mexico and elsewhere. These cartel operations included using profits from selling illegal drugs in the United States to fund the acquisition of high-powered weaponry, and the hiring of armed fighters and mercenaries, which resulted in numerous civilian, military, and law enforcement casualties. On Feb. 25, 2025, for instance, a search warrant was executed at Valencia-Soriano’s home within the Western District of Missouri. Inside, law enforcement found 102 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and roughly 460 pounds of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine that was still stored in liquids and awaiting processing to crystal form for final distribution. Investigators found two different areas of the home used for processing the methamphetamine. Finally, investigators also recovered three firearms, including two 5.56-caliber firearms, and more than $48,000 in bulk cash that Valencia-Soriano admitted was U.S. currency he procured through U.S.-based drug distribution with the intent to transfer it back to Mexico to further fund the operations of Cárteles Unidos. “Jose C. Valencia-Soriano's guilty plea reflects the seriousness of conduct that involved providing support to a foreign terrorist organization," said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price of the Western District of Missouri. "Actions of this nature threaten the safety of American citizens and the national security of the United States. The Western District of Missouri puts on notice anyone who engages in or supports terrorism against the United States: this conduct will not be tolerated. We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local partners to identify these individuals, disrupt and dismantle these networks, and bring their members to justice.” Under federal statutes, Valencia-Soriano is subject to a sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Valencia-Soriano’s sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Foley. It was investigated by the Kansas City and St. Louis Field Divisions of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rolla Area Drug Enforcement, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Homeland Security Investigations Knoxville (HSI), and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department also assisted with the execution of a search warrant. Homeland Security Task Force This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Kansas City comprises agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri.


title: Jury Convicts D.C. Man of Assaulting Romantic Partner with a Firearm

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Makhi Inge, 23, of the District of Columbia, was found guilty today in connection with his assault on the mother of his child in October 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. A Superior Court jury found Inge guilty of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Possession of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Prior Conviction), Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Obliterated Serial Number), and Carrying a Pistol Without a License. According to the government’s evidence, on Oct. 26, 2025, Inge went to the victim’s apartment in Northwest to see her and his son. Inge argued with the victim and punched her. The victim attempted to de-escalate the situation and briefly left the apartment. When she returned, Inge started another argument and insisted the victim owed him money. Inge then pointed a firearm at the victim and told her that he would have shot her if she was not holding his son. The victim pleaded with Inge to allow her to leave to go to an ATM to pay him. Once Inge allowed the victim to leave, she took her son and went to the corner store where she asked the clerk for help and called 911. While the victim was on the phone with the 911 operator, Inge came to the store, took the boy, and headed back to her apartment. The victim pretended to go back with Inge but then waited in an alleyway for police. When police arrived, they went to the victim’s apartment where they found Inge and the victim’s son. After searching the apartment, police found Inge’s firearm that he had hidden in the victim’s laundry. Inge has previous convictions for multiple felony offenses and crimes of violence involving firearms. Inge faces a minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years. Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 21, 2026, before Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean. Joining U.S. Attorney Pirro in the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anne Cotter and Monisha Rao. 2025 FD3 014290 Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube Or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: Two Colombian Nationals Unlawfully in the United States Plead Guilty to Interstate Burglary Conspiracy Targeting Asian American Business Owners

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.— Two Colombian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty in federal court for their roles in a multi-state burglary conspiracy that targeted Asian American small business owners in Oregon and Washington. Derinson Martinez-Grandas, 34, and Steven Alexander Quiroga-Solano, 27, each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods. According to court documents, in early October 2025, Martinez-Grandas, Quiroga-Solano, and their co-conspirators burglarized four homes belonging to victims in multiple states, including Oregon and Washington. Martinez-Grandas, Quiroga-Solano, and their co-conspirators traveled state to state and targeted homes for burglary by performing internet research on potential Asian American targets. They stayed in short-term rentals and identified and surveilled potential burglary victims, all Asian American small business owners, and then performed reconnaissance on the victims’ residences. When they carried out the burglaries, the defendants employed signal jamming technology, perimeter countersurveillance, and communicated on seven-way group calls. They entered their victims’ homes by shattering glass doors. Once inside, they ransacked residences, stealing United States and foreign currency, jewelry, designer handbags, purses, wallets, travel documents, and other valuables. After the burglaries, the crew returned to their short-term rental to package the proceeds for transport, transfer, or transmittal. Following a burglary in Salem, detectives learned that the defendants returned to their rental in Eugene and executed a search warrant at the rental that night. Investigators recovered money and property, believed to be stolen from the various residences, more than a dozen cell phones, believed to be used by the burglary crew, evidence of money wires to Bogota, Colombia, and various Colombian travel documentation, including passports. They also located commercial-grade Wi-Fi signal jammers that were plugged in and charging following their suspected use during the burglary that day. A search of their devices revealed additional evidence of the conspiracy, including sending and receiving coordinates for the houses they burglarized, surveillance communications, and shared messages highlighting the burglary targets from the preceding days. For instance, Quiroga-Solano researched Chinese restaurants two days before the burglary crew victimized a family owning a Chinese restaurant. He was in the vicinity of a victim’s home in Gresham the night before it was burglarized, which authorities believe was in preparation for the following day’s burglary. Martinez-Grandas secured short term rentals for the crew in Auburn and Eugene and mapped the address of the Salem home on the day of that burglary. Both Martinez-Grandas and Quiroga-Solano returned to the Eugene rental to package stolen property the night of the Salem burglary. Martinez-Grandas and Quiroga-Solano each face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. They will be sentenced on July 14, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eugene Police Department with assistance from the Salem Police Department, the Auburn Police Department, and the Gresham Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.


title: Indictments, Convictions through Guilty Pleas, and Sentencings in Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) Prosecutions

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

body_text: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney, in conjunction with our partner agencies in the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”) announce the following investigative and prosecutorial results for the week of May 11 through May 15, 2026. The HSTF is a permanent, interagency law enforcement task force created by executive order to combat transnational criminal organizations—including cartels, trafficking networks, and foreign terrorist organizations. Indictments: On May 14, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Jesús Martínez-Cedeño with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances. According to court documents, in April 2026, the defendant knowingly and intentionally imported into the United States, from Colombia and other places, five kilograms or more of cocaine. Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Antonio L. Pérez-Alonso is in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 14, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Ezequiel Amaro-Rosario (Dominican) with re-entry of removed alien. On May 10, Amaro-Rosario who had been previously removed from the United States, attempted to enter and was found in the United States, without obtaining, prior to his re-embarkation at a place outside the United States, the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. United States Coast Guard Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Cody A. McKinney is in charge of the prosecution of the case. Convictions through Guilty Pleas: On May 11, 2026, Carlos Jadriel Rivera-León pleaded guilty to drug and firearm charges in case 23-353 (GMM). According to the indictment, the defendant was charged with participating in a violent drug trafficking organization that operated out of various public housing projects in and near Manatí, Puerto Rico, including the Enrique Zorilla Public Housing Project. Defendant was arrested on September 22, 2023. The court set defendant’s sentencing date for August 14, 2026. AUSAs Andrés Orr and Joseph Russell are in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 12, 2026, Ramsell Maldonado-Tatis, William Boria-Rosa and Orlando Resto-García pleaded guilty to drug and firearm charges in case 24-453 (MAJ). Wilfredo Hernández-Vizcarrondo, Carlos Delgado-Torres and Justin Landrau-Cirino pleaded guilty to drug charges in that same case. According to the indictment, the defendants were charged with participating in a violent drug trafficking organization that operated out of various Public Housing Projects in Carolina and San Juan, including the Sabana Abajo Public Housing Project. Defendants were arrested on December 11, 2026. The court set defendants’ sentencing date for August 5, 2026. AUSAs Laura Díaz and Joseph Russell are in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 13, 2026, Josué Isaac-Febus and Joshua Rivera-Cruz pleaded guilty to drug and firearm charges in case 24-453 (MAJ). Juan Tereforte-Bello and Eduardo Tolentino-Meléndez pleaded guilty to drug charges in that same case. According to the indictment, the defendants were charged with participating in a violent drug trafficking organization that operated out of various Public Housing Projects in Carolina and San Juan, including the Sabana Abajo Public Housing Project. Defendants were arrested on December 11, 2026. AUSAs Laura Díaz and Joseph Russell are in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 14, 2026, Michael García-Marquez pleaded guilty to drug and firearm charges in case 24-453 (MAJ). According to the indictment, the defendant was charged with participating in a violent drug trafficking organization that operated out of various Public Housing Projects in Carolina and San Juan, including the Sabana Abajo Public Housing Project. Defendant was arrested on December 11, 2026. The court set defendant’s sentencing hearing for August 12, 2026. AUSAs Laura Díaz and Joseph Russell are in charge of the prosecution of the case. Sentencings: On May 12, 2026, Justin Carlo Padilla was sentenced by Chief Judge Raúl Arias Marxuach to 111 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to court documents, defendant was charged by a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico on March 22, 2023, in case 23-114 (RAM), and pleaded guilty to the charges on February 11, 2026. AUSA Corinne Cordero Romo is in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 12, 2026, Xavier González-Rivera was sentenced by Judge Pedro A. Delgado to 84 months of imprisonment and supervised release term of 6 years for distribution of controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to court documents, defendant was charged by a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico on July 20, 2022, in Criminal case 22-327 and pled guilty to the charge(s) on January 27, 2026. AUSA Corinne Cordero in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 12, 2026, Justin Carlo Padilla was sentenced by Chief Judge Raúl Arias Marxuach to 111 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for distribution of controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to court documents, defendant was charged by a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico on March 22, 2023, in Criminal case # 23-114, and pled guilty to the charge(s) on February 11, 2026. AUSA Corinne Cordero in charge of the prosecution of the case. On May 13, 2026, Roric Harvey Nuñez-García was sentenced by Chief Judge Raúl Arias-Marxuach to 30 months in prison for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of a machinegun in cases 25-104 and 25-279. According to court documents, defendant was charged by a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico on March 5, 2025, in case 25-104 and on July 20, 2025, in case 25-279 and pleaded guilty to the charges on February 12, 2026. AUSA Joseph Russell is in charge of the prosecution of the case. These prosecutions are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Juan comprises agents and officers from the following federal partners: FBI, ICE-HSI, CBP (OFO, AMO and Border Patrol), the U.S. Marshals Service for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, DEA, ATF, IRS, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of State, and the U.S. Secret Service, the Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands HIDTA, TSA, FAA, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The HSTF also has the following state and local law enforcement partners as participating agencies: the Puerto Rico Police Department; the San Juan, Carolina, Guaynabo, Barceloneta, and Ponce Municipal Police Departments, the Puerto Rico National Guard – Counter Drug Program; the Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the Puerto Rico Internal Revenue Service (Hacienda); the Puerto Rico Port Authority; and the Virgin Islands Police Department. ###


title: Coos Bay Man Pleads Guilty to Sexually Exploiting a Minor and Attempting to Sexually Exploit Another Minor

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.— A Coos Bay, Oregon, man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court for causing a child to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM), attempting to cause an adult to produce CSAM with his minor child, and distributing CSAM to others. Thomas Owen Barnett, 40, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. According to court documents, between September and December 2023, Barnett encouraged a minor victim to create and send him CSAM. In September 2024, Barnett distributed CSAM of that minor victim on Kik, an online chat platform, and sought money in exchange. The same month, Barnett posed as the minor victim online and asked a man in a foreign nation to make and send him CSAM depicting the man’s very young child. On February 20, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a four-count indictment charging Barnett with sexual exploitation of a child, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, as well as possession and distribution of child pornography. Barnett faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a supervised release term of five years to life. He will be sentenced on September 1, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge. Additionally, Barnett has agreed to pay restitution to the victim and forfeit certain property. U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement. This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the North Bend Police Department and the Coos County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org . This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Mabelvale Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Johnny Lee Underwood will spend the next 240 months in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller. On August 1, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment charging Underwood, 27, of Mabelvale, with one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and one count of distribution of fentanyl. On February 4, 2026, Underwood pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Judge Miller also sentenced Underwood to three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. On June 30, 2023, officers from the Little Rock Police Department responded to an emergency call regarding a suspected overdose. Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed paramedics attempt to revive the victim, but their efforts were unsuccessful. During their investigation, officers learned the victim ingested a blue pill that contained fentanyl earlier in the day. Officers located the victim’s wallet, and recovered a small, blue pill stamped with “M/30” and appeared similar to the brand-name pharmaceutical-grade oxycodone. Additional investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that Underwood sold approximately four counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to the victim and the victim’s girlfriend. Within hours of purchasing the pills from Underwood, the victim ingested a portion of a pill, overdosed, and died. An autopsy conducted by the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory determined the victim’s cause of death as fentanyl toxicity. “Sadly, here is yet another proof that “One pill can kill”. Fentanyl and additional emerging synthetic opioids are deadly poisons being sent into our country from other nations who want to kill as many Americans as possible. These toxic drugs are harmful to our citizens, and especially so for those who are struggling with addiction,” said Ross. “But an addiction should not equate to death; and for those like Underwood who knowingly sell fentanyl and someone dies as a result, our office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold you accountable.” “Fentanyl continues to devastate families and communities across Arkansas, and those responsible for spreading this poison will be held accountable,” said Jason Van Goor, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Little Rock Field Office. “The FBI, alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, will continue working tirelessly to remove dangerous drugs from our streets and pursue individuals who profit from putting lives at risk.” The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with assistance from the Little Rock Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Fields. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Antitrust Division Secures Seed Tying and Loyalty Program Commitments from Bayer

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: Today, the Department of Justice announced that during the course of the Antitrust Division’s ongoing investigation into exclusionary conduct in corn and soybean seed markets, Bayer CropScience LLC has removed potentially anticompetitive provisions from its loyalty program. These changes benefit American consumers, farmers, and independent seed companies, which license seed technology from Bayer to produce seeds to meet the needs of farmers. In response to the Division’s concerns, Bayer has committed to not reinstate these provisions for seven years. “American farmers deserve competitive markets, not contractual restrictions that limit choice and innovation," said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. "This Department of Justice will use every appropriate tool to protect farmers and preserve competition.” “Enforcement in agriculture is a top priority for the Antitrust Division,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Omeed A. Assefi of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “We are focused on conduct that poses competitive harm to both farmers and consumers.” “I commend Acting Attorney General Blanche and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice (DOJ) for securing commitments from input giant Bayer CropScience LLC to remove unfair provisions from its loyalty program for certain seeds,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “These actions build upon our 2025 USDA-DOJ Memorandum of Understanding strengthening competition in agricultural supply chains for our farmers, who are among the best in the world. We must celebrate this great progress, while acknowledging there’s much more work to be done!” “Loyalty programs that discourage customers from switching to alternative sellers pose a danger to competition,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Sarrine of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “We are pleased that Bayer has taken these actions addressing competitive concerns of the Division about Bayer’s loyalty program.” Bayer has made two important changes to its “Premier Performance Program,” a key subject of the Division’s scrutiny. First, Bayer’s Premier Performance Program previously required independent seed companies to meet sales targets for both corn and soybean to achieve discounts under its loyalty program. This contractual restraint raised concerns that Bayer was anticompetitively tying corn seed and soybean seed. Bayer dropped the tie between corn seed and soybean seed for the 2025 planting year. In response to the Division’s concerns, Bayer has now committed to not reinstate the tie for seven years. Second, the Premier Performance Program formerly included incentives that could limit independent seed companies’ willingness to license technology from Bayer’s competitors. Bayer eliminated these potentially anticompetitive provisions from its loyalty program. In response to the Division’s concerns, Bayer has committed to not reinstate these incentives, or any substantially similar incentive program, for seven years. Anyone with information about anticompetitive conduct in agricultural industries or any other violations of the antitrust laws is encouraged to contact the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 1-888-647-3258 or antitrust.complaints@usdoj.gov . Bayer CropScience LLC — headquartered in Creve Coeur, Missouri — is one of the largest seed companies in the world. It is the primary source for traited corn seed sold by independent seed companies.


title: Former Texas Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Violation

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that a former corrections officer with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) in Rusk, Texas, pleaded guilty for his participation in a conspiracy to assault an inmate in his custody, identified by initials M.S., on Feb. 25, 2025. Samuel Thomas pleaded guilty to one count of violating 18 U.S.C. § 241. “This former corrections officer engaged in a conspiracy to beat and injure a man in his care and custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Today’s conviction reinforces the Justice Department’s commitment to protect victims from state officials who abuse their power.” “Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that corruption by those entrusted with public safety will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs for the Eastern District of Texas. “Correctional officers hold positions of tremendous responsibility and authority, and when that trust is abused, it undermines the integrity of our justice system and jeopardizes the safety of inmates and staff. Nobody is above the law, and this office will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute corruption wherever it occurs.” According to his plea agreement, Thomas acknowledged that he was on duty as a TDCJ correctional officer when he opened the door of inmate M.S.’s cell and allowed other conspiracy members to strike and injure M.S. to retaliate against M.S. for spitting on Thomas two days earlier. M.S. suffered bodily injury as a result of the actions of Thomas and the other conspiracy members. Thomas pleaded guilty on May 19 before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to his plea agreement, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Dallas Field Office, Tyler Resident Agency, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan Jackson and Emil Mikkelsen for the Eastern District of Texas and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case


title: Two Business Executives Plead Guilty in Tech-Support Fraud Scheme

body_text: PROVIDENCE- Two individuals have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from their operation of a business that provided services to customers engaged in widespread telemarketing and tech-support fraud schemes targeting victims throughout the United States and abroad. Former CEO Adam Young, 42, of Miami, FL, and former CSO Harrison Gevirtz, 33, of Las Vegas, NV, admitted to operating a business that provided telecommunications-related services, including telephone numbers, call routing services, call tracking, and call forwarding services, to customers they knew were engaged in tech-support fraud schemes. Young and Gevirtz each pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony, in violation of federal law. They are scheduled to be sentenced on June 16, 2026. The sentences imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Young and Gevirtz pleaded guilty after an investigation beginning in 2020 that led to the conviction of five India-based telemarketing fraudsters and a former employee of their call routing company. Indian citizens Sahil Narang, Chirag Sachdeva, Abrar Anjum and Manish Kumar, were convicted of charges related to telemarketing fraud schemes based in the Republic of India that targeted and defrauded Americans of millions of dollars, many of them vulnerable to fraud schemes due to age or infirmity. The investigation also contributed to the conviction of another individual, Jagmeet Singh Virk, in the U.S. District Court for the Norther District of California. The investigation further revealed that call centers based in India utilized Young and Gervitz’s business to route their “tech fraud” scheme calls and, in some instances, advised those fraudsters on methods intended to reduce complaints and prevent account terminations. According to court documents, from approximately 2016 through 2022 Young, Gevirtz, and others knew that some of their customers were engaged in tech-support fraud schemes. The schemes used deceptive pop-up messages to convince computer users that their computer had been infected with viruses or malware. Victims were directed to call a phone number on the pop-up message or advertisement, which connected the victims to call centers, where they were persuaded to pay hundreds of dollars for unnecessary or fictitious technical-support services. In some instances, call center agents remotely accessed victims’ computers and obtained personal and financial information. From 2017 through April 2022, after learning of their customers’ fraud schemes, Young and Gevirtz failed to report the schemes to law enforcement officials. According to statements filed with the court, the defendants received numerous complaints and inquiries from telephone providers and law enforcement concerning customers engaged in tech-support fraud. Despite that knowledge, they advised some of their customers about techniques the customers could use to avoid complaints by fraud victims and prevent account termination. Young and Gevirtz assisted some of those customers to buy and sell fraud calls amongst themselves. Young and Gevirtz themselves owned and operated a call center in Tunisia from 2016 through April 2022 where some employees engaged in tech-support fraud. "What the CEO and CSO of this well-known call tracking and analytics company did was downright despicable. By their own admission, they willfully profited from telemarketing and tech support scammers, here and abroad, who preyed on the elderly, exploited the vulnerable, and drained victims of their life savings and peace of mind. Behind every fraudulent call was a real person left frightened, humiliated, or financially shattered,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Tech support scams cost Americans $2.1 billion last year, and Rhode Islanders reported losing at least $5.7 million. Let this be a warning: if you fuel and support these criminal networks that prey on unsuspecting consumers, the FBI will pursue you relentlessly to ensure you’re held accountable for the harm you helped inflict.” Court documents further reflect that the defendants directed employees to promote their company’s services to customers engaged in tech-support fraud and, at times, introduced customers involved in the fraudulent activity with others who could support their fraudulent business. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Milind Shah, Sandra Hebert, Julianne Klein, and Lee Vilker. The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 20251107_gevirtz_young_final_statement_of_fact_.pdf


title: Guam Man Sentenced for Theft of Government Property  After Stealing Deceased Wife’s Social Security Benefits

body_text: Hagåtña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Joseph Benavente Wusstig, age 59, from Yigo, Guam was sentenced to six months imprisonment for Theft of Government Property, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 641. The Court also ordered three years of supervised release, $58,248 restitution to the Social Security Administration, forfeiture money judgment of $58,248, and a $100 special assessment fee. From September 2018 to December 31, 2023, Wusstig unlawfully received $58,248 in disability benefits for his wife from the Social Security Administration (“SSA”). Wusstig had served as a representative payee for his wife. After she died in August 2018, Wusstig never informed the SSA and continued to receive and spend the benefits intended for his wife. SSA paid the disability benefits through direct deposit to a joint account held in their names. Wusstig accessed the funds primarily through ATM withdrawals and Point of Sale purchases made at convenience stores, restaurants, supermarkets and gas stations. “The Social Security Administration provides disability insurance benefits to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work and who have a sufficient work history,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “The loss of a family member, however, should not become an opportunity for unjust enrichment at taxpayer expense. Maintaining the viability of this important program is worthy of criminal enforcement action. We will continue to do so in an effort to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse.” “Social Security disability benefits are intended to provide critical support to eligible beneficiaries, not to be exploited for personal gain,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit as First Assistant for the SSA Office of the Inspector General. “We will continue to aggressively pursue those who misuse federal benefit programs and safeguard the public’s trust in the Social Security Administration.” This investigation was led by the SSA – Office of the Inspector General and prosecuted by First Assistant United States Attorney Marivic P. David for the District of Guam. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Two Luzerne County Men Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jhaquil Moore, a/k/a “Twizz,” age 30, of Hughestown, Pennsylvania, and Keith Hayes, age 34, of Jenkins Township, Pennsylvania, were indicted on May 19, 2026, by a federal grand jury for drug trafficking offenses. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that between on or about February 1, 2026, and May 12, 2026, Moore and Hayes conspired to distribute quantities of cocaine in Luzerne County, and elsewhere. The indictment further alleges that on six occasions between February 2025 and April 2026, Moore and Hayes distributed quantities of cocaine within Luzerne County. The indictment further alleges that on May 12, 2026, Hayes possessed a stolen Glock 43x pistol, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than a year in prison. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, the Kingston Police Department, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney James M. Buchanan is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is imprisonment for twenty years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Gary Man Sentenced to 68 Months in Prison For Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

body_text: HAMMOND- Kevin Robinson, 46 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and for distributing cocaine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Robinson was sentenced to 68 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. “Like many before him, Kevin Robinson thought it was a good idea to possess guns he wasn’t allowed to have and deal drugs he wasn’t allowed to sell,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. “And like many before him, he has learned that the brave federal agents and committed federal prosecutors of northern Indiana will not rest until criminals like him are convicted, sentenced, and serving their time in the Bureau of Prisons. I would like to thank the agents and prosecutors involved in this case for the work they put in to bring Robinson to justice. And I would like to reiterate a warning I’ve given many times before—if you want to trade poisons or possess illegal firearms, do it somewhere else. Northern Indiana will not tolerate it.” “Despite having a prior felony conviction, the defendant repeatedly possessed firearms and sold them to law enforcement, demonstrating a complete disregard for Federal law. The sentence imposed in this case reflects the seriousness of the conduct and continued accountability for those that violate Federal law,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. According to documents in the case, on October 2, 2024, Robinson sold a firearm and cocaine to law enforcement. Robinson also sold firearms to law enforcement on three occasions in September and November 2024. Robinson has a felony conviction which prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ambris Saravanan and former Assistant United States Attorney Joel L. Mathur. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Over 7 Years in Federal Prison  for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on May 18, 2026. Robert Kent, 31, was sentenced to seven years and six months in federal prison, followed by five of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Kent was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on March 4, 2026. Kent was part of a drug trafficking organization that was obtaining methamphetamine from Arizona and then distributing it in the Sioux Falls area. Kent’s role in the group was to distribute the methamphetamine in town. Investigators discovered Kent was responsible for dealing approximately one pound of methamphetamine during his involvement in the conspiracy. This case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case. Kent was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Park County man sentenced to 10 years in prison for hoarding cache of illegal incendiary devices

body_text: BILLINGS – A Park County man who built and stored incendiary devices in his trailer in Pray, Montana, and kept detailed plans on how to attack nearby Chico Hot Springs, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said. Kadin Hawkeye Lewis, 24, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of possession of unregistered destructive devices. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The government alleged in court documents that a call to law enforcement on Sept. 19, 2022, led officers to Lewis’ travel trailer in Pray, an unincorporated community in Park County, Montana. Once inside the trailer, officers discovered the body of a man who had multiple gunshot wounds to the top and back of the head. Officers obtained a search warrant for the trailer and inside found eight Molotov cocktails stored in a cabinet, each bottle assembled with fuel and wicks. Elsewhere in the trailer, officers found dozens of empty bottles and rags that could be used to assemble more Molotov cocktails, as well as several journals and other writings belonging to Lewis. On the walls, officers observed violent extremist and racially motivated drawings and writing. In some of his journals, Lewis detailed his admiration of mass shooters and fantasized about using Molotov cocktails as destructive devices to attack Chico Hot Springs, a nearby resort. He wrote about using the Molotov cocktails and firearms to build up a “kill count” as high as possible, aiming for between “17 and 30 casualties.” He also identified other hot spring resorts throughout Montana by name and location and wrote that it was his hope his attack would inspire others. The Molotov cocktail evidence from the trailer was collected and submitted to the FBI Laboratory. Explosives experts there determined the material inside the bottles was an ignitable liquid that, when lit, would function as an improvised incendiary device, commonly known as homemade firebombs or Molotov cocktails. A search of the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record found Lewis had never applied for or received permission to possess a destructive device. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Starnes prosecuted the case. The FBI and Park County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. XXX


title: St. Clair County Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Cyberstalking

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A St. Clair County man has been sentenced for cyberstalking, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby. U.S. District Judge R. David Proctor sentenced Michael Ray Mullins, 45, of Trussville, Alabama, to 60 months in prison. In December 2025, Mullins pleaded guilty to cyberstalking and interstate transmission of a threat to kidnap or injure another person. According to the plea agreement, on September 29, 2024, an officer with the Margaret Police Department responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Odenville, Alabama. The victim reported that Mullins, her former boyfriend, had threatened to kill her and her children. At the time of the report, the victim had bruises on her arm and back caused by Mullins. While officers were still at the residence, Mullins retrieved his belongings and was told by the victim not to return to the property. The next day, the victim reported to the Margaret Police Department that she had received threatening phone calls and text messages that morning from Mullins. Mullins repeatedly harassed and threatened the victim with violence. On October 6, 2024, Mullins called the victim 42 times in a 25-minute period. During this time, Mullins attempted to mask his identity intermittently by blocking the caller identification feature. Between September 29 and October 12, 2024, Mullins called the victim 367 times and sent her 326 text messages. According to court filings, Mullins has been previously convicted of other domestic violence offenses, including domestic violence by strangulation; felony domestic violence, third degree; and violation of a protection order. The FBI investigated the case along with the Margaret Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel S. McBrayer prosecuted the case.