title: Anchorage man sentenced to over 11 years for attempting to coerce a minor

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced today to over 11 years in prison and will serve the rest of his life on supervised release for attempting to coerce and entice a minor in 2023. According to court documents, in early July 2023, Benjamin Roundy, aka “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko,” 43, responded to a public group chat post on an internet-based app by an individual who identified herself as a 13-year-old living in Anchorage. The group chat post was actually made by an undercover agent. Court documents explain that Roundy communicated with the undercover agent for nearly a month, first on the app and then via text message, and he initiated sexual conversations. Roundy discussed sexual acts he wanted to perform on the individual, who be believed to be a child, and made repeated requests for explicit photos of her. On Aug. 4, 2023, Roundy asked the undercover agent to meet in person at the parking lot of a grocery store in Anchorage. The undercover agent told Roundy she was going to walk home from a friend’s house, and Roundy asked what street the friend lived on. Shortly after learning the fictional address of the friend, the defendant left his home to meet the undercover agent, who he thought was a minor. Court documents further explain that Roundy texted the undercover agent instructions on where to meet him. When he received no response to his instructions, Roundy drove to a parking lot where he could see the street of the fictitious friend. Law enforcement arrested Roundy in the parking lot shortly thereafter and discovered a new bottle of personal lubricant and condoms in his vehicle. The investigation revealed thousands of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse on Roundy’s electronic devices and data detailing his online presence, which included searches for child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) and related terms. On April 25, 2024, Roundy pleaded guilty to one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. “Mr. Roundy’s conduct was heinous, as he tried to meet with who he believed was an underage girl in Anchorage to engage in sex, sought explicit images of the child, and obtained graphic images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of other minors for years,” said First Assistant U.S Attorney Kathryn R. Vogel for the District of Alaska. “Our office’s commitment to safeguarding Alaska’s children from those who seek to exploit their innocence is unwavering. We will relentlessly pursue justice by working with law enforcement to identify, investigate and hold accountable anyone who targets children.” “The defendant posed a significant threat to children in Alaska and abroad, as demonstrated by his disturbing pattern of conduct involving child exploitation,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Even in the darkest corners of the Internet, the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force will find a way to seek justice for our most vulnerable.” The FBI and Anchorage Police Department investigated this case as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander of the District of Alaska and Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . ###


title: Long Beach Man Who Was Getaway Driver in Fatal Armed Robbery of Victim Dealing Marijuana in Inglewood Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man pleaded guilty today to federal criminal charges for his role in the March 2021 murder of a victim in Inglewood during a marijuana deal. Mateo Paul, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act) and one count of brandishing and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Paul has been in custody since November 2023. “This defendant’s recklessness led to a victim’s violent death and the prospect of a life sentence in federal prison,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “When local and federal law enforcement work together – as we did in this case – we can bring severe punishment for perpetrators of violent gun crime.” According to his plea agreement, in March 2021, Paul and co-defendants Leandrew Raglin, 22, of Lancaster, and Iysis Elanore Smith, 22, of Inglewood, agreed to rob a marijuana dealer at gunpoint. They devised a plan to lure the dealer via a social media application to a meeting location, where they would ambush him at gunpoint and steal his marijuana. On March 15, 2021, Smith approached the vehicle occupied by the victim. While Smith distracted the victim, Paul and Raglin parked behind the victim’s vehicle. Raglin then exited the vehicle Paul was driving, approached the passenger side of the victim’s car and opened fire, repeatedly wounding the victim in the passenger seat. Raglin then walked around to the driver’s side of the vehicle and opened fire, fatally wounding the victim in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, according to court documents. Raglin’s brandishing and discharge of the firearm fell within the scope of Paul’s criminal agreement and could reasonably have been foreseen to be a necessary or natural consequence of the unlawful agreement, the plea agreement states. United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a June 27 sentencing hearing, at which time Paul will face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison. Raglin has pleaded not guilty to the charges in the indictment against him in this case and is scheduled to go to trial on May 19. The criminal charges against Smith are still pending. Both defendants face potential life sentences. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The FBI and the Inglewood Police Department investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Chelsea Norell of the Violent and Organized Crimes Section and Gregg E. Marmaro of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section are prosecuting this case.


title: Former Western New York man pleads guilty to perjury for lying while testifying during his fraud trial

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. –Acting U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti announced today that Michael W. Luehrsen, 41, of Miami, Florida, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to perjury, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. As part of his plea, Luehrsen has agreed to pay approximately $2-million dollars in restitution and forfeit approximately $2-million dollars in assets, including investments and real estate proceeds. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles M. Kruly and Grace Carducci, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2022, Luehrsen testified under oath in his previous jury trial before the United States District Court for the Western District of New York as follows: Q. Mike, I want to start by talking about your dad. You told Mr. Kruly that on the days that those prescriptions were faxed you were not in town, is that what you said? A. That’s correct. Q. Can you tell the jury, where were you? A. On June 27, 2014, I was actually in California visiting Cornerstone Pharmacy with two physicians. On July 11, of 2014, I was in Boston, Massachusetts. Q. And how do you remember that? A. I have photographs from my phone showing me in those particular cities. Evidence from Luehrsen’s cellular telephone shows that the testimony quoted above was false. Photographs on the cell phone establish that he was, in fact, in Buffalo on July 11, 2014. In addition, telephone records and financial records established that Luehrsen was in Buffalo on that date. At the time of this testimony, Luehrsen was being tried for, among other crimes, conspiring to commit health care fraud. It was a matter material to the trial whether or not Luehrsen was in Buffalo when an altered compound prescription form was faxed from his father’s home located in the Western District of New York. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. Sentencing is scheduled for June 27, 2025, before Judge Vilardo. # # # #


title: United States Attorney Natalie K. Wight Concludes Service to the United States Department of Justice

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.-- The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon announced today the departure of United States Attorney Natalie K. Wight. Ms. Wight was informed of her termination in a communication from the White House. As a Presidential appointee, Ms. Wight is subject to removal from office at the discretion of the sitting President. The White House thanked her for her service to the United States. A twenty-year veteran of the United States Department of Justice, Ms. Wight was recruited directly into the Attorney General's Honors Program in 2003. With the support of Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Ms. Wight was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on June 6, 2022, and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on September 9, 2022. "I am proud of the Office's dedication to protecting Oregon's youth, supporting law enforcement, and maintaining strong agency partnerships," said former U.S. Attorney Wight. During her tenure, Ms. Wight focused on outreach to schools by educating students on the dangers of fentanyl, warning of online exploitation, and applauding the care and compassion of Oregon's student leaders. This year, the district hosted its third Junior Justice Summit where student ambassadors from local high schools collaborated with civic leaders, public servants, and members of the law enforcement community to identify and achieve common goals to help keep kids safe and our neighborhoods thriving. "I want to thank our Oregon communities and our exceptional public servants for helping to keep Oregon a safe and beautiful place to live," said former U.S. Attorney Wight. "I am excited to watch the office's continued success working with federal, state, county, local, and tribal agencies serving the people of Oregon. I am immensely proud to have worked side by side with such dedicated Oregonians." As United States Attorney, Ms. Wight was selected to serve on the Attorney General's Advisory Committee (AGAC) as the Ninth Circuit representative. The AGAC advises the Attorney General and senior Department of Justice leadership on critical legal issues impacting the districts in each circuit. Ms. Wight served as liaison for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Civil Division while on the AGAC. She also served on the national subcommittees for Controlled Substances, Violent Crime, Child Exploitation, and Native American Issues. There are thirty-six counties and nine tribal reservations in the District of Oregon. The U.S. Attorney's Offices in Portland, Eugene, and Medford employ career attorneys and professional staff who are responsible for conducting all criminal prosecutions, collection of debts owed to the federal government, and civil litigation in the district involving the United States. As provided for under the Vacancies Reform Act, the First Assistant U.S. Attorney now serves as the Acting U.S. Attorney.


title: United States Attorney’s Office announces departure of Kenneth L. Parker as U.S. Attorney

component: USAO - Ohio, Southern

body_text: CINCINNATI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio announces the departure of Kenneth L. Parker as U.S. Attorney. Effective as of Mr. Parker’s termination, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly A. Norris is serving as Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. Mr. Parker was sworn in on November 23, 2021, as the 45th United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. Former President Joseph Biden nominated Parker on September 28, 2021, and the United States Senate unanimously approved his confirmation on November 19, 2021. “It has been my highest honor to serve the people of the Southern District of Ohio as the United States Attorney. There is no better feeling than to come to the office every day knowing I, along with all the prosecutors, trial attorneys, and staff, work to protect the rights, safety, and interests of the public with excellence and integrity,” said former U.S. Attorney Parker. Mr. Parker first joined the office in 1999 as an Assistant United States Attorney and has since also served as the District’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Deputy Criminal Chief and as the District’s Criminal Chief. As U.S. Attorney, he served on Attorney General Merrick Garland’s Advisory Committee, serving as co-chair of the Law Enforcement, Victims, and Community Outreach committee, as well as a standing member on the Violent and Organized Crime and Civil Rights committees. As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Parker served as the chief law enforcement officer and oversaw the investigation and litigation of all criminal and civil cases brought on behalf of the United States. During his tenure, Mr. Parker emphasized efforts related to protecting vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. Under his leadership, the District created a civil rights referral initiative for members of the public to report potential civil rights violations directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, hosted a roundtable to combat sexual harassment in housing , and established three annual community and law enforcement awards programs . The district also continued significant public corruption investigations, focused on violent crime committed against United States Postal Carriers and educated the public on glock switches and ghost guns. Parker led an office of approximately 135 career professionals, including 65 Assistant United States Attorneys and 60 support staff personnel. The district remained steadfast in protecting the Southern District of Ohio with the following notable accomplishments: Emphasis on opioid prosecutions contributing to a decrease in overdose deaths in Hamilton County; Increased the number of alleged drug traffickers to be extradited from Colombia for prosecution; In addition to civil and criminal penalties, more than $260 million was collected in fiscal year 2024 in assets connected to criminal activity. More than $20 million in additional assets is still pending forfeiture orders. In fiscal year 2024, the Southern District of Ohio ranked second out of all U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide in deposit amount. This past fiscal year the Financial Litigation program team held debtors accountable by recovering money for victims, collecting $8.1 million in criminal debts. Increased emphasis on the prosecution of postal robberies, machine gun conversion devices, ghost guns, and distributing narcotics within 1000 feet of a school throughout the district; Assisted the ATF and other law enforcement partners in establishing Crime Gun Intelligence Centers in Cincinnati and Columbus; Established a mock courtroom inside the Cincinnati office to allow attorneys and staff to further hone their skills as they prepare their cases in the district and appellate courts. The courtroom has electronic capabilities to connect to other offices throughout the district. Increased the visibility of the office through sustained community outreach and engagement efforts. Our office continues to successfully defend federal government agencies against frivolous lawsuits and has protected taxpayer dollars with its success in a number of matters including against the VA, United States Air Force, Defense Logistics Agency, and the Sixth Circuit Judicial Council. The district also saw an increase in its conviction rate to 91.9%, which is higher than the national average of 90.7% and that of other large districts. The district’s criminal and civil work included the following matters – Violent/Firearms Crimes & Drug Trafficking U.S. v.Goddard, et al. – Two Dayton men were convicted for their roles in the narcotics case that caused the 2019 death of Dayton Police Detective and DEA Task Force Officer Jorge DelRio. While attempting to prevent federal agents from seizing approximately half-a-million dollars in fentanyl and other drugs, Nathan Goddard, 44 was convicted of murdering Det. DelRio. He and Cahke Cortner, 44, were also convicted of multiple narcotics and firearms charges. U.S. v. Darod and Jama – Two central Ohio men were convicted for committing crimes related to the July 6, 2023, shooting of a Columbus police officer. Faisal Darod and Aden Abdullahi Jama participated in a crime spree that involved the armed robberies of five high-end automobile dealerships, banks and gaming stores in and around Columbus and ended in a shootout with police officers on I-70. U.S. v. Roberts, et al. – Sterling H. Roberts was convicted for fatally shooting his girlfriend’s ex-husband in front of the victim’s children. A jury convicted Roberts in March 2022 of traveling interstate in August 2017 to murder Robert Caldwell, the former husband of Roberts’then-girlfriend after cyberstalking the victim. Roberts’ girlfriend at the time, co-defendant Tawnney Caldwell, and brothers, Chance Deakin and Christopher Roberts, as well asChandra Harmon (Tawnney’s mother); and James Harmon (Tawnney’s stepfather) were each charged in March 2018 and were all convicted of crimes related to the cyberstalking and murder. U.S. v. Bryant, et al. – As of June 2022, all 19 defendants convicted as racketeering conspirators in a T&A Crips gang case were sentenced in federal court. The racketeering conspiracy was first charged in 2018 and included five murders, at least 26 attempted murders, and other violent and drug-trafficking crimes. U.S. v. Williams, Jr., et al. – A jury convicted a Columbus man in December 2024 of murdering three victims as part of a narcotics conspiracy to rob a local marijuana dealer of drugs and cash. Williams had others dismember and bury two of the bodies to dispose of evidence of his crimes. U.S. v. Robles, et al. – A federal grand jury in Dayton indicted the Midwest Regional “boss” and 13 other members of the “outlaw motorcycle gang” known as the Thug Riders Motorcycle Club (TRMC). The indictment alleges that the TRMC operated a criminal enterprise whose members and associates engaged in acts of violence like murder, arson and assault. Members also allegedly participated in extortion and identity fraud. U.S. v. Merino , U.S. v. Kotchkoski , U.S. v. Mefford – In these cases, former Columbus police officers were convicted for trafficking narcotics. Marco Merino conspired to distribute more than eight kilograms of fentanyl and accepted bribes to protect the transportation of cocaine. John Kotchkoski also conspired to traffic more than eight kilograms of fentanyl and conspired with a confidential informant to traffic 40 kilograms of cocaine. Joel Mefford conspired to steal and traffic more than 15 kilograms of cocaine from crime scenes and the evidence room and committed money laundering. U.S. v. Washington, et al. – Nearly two dozen defendants were charged in a large-scale drug and human trafficking ring in Columbus. Defendants were charged with distributing bulk amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, Xanax and Oxycodone within 1,000 feet of a Columbus elementary school. The case also involves an overdose death, sex trafficking and money laundering. As part of the case, law enforcement officials seized $1.7 million, 50 firearms and nine vehicles. To date, at least 21 of the defendants have been convicted and await sentencing. U.S. v. Williams, Jr. – A Dayton man was sentenced in February 2023 to 250 months in prison for distributing fentanyl and cocaine that resulted in multiple fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the late hours of New Year’s Eve and into the early hours of New Year’s Day 2019. U.S. v. Attaway & Johnson – Two Cincinnati men were convicted for crimes involving the murder of the owner of Madeira Beverage in February 2021 and multiple armed robberies. Willie James Attaway was convicted for murdering Roop C. Gupta and committing or attempting four other armed robberies on Feb. 8 and Feb. 9, 2021. Lamond Johnson also convicted and served as Attaway’s getaway driver during the two-day crime spree. U.S. v. Blackshear, et al . – Five defendants from the Dayton area were convicted for participating in the summer 2019 kidnapping and subsequent death of Kwasi Casey, whose body was later found in a detached garage in Dayton. U.S. v. Maye – A jury found Ricco Maye guilty on all 14 counts following a trial in Columbus in November 2024. The defendant led drug, sex trafficking and financial fraud conspiracies and then attempted to obstruct justice and tamper with witnesses. He was also convicted of coercing addicts into prostitution, overseeing a pandemic relief fraud scheme and tampering with witnesses. U.S. v. Solomon, et al. – In August 2024, a jury in Columbus found two members of the Third World Mob gang guilty ofconspiring to traffic more than 2,000 pounds of marijuana. Third World Mob is a violent criminal organization in Columbus. The case also includes firearms and machine gun crimes. Lead defendant Menelik Solomon pleaded guilty for his role in the crimes. U.S. v. King, et al. – Two Columbus men were convicted for the murder of Players Paradise internet café security guard Joseph Arrington and his wife Karen Arrington Chris King shot and murdered both the husband and wife while they were working. Justice B. Stringer drove co-defendants to and from the robbery resulting in murder. U.S. Postal theft cases – Throughout this administration’s tenure, the district has prosecuted at least 20 defendants for crimes related to Postal robberies. Many of the cases include charges specifically for committing armed robbery against mail carriers. In other cases , defendants were charged with stealing USPS service keys or mail. Conspirators would steal any cash contained in the mail. They would also steal checks and “wash” or erase the original information to fraudulently convert the checks to deposit for themselves. U.S. v. Holdbrook, et al. – Donte Holdbrook was one of 12 individuals convicted for conspiring to distribute narcotics and money laundering. His drug trafficking operation had ties to the Sinaloa Drug Cartel in Mexico. U.S. v. Singh, et al . – In this case, the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Asset Forfeiture team secured one of the largest single cryptocurrency and cash seizures in DEA history, worth $150 million. Banmeet Singh ran a dark web narcotics conspiracy that moved hundreds of kilograms and tens of thousands of pills of controlled substances throughout the United States and established a multi-million-dollar drug enterprise. Singh created vendor marketing sites on dark web marketplaces such as Silk Road 1, Silk Road 2, Alpha Bay, Hansa and others, to sell controlled substances, including fentanyl, LSD, ecstasy, Xanax, Ketamine and Tramadol. Civil Rights Offenses & Hate Crimes Park National Bank settlement – The Justice Department announced in February 2023 an agreement to resolve allegations that Park National Bank (Park National), headquartered in Newark, Ohio, engaged in a pattern or practice of lending discrimination by “redlining” in the Columbus metropolitan area. The settlement required Park National to pay $9 million to ensure equal home loan opportunities and is part of the Justice Department’s nationwide Combating Redlining Initiative . U.S. v. Eubanks – A Springfield, Ohio, man was convicted for crimes related to targeting and attacking at least eight Haitians residing in the area. U.S. v. Genco – A Highland County, self-identified “Incel” was convicted for attempting to conduct a mass shooting of women. Genco plotted to commit the hate crime of shooting women at a university in Ohio. U.S. v. Golobic – In January 2024, a federal jury convicted a former ICE deportation officer for depriving a woman under his supervision in the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program of her fundamental right to bodily integrity, by forcing her to engage in nonconsensual sex. Andrew Golobic, was found guilty on four counts including obstructing a sex trafficking investigation, deprivation of rights under color of law, witness tampering and destruction of records in a federal investigation. U.S. v. Johnson – Darrin Johnson pleaded guilty in February 2024 to committing a federal hate crime by physically assaulting a victim based on the victim’s race. In August 2021, Johnson assaulted an Asian American victim on Calhoun Street at the University of Cincinnati and made racist comments toward the victim, including, “Go back to your country…You brought the kung flu here…You’re going to die for bringing it.” U.S. v. Mitchell – Former Columbus Vice Detective Andrew Mitchell was convicted for crimes related to kidnapping sex worker victims in the Hilltop neighborhood under the guise of an arrest. U.S. v. Mooney & Stansberry – Former Pike County Deputy Jeremy Mooney was convicted by a federal jury of two counts of violating a victim’s constitutional rights by pepper spraying and punching the victim in the head, while the victim was in the custody of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office and posed no threat to himself or others. The jury found that Mooney’s offenses involved the use of a dangerous weapon and resulted in bodily injury. Mooney’s supervisor, William Stansberry, Jr., was also charged and was sentenced to six months in prison followed by six months of home detention. U.S. v. Brime – Carlos Manuel Rodriguez Brime was convicted for threatening to bring a bomb to a local reproductive health services facility. Martin lawsuit agreement – Kevin Martin, an owner and manager of residential rental properties in and around Athens, Ohio, agreed in August 2024 to pay $170,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that he sexually harassed female tenants and housing applicants in violation of the Fair Housing Act. Under the consent decree , Martin agreed to pay $165,000 to former female tenants and applicants harmed by his harassment and a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States. The consent decree permanently bars Martin from managing residential rental properties, requires him to retain a property manager for properties he continues to own, and mandates training and the adoption of policies and procedures to prevent future discrimination. Child Exploitation U.S. v. Davis – Springfield resident Marcus Leon Davis was sentenced in May 2024 to 100 years in prison for creating and distributing child pornography by documenting his sexual abuse of children. Davis received the maximum sentence on each count as charged and will serve those sentences consecutively. U.S. v. Jackson – Nalah Jackson was convicted for kidnapping two twin five-month-old infants in December 2022. Jackson stole a car that was running at a Donatos Pizza on North High Street in Columbus; the infants were in the car. Jackson ultimately left one baby at Dayton International Airport the same night and one baby near a Papa Johns restaurant in Indianapolis the next day. U.S. v. Morrison – Jeremiah Morrison was convicted for obtaining material on the dark web depicting the torture, mutilation and murder of children. He traded it for images and videos of sexual abuse of young children. U.S. v. Porter, et al. – Larry Dean Porter, was convicted for running a a Scioto County child sex trafficking operation. In 2020, Porter and several of his family members and associates were charged in the case involving physical and sexual abuse of women and children in Scioto County that spanned numerous decades. Porterexchanged drugs obtained in Columbus and elsewhere for sexual access to the children of drug-addicted parents and guardians. U.S. v. Kovacs – Former longtime Beavercreek police officer Kevin Kovacs was convicted for committing two counts of transporting and possessing child pornography. Kovacs spent the last six years of his police career as a D.A.R.E. officer in Beavercreek City Schools. U.S. v. Wilson & Wilson – A Bexley husband and wife were convicted for their crimes related to the sexual abuse of minor children. Stephen Wilson and Jessica Wilson created child pornography videos and pictures of sexual abuse while exchanging text messages discussing the abuse. Stephen Wilson sexually abused at least three minors between the ages of 7 and 16. Stephen had video cameras inside his home, including his bedroom, and used those cameras to document and create videos and still images of the abuse. In one incident, Stephen drugged a minor victim with alcohol and ecstasy and raped the victim while she was semi-conscious-to-unconscious. He created a 22-minute video depicting that sexual assault. U.S. v. Foley – In January 2024, former high school teacher Justin Foley was convicted for crimes related to secretly recording explicit videos of his students at school and possessing child sexual abuse material. Foley was employed as a chemistry teacher at Columbus Alternative High School at the time of his offenses. He used his cell phone and other digital media devices in a hidden manner to capture the genitalia of his female students under their skirts and shorts during the school day. He also secretly recorded victims at local department stores in central Ohio, public areas of downtown Delaware, Ohio, and various dressing rooms at different unidentified locations. U.S. v. Roberts – Ty Brandon Roberts was convicted for victimizing children as young as 6 years old over a 15-year period. Roberts created images and videos of child pornography through the abuse. His case includes more than 175 victims. U.S. v. Richards – In October 2024, Kelly Richards was convicted for sex trafficking and exploiting two teenagers. The defendant drugged, raped, abused, photographed and sold two teenage girls, holding them in his apartment for multiple days. U.S. v. Williams – Raymond Williams was convicted for offering minor victims cash and gifts to entice them into performing and/or engaging in sex acts with him. Williams provided sex toys to one victim by hiding them in places at the downtown branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. U.S. v. Gemienhardt & Daniels – Robert Gemienhardt and Carrie Daniels groomed minor victims, sexually abused the victims and created child pornography of the abuse. They sexually exploited children as young as 3 years old. Daniels and Gemienhardt, who was a registered sex offender in the state of Ohio, exchanged thousands of illicit text messages detailing their sexual fantasies about four separate minor victims. Fraud Schemes & Public Corruption U.S. v. Householder, et al. – Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder was convicted for leading a racketeering conspiracy that involved $60 million in bribes. He and former Ohio Republican Party Chair Matthew Borges were found guilty following a six-week trial that included more than 1,000 exhibits and 25 witnesses. U.S. v. Jones & Dowling – Former FirstEnergy executives Charles Jones and Michael Dowling were indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2025. The two are charged in a racketeering conspiracy involving more than $60 million in schemes to bribe former Ohio House Representative Larry Householder and former PUCO Chairman Samuel Randazzo. U.S. v. Harrison – A Dayton man who claimed to be an African prince was convicted at jury trial of 10 counts of various federal fraud crimes. Daryl Robert Harrison – falsely holding himself out to be a royal prince from the African national of Ghana – told investors he had direct connections with African trucking and mining companies, and that they could expect an investment return of 28 to 33 percent. He defrauded at least 14 victims of more than $800,000. U.S. v. Pastor – Former Cincinnati city councilman Jeffrey Pastor plead guilty to honest services wire fraud. Pastor received a $15,000 cash bribe in return for his official action to advance development projects in the city. U.S. v. Sittenfeld – Former Cincinnati city councilman Alexander “P.G.” Sittenfeld was convicted for bribery and attempted extortion by a government official. Sittenfeld was convicted following a jury trial in June and July 2022. According to court documents and trial testimony, Sittenfeld accepted $20,000 in bribe payments to his political action committee (PAC) from undercover FBI agents posing as corrupt businessmen working with a real estate developer. U.S. v. Asante, et al. – Seven defendants were convicted for conspiring to launder more than $11.8 million of online romance scam proceeds. Other individuals created several profiles on online dating sites. They then contacted men and women throughout the United States and elsewhere, with whom they cultivated a sense of affection, and often, romance. After establishing relationships, perpetrators of the romance scams requested money, typically for investment or need-based reasons, and provided account information and directions for where money should be sent. In part, these accounts were in the names of the defendants, their family members and their companies. U.S. v. Adkins – Jason Adkins was convicted for orchestrating a $50 million Ponzi scheme involving over-sized tires. Adkins resided in Jackson County and defrauded more than 50 investors from all over the country and the world. Adkins and others claimed that they bought and sold over-sized tires commonly known as off-the-road tires, which are used on earth moving equipment and/or mining equipment. Investors were told their money would be used to buy the tires at a steep discount, and that the tires would then be re-sold to a buyer at a much higher rate. Two other defendants have been charged and convicted connected to this scheme. U.S. v. Thomas – Mark Alan Thomas, a former Belmont County attorney, was convicted for committing mail fraud related to stealing more than $882,000 from an elderly woman with dementia while purporting to act in her best interests under a Power of Attorney. U.S. v. Misseldine – Ava Misseldine is a former bakery owner who was convicted for stealing the identity of a deceased baby and committing more than $1.5 million in pandemic relief fraud. She was sentenced in August 2023 to 72 months in prison. As part of her sentence, she will pay more than $1.5 million in restitution and forfeit her Utah home and profits from the recent sale of her Michigan home, both of which she bought with stolen government money. U.S. v. Buckner, et al. – Lorin Buckner was the lead defendant convicted in a foreclosure rescue scheme that defrauded at least 780 financially distressed homeowners throughout the United States, including more than 100 individuals in the Southern District of Ohio. Buckner preyed on homeowners who had defaulted on their mortgages and convinced the victims to pay to take part in fraudulent programs on the promise it would save their homes. U.S. v. He – Yi He was convicted for embezzling more than $26 million from his employer, a furniture company that provides furniture to retailers like Wayfair, Overstock, Kohls, Walmart and Ashley. Yi was solely responsible for payroll and payroll tax-related duties for the company. 7 Health Carousel global resolution – In March 2024, Health Carousel agreed to pay $9.25 million and pledged an additional $8 million for related healthcare projects to resolve civil and criminal investigations into the company’s visa sponsorship program. The global resolution resolves criminal fraud and civil False Claims Act allegations that Health Carousel submitted false visa immigrant applications and caused false statements to be made to government officials while recruiting nurses, physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to the United States. National Security & Cybercrime U.S. v. Xu – Xufirst Chinese government intelligence officer ever to be extradited to the United States to stand trial was convicted in federal court in Cincinnati. Xu targeted American aviation companies, recruited employees to travel to China, and solicited their proprietary information, all on behalf of China. U.S. v. Shihab – Shihab Ahmed Shihab Shihab was convicted for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization as part of a plot to murder former United States President George W. Bush. The defendant believed the former President was responsible for killing many Iraqis and breaking apart the entire country of Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Shihab hoped to smuggle at least four Iraqis associated with ISIS into the United States with the goal of completing the assassination. U.S. v. Almadaoji – Arrested by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Naser Almadaoji was convicted of trying to travel to Afghanistan to join ISIS or ISIS- Khorasan (ISIS-K). The defendant intended to travel to Astana, Kazahkstan, where he planned to be smuggled into Afghanistan so that he could join and receive military training from ISIS-K in support of both that terrorist group and ISIS. U.S. v. Uwadiae – In December 2024, Omoruyi O. Uwadiae was convicted for harassing, cyberstalking, extorting and stealing the identities of victims in multiple states including Ohio, Colorado and Washington. The defendant committed crimes targeting gay and bisexual men. He obtained sexually explicit photographs and videos from potential victims and then used the content to threaten them. Uwadiae threatened to distribute the explicit material widely on the internet and specifically to victims’ friends, family members, employers and others, and, on several occasions, he carried through with his threats. U.S. v. Cook & Frost – Two men were convicted for conspiring to attack power grids throughout the United States to promote their white supremacy ideology. Cook and Frost engaged in a plot to attack the country’s energy infrastructure, damage the economy, and stoke division in American society in the name of white supremacy. “Revolution is our solution” was a recurring theme in the defendants’ communications to one another. The pair took concrete actions in furtherance of their plans. Former U.S. Attorney Parker added: “I thank President Joseph Biden and Senators Sherrod Brown and Robert Portman for this incredible opportunity of service. My deepest gratitude goes to my entire office as well as our many law enforcement and community partners, who remain dedicated public servants. We have accomplished a great deal together and I am confident that the people in the Southern District of Ohio will continue to benefit from our collective efforts.” The Southern District of Ohio serves more than five million residents in 48 of the 88 counties in Ohio and has offices located in Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton. Former ATF Director Steven M. Dettelbach stated, “At ATF I saw first-hand that Ken Parker is a warrior in the fight against violent crime. His partnership with ATF and all our state and local law enforcement partners led to the formation of Crime Gun Intelligence Centers in both Columbus and Cincinnati. They have driven down the murder and violent crime all over those regions. He has led the fight to catch and punish those who deal in and use deadly and illegal machine gun conversion devices. More people in Ohio are alive today because Ken Parker was their U.S. Attorney.” “Ken Parker has been an outstanding partner during his tenure as United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. He prioritized protecting the public by taking on the most significant and impactful cases. I am grateful for his commitment to keeping communities throughout the country safe and his dedication to upholding the rule of law,” said former DEA Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene . “I want to thank U.S. Attorney Ken Parker and his team for their strong partnership with the FBI,” stated FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola . “U.S. Attorney Parker demonstrates a strong commitment to justice and tirelessly works to protect our community and keep all citizens safe.” “As U.S. Attorney Kenneth Parker prepares to leave office, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the privilege of working alongside him,” said Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge . “His unwavering commitment to the safety of Ohio's residents and his steadfast dedication to holding accountable those who engage in criminal activity and cause harm to others has had a profound impact. U.S. Attorney Parker’s passion for our community, his vision for growth, and his role as a trailblazer for change has left a lasting legacy. I am particularly grateful for his invaluable support in the development and success of our Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC), which has enabled the Cincinnati Police Department to work seamlessly with our federal, state, and local partners to remove dangerous criminals from our streets and save lives. His love for Cincinnati and his collaboration with our department will not be forgotten. I am deeply thankful for his leadership, partnership, and all he has done to make our city safer.” “USA Parker’s commitment to justice has left a lasting impact on the community by upholding the rule of law, keeping our communities safe and selflessly serving the public in pursuit of justice,” said Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine R. Bryant . “I am grateful for the profound impact his partnership has had on the safety and well-being of the community and wish him nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement.” Newtown Police Chief Tom Synan stated: “USA Parker has been a proactive partner with law enforcement and the community. During his tenure he has been hands-on with the issues and the people he served, getting an in-depth understanding of the complexities our communities face from the person all the way to the resources needed on the federal level. He is part of the community finding innovative ways to enhance law enforcement efforts and improve the lives of the people he served. “When it came to addiction, he understood it was more than a crime but a chronic mental, medical health condition. He has been a pioneer in drug supply interdiction as well addiction response. There are few that can find the balance of drug supply reduction and overdose death reduction, USA Parker did, and is part of the reason our region is seeing a significant reduction in overdose deaths. He opened the door to federal resources that allowed law enforcement to find and convict those bringing the poison of fentanyl and other synthetic drugs that hit our region so hard. He also collaborated bringing resources for those struggling with addiction, knowing just cutting off drug supply did not end addiction and they would need resources for care and treatment. “Although the United States Attorney's position brings a set of responsibilities, the void Ken Parker as a person will leave is immeasurable. It was the man that made him a leader in our community. His compassion that took him the extra mile to serve others. His authentic curiosity to learn more about people and the issues they faced led to successful partnerships. It is a goal of those who serve the public to leave the world a better place than when they arrived. USA Parker's legacy will make our community better for generations to come.” Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison stated: “For 25 years, U.S. Attorney Ken Parker has been an advocate for victims and for justice. Throughout his distinguished career with the federal government, he has been a respected attorney committed to the Constitution and the rule of law. “His dedication extended beyond the courtroom, as he worked to connect with the community he served. And as U.S. Attorney, he showed a willingness and the leadership to work with defense attorneys and the Court to ensure everyone was treated fairly. “I want to thank U.S. Attorney Parker for his work over the last two decades and wish him success in what he may pursue next.” “Ken Parker has been an outstanding U. S. Attorney,” said U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr. “I have worked with him for over twenty years. He is a very talented federal prosecutor. Ken represents a long tradition of federal prosecutions. He has prosecuted those who have violated federal law, but always in accord with the Constitution and ethical standards. Whenever Ken Parker made a statement in court, I could be sure it absolutely true. Ken has been a great asset to this district.” “We are deeply grateful for the partnership we have built with U.S. Attorney Kenneth Parker. His unwavering commitment to justice and support for the families of murdered children in Columbus, Ohio has been invaluable. Together, we have worked tirelessly to advocate for change and healing in our community. While we will miss his leadership, we are inspired to continue this vital mission in his honor," said Malissa Thomas-St.Clair, Founder and CEO of Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children . Mitch Morris, Cincinnati Works Outreach & Mentoring Coordinator , stated: “U.S. Attorney Parker has contributed countless hours to Save Our Youth Kings & Queens, a nonprofit I created to show youth positive lifestyles and ultimately prevent gun violence. Attorney Parker has been a driving force in multiple ways, including conducting classroom visits, speaking to young people about gun and drug laws, and keeping our communities safe. He’s a regular presence at community events that support youth as well as adults, and his being there puts a human face on the legal system and provides a model of achievement that young people can strive for. “U.S. Attorney Parker is a highly approachable, stellar community member. He does not shy away when there are shootings and homicides, and he also works to educate people before the crisis happens. As someone who has worked closely with U.S. Attorney Parker, I can say that his impact on Save Our Youth’s mission is meaningful now and will be truly measurable as young people grow into adulthood and follow his example.” “Ken Parker is one of the most thoroughly decent and kind individuals with whom I have ever had the pleasure of knowing,” said Jefferson County Prosecutor Jane Hanlin . “His commitment to fostering solid and meaningful relationships between federal, state, and local law enforcement is unparalleled. He is warm, intelligent and insightful and we can only hope that all of our public servants possess the integrity that Ken demonstrates every day. He will be missed and we are lucky to have had him.” “I have had the honor of knowing U.S Attorney Ken Parker from the time I took office as Butler County Prosecutor many years ago. He has dedicated himself and his office to the principle we share that justice always comes first in law enforcement, the courts and life itself. With his base in Cincinnati, the public will understand when I say he has never hit a foul ball, and he will be missed. Our shared profession is indebted to Ken for his leadership and consistent application of the law in his trust and I thank him for all he has accomplished,” stated Mike Gmoser, Butler County, Ohio Prosecuting Attorney. # # #


title: Two Peoria Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm Charges

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

body_text: PEORIA, Ill. – Two Peoria, Illinois, men, Isaiah L. Holland, 29, and Tyrone Anthony Curtis, 23, were sentenced on February 14, 2025, to multiple years of imprisonment following their convictions for federal robbery and firearm offenses. Holland previously pleaded guilty to committing a robbery involving United States currency and using a firearm during a crime of violence, while Curtis pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a felon. U.S. District Judge Jonathan E. Hawley sentenced Holland to 12 months’ imprisonment for the robbery and 84 months’ imprisonment for the firearms offense. The judge ordered that the sentences are to be served consecutively for a total of 96 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. The judge sentenced Curtis to 33 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. At the sentencing hearings in front of Judge Hawley at the federal courthouse in Peoria, the government presented evidence that Holland robbed another individual at gunpoint during an arranged sale of handguns and two machinegun conversion devices (also known as switches). Curtis set up the sale. During the transaction, Holland pulled a firearm from his backpack, racked the firearm, and robbed the would-be buyer of the $4,100 that was intended as payment for the weapons, in addition to taking that person’s wallet and car keys. Holland and Curtis were later stopped by law enforcement. During the stop, law enforcement agents discovered a Glock Model 19, 9mm pistol, loaded with 18 rounds of ammunition in the magazine and one in the chamber, in Holland’s backpack. They also found a loaded Canik, Model TP9SA, 9 mm pistol under Curtis’s seat. Both weapons are being forfeited to the government. A complaint was filed in federal court in January 2024 against both defendants, followed by an indictment in February 2024. Both defendants have been in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since their arrests. The statutory maximum penalties for a robbery involving United States currency are not more than 25 years’ imprisonment and $250,000 fine. Use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence carries a sentence of seven years to life imprisonment, to be served consecutively to the sentence for the violent crime. A term of supervised release of up to five years may be imposed on each of those counts. The penalties for possessing a firearm as a felon are not more than 15 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release. The Peoria Area Federal Firearms Task Force, comprised of agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Peoria Police Department; the Peoria County Sheriff’s Department; the Illinois Department of Corrections; and the Illinois State Police investigated the case. The case against Holland and Curtis 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: Hanceville Man Sentenced to More than Seven Years in Prison on Drug Charge

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – A Hanceville man has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for a methamphetamine crime, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and New Orleans Division Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer. U.S. District Court Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced Jason Earl Shirley , 41, to 87 months in prison. In November 2024, Shirley pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to the plea agreement, on October 5, 2023, a Cullman County Sheriff’s Office deputy initiated a traffic stop on Shirley. Shirley was driving on the center line, had an expired tag, and did not have a valid driver’s license. Shirley appeared nervous and would not make eye contact with the deputy, so the deputy asked Shirley to step out of the car. When Shirley got out, a black zippered bag fell out of the vehicle. Shirley admitted to the deputy that drugs were in the bag. The deputy searched the vehicle and recovered a camouflage bag under the driver’s seat that contained methamphetamine, scales, and a smoking device with methamphetamine residue. The DEA investigated the case along with the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristy M. Peoples and Sara M. Judah prosecuted the case.


title: Zachary A. Cunha Concludes His Service as United States Attorney

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE – Zachary A. Cunha announced today that he has stepped down from his position as United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island, effective immediately, after receiving notification from the White House that the President has directed him to do so. Mr. Cunha previously tendered a letter of resignation to the President and the Attorney General on February 7, 2025, in which he indicated his intent to leave office at the end of this week. U.S. Attorney Cunha made the following statement: I am deeply grateful to Senators Reed and Whitehouse for recommending my nomination to the White House, and to President Biden for his trust and confidence in appointing me to serve this extraordinary District and its citizens as United States Attorney. I have worked hard every day to live up to the example of excellence set by my thirty-eight distinguished predecessors over the 235-year history of this Office, and it has been the honor of my career to do this job. Over the three years that I have had the high privilege to serve as U.S. Attorney, it has been my constant goal to make sure that the work of this District punched far above the weight that our compact geography and small staff might imply. By every measure, the men and women of this Office have met that goal, again and again, across every category in which we prosecute and litigate on behalf of the people of the Ocean State. In the face of a persistent opioid crisis, and the scourge of fentanyl that has cost countless lives, this Office prosecuted the largest illegal pill seizure in the United States , and brought suit against the nation’s largest pharmacy chain for creating a culture of noncompliance that allowed countless improper opioid prescriptions to flow out into our communities. Recognizing the complexity of this crisis, we have prosecuted criminals who prey on our neighbors struggling in recovery, while at the same time partnering with public health authorities to make sure that those same vulnerable victims have access to the care they need, and we have worked tirelessly to present an innovative, effective, and impactful anti-opioids education program in schools and community settings across Rhode Island. At the same time, we have worked relentlessly to bring fraudsters to justice, because their crimes have devastating impacts on our family , friends, neighbors , towns and businesses . We have likewise remained focused on holding businesses and corporations who commit crimes accountable, and have worked to protect the federal taxpayer from fraud, waste, and abuse , including by ensuring that those who serve our nation in uniform are not put at risk by shoddy and counterfeit gear . And, because every American deserves safe and secure communities, we have taken a firm stand against violent crime, bringing the serious charges against those responsible for bringing the most deadly illegal weapons into our communities, while proceeding with resolve and fierce determination against those who prey on our most vulnerable community members : our children.This Office’s civil rights work stood up to ensure that every Rhode Islander can access fair lending and to ensure that children with behavioral disabilities have the chance to receive care in their communities , rather than spending months of isolation in a locked hospital ward ; and we have stood resolute against acts of hatred and violence directed against our communities of faith , race, or ethnicity, while hosting more than fifteen United Against Hate conversations with over 800 of our fellow citizens across the state . In these, and countless other areas, the men and women of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island exemplify excellence in public service: acting always with integrity, in the best traditions of this Office and the Department of Justice, and driven by precisely those qualities that Attorney General Robert H. Jackson impeccably distilled, over eight decades ago, as the defining traits of a first-rate prosecutor: the ability to “temper[] zeal with human kindness, [the determination to] seek[] truth and not victims, [the unwavering commitment to] . . . serve[] the law and not factional purposes, and[, above all] [a resolution to] approach[] [the] task with humility.” [1] I am profoundly proud of their work, and deeply humbled to have served with them. ### Zachary A. Cunha took the oath of office as United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island on December 13, 2021, following his nomination by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., and confirmation by the United States Senate. During his tenure as U.S. Attorney, he was also honored to be named to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee, where he served alongside a small group of colleagues from across the nation who advised the Department’s senior leadership on matters of policy. Mr. Cunha devoted the past twenty years of his career to public service with the Department of Justice, beginning as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn), before serving in the District of Massachusetts, and, for more than a decade, in the District of Rhode Island. In the course of his DOJ service before being appointed U.S. Attorney, he was named Chief of the Civil Division in the District of Rhode Island, and Chief and Deputy Chief of Affirmative Civil Enforcement in the District of Massachusetts, where he focused on civil and criminal health care fraud matters, litigation under the federal False Claims Act, and representation of the federal government’s interests at both the trial and appellate level. He began his legal career on September 10, 2001, when he was sworn in as an Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of New York, representing the City and its officers in litigation in the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. He is a graduate of Brown University (A.B., with honors, 1998) and the George Washington University Law School (J.D., with honors, 2001). ### [1] Robert H. Jackson, The Federal Prosecutor , 24 J. Am. Jud. Soc’y 18 (1940) (address at Conference of United States Attorneys, Washington, D.C., April 1, 1940).


title: United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero Concludes Her Tenure as Chief Federal Law Enforcement Officer for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – Jacqueline C. Romero announced the conclusion of her tenure as United States Attorney, effective immediately. Ms. Romero was sworn in as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (EDPA) on June 21, 2022, following her nomination by President Joseph R. Biden and confirmation by the U.S. Senate. She oversaw one of the largest Districts in the country, with nearly six million residents across nine counties, and one of the busiest United States Attorney’s Offices, with a staff of over 300 located at offices in Philadelphia and Allentown, Pennsylvania. Prior to her appointment as U.S. Attorney, Ms. Romero had served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the same Office for 16 years, specializing in fraud investigations and civil rights cases. “When I came here, almost 20 years ago now, it was to do the job, to be a prosecutor. I didn’t come here for a title,” said Ms. Romero. “But it has been the absolute honor of my life to hold this title of U.S. Attorney. The work we’ve done these last years — scores of violent offenders and child predators taken off the street, fraudsters who preyed on investors and the elderly locked up, drug dealers and dirty doctors who poisoned our communities brought to justice, civil rights violations brought to light, and much more — all of it has made the Eastern District of Pennsylvania safer, stronger, and more just.” “I’m extraordinarily proud, too, of our outreach efforts,” Ms. Romero said. “My team and I have gone out and met the people of this District where they are. It’s helped build trust in the community and that isn’t just something, it’s everything . I know that all of my colleagues here, no matter their role, will carry on this Office’s important work, on behalf of the people of southeastern Pennsylvania.” *** Under Ms. Romero’s leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania prioritized both the prosecution of violent crime, fraud, and civil rights violations, and proactive anti-crime efforts through community engagement, youth outreach, and reentry initiatives. U.S. Attorney Romero also oversaw the expansion of EDPA’s Allentown office to better serve the residents of Lancaster, Berks, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties, hiring three experienced Assistant District Attorneys from Lehigh, Berks, and Northampton Counties, to add to an experienced team with deep roots in the area. The expansion also increased the office’s physical footprint and upgraded its facilities, to meet the increased investigative workload from the Office’s law enforcement partners from the Lehigh Valley to Lancaster. Violent Crime U.S. Attorney Romero doubled the size of EDPA’s Violent Crime Unit, pursuing data-driven prosecutions that targeted the predominant drivers of violence in the District. Through focused partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, the Office took illegal guns off the street, dismantled dangerous gangs and drug trafficking organizations, and sent a message to area carjackers and other violent offenders. These collaborative efforts significantly contributed to a 40 percent drop in violent crime in many areas of the District. During Ms. Romero’s tenure: Her Office, the ATF, FBI, and Philadelphia Police Department, working together as the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force, charged dozens of carjackers federally, resulting in substantial prison sentences . USAO-EDPA, following an investigation by HSI and the Reading Police Department, secured life imprisonment for the leaders of a violent drug and sex trafficking gang known as the Sevens, putting a permanent end to their reign of terror in the city. EDPA prosecutors secured the conviction at trial of Rafael Vega-Rodriguez for the attempted murder of three FBI agents, resulting in a 45-year prison sentence . White Collar Crime Under U.S. Attorney Romero, the Office successfully prosecuted numerous complex financial fraud and public corruption cases. Among them: Bringing racketeering conspiracy, securities fraud, and related charges against Joseph LaForte and James LaForte , the main principals of the fraudulent investment vehicle Par Funding, which is alleged to have generated over $100 million in illegal proceeds for the defendants to the detriment of Par Funding’s numerous investors. The brothers have both pleaded guilty and await sentencing. The convictions at trial of former Local 98 business manager John Dougherty and former Local 98 president Brian Burrows for embezzling union funds and related charges. Dougherty was sentenced to six years in prison for these offenses and public corruption crimes for which he was convicted at an earlier trial; Burrows was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment. The conviction at trial of Joseph Cammarata for stealing more than $40 million in a years-long securities fraud scheme carried out with two codefendants. Cammarata, a securities claims aggregator, was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was subsequently convicted at a separate trial of tax evasion related to the securities scheme and sentenced to a partially concurrent term of 72 months in prison. Civil Enforcements Under U.S. Attorney Romero, EDPA maintained one of the most active affirmative civil enforcement dockets in the country, including False Claims Act qui tams, civil Controlled Substances Act investigations, and civil rights matters. U.S. Attorney Romero was able to do so while supporting the Civil Division’s handling of an increased defensive litigation docket. During her tenure: The District recovered hundreds of millions of dollars through False Claims Act settlements, including $172 million from national insurer the Cigna Group ; almost $60 million in total from cardiac monitoring company BioTelemetry Inc. and two of its subsidiaries; $25 million from generic drug manufacturer Glenmark Pharmaceuticals ; $20 million from durable medical equipment supplier Electrostim Medical Services, Inc. and its chairman; more than $16 million from optical lens and lens equipment maker Essilor ; more than $15 million from Kansas chiropractic company Titan Medical Compliance and its owner; and over $8 million from the Boeing Company for allegedly failing to adhere to critical manufacturing specifications in the production of composite parts for V-22 Osprey military aircraft. The District sued AmerisourceBergen , one of the country’s largest wholesale pharmaceutical distributors, for allegedly violating federal law in connection with the distribution of controlled substances to pharmacies and other customers across the country, thereby contributing to the prescription opioid epidemic. That litigation is ongoing. Ms. Romero prioritized the Office’s civil rights work. This included the resolution of the most redlining investigations in the country, in which EDPA held financial institutions like Citadel Federal Credit Union , ESSA Bank & Trust , and Trident Mortgage Company accountable for such alleged practices. Community Outreach U.S. Attorney Romero was committed to strengthening the Office’s partnerships in the diverse communities it serves throughout the District, particularly those struggling with violent crime, opioid abuse, and the legacy of systemic exclusion from education, health care, housing, and employment. She expanded the Office’s outreach efforts, adding a youth engagement coordinator and other personnel to form a dedicated External Engagement team, which bolsters EDPA’s public safety mission. U.S. Attorney Romero and the team worked proactively with local leaders, schools, and organizations to identify potential issues that could be addressed through better community engagement, outreach to area youth, and support for people returning home to our communities from prison. *** Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., the District’s First Assistant United States Attorney, is now Acting U.S. Attorney upon Ms. Romero’s departure from the Office. Mr. Thayer is a career prosecutor with over three decades of experience in the Department of Justice.


title: U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez to Step Down, Concluding Impactful Tenure in New Mexico

component: USAO - New Mexico

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez announced his resignation today at the request of President Donald J. Trump, becoming one of over 20 U.S. Attorneys asked to step down amid the transition of presidential administrations. “Today, I say farewell to a Department that I love,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “Together, we have made our community safer by delivering swift and certain justice to the most prolific violent offenders, human and drug traffickers, and child abusers. We have saved lives by intervening to prevent violence and by supporting those who strive to return to our community from incarceration. Most importantly, we fought to build a community united in the pursuit of justice for all by choosing prevention before punishment, delivering consequences but not indignity, and seeking redemption not isolation.” Uballez, nominated by President Joseph R. Biden on January 26, 2022, and confirmed by the Senate on May 17, 2022, focused on restructuring the office’s approach to violent crime throughout his tenure. He engaged in proactive measures through the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, working in partnership with Albuquerque Community Safety’s Violence Intervention Program, to engage directly and personally with those most likely to shoot or be shot. For those who chose violence, he realigned federal law enforcement to focus on the danger of the individual, not the nature of the charge, and in doing so wielded federal jurisdiction surgically against those driving violence in our community. And he established the District’s first Federal Reentry Program in order to support people returning to our community from incarceration. Uballez’s other efforts included expanding resources and services to Tribal communities and modernizing the U.S. Attorney's Office by transitioning it from a paper file system to digital, enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness in federal prosecutions. "Alex Uballez has served the people of New Mexico with honor and distinction as U.S. Attorney and has been an incredible partner in our mission to protect the American public," said Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque field office. "Throughout his time as U.S. Attorney, Mr. Uballez has been dedicated to ensuring the safety of the citizens in our community and relentless in his pursuit of justice for victims of crime. There is no doubt his work has made a positive impact on our community. It's been a privilege to work with Mr. Uballez, we thank him for his service and wish him well in his future endeavors." “It has been a pleasure to partner with District of New Mexico U.S. Attorney Alex Uballez.” said Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “U.S. Attorney Uballez’s dedication to upholding the law and ensuring violent criminals are held responsible for their crimes has been in lock step with ATF’s mission. The ultimate goal of ATF and all law enforcement throughout the State of New Mexico is to ensure that the great citizens of New Mexico can feel safe and secure in their communities. US Attorney Uballez was in steadfast with this goal, and I truly believe he leaves his position having made New Mexico a safer place then when he took the position.” “I had the privilege of working with Alex, first as an Assistant United Sates Attorney and later as the United States Attorney,” said Margaret A. Katze, Federal Public Defender for the District of New Mexico. “Throughout his tenure, he exemplified honesty and a straightforward approach. His focus on community safety was evident in his deliberate, data-driven prosecutorial decisions, always asking whether a case would enhance public safety. Alex’s commitment to community engagement as a crime-reduction strategy was thoughtful and research-based. Under his leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office played a key role in establishing the District’s first re-entry court. I thoroughly enjoyed working with him and found our professional partnership both effective and rewarding.” “The Bernalillo County District Attorney's Office has enjoyed a strong collaboration with U.S. Attorney Alex Uballez,” said Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. “He has been a great leader for the people of New Mexico and we wish him continued success in his future endeavors.” During his tenure, Uballez also served in a senior policy role at the Department of Justice, having been appointed to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee where he advised Attorney General Merrick Garland on policy, procedure, and management impacting U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Uballez also served on subcommittees specializing in Native American issues, violent and organized crime, environmental justice, and border and immigration. Before his appointment as U.S. Attorney, Uballez was an Assistant U.S. Attorney, focusing on organized crime investigations and prosecuted serious offenses such as child sexual abuse, human trafficking, and violent crimes. As a line attorney, Uballez also handled the extradition of high-profile cartel leader Carlos Arturo Quintana, and assisted in international investigations pursuant to Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties. Following his resignation, current First Assistant U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney until a successor is nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. # # #


title: U.S. Attorney Ross outlines her accomplishments

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross became the United States Attorney on October 11, 2021. Nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on July 26, 2021, and unanimously confirmed by the Senate on September 30, 2021, she became the first black woman to hold the position in the Western District of New York. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in this position as the top law enforcement officer in the Western District of New York, my home, where I was born and raised and have spent the majority of my life.” U.S. Attorney Ross said. “And serving in this particular office was also special because I started my career as a federal prosecutor here, in 1995.” As U.S. Attorney for the 17 counties in the Western District of New York, Ms. Ross’s accomplishments are wide ranging. Cases involving approximately 1178 defendants were resolved during her tenure, including several high-profile cases: U.S. v. Robert Morgan U.S. v. Joseph Bongiovanni U.S. v. Peter Gerace U.S. v. David Jakubonis U.S. v. Abughanem Ms. Ross also oversaw the filing of charges in multiple new cases, including addition high profile cases, of national and international interest, including: U.S. v. Payton Gendron U.S. v. Hadi Matar U.S. v. Brandon Washington Under Ms. Ross’s tenure, the violent crime rate decreased in several Western District of New York counties, including Erie and Monroe Counties, home to the Cities of Buffalo and Rochester. In addition, approximately 120 appellate briefs were filed and 75 appellate oral arguments handled while Ms. Ross was U.S. Attorney, resulting in a near perfect rate of affirmations by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, notably: U.S. v. Richard Leon Wilbern U.S. v. George Moses In civil matters, between 2022 and January 2025, approximately $80,000,000 was collected in criminal, civil and forfeiture actions. That funding collected is given to victims of crime, and provided as aid to state and local law enforcement agency partners who worked with the United States Attorney’s Office on criminal cases. And Ms. Ross oversaw the largest settlement in the history of the District with a $98,000,000 settlement with Independent Health. In March, 2022, Ms. Ross was one of the first 12, of 93, United States Attorney’s to be selected to serve on the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee of U.S. Attorneys (AGAC), which she served on until her term ended after a year and a half. The AGAC advises the Attorney General on matters of policy, procedure, and management impacting the Offices of the U.S. Attorneys and elevates the voices of U.S. Attorneys in Department policies. In addition, Ms. Ross was also selected as the Chairperson for the AGAC sub-committee on Law Enforcement Coordination, Victim Assistance and Community Relations (LEVC). In this role, Ms. Ross lead the sub-committee that advised the Attorney General on matters involving law enforcement, victim assistance, and community relations. In June, 2023, Ms. Ross hosted the LEVC meeting in Buffalo, bringing U.S. Attorneys from across the country to the Buffalo area for two days. The meeting included presentations and discussions on the May 14th tragedy, which included a visit to the Tops store on Jefferson Avenue, business, and community outreach efforts, as well as multiple presentations by law enforcement. In June 2022, Ms. Ross arranged a visit by then Attorney General Merrick Garland, and other top DOJ and FBI officials, who came to Buffalo to meet with families and survivors of the Tops shooting and announce federal hate crime charges against defendant Payton Gendron. Community outreach was a hallmark of Ms. Ross’s tenure as U.S. Attorney. She worked tirelessly to build better relationships between members of the community and law enforcement in both Buffalo and Rochester. Ms. Ross developed quarterly meetings with community leaders in both cities, establishing an ongoing dialogue and building trust. She also sought new and innovative ways to reach the community, including creating the first of its kind podcast in the U.S. Attorney’s community. “Feds Demystified” sought to pull back the curtain from federal law enforcement agencies to provide information about those agencies and educate the public. Ms. Ross also created a series of Public Service Announcements, sharing important messages on Human Trafficking, Black History, Women’s History, Juneteenth, Internet Safety, and Voting Rights. In addition, she empowered members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to also get involved in the community by attending job and career fairs, speaking at local schools, and serving on the Erie County Overdose Prevention Task Force. Throughout Ms. Ross’s time as U.S. Attorney, school districts, police departments, social service agencies, and local governments received approximately $55,000,000 in federal grant funding for youth and victim services, to battle human trafficking, and initiatives addressing law enforcement, the opiate epidemic, reentry and recidivism, among others. As a result of her efforts, Ms. Ross was honored by multiple organizations for her work, including the New York State Bar Association, Erie County Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the Minority Bar Association of WNY, and the Women’s Bar Association. She was also named as a top leader in WNY in several publications, some multiple times, including Buffalo Business First’s Power 100 Business Leader of Color; Business First’s Power 200 Woman; the Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record Power 50 Law list; City & State’s Power of Diversity: Black 100 list; and City & State’s Law Power 100 list and was selected as a Woman of Distinction by the New York State Senate. Ms. Ross was also a much sought after speaker locally and across the country. She spoke at two United States Attorney’s Conferences; numerous law enforcement conferences; victims’ rights conferences; several legal and professional conferences; as well as at colleges, U.B Law School and many community events. Ms. Ross wants the community and staff in her office to know that as United States Attorney she was completely dedicated to the WNY community and the staff in her office. “I came to make positive changes inside and outside of the office, and I believe I was successful. I always want to leave a place better than when I showed up, that was the goal. And I believe I have reached that goal.” # # # #


title: Carla Freedman Concludes Her Service as United States Attorney

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Carla B. Freedman announced the conclusion of her tenure as United States Attorney, effective immediately. Ms. Freedman was sworn in on October 8, 2021. Ms. Freedman previously served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Syracuse office of the Northern District of New York from 2007 through 2021. She was a Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney and the Narcotics Chief from February 2018 through 2021. She also served as Deputy Narcotics Chief from 2016 through 2018. Ms. Freedman stated: “For over 17 years, I have had the honor and privilege of working at the United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York, first as an Assistant United States Attorney, and for the past three years, leading the office as the United States Attorney. During my tenure I have had the good fortune to work with some of the finest public servants in my office as well as with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. I could not be more proud of the work and accomplishments we have achieved in the pursuit of justice, always with integrity and commitment to the rule of law.” First Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Hanlon now serves as Acting United States Attorney.


title: First Woman Presidentially Appointed as United States Attorney for the District of Utah Departs from Post

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The first woman presidentially appointed as the United States Attorney for the District of Utah and sworn into office as the 38th United States Attorney to serve in the State of Utah, leaves the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The Honorable Trina A. Higgins was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on January 31, 2022. Her last day as United States Attorney is February 16, 2025. Under Higgins’ leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Utah focused on cases that have the largest impact and cause the most harm to Utah citizens. Working with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office significantly increased the number of financial crime prosecutions in Utah; brought more complex narcotics and firearm cases focused on defendants higher in criminal organizations; and prosecuted many significant violent crime cases, including murders, sexual assaults, child exploitation, human trafficking, robberies, and carjackings. During her tenure, The U.S. Attorney’s Office tried 35 jury trials, including three homicides committed in Tribal communities. United States Attorney Higgins was the trial attorney in one case where a man brutally murdered a Navajo woman in front of her two young daughters in the Navajo Nation. The jury found him guilty, and he was sentenced to life in prison. United States Attorney Higgins also served on several Attorney General’s Advisory Committee subcommittees for Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. Those included the Environmental Justice Subcommittee, the Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee, and the Native American Issues Subcommittee. Maintaining the United States Attorney’s strong partnerships with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies, United States Attorney Higgins made it a priority to strengthen and build upon those relationships to pursue justice and better serve the people of Utah. Leaders in the law enforcement community offered comments regarding U.S Attorney Higgins’ service. “Strong partnerships between law enforcement and prosecutors are essential to upholding the rule of law. U.S. Attorney Higgins has been an invaluable friend to the FBI and a staunch supporter of our mission,” said Mehtab Syed, Special Agent in Charge of the Salt Lake City FBI. “During her tenure, she championed the safety of Utahns, and we thank her for her years of dedicated public service.” “United States Attorney Trina Higgins has been an engaged and dedicated law enforcement partner as well as a steadfast advocate of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers. “Her extensive experience as a career prosecutor, and unwavering commitment in her pursuit of justice have been pivotal in the successful prosecution of many complex cases.” “I would like to thank United States Attorney Higgins for her many years of dedicated service as a federal prosecutor and as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah,” said U.S. Marshal Justin Martinez of the District of Utah. “USA Higgins is a consummate professional and has always kept the lines of communication open. USA Higgins is an extremally effective leader and a real change agent. She will be greatly missed by the U.S. Marshals Service and every federal, state and local agency she works with.” “With appreciation, we thank United States Attorney Higgins for her dedication to DEA efforts in the state of Utah,” said DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen. “Cooperation and hard work between DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, has led to many successful prosecutions. On behalf of the men and women of DEA, we wish nothing but the best for United States Attorney Higgins now and into the future.” "HSI is grateful for its long-standing relationship with United States Attorney Higgins and her staff," said HSI Utah Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brandon Crane. "The collaboration has had a significant impact on public safety throughout Utah and stands as an example for future collaborations." “United States Attorney Higgins has been a tremendous partner in supporting the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s efforts to safeguard the U.S. Mail, postal workers, and the public,” said Glen Henderson, Inspector in Charge of the Phoenix Division. “United States Attorney Higgins was committed to holding accountable those who harm postal employees or exploit the U.S. Mail for illicit activities, including narcotics distribution. It has been a pleasure to collaborate with United States Attorney Higgins and we wish her continued success in all her future endeavors.” “I want to thank United States Attorney Higgins for her partnership and outstanding leadership in working with our local law enforcement agencies,” said Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera. “She prioritized complex and violent offender cases to improve safety within the communities we serve.” “United States Attorney Trina Higgins’ dedication to justice and service to the community is truly exceptional and will be greatly missed,” said Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown. “Her career as a dedicated prosecutor made our city safer—whether it was prosecuting some of our first Project Safe Neighborhood cases or complex, high-profile, or challenging cases. United States Attorney Higgins handled every case with professionalism and a true sense of duty. Never did she hide from the difficult cases. We will always remember USA Higgins’ compassion for crime victims and their families. She made sure victims’ voices were heard and understood in the pursuit of justice. While we will miss United States Attorney Higgins greatly, I know her legacy will endure through the District of Utah because of her distinguished career.” United States Attorney Higgins has been in public service for 30 years. Prior to her leadership role as U.S. Attorney, Higgins served as an Assistant United States Attorney for over two decades and as a Salt Lake County Deputy District Attorney. At the time of her nomination, Higgins was serving as the Mediterranean Legal Advisor at the United States embassies in Valletta, Malta and Nicosia, Cyprus. A Utah native, Higgins earned her undergraduate degree from Weber State University and Juris Doctor degree from the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, where she also worked as an adjunct professor for a decade.


title: Head of Consulting Firm Eclipse Capital Partners Agrees to Pay Over $3.2 Million to Resolve Alleged False Claims Act Violations Relating to Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Pennsylvania resident Ronald Hoplamazian has agreed to pay $3,277,486.35 to resolve allegations that he violated the False Claims Act by misusing funds received through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program administered by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”). Hoplamazian, who runs a Pennsylvania-based consulting firm, Eclipse Capital Partners, LLC, applied for — and received — an EIDL totaling $1,900,000. In applying for the EIDL, Hoplamazian represented that he would use the funds solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hoplamazian instead allegedly transferred a majority of the EIDL proceeds to a personal investment account, which is inconsistent with EIDL regulations. “SBA loaned Hoplamazian almost two million dollars to help his business recover from economic harms caused by the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Hoplamazian instead allegedly used the EIDL proceeds for an entirely different purpose — to make personal investments — a purpose he knew to be inconsistent with the rules of the EIDL program. We will continue working with our partners to hold accountable individuals and businesses who misuse government programs like this.” “This settlement underscores the SBA Office of Inspector General’s commitment to identifying and holding accountable those who attempt to defraud programs intended to support small businesses,” said Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, Special Agent in Charge of SBA OIG’s Eastern Region. “The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program was created to provide financial relief to businesses struggling due to unforeseen circumstances, not for personal enrichment through fraudulent means. SBA OIG will continue to work diligently with our law enforcement partners to protect taxpayer dollars and ensure these critical funds reach those who truly need them.” This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General. It was handled by Deputy Chief Charlene Keller Fullmer, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mansi G. Shah, and Auditor Denis Cooke. The settled civil claims are allegations only. There has been no determination of civil liability.


title: Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 87 months in Federal Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm as a Drug User

body_text: Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Reynaldo Kinjo Zialcita, age 53, was sentenced on February 12, 2025, to 87 months federal prison. He pled guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride with Intent to Distribute, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), and Drug User in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3). The Court also ordered three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and a mandatory $200.00 special assessment fee. In addition, defendants convicted of a federal drug offense may no longer qualify for certain federal benefits. On November 16, 2023, Guam Police Department officers conducted a motor vehicle stop. The driver, Reynaldo Kinjo Zialcita, was asked to produce his driver’s license. Zialcita then picked up a small bag on the passenger seat, put his hand in the bag, and turned his back to the officer to conceal it. Zialcita was ordered out of the car and then gave consent to search the bag for his license. The bag contained a glass jar with 249.6 grams of methamphetamine along with a loaded Sig Sauer P365 pistol. Zialcita admitted being a drug addict and said that he started selling methamphetamine in various game rooms during the COVID-19 pandemic. He bought the firearm to protect himself from being robbed of his drug proceeds. The firearm had previously been reported stolen in a March 2023 residential burglary. “This case is another example of the danger faced by law enforcement during traffic stops,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “This type of prosecution not only prevented the distribution of a substantial quantity of drugs. It also reduced the risk of future gun-related violence. I commend GPD for its aggressive interdiction efforts.” “Dealing drugs and possessing firearms is a losing, and very dangerous, combination,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “This sentence will give Mr. Zialcita time to reflect on his actions and hopefully change his lawless ways.” The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Guam Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Devarup Rastogi prosecuted the case in the District of Guam.


title: Midland DTO Leader Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison

body_text: MIDLAND, Texas – A Mexican national unlawfully residing in Texas was sentenced Thursday to life in federal prison for his criminal actions as the leader of a drug trafficking organization tied to a Mexican cartel. According to court documents, Jose Ramon Castillo-Lopez aka “Pepo,” 30, of Namiquipa, Chihuahua, Mexico, supplied a co-conspirator with a firearm, along with methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl “M30” pills for distribution purposes. Castillo-Lopez also utilized a garage in Midland to disassemble stolen vehicles as load vehicles used to transport illicit drugs and money. On Oct. 1, 2022, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents learned that Castillo-Lopez had been arrested and charged with attempted capital murder for allegedly shooting a Seminole, Texas police officer. Through a review of his phone calls in the Gaines County Jail, DEA agents confirmed that Castillo-Lopez was the leader of a United States-based DTO, working directly with his counterpart on the Mexican side of the organization. Additionally, Castillo-Lopez had instructed in detail two co-defendants, his girlfriend Myra Mendez and her brother Aaron Mendez, to take over the DTO operations in the United States. Castillo-Lopez was responsible for the distribution of 100-300 pounds of actual methamphetamine per month, more than 20 kgs of cocaine, and several hundred grams of fentanyl M-30 pills and heroin. Additionally, Castillo-Lopez was responsible for telling the Mexican side of the DTO how much and what types of narcotics were needed for distribution, the collection of narcotics proceeds, and he ensured distribution occurred in Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Amarillo, San Angelo and throughout the state of Mississippi. Castillo-Lopez pleaded guilty on Sept. 23, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 5 kgs or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. “This federal life sentence is a significant victory for the United States in combatting the Mexican cartels and their drug trafficking organizations,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Castillo-Lopez was responsible for orchestrating the movement of massive amounts of dangerous narcotics into our country and through our communities. This case is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners. Together, we prioritize the safety of Americans and will bring the full force of justice to criminal organizations.” “Mr. Castillo-Lopez now has a lifetime to contemplate the terrible choices he made,” said Towanda R. Thorne-James, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s El Paso Division. “He willingly put the lives of Texans and Mississippians at risk and now he’s facing the consequences. The men and women of the DEA will continue to bring other drug traffickers like him to their own day of reckoning.” The DEA investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Midland Sheriff’s Office, Odessa Police Department and the Midland Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Sloane prosecuted the case. ###


title: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Related Offense

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Pennsylvania resident has been sentenced for drug-related charges in the Northern District of West Virginia. Jo-El Torres, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. During a traffic stop in Clarksburg, West Virginia, a K9 officer positively alerted for the presence of drugs in a vehicle occupied by Torres. Torres was directed to exit the vehicle. At that point, Torres attempted to swallow a bag and its contents. Officers were able to subdue him and retrieve the bag. Subsequent lab tests confirmed that the bag contained fentanyl and other drugs. This is the third federal drug conviction for Torres. Torres will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The matter was investigated by the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA funded initiative; the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office; the Clarksburg Police Department; and the West Virginia State Police. U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.