title: Lone American indicted in international drug trafficking investigation sentenced to five years in prison

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A U.S. citizen deeply enmeshed in an international drug smuggling conspiracy was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to five years in prison, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Just over a year ago, law enforcement teams from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Seattle Police Department and IRS Criminal Investigation executed 24 search or arrest warrants taking four people into custody who were linked to the drug trafficking conspiracy. 56-year-old Curtis McDaniel was arrested at a Tukwila motel and has been in custody ever since. The drug conspirators arrested on June 5, 2024, have ties to suppliers in Mexico and Colombia. In sentencing McDaniel to five years in prison and four years of supervised release to follow his prison term, U.S. District Judge Tana Lin referenced the significant impact that McDaniel’s distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine have upon our community—specifically noting that methamphetamine and cocaine were the second and third most common substances involved in overdose deaths in King County in 2024. Lead defendant Ramon Duarte Garcia, 37, a citizen of Mexico who lived in Kent, Washington, was identified as a significant drug supplier when law enforcement stopped him driving back to the Pacific Northwest with 12 pounds of methamphetamine in his vehicle, along with a stolen firearm and $10,000 in drug trafficking proceeds. Duarte Garcia, was sentenced to ten years in prison in May 2025 . Defendant Humberto Lopez Rodriguez, 30, a citizen of Mexico, formerly of Renton, Washington, is scheduled for sentencing on July 30, 2025. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized 84,000 fentanyl pills, more than a kilogram of fentanyl powder, 32 kilograms of cocaine, 15 kilograms of methamphetamine nearly three kilograms of heroin, and $71,000 in drug proceeds. They recovered nine guns, including an AK-47. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. The investigation is being led by the DEA and Seattle Police Department. The IRS Criminal Investigation and OCDETF Auditor for the U.S. Attorney’s Office are conducting the financial investigation that is focused on the money launderers responsible for the transfer of significant sums of drug trafficking proceeds to sources of supply in Mexico and Colombia. Additional assistance was provided by Renton Police Department, Centralia Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General (HUD OIG), Washington State Patrol, Pierce County and Valley SWAT teams. The Colombian National Police (CNP) and Colombian Prosecutor’s Office (Fiscalia General) partnered with U.S. law enforcement on this investigation. The Justice Department’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of the Judicial Attaché in Bogotá provided critical assistance. The cases from this investigation are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joe Silvio and C. Andrew Colasurdo in the Western District of Washington.


title: Oxford Man Sentenced to 156 Months in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor and Receipt of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Oxford man was sentenced on June 25, 2025, to 156 months in federal prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activities and Receipt of Child Pornography. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Eric Gene Rundle, 44, communicated with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as a fifteen-year-old girl. Rundle made plans to meet with the fifteen-year-old to engage in sex acts and was arrested at the meeting location. Rundle had a cell phone with him which was searched. Rundle used the device to receive, view, and possess images and videos containing child sexual abuse material. After completing his term of imprisonment, Rundle will be required to serve a seven-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Eugene Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl and Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.— A Eugene man was sentenced to federal prison today for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine in Oregon. David Toedtemeier, 34, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. According to court documents, on January 24, 2022, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, officers from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team conducted a traffic stop on Toedtemeier’s vehicle in Deschutes County, Oregon. Toedtemeier, his wife, and their infant child were in the vehicle at the time of the stop. The officers searched Toedtemeier’s vehicle and located a safe on the rear passenger floorboard, located just beneath the car seat of the infant child, which contained fentanyl pills, heroin, methamphetamine, and a firearm. Additionally, officers found fentanyl, methamphetamine, a digital scale, Narcan nasal spray, and multiple cell phones in the trunk of the vehicle. Later the same day, officers searched Toedtemeier’s residence and seized methamphetamine, heroin, and a firearm. When questioned by investigators, Toedtemeier admitted to possessing the drugs and firearms and stated that he intended to sell the drugs in Oregon. On February 17, 2022, Toedtemeier was charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On March 6, 2025, Toedtemeier pleaded guilty to one-count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one-count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The case was investigated by the CODE team with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency. It was prosecuted by Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. The CODE team is a multi-jurisdictional operation, comprised of federal, state, county and city law enforcement agencies that investigate large-scale drug trafficking organizations. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org . Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.


title: District Man Charged with Assaulting MPD Officer with Intent to Kill Following Knife Attack in Northwest

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Ian Andre Zephyrin, 45, of the District of Columbia, has been charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and assault on a police officer while armed following an incident that occurred on June 24, 2025, during which Zephyrin allegedly assaulted a police officer with a knife. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Zephyrin was presented today before Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum, who ordered Zephyrin held without bond until a July 7, 2025 preliminary hearing before Judge Rainey Brandt. According to court documents, on June 24, 2025, at approximately 8:31 a.m., MPD officers responded to a call regarding a theft in progress at a CVS in Northwest. A CVS employee reported that defendant Ian Zephyrin had allegedly filled a reusable bag with unpaid merchandise and walked past all points of sale, last seen heading northbound towards V Street NW. The CVS employee also reported that Zephyrin allegedly attempted to grab her phone as she was trying to call the police. MPD officers later located Zephyrin in the 600 block of Florida Avenue NW. When approached by officers, Zephyrin fled, dropping the allegedly stolen merchandise. Officers pursued Zephyrin and attempted to apprehend him. However, during the apprehension, Zephyrin allegedly pulled out a knife with a black handle and silver blade and swung it multiple times at the MPD officer, striking the officer in the head and causing the officer to bleed profusely. Zephyrin was then apprehended and placed under arrest. Court documents say that the injured MPD officer sustained severe injuries to the head, including a three-inch laceration that required 30 stitches. This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Scholz is prosecuting this case. All charges are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Offenses

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Christopher Garrow, age 39, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty on June 9 to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement. Garrow admitted to trafficking drugs for several months in 2024. In May 2024, officers arrested Garrow on unrelated state arrest warrants and discovered cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and a revolver in his backpack. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Gun-toting drug dealers should be afraid – not just of dying in the streets as a result of their chosen profession, but of swift and decisive federal prosecution that will put them behind bars for many years. Schenectady County will be safer with this criminal off the streets.” ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “Protecting the public from violent crime remains one of our highest priorities. This case reflects how illegal firearms and drug trafficking often go hand in hand, creating serious threats to our communities. Strong partnerships with local law enforcement are essential to disrupting these dangerous networks and holding offenders accountable. ATF New York thanks our partners from the Schenectady PD, the Schenectady County DA’s Office & U.S. Attorney’s Office of Northern District of NY for their continued dedication to public safety and collaboration in pursuit of justice.” Schenectady County District Attorney Robert M. Carney stated: “We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its successful prosecution of Mr. Garrow, who did present a real danger to our community. I know that Assistant District Attorney James Faucher from our Major Crimes Bureau worked closely with federal authorities to help shape this case for federal prosecution based on his knowledge of Mr. Garrow’s activities from other matters. We have over my tenure as DA often referred gun cases to federal prosecutors and I thank Mr. Sarcone for continuing that association.” At sentencing, Garrow faces a prison term of at least 10 years and up to life, and a supervised release term of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. ATF investigated the case with assistance from the Schenectady Police Department and the Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn .


title: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents. Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials. According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage. On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement. The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Nation’s Largest Property Management Company to Pay Over $1.4M for Unlawful Charges on Military Servicemembers

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: WASHINGTON — The Justice Department announced today that Greystar Management Services LLC will pay over $1.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) when it imposed illegal fees on military servicemembers who terminated their leases after receiving military relocation orders. The Department alleged that Greystar, the nation’s largest property management company with over 800,000 housing units under management, relied on software that it knew would automatically impose early termination charges on SCRA-protected servicemembers. Greystar will set aside $1.35 million to pay affected military members and their co-tenants and will pay a $77,370 civil penalty. Greystar will pay triple damages to the servicemembers who paid the early termination charges. The company will also make changes to its policies and training, including adopting SCRA-compliant software and forms at all its properties. “We honor the service and sacrifices of our military by defending their rights under the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are aggressively enforcing all laws, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, to protect our military servicemembers and veterans.” “America’s servicemembers devote their lives to defending our nation and must be able to do so without undue burdens,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects our military families from unfair hardships such as penalties for terminating a housing lease to fulfill military orders. We will continue to defend and support those who keep our country safe.” The Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $483 million in monetary relief for over 148,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the department’s SCRA enforcement efforts, please visit www.servicemembers.gov . Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA may have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations can be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil . ###


title: Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man, who is a Level 3 sex offender, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Bryan Horgan, 59, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography before U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani who scheduled sentencing for Sept. 18, 2025. Horgan was indicted by a federal grand jury i n June 2025 after being charged by complaint and arrested on April 26, 2024. He has remained in custody since that time. Horgan was identified as the owner of a Microsoft account uploading CSAM. During a search of Horgan’s residence, law enforcement identified an electronic device that was found to contain several video files of CSAM depicting children as young as infants. Another device contained filenames with words and phrases indicative of CSAM. Horgan was previously convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of rape of a child, assault to rape a child, indecent assault and battery on a child, disseminating obscene material to a minor, and possession of child pornography. Due to Horgan’s prior convictions, the charge of possession of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Soto of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


body_text: The Justice Department announced today that Greystar Management Services LLC will pay over $1.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) when it imposed illegal fees on military servicemembers who terminated their leases after receiving military relocation orders. The Department alleged that Greystar, the nation’s largest property management company with over 800,000 housing units under management, relied on software that it knew would automatically impose early termination charges on SCRA-protected servicemembers. Greystar will set aside $1.35 million to pay affected military members and their co-tenants and will pay a $77,370 civil penalty. Greystar will pay triple damages to the servicemembers who paid the early termination charges. The company will also make changes to its policies and training, including adopting SCRA-compliant software and forms at all its properties. “We honor the service and sacrifices of our military by defending their rights under the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are aggressively enforcing all laws, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, to protect our military servicemembers and veterans.” “America’s servicemembers devote their lives to defending our nation and must be able to do so without undue burdens,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act protects our military families from unfair hardships such as penalties for terminating a housing lease to fulfill military orders. We will continue to defend and support those who keep our country safe.” The Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $483 million in monetary relief for over 148,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the department’s SCRA enforcement efforts, please visit www.servicemembers.gov . Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA may have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations can be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil .


title: Wood County man sentenced to 55 years in federal prison for child exploitation violations

component: USAO - Texas, Eastern

body_text: TYLER, Texas – A Mineola man has been sentenced to 55 years in federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Fransisco Gonzalez, also known as Kiko Gonzalez, 29, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child and was sentenced to 660 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on June 23, 2025. According to information presented in court, over the course of several months, Gonzalez sexually exploited a minor female victim. Under the guise of taking her to church, he isolated her from her family, then used her to produce sexually explicit images and videos. Later, he distributed several of the images to others. “Fransisco Gonzalez is on his way to prison where he will serve a very long sentence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “For his crimes, he deserves every day of that lengthy term. I commend the efforts of the team that brought this defendant to justice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office stands committed to seeking justice for victims and to defending the defenseless.” This case was prosecuted 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to 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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov. This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety - Criminal Investigations Division and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld and Lucas Machicek. ###


title: Armed Crips Member Receives Six Years in Prison

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Greenville gang member was sentenced to 72 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Leonard Williams Jr., 36, pled guilty to the charges on February 18, 2025. According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force conducted several controlled purchases of cocaine from Williams Jr. during July and August 2024. On August 12, 2024, law enforcement searched a residence associated with Williams Jr. on Ward Street and found more than an ounce of cocaine and a loaded .40 caliber handgun in the bedroom. According to law enforcement, Williams Jr. is a validated member of the 83 set of the Crips street gang. Williams Jr. has a prior conviction from 2016 for conspiracy to commit second degree murder. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00072.


title: California Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS

body_text: Ammaad Akhtar, 33, of Stockton, was arrested today and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. According to court documents, since February 2025, Akhtar has been communicating online with a law enforcement-controlled individual, whom Akhtar believed was a member of ISIS. In these conversations, Akhtar voiced his support for ISIS and jihad, expressed a desire to travel overseas to join and fight with ISIS, and stated a desire to send guns and money to ISIS. In April 2025, during this investigation, Akhtar demonstrated a desire to provide support for ISIS and did so by providing financial funding on multiple occasions. After a few payments, the law enforcement-controlled individual indicated that ISIS had procured several guns with the money Akhtar had sent. In his response, Akhtar said, “may Allah destroy our enemies” and affirmed that he would send more money that same day. Akhtar also talked about planning acts of violence, including conducting an attack against a specific individual and an attack utilizing homemade explosives. He said he “want[s] to die in the cause of Allah fighting the kuffar [infidels]” and asked for instructions on how to make a homemade explosive device in order “to make a boom” at a populated event. Then, on June 23, 2025, Akhtar met with an individual he believed was an ISIS associate, but who was actually an undercover employee. Akhtar provided clothing, binoculars, $400 cash, two loaded guns, and six additional magazines. Akhtar then swore bayat (a pledge of loyalty) to ISIS. If convicted, Akhtar faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California, and Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement. The FBI’s Sacramento Field Office is investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the FBI’s New York Field Office and the New York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Wong for the Eastern District of California and Trial Attorney Ryan D. White of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Haverhill Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Cocaine and Firearms Trafficking

body_text: BOSTON – A Haverhill man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for trafficking cocaine and illegal firearms in and around the Boston area. Cordell Miller, 29, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 42 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In February 2025 , Miller pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting and one count of trafficking in firearms and conspiracy to do so. Miller was arrested and charged in November 2023 along with co-conspirators Malcolm Desir and Alan Robinson. Miller was identified as a firearms and ammunition trafficker in the metro Boston area. In August 2023, Miller arranged for the sale of distribution weight cocaine and several firearms to a cooperating witness. Prior to his arrest in November 2023, Miller and Robinson facilitated the sale of four separate firearms: an AR-15 “ghost gun” rifle; a Polymer 80 “ghost gun” pistol; a HIPOINT 9mm rifle; and a Ruger .38 caliber pistol. In April 2025 , Robinson was sentenced to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Desir was sentenced on June 18, 2025 to seven years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, with the first year to be served in home detention. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Scott Riordan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.


title: Leader of Jackson Gang Sentenced to Over 17 Years in Federal Prison  for Conspiracy to Traffic Unique Form of Fentanyl

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – A Houston, Texas resident and leader of the violent Jackson street gang the “Thorough Bread Family,” Tamarious “Poogi” Faulkner, was sentenced to 210 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced today. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Detroit Field Division, Colonel James F. Grady, II, Michigan State Police, Director Elmer J. Hitt, Jackson Police and Fire Services, and Sheriff Gary Schuette, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Tamarious Faulkner, 28, of Houston, Texas, was the leader of the Thorough Bread Family (TBF), a violent street gang that primarily operates in Jackson, Michigan. Faulkner and his co-conspirators distributed large amounts of fentanyl in Jackson. According to court documents, the fentanyl sold by the gang had a unique texture and coloring. Unlike most fentanyl, typically sold in powder form, TBF’s fentanyl was sold in a rock-like crystalline form, and was often colored yellow, purple, or green, rather than the usual white. As this new type of fentanyl pushed by Tamarious Faulkner and the TBF gang appeared on the streets, Jackson Police witnessed a spike in overdoses and violence. The mother of one of those fatal overdose victims, who described her daughter as “a beautiful soul,” wrote, “Under his leadership, this gang has taken lives, destroyed families, and devastated an entire community.” After the arrest and prosecution of many TBF members, including Tamarious Faulkner, Jackson Chief of Police Christopher A. Simpson noted that the Jackson community, “almost immediately rebounded . . . violent crime was cut in half . . . overdoses decreased, as well as the associated crimes with it.” Six other co-conspirators have already been sentenced as follows: Demond Johns, age 27 of Jackson: 128 months’ prison Dominque Faulkner, age 33 of Jackson: 126 months’ prison Zaire Faulkner, age 26 of Jackson: 10 years’ prison Demarquan Smith, age 23 of Jackson: 10 years’ prison Tommy Owens, age 33 of Jackson: 87 months’ prison Mario Murguia, age 24 of Jackson: 5 years’ prison “Gangs bring drugs and death to our communities. We are grateful that we can work alongside our federal, state, and local partners in the fight against this scourge,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said. “With Today’s sentencing, Jackson, Michigan, is a safer place to live,” said James Deir, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Detroit Field Division. “Dominique Faulkner and the Thorough Bred gang chose guns, drugs, and violence—and now they are all where they belong: FEDERAL PRISON. Their reign of fear and terror in our community is over. There is no place in the great state of Michigan for cowards who choose greed and gun violence to profit from armed drug dealing. The people of Jackson deserve better; certainly, not thugs who think they’re above the law.” This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the Michigan State Police, Jackson Police Department, and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Picek, Matthew Roth, and Craig Welkener.


title: Federal Inmate Sentenced to an Additional Five Years for Fatal Stabbing of Fellow Inmate

body_text: TERRE HAUTE— Otha Don Watkins III, 43, of Cairo, Illinois has been sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter and possessing contraband in prison. According to court documents, in April of 2023, Otha Watkins was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, serving a 23-year sentence for aiding and abetting armed bank robbery, possession of a stolen firearm, and conspiracy to commit robbery. While in prison, Watkins obtained a piece of metal, sharpened to a point on one end and wrapped with white cloth on the other. This object, commonly known as a “prison shank” is classified as prohibited because it is a weapon or designed or intended to be used as a weapon. On April 14, 2023, Watkins was assigned to Unit D-2 of the USP. Inmate Carlos Shelton (“Shelton”) was assigned to the same unit. That day, Watkins and Shelton met on a tier in the unit and began fighting, both armed with improvised shanks. During the course of the fight, Watkins fatally stabbed Shelton in the chest, damaging arteries associated with the heart and lungs. The stab wound led to a massive hemothorax. Shelton died on April 14, 2023. “Given Otha Watkins’ history of violent offenses, culminating in the brutal attack he carried out in the Terre Haute prison, it’s evident that he should never be allowed to live outside federal custody again,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the FBI and our federal prosecutor for their tireless efforts to ensure this defendant faces justice. I hope that the conclusion of this case provides some sense of closure and peace to Mr. Shelton’s family.” "Today's sentencing marks the conclusion of a senseless act of violence that took place within the walls of our correctional institution,” said a Bureau of Prisons Spokesperson. “Otha Watkins demonstrated an utter disregard for human life and the rule of law. The court's decision affirms that such actions carry severe consequences, and it sends a clear and resounding message: acts of violence in federal prison will be met with the full weight of the law." “This brutal killing is a reminder that violence can occur anywhere, even within the confines of the most secure environments,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “The FBI and our partners are committed to protecting all individuals, regardless of their incarceration status, and we will continue to work to ensure those who commit violent acts while incarcerated, are held fully accountable.” The FBI and Bureau of Prisons investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II. Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Jayson W. McGrath, who prosecuted this case. ###


title: Illegal alien sentenced for trafficking over $1 million in cocaine

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 40-year-old Mexican national illegally in the United States has been ordered to prison for possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei. Miguel Angel Reyes-Sanchez pleaded guilty Aug. 2, 2024. Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered him to serve 57 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described Reyes-Sanchez’s role in the drug trafficking organization and that he was involved in multiple transactions. The investigation revealed that on April 2, 2024, Reyes-Sanchez placed a white cardboard box into a silver Buick that Cesar Gonzales was driving. Authorities conducted a traffic stop which lead to the discovery of 3.5 kilograms of cocaine inside the vehicle. Gonzales attempted to flee on foot, but law enforcement was able to apprehend him. A month later, law enforcement observed Reyes-Sanchez in another drug transaction which resulted in the discovery of an additional 49.2 kilograms of cocaine. He admitted he knew he was transporting the drugs on that date and to providing the cocaine to Gonzales. The drugs from both instances had an estimated street value of $1.2 million. Reyes-Sanchez will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Gonzales, 24, McAllen, had also pleaded guilty and was previously sentenced to 24 months in federal prison. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case.


title: Gillette man sentenced for defrauding U.S. Government

component: USAO - Wyoming

body_text: James M. Alexander, 63, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release for theft of government property (disability benefits) and filing a false income tax return. In addition, the court ordered restitution of $409,422.28 and a special assessment of $200. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on June 17 in Cheyenne. Judge Johnson ordered the Defendant to begin serving the 12-month sentence on August 4, 2025. According to court records, as a result of an injury suffered on his job at BNSF Railway, the Defendant applied for and received total and permanent disability benefits from the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (“RRB”). The RRB administers disability benefits to railroad employees who were totally and permanently disabled and unable to work in any kind of regular job as a result of their work for the railroad. As a condition of receiving monthly disability benefits, the Defendant agreed to inform the RRB if he earned any income or his condition improved, as this would impact his ability to continue receiving monthly disability benefits. From January 1, 2016, to December 2024, the Defendant failed to report to RRB that his disability did not prevent him from working and/or that he had received substantial income for construction/remodeling work he performed. For example, he failed to report to the RRB income he earned from a construction company from January 2016 to August 2023, totaling $330,830. The defendant further admitted to filing false returns that underreported his true income, including the income he received from a construction company. Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Sprecher said, “Our office remains steadfast in the pursuit of those who steal from federal programs and deprive the government of vital income for public programs. The defendant’s actions not only defrauded the RRB out of much needed revenue to assist those who are truly disabled, but he also cheated his fellow citizens who pay their fair share of taxes. Thanks to the excellent investigative work conducted by our federal partners, he was held accountable for his actions." “This sentence shows our dedication to holding accountable those who defraud government programs and disregard their tax obligations,” said Amanda Prestegard, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-CI Denver Field Office. “As demonstrated, our agents will continue to partner with the U.S.Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners to diligently fight the abuses of government programs and hold those responsible for deliberately hiding their income.”The RRB-Office of Inspector General and IRS-Criminal Investigations investigated the crime. Case No. 25-CR-00035


title: Illegal alien with prior murder conviction sentenced to 69 months in federal prison

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: An illegal alien with a prior murder conviction was sentenced to 69 months in federal prison for illegal reentry after removal from the United States, announced Nancy E. Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. Francisco Alan Martinez Camara, a 36-year-old national of Mexico, pled guilty in March 2025 to illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported. Court documents show that this was Martinez Camara’s second conviction for illegally reentering the United States. He was first convicted in March 2022 in the Western District of Texas and was sentenced to six months in federal prison. According to court records, in April 2013, Martinez Camara pled guilty to the state offense of murder in Webb County, Texas. After serving his sentence for that offense, he was deported from the United States in 2016. On Monday, June 16, United States Chief District Judge David C. Godbey sentenced Martinez Camara to 69 months’ imprisonment for his second conviction for illegally reentering the United States. During the sentencing hearing, Judge Godbey admonished Martinez Camara that the penalties for any future immigration violations, including illegal reentry into the United States, would likely increase if he again reentered the United States without authorization. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Aulbaugh prosecuted the case.


title: Dallas man with three prior domestic violence convictions sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for firearm possession

body_text: A Dallas man with three prior domestic violence convictions was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson. Thomas Keithlun Brown, 26, pled guilty to the federal offense of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in September 2024. He was sentenced on June 18, 2025, to 70 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Ed Kinkeade. At sentencing, prosecutors argued for a 70-month sentence given the defendant’s extensive history assaulting women and domestic violence convictions. This case is part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas’s Domestic Violence Initiative. This initiative is aimed at keeping firearms out of the hands of domestic abusers by using the tools of federal prosecution. History shows that gun violence and domestic violence are intertwined, and that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a remarkably high risk of homicide. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Denton Police Department conducted the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John Boyle and Luis Suarez.


title: Hanford Contractor, Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS),  Agrees to Pay $6.5 Million to Resolve Allegations of Fraud

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Richland, Washington – Today Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that federal contractor Washington River Protection Solutions, LLC (WRPS), has paid $6,500,000to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) as part of a settlement agreement resolving allegations that WRPS fraudulently overcharged the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for millions of dollars in labor hours. According to court documents, the False Claims Act claim arose from allegations that WRPS’ management was aware of and failed to prevent inflated labor hours being charged to DOE, including labor hours in which WRPS employees, paid for with federal funds, were not scheduled or assigned sufficient work to perform. Under the cost-plus-award-fee contract with DOE for the management and operation of the Hanford Site’s “Tank Farms,” which consist of 176 large underground storage tanks holding millions of gallons of mixed hazardous and radioactive waste, WRPS was able to receive reimbursement for its claimed allowable costs, including labor. According to the allegations filed in court, WRPS fraudulently inflated reimbursable costs by failing to provide its employees with work assignments sufficient to fill an entire shift and then directed those same employees to record their time as if they had worked the entire shift. This false recording of time resulted in WRPS knowingly submitting false claims for the payment of those labor hours. Under the settlement agreement entered into with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, WRPS has now admitted that between October 1, 2017, and December 31, 2024, it sought and received reimbursement from DOE for labor hours made up of unallowable excessive idle time. WRPS has further admitted in the settlement agreement that it did not schedule or assign sufficient work to be performed by its personnel. WRPS has paid a total settlement amount of $6,500,000, of which $3,000,000 is restitution, meaning that WRPS has had to pay more than double the damage it caused to DOE and the taxpayers. “This is unfortunately not the first time that WRPS has settled allegations of committing fraud on the Tank Farms Contract,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker, referring to a 2017 False Claims Act settlement with WRPS where it paid $5.275 million to resolve allegations that it knowingly submitted false claims to DOE for overtime and premium pay as well as that it had failed to comply with its internal audit requirements. “As a result of its past record, and its more recent conduct, WRPS has had to admit to that conduct and has been forced to pay more than twice as much as the money taken from DOE and the taxpayers. This is appropriate where the falsely charged labor hours were based, in part, on WRPS’ failure to assign and provide sufficient work to its employees, which were paid for with federal taxpayer money.” In December 2022, a WRPS employee came forward with allegations of labor mischarging. This whistleblower, known as a “Relator,” filed a qui tam complaint under seal in the U.S. District Court (EDWA) under the False Claims Act. When a relator files a qui tam complaint, the False Claims Act requires the United States to investigate the allegations and elect whether to intervene and take over the action or to decline to intervene and allow the relator to go forward with the litigation on behalf of the United States. The relator is generally able to then share in any recovery. As part of the settlement agreement, the relator will receive $1,400,000 of the settlement amount and is entitled to have WRPS pay attorney fees. “The relator-whistleblower in this case is to be commended,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “This individual came forward with serious and credible allegations of fraud that were then investigated for years. We are able to uncover fraud and hold fraudsters accountable only when good people come forward and report it to law enforcement, whether that’s through the filing of an under seal qui tam complaint or stepping forward as a witness,” continued Barker. “The Office of Inspector General is committed to ensuring the integrity of Department contracts by detecting and holding accountable those who choose to engage in false claim schemes. This settlement is a result of our staff’s dedicated work to ensure public funds are used for the mission-related purposes for which they are intended,” stated Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Lewe Sessions. “We appreciate the efforts of the Department of Justice in pursuing this matter and will continue to work collaboratively with them to aggressively investigate those who seek to defraud Department programs.” The settlement was the result of an investigation jointly conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) and the Department of Energy Office of Inspector General. The USAO’s investigation and prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tyler H.L. Tornabene. The Relator was represented by the law firms of Mehri & Skalet PLLC, Teller & Associates, PLLC, and Smith & Lowney, PLLC. The settlement agreement can be viewed at the link below: fully_executed_wrps_0.pdf


title: Illegal alien pleads guilty to unlawfully reentering the country

body_text: BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 49-year-old man from El Trapiche, Guerrero, Mexico, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Angel Zavaleta-Rodriguez was previously removed from the United States in August 2000 and had previously returned illegally. Authorities removed him Nov. 13, 2023, but encountered him again March 25 in Harlingen. Zavaleta-Rodriguez had been residing in Sebastian illegally. U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera will impose sentencing Sept. 7. At that time, Zavaleta-Rodriguez faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine. Zavaleta-Rodriguez has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation along with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Coronado is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood .


title: William R. Keyes Takes Oath as U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia

component: Department of Justice

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – William R. “Will” Keyes took the oath of office at noon today, administered by Chief U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner, to become the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Mr. Keyes as the interim U.S. Attorney on June 20. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the C.B. King United States Courthouse in Albany. “It is a tremendous honor to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, and I am incredibly grateful that President Trump and Attorney General Bondi have placed their trust in me,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “I care deeply for this District and look forward to working closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners on behalf of all Middle Georgians. Together, we will protect our communities and uphold the rule of law.” As the U.S. Attorney, Mr. Keyes is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the Middle District of Georgia, which covers 70 of Georgia’s 159 counties and includes Albany, Athens, Columbus, Macon and Valdosta with a population of approximately 2,045,000 people. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes in the district, including crimes related to terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, fraud, firearms, illegal gangs and narcotics. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States. U.S. Attorney Keyes joined the Department of Justice as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Middle District of Georgia in 2018. He has prosecuted a broad range of federal criminal cases, including drug trafficking organizations, violent crime, child exploitation, and offenses related to terrorism. He has held numerous leadership roles in the office, including the Project Safe Neighborhood Coordinator, Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council, National Security Cyber Specialist and District Election Officer. Most recently, he served as the Deputy Criminal Chief. Before joining the office, U.S. Attorney Keyes was on active duty in the U.S. Army. He served with the Office of Military Commissions in Washington, D.C., prosecuting alleged members of Al-Qaeda in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Before that assignment, he deployed to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, where he served as a legal advisor to soldiers operating throughout Kuwait and Iraq. He began his career at a law firm in Atlanta. In addition to his duties with the office, U.S. Attorney Keyes serves in the U.S. Army Reserve as a Judge Advocate. In this capacity, he has provided instruction on humanitarian law to forces from partner nations in East Africa and Central America. His military awards include the Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and he is a graduate of the U.S. Army Airborne School. U.S. Attorney Keyes holds four degrees from the University of Georgia, which include his law degree, a master’s degree in economics and undergraduate degrees in economics and statistics. He remains involved with the University of Georgia and currently serves on the alumni board for the business school. A lifelong Georgian, Mr. Keyes and his wife, Margaret Sullivan Keyes, who was born and raised in Albany, live in Macon, where they are raising their two sons. U.S. Attorney Keyes succeeds C. Shanelle Booker, who has served as the Acting U.S. Attorney since January and will continue to serve as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney (FAUSA) for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. Attorney Keyes recognized FAUSA Booker for her exemplary service to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia and said, “Mrs. Booker is a gifted leader and has done an incredible job serving our District.” The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. For more information about the office, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga .


title: Monaca Resident Sentenced to Two Decades in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Obstructing Justice

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Monaca, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years of incarceration, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his convictions for sexual exploitation of a minor and obstructing justice, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Nicholas Sittig, 28, on June 23, 2025. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around August 2023 until in and around April 2024, Sittig induced a minor, who resided in California, to produce a visual depiction of the minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct for Sittig’s sexual gratification. In and around December 2023, when Sittig became aware that federal law enforcement officers were investigating him, Sittig induced the minor to aid him in destroying records and documents related to his sexual offenses against the minor—namely, his contact information in the minor’s cellular telephone and social media messages between himself and the minor—with the intent to impede, obstruct, and influence the investigation. The Court was further advised that agents with Homeland Security Investigations had identified a second minor, residing in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, whom Sittig similarly exploited online from December 2023 through March 2024. Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman acknowledged the seriousness of Sittig’s offenses and the harm Sittig caused his minor victims. Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations—Pittsburgh, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (San Francisco and Pittsburgh), the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and the Monaca Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sittig. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Illegal alien imprisoned for 180 months for transporting thousands of videos and images of child sexual abuse material into U.S.

body_text: LAREDO, Texas - A 42-year-old Mexican citizen with a B1/B2 visa has been sentenced to federal prison for attempting to enter the United States with child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Martin Alonso Diaz-Lopez pleaded guilty July 9, 2024, to transportation of child pornography. U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen has now sentenced Diaz-Lopez to 180 months in federal prison. In handing down the prison term, the court held him accountable for 66,489 images and noted that Diaz-Lopez wasn’t just possessing these images but sharing them online and bringing them into the United States. Diaz-Lopez was further ordered to pay $44,148 in restitution to the victims in the images he possessed and brought to the country. Not a U.S. citizen, Diaz-Lopez is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. He will also have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet and will be ordered to register as a sex offender. The court noted that many of the images and videos he possessed were of very young children and toddlers being raped. The investigation began when authorities identified his email as one of many internet users in Tijuana, Mexico, sharing child pornography online. Diaz-Lopez had applied for a visa in 2023 and listed the same email address uncovered during the investigation. Law enforcement then put an alert on his name. On March 22, 2024, Diaz-Lopez arrived at the Lincoln-Juarez Port of Entry in Laredo and applied for admission into the United States. Authorities referred him to secondary inspection because of the alert. At that time, Diaz-Lopez consented to a search of his phones which revealed approximately 20 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). A forensic examination ultimately uncovered a total of 1,484 child pornography files - 883 videos and 264 pictures. Diaz-Lopez admitted he began viewing CSAM in 2022 while living and working in Pennsylvania and continued after returning to his home in Mexico. He also acknowledged belonging to group chats on various social media platforms where he and others exchanged CSAM. He further admitted he shared material in those chats to receive more in return. “The defendant not only chose to break our country’s immigration laws, but also decided to bring in thousands of images of children being sexually abused. Neither defendant, nor his sick proclivities, are welcome in America,” said Ganjei. “Diaz-Lopez earned each and every day of his 180-month sentence, and an equally severe punishment awaits him if he ever tries to return.” “Today's sentencing shows that anyone trying to exploit and harm children, no matter where they're from, will face serious consequences. This case, involving a Mexican citizen who tried to enter the U.S. with child pornography, highlights our dedication to protecting our homeland and our neighborhoods. HSI, along with our law enforcement partners, will keep working hard to bring those who exploit our children to justice and protect the most vulnerable among us,” said Laredo Acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mauro Lopez from Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI). He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. ICE-HSI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Makens prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page . For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.


title: Ohio Man Sentenced to More Than 8.5 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Convictions

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Youngstown, Ohio, has been sentenced in federal court to 106 months in prison on his conviction of armed drug trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Antoine Tate, 44, who previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone and possession of a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Judge Bissoon also ordered that Tate serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence. According to information presented to the Court, on October 31, 2020, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Tate recklessly attempted to flee police officers by vehicle, and was apprehended in possession of a loaded pistol and quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone that he intended to distribute, as well as over $2,000 in cash. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States. Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Union Township Police Department, New Castle Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tate.


title: Billings man pleads guilty to illegal possession of firearm

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

body_text: BILLINGS - A Billings man accused of illegally possessing a firearm admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. The defendant, Damian Andrew Roman, 26, pleaded guilty to prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Roman faces 15 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release. U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. U.S. District Court Judge Susan P. Watters will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Roman was detained pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Damien Andrew Roman was convicted in 2021 of two felony offenses in the United States District Court for the District of Montana. These convictions prohibit his possession of firearms or ammunition. On December 18, 2024, Damian Roman was driving a car that got into a crash in Billings. Before law enforcement arrived at the crash, an eyewitness saw Roman throw a bag over a nearby fence. Responding officers walked along the fence line and found a brown Louis Vuitton bag. Inside the bag was a Glock, Model 48, 9mm caliber pistol loaded with an extended magazine with eighteen (18) rounds of 9mm caliber ammunition. ATF subsequently ran a check on the firearm and determined it was originally purchased by Roman’s family member. Law enforcement conducted a fingerprint analysis of the firearm and located a partial print on the magazine that was inserted into the firearm. The print was positively identified as belonging to Roman. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The ATF and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . XXX


title: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

body_text: WASHINGTON — A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents. Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials. According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage. On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement. The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Michigan City Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison

body_text: HAMMOND – Last week, Sergio Gamez, 33 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon on his plea of guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. Gamez was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, Gamez was in possession of a firearm. At that time, Gamez knew he had multiple prior felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing the firearm. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, the Hammond Police Department and the Highland Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Violent Felon Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a Firearm

body_text: EVANSVILLE— James Charleston Jr., 36, of Evansville, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to court documents, on August 3, 2024, Evansville Police Department officers were dispatched to Garvin Street in Evansville, on reports of a distressed man waiving a silver gun in the air and pointing it at people. The man was also shouting and cussing. Upon arrival, officers found the man, James Charleston, and ordered him to get on the ground. Charleston refused to comply and told the officers to shoot him multiple times, adding, “I’m willing to die right now!” He also said, “You better get me before I get you.” Charleston was eventually detained and placed in handcuffs. During a search of his person, officers located a silver 9mm pistol in his waistband, loaded with nine rounds. At the time of this arrest, Charleston had been previously convicted of multiple felony offenses, including two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, carrying a handgun without a license, domestic battery, strangulation, aggravated robbery, two counts of identity theft, two counts of theft, and failure to return to lawful detention. These prior felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again. “Illegally armed, repeat violent criminals are responsible for a disproportionate share of the gun violence suffered in Evansville and all our communities. These offenses will not be tolerated,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Let it be clear that if you choose to illegally carry a firearm, you risk serving a serious sentence in federal prison.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case. ###


title: Tri-Cities Man Who Strangled and Assaulted His Girlfriend  Sentenced to Federal Prison

body_text: Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Jordan Michael Gunlock, age 33, was sentenced after pleading guilty to strangling and assaulting his girlfriend. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 24 months in prison to be followed by 3 years supervised release. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in November 2023, Gunlock got into an argument with his girlfriend at her home in Wapato, Washington, after she moved his jacket. During the argument, Gunlock grabbed his girlfriend by the back of the head and pulled her hair, injuring her. After Gunlock stopped pulling her hair, the girlfriend told Gunlock to leave her home. Gunlock initially refused, but fled the residence after his girlfriend called for law enforcement to respond. In November 2024, Gunlock and his girlfriend were staying at the Legends Hotel Casino in Toppenish, Washington. While in their room, Gunlock put his hands on his girlfriend’s neck and strangled her. After Gunlock stopped strangling his girlfriend, she left the hotel room and went to the hotel lobby. While sitting in the hotel lobby, the girlfriend was crying and gasping for air. Legends employees approached the girlfriend and called for law enforcement to respond. Gunlock’s strangulation assault left red marks on her neck that were still visible to law enforcement later that evening. In asking for the 2-year sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse noted that Gunlock has repeatedly assaulted and threatened to harm his girlfriend and members of her family if she left Gunlock or did not act had he directed. AUSA Black Horse argued that the 2-year sentence of imprisonment in a federal facility followed by 3 years of supervised release as well as a federal no-contact order with his girlfriend would deter future acts of Intimate Partner Violence perpetrated by Gunlock against his girlfriend. At the sentencing hearing Judge Dimke noted that at the time of his arrest, Gunlock was located at his girlfriend’s residence in violation of a state court domestic violence protection order and that he had pressured her not to cooperate with state and federal authorities pursuing domestic violence assault charges against him. The Court specifically noted text messages from Gunlock indicating that he believed if his girlfriend did not show up to court that domestic violence charges against him would be “dropped.” In sentencing Gunlock to 2 years imprisonment, the Court stated it wanted to send a message that it takes domestic violence crimes on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation seriously, and that interfering with the criminal justice system and demonstrating a lack of respect for court orders would result in serious consequences. “Protecting victims and ensuring their safety is a top priority for our office, particularly in cases involving intimate partner violence in Indian Country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “This prosecution reflects our ongoing commitment to working with Tribal partners to hold offenders accountable and to disrupt cycles of abuse that threaten the safety and well-being of Native women. Prosecution of MMIP-adjacent cases like this one is critical to protecting our Tribal communities throughout Eastern Washington.” “Mr. Gunlock’s sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s continued commitment to the safety of the state’s tribal communities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “Domestic violence cannot and will not be tolerated, and the FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to bring justice for the victims of these deplorable crimes.” This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP and MMIP-related cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse. 1:25-cr-02005-MKD


title: Repeat Domestic Abuser Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Assaulting and Strangling His Partner

body_text: Yakima, Washington – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced today that Anthony John Maldonado, age 32, was sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting his partner. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 15 months to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. The Court also issued a 3-year federal no-contact order for the protection of the victim following Maldonado’s term of imprisonment. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 6, 2024, Maldonado and his partner E.J., were at E.J.’s apartment in Wapato, Washington, when they began to argue in a bedroom. During the argument, Maldonado punched E.J in the head and she fell to the floor. Maldonado kicked and punched E.J. while she was on the floor. Maldonado then began to strangle E.J. once she was on the ground. E.J. then bit Maldonado on the arm and escaped to the kitchen where she called the police. Maldonado consistently assaulted and harassed E.J. during their eight-year relationship resulting in domestic violence charges and convictions in Yakama Nation Tribal Court. Just two months before the assault that resulted in federal charges, Maldonado entered into a Deferred Sentence Agreement in Yakama Nation Tribal Court on domestic violence charges that included a requirement that he not “harm or harass E.J.” At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Bastian found that the Yakama Nation Tribal Court “no harm or harass order” in place at the time of the strangulation assault represented a “court protection order” under the Violence Against Women Act. At sentencing, MMIP Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse stated “an assault involving non-fatal strangulation is a very serious offense,” explaining that “research shows a history of non-fatal strangulation is one of the most accurate predictors for the subsequent homicide of victims of domestic violence.” ASUA Black Horse also highlighted that “Indigenous women like the victim in this case experience crime victimization and Intimate Partner Violence at higher rates than non-Indian people,” and that “Intimate Partner Violence is an important factor in the rates of homicide in Tribal communities, particularly for Indigenous women and girls.” “The pattern of traumatic abuse and domestic violence Mr. Maldonado inflicted on his partner is unconscionable, and the FBI will remain steadfast in its dedication to rooting out this type of violence in our tribal communities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “I am proud of the work of our investigators and Tribal partners to ensure Mr. Maldonado was held accountable for his actions.” This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP and MMIP-related cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse. 1:24-cr-02057-SAB


title: Indictments Charge Seven Individuals in Drug Trafficking and Firearms Investigations

body_text: PROVIDENCE - Seven individuals have been charged by way indictments unsealed in U.S. District Court in Providence related to a year-long Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation into firearm and drug trafficking in Rhode Island, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom. Court documents reflect that between September 11, 2024, and April 30, 2025, Jose Rodriguez Morales, aka Bam Bam, 28, of Providence, allegedly arranged for the sale and delivery of at least 700 grams of fentanyl pills; 104 grams of fentanyl powder; 96 grams of cocaine; and seven firearms, to include an AR-15, two semi-automatic handguns, three handguns, and a Glock switch. Some of the deliveries were allegedly made by associates of Jose Rodriquez Morales, including two of his brothers. The deliveries were surveilled by members of law enforcement and the items trafficked were quickly seized. The investigation included the execution of multiple search warrants in Providence and Central Falls by the FBI Safe Street Task Force and a multitude of law enforcement partners on June 12, 2025. A 13-count indictment returned on June 11, 2025, and unsealed today charges Jose Rodriguez Morales , aka Bam Bam, 28, of Providence, with conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, unlawful possession of a machinegun, unlawful possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and unlawful dealing in firearms. The defendant was arrested on June 12, 2025, and ordered detained in federal custody. Iven Rodriguez Morales , 30, of Central Falls, with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, unlawful possession of a machinegun, and unlawful possession of a firearm. The defendant was arrested on June 16, 2025, and ordered detained in federal custody. Bryan Pacheco Morales , 23, of Central Falls, with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of40 grams or more of fentanyl, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The defendant was arrested on June 12, 2025, and released on June 23, 2025, on unsecured bond. Edgar Aviles Cruz , 33, of Central Falls, with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The defendant was arrested on June 12, 2025, and was released on an unsecured bond. Jashua Encarnacion , 25, of Central Falls , with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The defendant was arrested on June 12, 2025, and released on an unsecured bond. Carlos Figuereo , 24, of Providence, with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. The defendant was arrested today and was ordered detained in federal custody. Additionally, the investigation led to the return of an indictment charging Christian Carrion , 32, of Pawtucket, with distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. According to information presented to the court, it is alleged that, on at least two occasions, Carrion sold fentanyl-laced pills to another person. It is alleged that the total weight of fentanyl pills sold by Carrion totaled 60 grams. Carrion was arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on June 12, 2025, and was ordered detained. A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julianne Klein and Peter I. Roklan. The ongoing investigation is led by the FBI’s Rhode Island Safe Streets Task Force, with valuable assistance provided by Rhode Island State Police, United States Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Pawtucket and Central Falls Police Departments. ###


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Gun Control Act

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on June 18, 2025, JENARD WALTON aka Janard Walton (“WALTON”) , age 41, of New Orleans, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 37 months imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms. Following imprisonment, walton will be placed on supervised release for three (3) years. According to court records, on March 19, 2024, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at WALTON’s residence. During the search, agents found a Springfield, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, in a kitchen cabinet wrapped in a towel. In the kitchen, they also found approximately one and a half pounds of marijuana. Additionally, the agents located a hidden compartment under a set of stairs leading to the second story. In this hidden compartment, they found a Smith and Wesson, .40 caliber pistol, and approximately $37,941 of U.S. currency. The Smith & Wesson firearm was confirmed to have been stolen. A records check showed that WALTON was a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms. Court records confirmed that WALTON had at least five felony convictions, including a prior federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Slidell Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit. * * *


title: Mexican Drug Trafficker Caught with 84 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Thousands of Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to Federal Prison

body_text: Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker announced that Jose Bautista Andrade, age 46, of Mexico, was sentenced after pleading guilty to fentanyl trafficking charges. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 132 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) developed information that Andrade was working for drug dealer based in Mexico. Andrade would make regular trips to pick up dugs in California, store the drugs at his home and storage units in the Yakima area, then deliver the drugs to customers in Western Washington and accept payment from customers. In October and November 2023, the FBI conducted two controlled purchases for total of four pounds of methamphetamine from Andrade. Both purchases took place at the Tacoma mall. On February 6, 2024, law enforcement agents executed search warrants at Andrade’s home and a storage unit. In total, agents located nearly 5 pounds of fentanyl pills, approximately 84 pounds of methamphetamine, and four firearms. At the sentencing hearing Chief Judge Bastian noted the large amount of drugs in this case and that Andrade was a major player in the drug trafficking operation. “Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Seal did an outstanding job bringing this case to a successful resolution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “His meticulous preparation and tenacious advocacy ensured that a major fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficker was held accountable. Prosecuting cases like this—where the scale of drug trafficking threatens the health and safety of entire communities—is essential to our mission, and AUSA Seal’s work exemplifies the dedication and excellence we strive for in the Eastern District of Washington.” “Even in small quantities, fentanyl and other dangerous drugs can kill, destroying lives and devastating communities. However, Mr. Bautista Andrade was found to possess not small quantities but several dozen pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “By removing this drug trafficker and his supplies from the streets, our investigators have undoubtedly made Yakima a safer place. I am grateful to them for their diligent work on this case and continued dedication to removing this toxin from our neighborhoods.” This case was investigated by the FBI, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin D. Seal. 1:24-cr-02064-SAB


title: Wellpinit Man Sentenced to Prison for Violent Assault

body_text: Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that James Ray Hill Jr., age 46, of Wellpinit, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 48 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on December 3, 2023, Hill punched his girlfriend in the face while they were sitting in her car on the Spokane Indian Reservation. The assault caused the victim’s face to swell up and her injuries were painful. The victim went to hospital for treatment. Doctors found multiple broken bones, including around her eye and nose. The injuries were so severe, the victim underwent surgery to repair the damage to her face. “My office’s partnership with Tribal nations and communities is integral to the work we do within the U.S. Attorney’s Office. While the federal government has not always lived up to its treaty and trust obligations, we can and must do better moving forward. Ensuring public safety is a top priority for my office, and I am so grateful for the work we have been able to do over the past several years to rebuild trust with the Tribal nations within the Eastern District of Washington.” This case was investigated by the FBI and the Spokane Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis. 2:24-cr-00005-TOR


title: High-ranking Tren de Aragua members charged with terrorism and international drug distribution

body_text: HOUSTON - A five-count superseding indictment has been unsealed charging two Venezuelan nationals and alleged high-ranking members of the designated foreign terrorist organization Tren de Aragua (TdA), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano aka “El Viejo,” 37, and Jose Enrique Martinez Flores aka “Chuqui,” 24, are charged with conspiring to provide and providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization as well as conspiracy and distribution of cocaine in Colombia intended for distribution in the United States. A federal grand jury in Houston returned a superseding indictment April 8, which has now been unsealed in its entirety. Colombian authorities arrested Martinez Flores March 31 in Colombia pursuant to a provisional arrest warrant the United States had requested. He remains in custody there pending further proceedings. Mosquera Serrano remains a fugitive and is now on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. “Transnational criminal gangs and cartels have preyed upon Americans for far too long,” said Ganjei. “That ends now. The Southern District of Texas is committed to smashing these criminal terror groups and will use every available legal tool to do so. It doesn’t matter if you are hiding a continent away; if you hurt U.S. citizens, we will find you and bring you to justice. This is what Operation Take Back America looks like.” According to the allegations, Mosquera Serrano and Martinez Flores are charged with one count of conspiring to provide material support to TdA in the form of personnel (including themselves) and services and one count of providing material support to TdA. The indictment also alleges one count of international drug distribution conspiracy based on their involvement in the distribution of five kilograms of cocaine or more and two substantive counts of international drug distribution. The Department of State designated TdA as a foreign terrorist organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist Feb. 20. According to information presented to the court, Mosquera Serrano is a senior TdA leader who oversees TdA criminal operations across Colombia, Central America and the United States, and Martinez Flores is a high-ranking TdA leader in Bogota, Colombia. The charges allege Mosquera Serrano and Martinez Flores caused the delivery of approximately five kilograms or more of cocaine for international distribution, proceeds that were used to further TdA’s criminal goals. If convicted, they face up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine. If you have any information concerning Mosquera Serrano, please contact the FBI via WhatsApp or Telegram at 281-787-9939. Those with information may also contact their local FBI office, nearest American Embassy or Consulate or can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov . The Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $3 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Mosquera Serrano. The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Colombian National Police and the Colombian Attorney General’s Office (Fiscalía General de la Nación). The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia, provided significant assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey N. MacDonald and Anibal J. Alaniz are prosecuting the case along with Deputy Director David C. Smith from the Department of Justice’s Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV). JTFV was created in 2019 to eradicate MS-13 and now expanded to target TdA and is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. Those include SDTX; Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; Northern District of Ohio; Districts of New Jersey, Utah, Massachusetts, Nevada and Alaska; Eastern District of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Eastern District of Virginia; Southern District of California; and the District of Columbia, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Forearms and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; and Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners with JTFV. This case is also a part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood . An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.