title: Three Mexican men charged in separate complaints with illegal re-entry

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that three Mexican nationals were charged in separate criminal complaints with re-entry of a removed alien, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Charged in the complaints are Ariel Benjamin Gregorio Santiago, 35, Jorge Alfredo Martinez Sanchez, 50, and Zeferino Marceliano Leon, 35. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaints: On July 24, 2025, Border Patrol agents were conducting surveillance at an Amherst, NY, residence suspected of employing several illegal alien contractors. Agents stopped a work vehicle as it pulled away from the residence. Ariel Benjamin Gregorio Santiago and Zeferino Marceliano Leon were passengers in the vehicle. When questioned by agents, the two men confirmed that that they are citizens of Mexico, and not a national of the United States. Further investigation determined that Gregorio Santiago was previously removed from the United States in 2011 and twice in 2019, and Marceliano Leon was previously removed in 2011. On July 27, 2025, Border Patrol agents were conducting surveillance at a local retail store in Cheektowaga, NY. Agents encountered a parked work van in the parking lot and observed seven individuals dressed in construction clothing exiting the store and approaching the work van. Agents approached and questioned the seven individuals, including Jorge Alfredo Martinez Sanchez , who is a citizen of Mexico, and not a national of the United States. He did not have any documents that would allow him to be or remain in the United States lawfully. Martinez Sanchez was previously removed from the United States in 2017. All three defendants made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were detained. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The complaints are the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Martin B. Coombs. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Ecuadorian man charged with illegal re-entry

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today Wilson Paul Loja-Angamarca, 28, a citizen of Ecuador, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with re-entry of a removed alien, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith and Assistant U.S. Attorney Fauzia K. Mattingly, who are handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Loja-Angamarca is currently unlawfully present in the United States, having been previously removed in 2019. On July 24, 2025, he was located by Homeland Security agents during a traffic stop in the village of Allegany. Loja-Angamarca did not possess the proper documentation to be in the United States and was taken into custody. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Loja-Angamarca made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was detained. The complaint is the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Juan Ramirez, Jr. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Fredonia man going to prison for more than 10 years for selling drugs that led to overdose death

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John Wallace Buchanan, 38, of Fredonia, NY, who was convicted of narcotics conspiracy, was sentenced to serve 135 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. Buchanan was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $8,570 to the family of the victim. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti, Jeffrey E. Intravatola, and Mary Clare Kane, who handled the case, stated that during the conspiracy, Buchanan sold heroin, which he admitted often contained fentanyl, and methamphetamine. He utilized social media to conduct his drug trafficking activities and engage in unlawful firearms activities. Buchanan also utilized his residence to conduct his drug trafficking activities. One of Buchanan’s drug customers was an individual identified as B.G. In the early morning hours of January 10, 2022, the Ellicott Police Department responded to B.G.’s residence in Celoron, NY, for a death investigation. B.G. was found lying on the living room floor, clenching an elastic head band in his hands with a needle in close proximity. Law enforcement seized B.G.’s cell phone and recovered a social media conversation on January 7, 2022, between Buchanan and B.G., during which they discussed controlled substances. Buchanan sold methamphetamine and an opioid to B.G. later that day. The following day, B.G. sent Buchanan a message stating, “That stuff is strong.” This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and the Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief Dan Ingrao. # # # #


title: Former NFL Player Convicted of Operating Large-Scale Dog Fighting and Trafficking Venture in Oklahoma

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Note: The release has been updated to include a quote from the FBI Director. Following a multi-day trial, a federal jury in Oklahoma last week convicted Leshon Eugene Johnson, 54, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, on six felony counts of violating the federal Animal Welfare Act’s prohibitions against possessing, selling, transporting, and delivering animals to be used in fighting ventures. Following the verdict, Johnson surrendered to the government the 190 dogs seized in this case. The government is pursuing forfeiture of these dogs. The United States Marshals Service cares for dogs seized in dog fighting cases through its asset forfeiture program. “This criminal profited off of the misery of innocent animals and he will face severe consequences for his vile crimes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This case underscores the Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting animals from abuse — 190 dogs are now safe thanks to outstanding collaborative work by our attorneys and law enforcement components.” “The FBI will not stand for those who perpetuate the despicable crime of dogfighting,” said Director Kash Patel of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, those who continue to engage in organized animal fighting and cruelty will face justice.” “This conviction sends a strong message that those who abuse animals for entertainment and profit will face serious consequences under federal law,” said Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and our partners are committed to aggressively prosecuting individuals who perpetuate the brutal practice of dog fighting and to disrupting this illegal and inhumane industry.” “Dog fighting is a vicious and cruel crime that has no place in a civilized society,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “I commend the hard work of our law enforcement partners in investigating this case and holding the defendant accountable for his crimes.” The conviction stems from an indictment unsealed in March which detailed Johnson’s operation of “Mal Kant Kennels.” The jury heard evidence that Johnson bred and trafficked “champion” and “grand champion” fighting dogs and their offspring for the purpose of dog fighting, profiting from the cruel and illegal industry. Authorities seized the 190 dogs from his property, which is the largest number ever seized from a single individual in a federal dog fighting case. Johnson, who had a prior state conviction for dog fighting in 2004, will be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. The FBI’s New Orleans Field Office, Shreveport Resident Agency office investigated the case. Sarah M. Brown, Ethan Eddy, and Todd W. Gleason of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, prosecuted the case.


title: TWENTY-TWO ILLEGAL ALIENS CONVICTED IN THE MONTH OF JULY FOR ILLEGALLY REENTERING THE COUNTRY AFTER PRIOR REMOVALS

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: TALLAHASSEE & PENSACOLA – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today that 22 previously deported aliens were recently convicted for illegal reentry into the United States. According to court records, the defendants had each been previously removed due to being unlawfully present in the country, and illegally reentered without seeking the necessary permission or approval from the United States. Oscar Alva-Cabrera, a Mexican national, was previously removed in May 2024. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on May 20, 2025. Fredy Bravo Galvez, a Mexican national, was previously removed in March 2013 and March 2020. He was encountered in Tallahassee on June 14, 2025. Ofelia Caal-Chub, a Guatemalan national, was previously removed in December 2021. She was encountered in Madison County on June 2, 2025. Jose Choc, a Guatemalan national, was previously removed in January 2018. He was encountered in Leon County on May 17, 2025. Luis Funez-Gomez, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in September 2008. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025. Juan Gomez Perez, a Mexican national, was previously removed in September 2022. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025. Roberto Gonzales-Coto, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in June 2004. He was encountered in Pensacola on May 20, 2025. Olegario Guzman-Mayo, a Mexican national, was previously removed in June 2019, August 2019, May 2022, and October 2022. He was encountered in Escambia County on May 2, 2025. Juan Carlos Hernandez Vallejos, a citizen of Nicaragua, was previously removed in 2006, twice in 2014, and again in 2015. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025. Jose Larios-Cortez, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in November 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on April 27, 2025. Juan Rodolfo Martinez-Hernandez, a Mexican national, was previously removed in 2017 and in 2022. He was encountered in Pace on April 11, 2025. Elin Martinez-Lemus, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in June 2013 and December 2017. He was encountered in Pensacola on February 22, 2025. Baltazar R. Mixteco-Temaxtle, a Mexican national, was previously removed in December 2011 and August 2012. He was encountered in Pensacola on March 15, 2025. Jose Alfredo Morales-Huerta, a Mexican national, was previously removed in March 2019. He was encountered in Escambia County on June 10, 2025. Jose Luis Morales-Huerta, a Mexican national, was previously removed in November 2018. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on May 26, 2025. Cevero Enrique Ordonez, a Guatemalan national, was previously removed in February 2014. He was encountered in Pensacola on May 20, 2025. Wilmer Pelico Elias, a Guatemalan national, was previously removed in October 2018 and August 2023. He was encountered in Pensacola on May 14, 2025. Herixson Rodriguez-Perez, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in June 2014 and July 2019. He was encountered in Pensacola on May 11, 2025. Cecilio Sic-Garcia, a Guatemalan national, was previously removed in October 2019 and February 2020. He was encountered in Panama City Beach on May 6, 2025. Jose Villanueva, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed in January 2013 and December 2020. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on April 28, 2025. Juan Hurtado-Solano, a Mexican national, was previously removed in August 2012 and September 2012. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025. Candido Hurtado-Solano, a Mexican national, was previously removed in August 2012 and September 2012. He was encountered in Tallahassee on May 29, 2025. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “You will see a pattern in many of these cases: aliens who continue to return this country believing they will not face criminal consequences for violating our immigration laws. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have promised to Take Back America by making the enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws a top priority, and my office will aggressively pursue these cases to ensure that those who continue to illegally enter our country are prosecuted and swiftly removed.” The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, with assistance from several state and local partners. Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer H. Callahan, Brooke DiSalvo, Jessica Etherton, Alicia Forbes, Justin M. Keen, James McCain, Eric Mountin, Walter Narramore, Jeffrey Tharp, and Eric Welch prosecuted the cases. The cases are part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The 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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Wisconsin Man Sentenced for Possessing Chemical Weapon Precursors

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 1, 2025, United States District Judge Brett Ludwig sentenced James Morgan (formerly known as Karactus Blome) to 29 months in prison. Morgan had pled guilty to one count of possession of chemical weapon precursors—chemicals that combine to create chlorine and chlorine gas—not intended for peaceful purposes, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 229(a). According to court documents, on December 21, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at Morgan’s storage unit and found the precursor chemicals. Morgan had studied chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and had described himself as a weapon designer who did not need a conventional weapon. In a video, Morgan displayed the chemicals and said they were for making a lot of chlorine very quickly. In messages in 2022, he said that what he had was “scary,” and that the chemicals react to produce a lot of chlorine gas, which can be “effective if your enemy is not ready for it.” He sent links for purchasing the chemicals and discussed the amounts needed to make a lot of chlorine gas quickly. In messages in 2023, Morgan discussed a plan to defeat the government, if it came for his guns, by producing a large amount of chlorine that he claimed could be used against approximately twenty government agents. The FBI Laboratory determined that the chemicals Morgan possessed could produce a large amount of chlorine that could result in rapid, serious health effects, including death. In announcing the sentence, Judge Ludwig focused on the incredibly dangerous nature of chlorine gas and the defendant’s possession of the chemicals knowing that he could combine them to harm law enforcement. Judge Ludwig also discussed the need to provide deterrence to others who might try to do the same. “The defendant’s conduct posed a serious risk to others and the community as a whole,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “This individual spent substantial time discussing and constructing weapons and expressing opposition to law enforcement and individuals whose race, ethnic origin, or backgrounds differed from his. I commend the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved in seeking to hold him accountable for his criminal activity.” “Mr. Morgan obtained commercially available chemicals with an intent to manufacture chemical weapons which could have had a devastating impact to citizens and law enforcement officers in Wisconsin,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “Morgan is already serving a two-year sentence for possessing destructive devices. The Milwaukee Field Office of the FBI will continue to work aggressively with our partners to prevent the acquisition and use of weapons of mass destruction." The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully prosecuted, with assistance from Trial Attorney Justin Sher of the National Security Division, Counterterrorism Section. ### For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: WOMAN SENTENCED TO FEDERAL PRISON FOR DRUG TRAFFICKING AND MONEY LAUNDERING

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

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Angela Michelle Tanner, 55, of Tavares, Florida, was sentenced to 76 months’ imprisonment in federal court for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, 50 grams or more of Methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of a Mixture Containing Methamphetamine, and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The promise by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the drug traffickers who are flooding our streets with deadly, addictive drugs is being fulfilled thanks to the excellent collaborative efforts of our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, like we saw in this case. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute drug traffickers to keep our communities safe and healthy.” Court documents reflect that Tanner orchestrated the shipment of fentanyl and multiple pounds of methamphetamine from Arizona to individuals in Florida to whom she was introduced via an inmate in the Florida Department of Corrections. Tanner used money exchange applications to receive and promote drug trafficking. In 2023, Tanner was arrested on outstanding warrants from Citrus County, Florida. In dismantling this conspiracy, Chason Johnson, 32, of Tallahassee, Florida, was separately charged and sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for receiving packages of methamphetamine from Tanner and possession of a firearm following his release from the Florida Department of Corrections. “This case is a great example of law enforcement working together—seven agencies in total—to bring a transnational drug trafficker to justice,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “Methamphetamine can tear apart families and communities, and we won’t stop until these criminals are brought to justice.” “The successful outcome of this investigation is a reflection of the hard work and dedicated service demonstrated by the entire law enforcement community,” said Bladismir Rojo, Acting Inspector In Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to make every effort to remove illicit drugs and dangerous contraband from our communities.” The case involved an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Tallahassee Police Department, the Florida Department of Corrections, the United States Marshal Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Mesa Police Department in Mesa, Arizona. Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The 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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Former Township Supervisor Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion and Bank Fraud

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Linda Tarlecki, age 63, of Aristes, Columbia County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty yesterday to tax evasion and bank fraud before Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann. According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Tarlecki was the former Secretary/Treasurer for Conyngham Township, Columbia County. From 2013 through 2017, Tarlecki defrauded the Township and Fulton National Bank of over $147,000 by issuing forged paychecks to herself to which she was not entitled. Tarlecki also failed to report this additional income on her personal income taxes, resulting in a tax loss to the IRS of over $38,000. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey MacArthur prosecuted the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 35 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Convicted Animal Abuser Krystal Scott Ordered to Return to Federal Prison After Violating Supervised Release

component: USAO - Indiana, Southern

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Krystal Scott, 24, of Kokomo, has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to violating conditions of her previous supervised release. In November of 2021, Scott pled guilty to Animal Crushing, a violation of the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act under Title 18, United States Code, Section 48(a). In that case, Scott, using an alias, acquired dogs and cats online on the false premise that she intended to adopt and care for them, when she actually intended to torture and kill them. After Scott acquired the animals, she posted videos online depicting her engaged in animal crushing, namely, purposely crushing, suffocating, impaling, or otherwise subjecting the animals to serious bodily injury and death. Scott was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. In June of 2023, Scott was released from federal prison and began serving her five-year term of supervised release. According to court documents and evidence introduced at a revocation hearing on July 29, 2025, Scott admitted under oath to violating several conditions of her supervised release, including a prohibition against non-incidental contact with animals. On June 20, 2025, Indianapolis Animal Care Services responded to complaints by concerned citizens that Scott was using the alias “Teal Serain” to respond to Facebook ads for reuniting lost and found pets with their owners. Using that alias, Scott responded to one such ad and acquired a dog through false pretenses. Namely, Scott falsely claimed that the missing dog belonged to her or her family, when it did not. Scott had used a similar ruse to acquire the animals she tortured, which led to her original conviction in 2021. The individuals who posted the ad became suspicious and reached out to law enforcement. The dog Scott acquired via the online ad was not located. Citizens also recorded the accounts of witnesses who reported discovering a deceased dog at the homeless encampment where Scott was residing. The dog had been found in a trash bag with its stomach protruding from its body cavity. The Indianapolis Animal Care Services investigated the complaints and later discovered that Scott was residing in a U-Haul van with 12 dogs and cats, all of which were dehydrated, malnourished, and living in excessive fecal matter. The officers also noticed the smell of a decomposing animal in the van, but no deceased animals were found. Searches of Scott’s cellular device and Facebook account showed that she was a member of at least 12 pet adoption groups online, and had been selling or attempting to sell pelts that she claimed were from exotic animals. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case. To report animal neglect or abuse in Indianapolis, residents should submit a complaint online at RequestIndy or through the Request Indy phone app. All complaints are automatically entered into a system for Animal Care Officers (ACO) to investigate. Reporting a complaint via social media, email, or phone call will result in a delayed response. ###


title: CONVICTED FELON SENTENCED TO 54 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR FIREARM OFFENSE

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Carlton Bruce Cooke, 40, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office is committed to ensuring our community’s most violent offenders are confronted with the full force of the law. This repeat felon not only unlawfully possessed a firearm, he used it to threaten others. Operation Take Back America is a promise by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that we will do everything in our power to stop those who are endangering our communities. I am proud of the work of our brave state and federal law enforcement partners who investigated this case, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these offenders to keep our communities safe” Court records reflect that during the early morning hours on July 10, 2024, the defendant observed his roommates sitting in a truck in their driveway talking. The defendant exited the residence with a firearm in hand ordering everyone to leave. He then fired a round into the ground near the vehicle. Law enforcement conducted a search warrant on defendant’s vehicle. The loaded handgun he had used and another loaded handgun with an extended magazine and ammunition were seized. The defendant has been previously convicted of multiple firearms offenses. The case was investigated jointly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer H. Callahan prosecuted this case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The 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 http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced to 2 Years and 2 Months in Federal Prison for Illegal Reentry into the United States and Possession of Firearms

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – On July 31, 2025, an illegal alien was sentenced to 2 years and 2 months in federal prison for unlawful reentry into the United States and illegal possession of firearms. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement. According to court documents, Alvaro Mandujano-Rodriguez, 32, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to 2 years and 2 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and reentry after deportation or removal. According to the plea agreement, on or about October 7, 2023, Mandujano-Rodriguezwas an alien found in the United States after having been last denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about November 29, 2013. On October 7, 2023, Mandujano-Rodriguez was unlawfully in possession of an AR-15 rifle of an unknown make and model, and a MAG Tactical Systems MG-G4, multi-caliber rifle, and ammunition. Mandujano-Rodriguez is prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. “Thanks to the strong work of this federal-local partnership, another dangerous illegal immigrant has been removed from the streets of Louisville,” said U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by HSI, ATF, and LMPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Shannon prosecuted the case. This conviction is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case is also part of the Prohibited Firearm Possessor Initiative (PFP), a collaborative partnership between all levels of law enforcement and prosecutors to reduce violent crime and firearm offenses. On January 23, 2024, Louisville Metro initiated a gun crime reduction initiative focused on investigating and prosecuting illegal firearm possession. The PFP partners include the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky. ###


title: Albuquerque Man Sentenced for His Role in Covering Up Murder

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced today to 199 days in prison for assisting in the cover-up of the kidnapping and murder of Thomas Anthony Brown in the To’Hajiilee area of the Navajo Nation. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on or about June 24, 2020, Antonio Chaco assaulted Thomas Brown outside Chaco’s trailer home. Chaco then rolled Brown in a square of carpet and transported him to a remote desert location. There, Chaco continued his violent assault and ultimately abandoned Brown without water, food, or shelter. Area in To’Hajiilee where John Doe was discovered. Brown’s decayed remains were discovered on July 4, 2020. The Office of the Medical Investigator determined Brown’s cause of death to be homicidal violence, including blunt-force head trauma. Thomas Brown’s picture and cowboy hat, as displayed during Chaco’s sentencing After the assault and kidnapping, Peter Paul Sandoval , 60, knowingly took steps to help Chaco conceal his criminality. Specifically, Sandoval cleaned blood from the car used to transport Brown, thus destroying potential evidence, doing so with the intent of preventing Chaco’s arrest, prosecution, and punishment. Sandoval pled guilty to being an accessory after the fact to kidnapping. Upon his release from prison, Sandoval will be subject to three years of supervised release. He must also pay restitution to Brown’s family. Chaco pled guilty earlier this month to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 17 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones and Brittany DuChaussee prosecuted these cases.


title: United States Attorney’s Office to Participate in Community Events During National Night Out

component: USAO - North Carolina, Middle

body_text: GREENSBORO, N.C. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina will join their law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities in National Night Out events in select cities and towns across the district. “The Middle District of North Carolina has a long and proud history of working with local people -- law enforcement and members of the public alike – to improve neighborhood safety and the quality of life in our communities,” said Clifton T. “Cliff” Barrett, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. “National Night Out is a touchstone of those efforts, building mutual understanding and respect by bringing law enforcement and residents together on equal terms.” National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ . National Night Out events are scheduled throughout the district. Check local law enforcement and event websites for details of events near you. Scheduled events to be attended by representatives of the United States Attorney’s Office include the following: Winston-Salem Police Department NNO Event Tuesday, August 5th, 6 pm – 8 pm Calvary Baptist Church, 134 S. Peace Haven Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27104 Greensboro Police Department NNO Event Tuesday, August 5th, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm 100 Police Plaza, Greensboro, NC 27401 High Point Police Department NNO Event Tuesday, August 5th, 6 pm – 8 pm Oakview Citizens Council, 503 James Road (Oakview Rec Center), High Point, NC 27265 Alamance County Sheriff’s Office NNO Event Tuesday, August 5th, 6 pm – 8 pm Village of Alamance, Lamb’s Chapel Airport Campus, 3539 Alamance Road, Burlington, NC 27215 Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office / Reidsville Police Department NNO Event Tuesday, August 5th, 6 pm – 8 pm Woodland Park, 2212 Woodland Drive, Reidsville, NC 27320 ###


title: Fayetteville Man Convicted of Embezzling from U.S. Postal Service

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Fayetteville man pleaded guilty to misappropriation of postal funds and to making false entries and reports in U.S. Government records. According to court documents, Robert Raquan Patterson, 29, served as a sales and services distribution associate for the U.S. Postal Service, Evergreen Post Office. In this capacity, Patterson was responsible for the office’s finances and had access to its financial systems and records. From November 1, 2022, to July 30, 2024, Patterson fraudulently issued 129 postal money orders for his benefit and falsely reported debit and credit card payments that corresponded to these money orders. Patterson’s theft and false reporting resulted in at least $74,735 in losses to the U.S. Postal Service. Patterson used the stolen funds for personal expenditures, including hotels, flights, and cash withdrawals. Patterson pleaded guilty to one count of misappropriation of postal funds and to one count of making false entries and reports and faces a maximum of 240 months in prison when sentenced on August 7, 2025. Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the plea. The U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Toby Lathan is prosecuting the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:25-cr-00036-M.


title: Ten Defendants from Pennsylvania, California, and Michigan Charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine, Heroin, Fentanyl, Para-fluorofentanyl and Other Narcotics

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Six Pennsylvania residents, two California residents, and two Michigan residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on narcotics charges, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The four-count Indictment named the following 10 individuals as defendants: Name Age City, State Christopher Love 28 Homestead, Pa. Terrence Spivey 29 Detroit, Mich. Jonathan Toledo 25 Turtle Creek, Pa. Darren Cooper 38 Los Angeles, Calif. Raymone Grier Jr. 24 Detroit, Mich. Patti Miller 59 Altoona, Pa. Calil Francois-Moon 20 Homestead, Pa. Dolly Mullens 54 Curwensville, Pa. Paityn Phears 24 Los Angeles, Calif. Joanne Shaw 37 Warriors Mark, Pa. According to the Indictment, the defendants allegedly conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, 100 grams or more of para-fluorofentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, 10 grams or more of carfentanil, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine from November 2023 to March 2025. The Indictment also alleges individual drug trafficking offenses against Toledo and Mullens. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, or both for all of the defendants except Mullens, who faces a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense(s) and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan D. Lusty is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The multi-agency investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Clearfield Regional Police Department, Altoona Police Department, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Justice Department Dismisses Race-Based 44-Year-Old Consent Decree

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division ended a court-imposed decree initiated by the Carter administration, which limited the hiring practices of the federal government based on flawed and outdated theories of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In Luevano v. Ezell , the Court dismissed a consent decree based on a lawsuit initially brought by interest groups representing federal employees in 1979. The decree entered in 1981 imposed draconian test review and implementation procedures on the Office of Personnel Management—and consequently all other federal agencies—requiring them to receive permission prior to using any tests for potential federal employees, in an attempt to require equal testing outcomes among all races of test-takers. “For over four decades, this decree has hampered the federal government from hiring the top talent of our nation,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Today, the Justice Department removed that barrier and reopened federal employment opportunities based on merit—not race.” “It’s simple, competence and merit are the standards by which we should all be judged; nothing more and nothing less,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. “It’s about time people are judged, not by their identity, but instead ‘by the content of their character.’” Note : Read the Dismissal here .


title: Jury Convicts Mexican National For Trafficking Methamphetamine In Hillsborough And Manatee Counties

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Lorenzo Valerio-Popoca (31, Mexico) guilty of two counts of conspiring to traffic methamphetamine. Valerio-Popoca faces a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison on each count. His sentencing hearing is set for October 29, 2025. According to testimony presented at trial, Valerio-Popoca brokered and coordinated the delivery of a half kilogram of methamphetamine in Palmetto. On March 30, 2018, Valerio-Popoca then brokered and coordinated the delivery of 2 kilograms of methamphetamine in Sun City Center. Valerio-Popoca remained a fugitive until November 2022, when he was arrested for trafficking 10 kilograms of methamphetamine in Pasadena, Texas. Half kilogram of methamphetamine from January 29, 2018 2 kilograms of methamphetamine recovered from March 30, 2018 This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pasadena (Texas) Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David J. Pardo.


title: United States Attorney's Office to Participate in Community Events During  National Night Out

body_text: SCRANTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania will join their law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities in the Middle District of Pennsylvania for National Night Out (NNO) events on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. Assistant United States Attorneys and staff will participate in events in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Dauphin and Lebanon Counties, to engage with members of the community and provide information on the department’s initiatives. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to join our law enforcement partners and communities across the district for National Night Out,” said Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus. “It’s a great opportunity to come together and continue to strengthen relationships and meet the citizens we serve.” National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ . # # #


title: Five commercial fishermen charged in illegal halibut fishing conspiracy

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: JUNEAU, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging five southeast Alaska commercial fishermen with conspiring to illegally harvest halibut, in violation of the Lacey Act. According to court documents, Jonathan Pavlik, 43, of Yakutat, Vincent Jacobson, 51, of Yakutat, Kyle Dierick, 36, of Yakutat, Michael Babic, 42, of Cordova, and Timothy Ross, 58, of Washington, all experienced commercial fishermen, each conspired to illegally harvest halibut near Yakutat on multiple occasions between 2019 and 2023. Court documents allege that Pavlik separately conspired with Jacobson, Dierick, Babic, and Ross to illegally harvest and land halibut through various means, including each defendant landing halibut without having been aboard the fishing vessel at all times during the fishing trips, which violates federal law and regulations. The indictment alleges that Pavlik, Jacobson, Dierick, Babic, and Ross intentionally falsely reported that the halibut caught was creditable to their respective Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) permit balances, which is a permit any individual commercially fishing for halibut in the waters off Alaska is required to have. Pavlik and the three co-conspirators are responsible for over 10,700 pounds of illegally harvested halibut. The indictment further alleges that between Aug. 31, 2023, and Oct. 11, 2023, Pavlik sold and intentionally made false statements regarding over 9,600 pounds of halibut that was caught on the F/V Bad Intentions but illegally transferred to the F/V New Era before landing for sale. Pavlik is charged with four counts of Lacey Act conspiracy, five counts of Lacey Act—unlawful sale, and five counts of Lacey Act—false labeling. Jacobson, Dierick, Babic and Ross are each charged with one count of Lacey Act conspiracy. The defendants are scheduled to make their initial court appearances over the next two weeks before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew M. Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, the defendants face up to five years in prison for each count and up to a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska and Assistant Director Benjamin Cheeseman of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement, Alaska Division made the announcement. The NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement Alaska Division is investigating the case, with assistance from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Brickey and Mac Caille Petursson are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. UPDATE: This release has been updated to reflect a spelling error. ###


title: Jacksonville Man Sentenced To More Than Eight Years For Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Materials

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced William Thomas Hogan (35, Jacksonville) to eight years and one month in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Hogan pleaded guilty on April 10, 2025. According to court documents, in December 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began an investigation into reports regarding CSAM in a cloud account. An HSI special agent applied for and obtained a federal search warrant for the content in that cloud account. The account was associated with Hogan’s phone number and the contents included multiple files of CSAM. On November 15, 2024, an HSI agent approached Hogan as he walked to his vehicle in a parking lot. The agent explained to Hogan that she wanted to talk to him about an investigation. Hogan agreed to talk to the agent. When asked how much CSAM was on his cellphone, Hogan said, “I imagine there’s probably a bit.” Hogan admitted to having a mixture of CSAM and provided consent to search his phone. A a review of the phone confirmed that it contained multiple video files of CSAM. Hogan acknowledged he saved the CSAM in a location on his cellphone to keep them protected. He also admitted to receiving CSAM via social media applications in group chats and direct messages. “Every click, every download of child sexual abuse material is a crime against a child, evidence of real abuse that’s fueling a cycle of lifelong trauma,” said Homeland Security Investigation Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “HSI will use every tool at our disposal to find these predators, hold them accountable for their heinous actions, and break the perpetual cycle of child victimization.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington. It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Jacksonville Man Sentenced To Ten Years In Federal Prison For Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Materials

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Aidan Francis Akins (31, Jacksonville) to 10 years in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Akins pleaded guilty on October 2, 2024. According to court documents, during April 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Jacksonville received information from an undercover investigation of a social media chat application about a user offering to sell CSAM. Further investigation led law enforcement to Akins, who was purchasing CSAM. On June 16, 2023, an HSI special agent obtained a federal search warrant for Akin’s residence. When law enforcement searched his home, Akins was present and agreed to speak with law enforcement. Akins admitted he was in contact with an individual who had CSAM for sale and acknowledged purchasing CSAM from that individual on multiple occasions. When asked if CSAM would be discovered on his phone, Akins stated, “Yes, there may still be some in there, yes.” Akins said he knew possessing and viewing CSAM is illegal and admitted to viewing CSAM approximately every 2 to 4 weeks. “The possession, trading, and viewing of child sexual abuse material from the darkest corners of the internet, makes these child predators complicit in the ongoing victimization of children,” said Homeland Security Investigation Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “HSI, alongside our state and local partners, are committed to protecting children, hold their offenders accountable, and stop the cycle of harm these images perpetuate forever.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington. It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Argument Gets Man 15-Year Prison Sentence for Manslaughter

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Deandre Miles, 30, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced August 1, 2025, in Superior Court, to 15 years for charges pertaining to the shooting death of 28-year-old Davon Fuller in October 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Miles pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed and destruction of property (felony) on February 28, 2025. Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt also ordered Miles to serve 12 months for the destruction of property charge to run concurrent to the 15-year prison term for the manslaughter charge. According to the government’s evidence, in the early afternoon of October 16, 2023, in the 1600 block of Maryland Avenue, NE, the victim, Davon Fuller, and the defendant got into an argument inside a store at Hechinger Mall. Although they left the store without incident, when the men saw each other a few minutes later inside another business at the mall they again got into an argument. The argument persisted outside the store where Miles pulled out a gun and Mr. Fuller took out a knife. Despite Mr. Fuller telling Miles to stop following him, Miles persisted walking behind Mr. Fuller throughout the mall before fatally shooting Mr. Fuller five times. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including to his shoulder, torso, buttocks and upper extremities. After all life-saving measures were attempted, Mr. Fuller succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. Miles was arrested on December 27, 2023, where he remains in custody. Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the work of those who handled the cases at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Lashone Samuels, Victim/Witness Advocate Jennifer Clark. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah C. Santiago, who investigated and prosecuted the case.


title: KC Felon Sentenced for Illegal Firearms

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing firearms. Jerrell D. Coppage, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to nine years and seven months in federal prison without parole. On March 6, 2025, Coppage pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms. Coppage admitted he was in possession of a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol, an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15, .223 caliber pistol, and a Ruger, Model LCP, .380 caliber pistol, on Jan. 3, 2024. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Coppage, who was on parole in a state case at the time of this federal offense, has four prior felony convictions for burglary, three prior felony convictions for theft, two prior felony convictions for stealing a motor vehicle, and prior felony convictions for sale of a controlled substance, tampering, and forgery. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department. Project Safe Neighborhoods 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: Crown Point Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: HAMMOND- Craig Whalum, Jr., 38 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to distributing heroin, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Whalum was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, in the fall of 2019, Whalum sold heroin/fentanyl mixtures to law enforcement on seven occasions. Whalum’s criminal history includes seven prior felony drug convictions. After being released from the Indiana Department of Corrections on October 21, 2019, his first sale of heroin/fentanyl occurred nine days later, on October 30, 2019. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.


title: Gary Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison

body_text: HAMMOND- Lanear Finch, 25 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to making a false statement in connection with the purchase of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Finch was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, between November 2019 and January 2021, Finch operated a straw purchasing ring with a co-defendant, through which he recruited individuals to purchase firearms on his behalf from federally licensed dealers in Northwest Indiana. In total, Finch facilitated the straw purchase of approximately 17 firearms. This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski. 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: Danville Woman Sentenced for Failure to Pay Taxes

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – The former majority owner and operator of a home health care business who failed to pay over $600,000 in employment taxes was sentenced last week to three years’ probation with 12 months of home confinement. Julia Ann McKinnis, 66, of Danville, Virginia waived her right to be indicted and pled guilty in October 2024 to one count of willfully failing to pay taxes. McKinnis was also ordered to perform 300 hours of community service. According to court documents, in 2007, McKinnis began operating a home health care business called Angel Wings Home Health. Since at least 2010, McKinnis has been the administrator and 90 percent owner of Angel Wings. In 2011, the Collections Division of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched an investigation into Angel Wings’s failure to properly report and pay employment taxes. The investigation concluded in 2016, and Angel Wings entered into an installment agreement to pay the unpaid taxes. However, beginning in the third quarter of 2018 and continuing through the fourth quarter of 2021, Angel Wings substantially understated its employee wages to the IRS and again failed to report and pay the employment taxes that the company owed. C. Todd Gilbert, United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Kareem Carter, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, Washington, D.C. Field Office made the announcement. The Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation investigated the case Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Scheff prosecuted the case for the United States.


title: Three More Plead Guilty in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Mahad Ibrahim, Hamdi Hussein Omar, and Hibo Salah Daar each pleaded guilty to their respective roles in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thomspon. Prosecutors have now obtained over 50 convictions scheme-wide. “This milestone marks an extraordinary achievement by our team and our law enforcement partners,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “For years, these elite federal agents and forensic accountants have tracked stolen money, cut through layers of deceit, and exposed a sprawling network of shell companies and fake meal claims. Their pursuit of justice has been relentless. Because of their work, we’ve uncovered not just one scheme, but a far-reaching fraud crisis that’s swamping Minnesota. This is public service at its finest. And this team is nowhere near finished.” “The Federal Bureau of Investigation takes immense pride in its pivotal role in securing 50 convictions to date, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to holding accountable those who illicitly appropriate funds meant for the nourishment of underprivileged children,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Taxpayers are entitled to assurance that their contributions will be utilized in a responsible and lawful manner. These three guilty pleas underscore the gravity with which the FBI addresses fraud perpetrated against the government.” Mahad Ibrahim , 46, pleaded guilty to defrauding the federal child nutrition program through a nonprofit called ThinkTechAct Foundation, a/k/a Mind Foundry Learning Foundation, which Ibrahim founded and operated as its President. Ibrahim partnered with conspirators, including Abdiaziz Farah, who was convicted last year after a jury trial, in connection with program activities under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future and Partners in Nutrition. Ibrahim admittedly took deliberate steps to avoid learning the full scale of his conspirators’ activities, which spanned dozens of program sites across the state. Even so, Ibrahim allowed ThinkTechAct to be used to further the fraud scheme, and he received substantial pay-outs from his conspirators in exchange. He also used another entity he controlled, MIB Holdings LLC, to launder some of his fraud proceeds, including to buy real estate in Ohio. Ibrahim’s participation in the scheme contributed to the loss of millions of taxpayer dollars. Ibrahim pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Hamdi Hussein Omar , 29, participated in the scheme to defraud the federal child nutrition program with several conspirators, including Salim Said, who was charged in the same indictment and was convicted after trial earlier this year. Omar’s conspirators created a fake food distribution site in Waite Park, Minnesota, at a small market in a strip mall. Omar knew and allowed her conspirators to use her name as the supposed operator of that site. Those conspirators then began claiming, falsely, to serve about 2,000 meals to children from that site every day of the week. In all, over a matter of months, they claimed to serve half a million meals from that small, Waite Park market. To further the scheme, Omar created a company called Feeding Our Youth, which she falsely held out as the food vendor for the Waite Park site. She and her conspirators also supported their program reimbursement claims with phony attendance rosters purporting to document the children they fed. Those rosters listed made-up children with fake ages. In all, Omar and her conspirators caused a taxpayer loss of $1.4 million. Omar pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Hibo Salah Daar , 51, participated in the Feeding Our Future scheme through an entity she controlled called Northside Wellness Center Corporation. In November 2020, Daar enrolled Northside Wellness in the federal child nutrition program as a food-distribution site under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. Daar and her conspirators then used Northside Wellness to defraud the program and steal taxpayer dollars. Northside Wellness claimed to serve 52,000 meals to children in the month of January 2021 and then, just two months later, claimed to be serving 40,000 meals to children every week. Those claims were false. Daar and her conspirators supported those meal counts with phony invoices. And Daar authorized payment of $72,000 in bribes to a Feeding Our Future employee to keep the scheme running. In all, the Northside Wellness claims caused $2.4 million in taxpayer losses. Daar pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. These cases result from an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Mahad pled guilty on July 24, 2025, and Omar and Daar pled guilty on August 1, 2025, all in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting these cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.


title: United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana to Participate in Community Events During National Night Out

body_text: The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana will join law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities in National Night Out events in the Greater Indianapolis area and Evansville. “National Night Out is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when communities and law enforcement come together,” said Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This marks our third year participating in events across Indianapolis, and we’re proud to expand that presence to Evansville for the first time. These events reflect our deep commitment to building trust, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the people we serve across the Southern District of Indiana.” National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ . Scheduled Events: Indianapolis Kickoff Ceremony and Crime Fighters of the Year Awards National Night Out Community Celebrations WHEN: Tuesday, August 5 th , 5-9pm WHERE: Greater Indianapolis Area National Night Out Community Celebration WHEN: Tuesday, August 5 th , 6-8:30pm CT WHERE: CK Newsome


title: Ypsilanti Man Charged with Interfering with Border Patrol Agents Engaged in Official Duties

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – An Ypsilanti, Michigan man was charged in a criminal complaint for impeding, intimidating, or interfering with Border Patrol agents who were engaged in their official duties, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Division and Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris, U.S. Border Patrol. Charged was Jacob Nathaniel Len, 30. According to the affidavit, on July 7, 2025, four uniformed U.S. Border Patrol agents, in two marked Border Patrol service vehicles were transporting fifteen illegal aliens detained on immigration violations to a correctional facility in Michigan. While the agents were traveling on Interstate 96, Len drove his BMW sedan toward one of the marked Border Patrol vehicles and flipped off the agents with his middle finger. Immediately after clearing the front bumper of the lead Border Patrol transport van, Len abruptly cut in front of the transport van, without signaling, and rapidly slowed down, forcing the driver of the transport van to quickly break to avoid a collision. The driver of the trailing Border Patrol vehicle was forced to quickly brake to avoid smashing into the transport van. Len repeated his sudden braking maneuver twice before exiting the freeway. United States Attorney Gorgon stated: “The alleged actions of this man are shameful. While zipping around in his BMW, this defendant cavalierly endangered the hardworking agents who put their lives on the line every day protecting our country, the illegal aliens they were tasked with safely transporting, and other drivers going about their lives.” "Interfering with a federal agent performing their official duties is a serious criminal offense and will not be tolerated,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. "The alleged actions by Jacob Len were not only reckless, but endangered lives and compromised public safety. I would like to thank the dedicated members of our FBI Ann Arbor Resident Agency for their thorough work with this investigation.” “The actions described in this case not only jeopardized the safety of our agents and the aliens in their custody but also posed a serious risk to other motorists,” said Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris, U.S. Border Patrol, Detroit Sector. “Our agents are committed to carrying out their duties with professionalism and dedication, and we will not tolerate behavior that endangers their lives or the lives of others. We appreciate the partnership of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in holding individuals accountable for such reckless and dangerous actions.” Len appeared in federal court in Detroit this afternoon and was released on bond. His next court appearance will be August 25 for a preliminary examination. The public is reminded that a Federal Criminal Complaint contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty by a court of law. The U.S. government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is being investigated by special agents from the FBI.


title: Financial TV Analyst and One-Time Fugitive Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Multimillion-Dollar Con of Victim Investors

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former San Gabriel Valley resident – who was a frequent guest on financial television news programs then became a fugitive from justice after being accused of scamming investors – was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison for defrauding his victims out of millions of dollars. James Arthur McDonald Jr., 53, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dale S. Fischer, who will order restitution in this case at a hearing to take place on a future date. McDonald pleaded guilty on April 7 to one count of securities fraud. McDonald was the CEO and chief investment officer of two companies headquartered in Los Angeles: Hercules Investments LLC and Index Strategy Advisors Inc. (ISA). He frequently appeared as an analyst on the CNBC financial television news network. In late 2020, McDonald lost tens of millions of dollars of Hercules client money after adopting a risky short position that effectively bet against the health of the United States economy in the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election. McDonald projected that the COVID-19 pandemic and the election would result in major selloffs that would cause the stock market to drop. When the market decline didn’t occur, Hercules clients lost between $30 million and $40 million. By December 2020, Hercules clients were complaining to company employees about the losses in their accounts. In early 2021, McDonald solicited millions of dollars' worth of funds from investors in the form of a purported capital raise for Hercules but misrepresented how the funds would be used and failed to disclose the massive losses Hercules previously sustained. As part of the capital raise, McDonald obtained $675,000 in investment funds from one victim group on March 9, 2021. He misappropriated most of those funds in various ways, including spending $174,610 at a Porsche dealership and transferring $109,512 to the landlord of a home McDonald was renting in Arcadia. McDonald also defrauded clients of ISA, his other firm, using less than half of the approximately $3.6 million he raised for trading purposes. Instead, McDonald frequently commingled ISA client funds with funds from his personal bank account, which he used to purchase luxury cars and to pay rent on his home, personal credit card charges, and Hercules operating expenses and to make Ponzi-like payments to ISA clients – such as paying some ISA clients using funds from other clients. In total, prosecutors argue that McDonald caused his victims more than $3 million in losses. McDonald failed to appear before the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in November 2021 to testify after allegations arose that he had defrauded investors and remained a fugitive until his arrest in June 2024 at a residence in Port Orchard, Washington. McDonald has been in custody since then. At McDonald’s Washington state hideout, law enforcement found, among other things, a fake Washington, D.C., driver’s license bearing McDonald’s photograph and the name “Brian Thomas,” according to court documents. “To his victims, [McDonald] seemed to embody the American Dream,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “But looks can be deceiving, and as [McDonald’s] victims learned, their trust had been betrayed.” The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter. In September 2022, the SEC filed a civil complaint charging McDonald and Hercules with violations of federal securities law. In April 2024, United States District Judge Percy Anderson found McDonald and Hercules liable and ordered that they pay several million dollars in disgorgement and civil penalties. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander B. Schwab, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, and Assistant United States Attorney Nisha Chandran of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted this case.


title: Pike Road Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a Machinegun

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that Treneal De’Ron Beasley, 25, of Pike Road, Alabama, was sentenced on July 31, 2025, to 72 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a machinegun. In addition to his prison term, Beasley was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his release from custody. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court records, on August 17, 2024, officers with the Montgomery Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance call. The caller reported that her child’s father was attempting to force his way into her home. Upon arrival, officers heard an argument inside the residence and, upon entering the home, observed Beasley holding a handgun. He was immediately taken into custody and the firearm was seized. Further examination revealed that the handgun was equipped with a machinegun conversion device, commonly known as a “switch.” This device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic weapon, capable of firing up to 20 rounds per second with a single pull of the trigger. On March 26, 2025, Beasley pleaded guilty to possession of a machinegun. The Montgomery Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney J. Patrick Lamb prosecuted.


title: Ohio Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Illegal Firearms and Drug Trafficking Violations

body_text: AKRON, Ohio - An Ohio man has been sentenced to prison after he pleaded guilty to several drug trafficking charges and for illegal possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. Alonzo M. Strickland, 52, of Akron, was sentenced to 120 months in prison (10 years) by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams after he pleaded guilty in April to the following charges as outlined in an indictment filed in February: One count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. One count of maintaining a drug premise. One count of being a felon in possession of a firearm; previous conviction for drug trafficking in 2006. One count of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking offenses. He was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after imprisonment. Judge Adams imposed the sentence July 31, 2025. According to court documents, on Jan. 29, 2025, a search warrant was executed at Strickland’s residence in Akron. Federal agents recovered digital scales and multiple bags of cocaine totaling more than two pounds (922.99 grams). Eight loaded firearms were also found in multiple locations throughout Strickland’s residence along with ammunition. Firearms included: Savage Axis, .223 caliber rifle DPMS A-15, .223 caliber rifle Anderson Manufacturing AM-15, .556 caliber rifle Kimber 1911, .45 caliber pistol Kel-Tec, P50, .57 caliber pistol Ruger, P90DC, .45 caliber pistol SCCY, CPX-2, 9mm pistol Kimber, K65, .357 caliber pistol This case was investigated by the FBI Akron Field Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel for the Northern District of Ohio.


title: Suburban Atlanta Man Faces Federal Charges After Posting Social Media Threats to Kill Jews and Blacks

body_text: ATLANTA – Christopher Robertson, 42, of Fairburn, Georgia, made his initial court appearance today before United States Magistrate Judge Catherine M. Salinas on federal charges of communicating interstate threats. Robertson was charged after he posted to Facebook multiple videos of himself making racial threats to kill Jews and Blacks. Robertson, who also calls himself James Lomak, was arrested on Friday, August 1, 2025, after a lengthy stand-off with the FBI. Magistrate Judge Salinas ordered Robertson held in custody until his next hearing at 9:30 a.m. on August 7, 2025. “The allegations against Robertson, which include menacing visits to Jewish facilities and vile online threats against Jews and Blacks, are of great concern,” said United States Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Protecting the community from hate-fueled violence is a foundational part of the Department of Justice’s mission, and we will aggressively prosecute criminals who abuse the internet to terrorize and intimidate others.” “Mr. Robertson’s alleged actions serve as a disturbing reminder of the terrifying hatred our Jewish communities encounter simply because of their beliefs,” said Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta Paul Brown. “The FBI will continue to work diligently with our law enforcement and community partners to investigate any individual who threatens the safety of our residents.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: During the afternoon of July 30, 2025, staff members at the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta (JFGA), located in Midtown Atlanta notified the Secure Community Network (SCN) staff in their building that they observed a man, later identified as Robertson, wandering around the parking lot inside the secure area of the facility. SCN staff engaged Robertson in the parking lot and determined he drove inside the gated area of the JFGA without permission. Robertson told the security staff that he was “the official spokesperson for the white race” and said that he wanted to speak with a high-ranking Jewish official. After being asked to leave the JFGA, Robertson drove to The Temple, a Jewish synagogue, also located in Midtown Atlanta. At The Temple, Robertson encountered two staff members and asked to speak to a rabbi. Robertson made derogatory remarks about Jewish people and ranted about the decline of the white race. An Atlanta Police Department officer was present inside The Temple, and Robertson left. Following these incidents, SCN and the FBI discovered several social media accounts used by Robertson that featured recent antisemitic and threatening video posts. A YouTube post showed Robertson singing, “F*** the Jews, f*** you if you Jewish, one shot, two shot, leave you in the sewage.” A Facebook post from July 28, 2025, showed Robertson holding a black pistol loaded with a magazine while speaking about the “cultural genocide” of the white race. A caption on the video read, “I will not tolerate cultural genocide get that understood -- I will fight for it, I will die for it, I will kill for it.” During the investigation, additional law enforcement patrols were added for approximately 80 Jewish facilities in and around Atlanta. But on July 31, 2025, just after Robertson posted to Facebook that he wanted to “chop it up with a rabbi,” Robertson entered a Jewish Chabad building in Peachtree City, Georgia. The Chabad rabbi called 911 while members of the staff barricaded themselves in an office. Robertson recorded the encounter and posted it on Facebook. In the post, Robertson identified himself as the “official delegate of the white race” and told the rabbi that Jewish people were on the “verge of extermination.” After police arrived at the Chabad, Robertson left. On August 1, 2025, Robertson posted yet another video to Facebook. In the video, he threatened to murder Black people who “lash out openly at the white man,” stating, “We will kill the s*** out of you guys. . . . We will f***ing murder you.” Later that evening, a federal court issued a warrant to arrest Robertson for communicating interstate threats. When the FBI tried to arrest him at home, Robertson barricaded himself inside for hours. Eventually, Robertson surrendered, and agents recovered a firearm from the scene. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Brent Alan Gray and Bret R. Hobson are prosecuting the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga


title: Romanian Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Skimming Tens of Thousands of Welfare Cards at ATMs

body_text: LOS ANGELES – An illegal alien from Romania was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for skimming tens of thousands of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards in California and New York. Catalin-Marius Graur, 43, whose last known residence was in Hollywood, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark Scarsi, who also ordered him to pay $165,697 in restitution. Graur pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Graur is a Romanian citizen who entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in 2020 but overstayed his visa. Graur travelled across Los Angeles and the Inland Empire installing sophisticated skimming devices in ATMs and point-of-sale terminals to record the account information of individuals who used those devices. Graur was arrested in New York City in an Airbnb rental apartment in June 2024. In his possession, Graur had more than $37,000 in cash, and 1,488 stolen access device numbers. Graur worked with multiple members of a transnational criminal organization from Romania to carry out this scheme. A search warrant for the residence of one of Graur’s accomplices revealed that Graur had sent him more than 36,000 stolen EBT card numbers over three years. EBT card recipients, whom Graur specifically targeted, receive benefits designed specifically to help low-income households pay for housing, food, and other necessities. The FBI, the United States Secret Service, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the California Department of Social Services, and the Romanian National Police investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Brown of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted this case.


title: East Chicago Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison

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

body_text: HAMMOND – Arnold Flores, 30 years old, of East Chicago, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Moody after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Flores was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, Flores, an illegal alien with a prior felony conviction for residential entry, possessed a firearm that he displayed to the occupants of another vehicle while driving in Schererville in October 2024, and he possessed another firearm in Gary in February 2025. Both firearms were recovered by law enforcement. “This District is dedicated to prosecuting illegal aliens who, like Arnold Flores, choose to violate federal law by possessing firearms that Congress has prohibited them from possessing,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Proctor. “As Mr. Flores has learned, such serious crimes will not go unpunished in northern Indiana. My thanks go out to the combined team of state, local, and federal law enforcement professionals who brought him to justice.” This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force with assistance from the Gary and Schererville Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dean R. Lanter. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 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: Seattle man who carjacked a luxury sedan in Pioneer Square sentenced to six years in prison

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 32-year-old Seattle man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to six years in prison for carjacking and using a firearm during a crime of violence, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Louis Montel De’Andre Dowers was arrested June 9, 2024, hours after he carjacked a BMW outside the Seattle Team Shop on Occidental Avenue South in the Pioneer Square neighborhood. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge John H. Chun called the carjacking “terrifying crimes.” “Using a ‘ghost gun’ to threaten the driver and almost running down a second victim, is why carjacking has received substantial federal attention,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “In 2024, the Department of Justice created eleven Carjacking Task Forces in districts around the United States, including here in the Western District of Washington. This increased focus on federal prosecutions of armed carjacking offenses has coincided with a substantial reduction in these types of crimes.” According to the plea agreement, a man was waiting for his wife, sitting in the driver’s seat of his car outside a business on Occidental Avenue South. Dowers approached the car from behind, pulled out a distinctive firearm, pointed it at the victim, and ordered him out of the car saying “It’s mine now. Get out.” The victim was able to get his dog out of the car before Dowers drove off. The victim’s wife came out of the store and was nearly hit by the car as it raced away. Police were able to track the car to Auburn, Washington – near a middle school. Working with a description of the alleged carjacker, a King County Sheriff’s deputy located Dowers walking nearby. When searched, Dowers possessed a semi-automatic firearm that had been privately manufactured – a so-called ‘ghost gun.’ The firearm was fully loaded with a round in the chamber. Dowers pleaded guilty in April 2025. Judge Chun scheduled a hearing for October 27,2025 to set the amount of restitution Dowers owes to the victims. In their victim statements the couple said they “still live” with this “moment of terror . . . every single day.” The couple said they continue to experience trauma because of Dowers’ crime, which “robbed [them] of peace.” The case was investigated by the federal carjacking task force made up of the Seattle Police Department, the Kent Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg who leads the Western District of Washington Carjacking Task Force.


title: Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Sex Crime

body_text: FLORENCE, S.C. — James Edward Moss, Jr., 40, of Myrtle Beach, has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for transporting an individual with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that in April 2022, Moss met a minor online, picked her up, and transported her to a hotel room where he engaged in sexual activity with the minor. The investigation revealed that between April 20 to April 23, 2022, Moss recorded several videos of Moss engaging in sexual activity with the minor. United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced Moss to 55 months imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of court-ordered supervision. Moss is required to register as a sex offender pursuant to his conditions of supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Moss was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc . This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia field office and the Horry County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Hummel and Bill Watkins are prosecuting the case. ###