title: Three Convicted Felons Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After Deportation

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Three Mexican nationals were sentenced for illegally reentering the United States (U.S.) after previously being deported. At the time they were charged and sentenced in federal court, each had been previously convicted of multiple criminal offenses. Ezequiel Andres-Antonio, 42, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for reentering the U.S. without permission following a prior removal after an aggravated felony conviction for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine. On March 14, 2025, Andres-Antonio pled guilty to illegally reentering the U.S. after removal. [Case No. 5:24-cr-00269-FL] Edward Nunez, 45, was sentenced to 19 months in prison for reentering the U.S. after having been removed three times after multiple felony convictions, including conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon and illegal reentry, as well as recent convictions for possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine. On February 3, 2025, Nunez pled guilty to the illegal reentry charge. [Case No. 7:25-cr-00011-FL] Martin Reyes-Hernandez, 37, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for returning to the U.S. after being removed five times following convictions for larceny-related offenses and a recent conviction for assault with a deadly weapon. On April 4, 2025, Reyes-Hernandez pled guilty to illegal reentry. [Case No. 5:25-cr-00041-FL] Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. ICE investigated the cases, and the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina prosecuted the cases. 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 the respective case numbers.


title: Four Members of MS-13 Clique Indicted on Racketeering Conspiracy in Connection With Three Murders in Baltimore

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland unsealed an indictment, charging four members of the Centrales Locos Salvatruchas (CLS) clique of MS-13 in Baltimore, with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act Conspiracy. This marks the second indictment the Office unsealed this week in connection with MS-13 RICO Act conspiracy activity. On July 15, three other MS-13 members were indicted on RICO Act conspiracy charges in connection with murdering a homeless man and drug trafficking in Prince George’s County. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the CLS indictment with Ivan J. Bates, State’s Attorney for Baltimore City; Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs, Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS). According to the indictment, beginning in at least 2023, the defendants engaged in a racketeering conspiracy as members of MS-13 CLS. They committed multiple murders, engaged in drug distribution, and extorted victims. In late November 2023, Eliseo Alexander Lopez Alvarez, 23, of El Salvador, aka “10,” “Zorro,” and “Terrible;” Olvin Josue Posas Alvarenga, 23, of Honduras, aka “Elevado;” and other CLS members used a fake Instagram account, purporting to be a female, to lure a victim to a wooded area in southeast Baltimore where they murdered the victim. Additionally, in March 2024, Kevin Cuestas, 20, of Honduras, aka “Mickey” and “Gemelo,” and another CLS member, shot and killed a victim on a southeast Baltimore street before fleeing in a getaway car. Then in April 2024, Josue Anibal Guerra Ramos, 20, of Honduras, aka “Flaco,” and another CLS member, shot two victims on a southeast Baltimore street, killing one of them. All four defendants also conspired to distribute marijuana to raise funds for CLS, and CLS members extorted individuals by threatening to use force, violence, and fear. The charges in the superseding indictment are allegations, not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, BPD, and DPSCS for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys James G. O’Donohue III and Kenneth S. Clark who are prosecuting the case, and the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City for their assistance throughout the investigation. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Additionally, this operation is part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. As part of this effort, the FBI has launched a multi-pronged offensive to crush violent crime. By surging resources alongside state and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, we are aggressively restoring safety in our communities across the country. Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or you can call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Mexican National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Sedalia, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for unlawful reentry after deportation. Jesus Mendoza Cortes, 35, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 14 months in federal prison without parole followed by one year of supervised release. On Feb. 20, 2025, Mendoza Cortes pleaded guilty to unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being removed. Mendoza Cortes was previously deported from the United States and had unlawfully re-entered the United States without obtaining the consent of the Attorney General and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. Under federal law it is illegal for an alien to knowingly re-enter the United States without permission after being removed. According to government filings, Mendoza Cortes had previously been removed from the country on eleven different occasions dating back to 2006. He unlawfully returned sometime in 2018 and was found in the Western District of Missouri after being arrested on June 1, 2024 by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office for unlawful use of a weapon, assault in the second degree and armed criminal action. He was subsequently charged in Pettis County, Missouri for those acts and the charges remain pending. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Operation Take Back America This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). ###


title: Four-time illegal reentry felon sent to prison again

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 47-year-old Mexican national with a felony criminal history has been sentenced for illegally entering the country without authorization, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei. Arnulfo Olivares-Cervantes pleaded guilty April 23. U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Olivares-Cervantes to serve 46 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 Olivares-Cervantes had been previously convicted of multiple felony convictions including attempted murder. He had also previously received a lengthy sentence for the same offense. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence. Olivares-Cervantes has felony convictions for narcotics trafficking and illegal reentry. He was first removed in 1999 and returned unlawfully three other times. Authorities discovered him again June 15, 2023, in Edinburg. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted 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: South Bend Man Found Guilty by Jury

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

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Today, Armon Shannon, 24 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Sentencing is scheduled for October 30, 2025. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Joseph P. Falvey. 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: Boston Man Sentenced to Nearly Four Years in Prison for Federal Firearm Offense

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition. Kyvon Ross, 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 46 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In April 2025 , Ross pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. On Oct. 3, 2024, Ross was approached by law enforcement after driving a moped at a high speed and without a rear license plate. Ross accelerated directly at one of the officers before losing control of the moped and falling to the ground. Ross was found in possession of a loaded Glock handgun with an obliterated serial number. Ross is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including a 2021 federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. The Boston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives provided valuable assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William F. Abely, Chief of the Criminal Division, prosecuted the case.


title: Essex County Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man pled guilty on July 15, 2025, to multiple firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced. Kaiyir Green, 22, of Newark, New Jersey, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner in Trenton federal court to a four-count indictment charging him with two counts of possession of a firearm and/or ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of illegal possession of a machine gun, and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. According to documents filed in these cases and statements made in Court: On March 1, 2023, law enforcement officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle and observed Green attempting to enter the stolen vehicle. When law enforcement approached, Green fled and led law enforcement on an extended foot chase. Law enforcement eventually apprehended Green and they recovered from him a privately manufactured firearm (commonly referred to as a “ghost gun”) loaded with five rounds of ammunition. After Green was arrested, he made several phone calls from a recorded line at the detention center in which he directed others to go to his home and remove “everything” including a “black bag.” Law enforcement later observed an individual remove a black bag from Green’s home. A search of that bag revealed a firearm that had been modified with a switch rendering the firearm fully automatic. The fully automatic firearm was also loaded with one round of 9mm ammunition in a large capacity magazine. Law enforcement also recovered a 50-round capacity drum magazine. U.S. Attorney Habba credited law enforcement members with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr.; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, and Elizabeth Police Department, under the direction of Chief Giacomo Sacca, with the investigation leading to the charges. The charges of being a felon in possession of firearms and/or ammunition each carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of a firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of an unregistered firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. Green’s sentencing is scheduled for November 25, 2025. The government is represented by Assistant United States Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering, and Recovery Unit in Newark. ### Defense counsel for Green: Claressa Lowe, Esq. green.indictment.pdf


title: Former Coach and Missouri Middle School Teacher Sentenced for Coercing, Enticing, and Sexually Abusing a Minor Child

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A former coach and middle school teacher was sentenced today for six counts related to child exploitation and sexual abuse of a minor child, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Ronald Dale Sanders, 57, of Belton, Missouri, for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country, Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country, Tampering with Evidence by Corrupt Persuasion, Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, and Production of Child Pornography. Judge Hill ordered Sanders to serve 360 months' imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision. Upon his release, Sanders will also be required to register as a sex offender. “Sanders is a dangerous child predator and every parent's worst nightmare,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “His career in teaching and coaching put him in a position to manipulate and exploit a minor child and their family to fulfill his sexual desires.” “As a teacher, the defendant held a position of trust in the eyes of his victim and the community. He violated that trust by exploiting a former student for his own sexual gratification,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “There is no place in our society for predators like Ronald Sanders, and the FBI will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to ensure they face justice.” On several occasions between August 2023 and October 2023, Sanders admitted to driving from Missouri to Oklahoma to engage in sexual acts with a 14-year-old. Court records show that Sanders began messaging with a former 6th-grade student through social media. The messages quickly turned into inappropriate sexual conversations, and he coerced the minor child to send him sexually explicit photos. Sanders manipulated the minor child into believing that they were in a relationship and to delete messages or deny their relationship if anyone asked. He purchased gifts for the minor child, including lingerie and a ring with Sanders’ initials on it. Court records show that Sanders' employment career included teaching special education, middle school education, and coaching boys’ and girls’ teams. He used that background to insert himself into the minor child’s life by claiming he was a tutor and befriending the child’s family, attending school football games, and visiting the minor child during school. In October, one of the minor child’s parents caught Sanders outside their house late at night. When the parent attempted to confront Sanders, he hit their vehicle and sped off. The parent followed Sanders and called 911. Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol pulled over Sanders. He had alcohol and sex toys inside his vehicle. The investigation revealed that Sanders was blatant in his pursuit of the minor child and that he had 1,000’s of messages with the minor child that contained sexually explicit material. Sanders will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI, the Miami Police Department, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigated the case. Miami Public Schools played a significant role in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Hockenbury and Valeria Luster prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Mexican National Sentenced to 5 Months in Prison

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Jose Flores-Clemente, 33 years old, of Mexico residing in Goshen, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Flores-Clemente was sentenced to 5 months in prison. According to documents in the case, Flores-Clemente’s criminal history includes a felony conviction for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon in Florida. He was previously removed from the United States in July 2010. This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.


title: Caribou Man Sentenced to 8 years for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Maine

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: A former Caribou man was sentenced on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Bangor for possessing child pornography. U.S. District Judge Stacey D. Neumann sentenced Devin Madigan , 30, to eight years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $20,500 in restitution. Madigan pleaded guilty on February 4, 2025. According to court records, in April 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a tip from Kik, a messaging and chat app, that a user had uploaded videos containing child sexual abuse material. The videos captured the sexual abuse of victims as young as 1 to 3 years old. The account was later traced to Madigan. A forensic investigation of Madigan’s phone revealed images and videos of child sexual abuse material. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case with assistance from the Grafton County (NH) Sheriff’s Office and the Brewer Police Department. To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt, or production of child sexual abuse material: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as "child pornography" – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678 . If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741 . Project Safe Childhood: 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 Department’s 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, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc . ###


title: Florida Man Admits Role in $4.8 Million Health Care Fraud and Kickback Scheme

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Florida man today admitted his role in a health care fraud and kickback scheme that caused more than $4.8 million in losses to Medicare, United States Attorney Alina Habba announced. Charles P. Kasbee, Jr., 48, of Palm Beach Shores, Florida, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark to an Information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute. According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court: From February 2019 to September 2019, Kasbee and his co-conspirators participated in a scheme to submit claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary cancer genetic screening (CGX) tests that were procured through a web of bribes and kickbacks. Kasbee utilized the services of marketing call centers, which employed deceptive telemarketing techniques to obtain Medicare beneficiaries’ personal and medical information. Then, Kasbee and others arranged for CGX testing kits to be sent to the identified beneficiaries. Once the CGX test kits were completed by the beneficiaries, the kits were shipped to a testing laboratory, which submitted claims for reimbursement to Medicare. Kasbee received kickback payments exceeding $1,200 for each CGX test resulting in Medicare reimbursement. To conceal the scheme, Kasbee entered into contracts with his co-conspirators that falsely labeled kickback and bribe payments as “expenses.” Then, Kasbee and his co-conspirators created false invoices that disguised the true reasons for the kickback and bribe payments. Instead, Kasbee received payments based solely on the number of CGX tests that Medicare reimbursed, in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute. As a result of the health care fraud and kickback scheme, Kasbee and his co-conspirators caused a loss to Medicare of more than $4.8 million. Conspiracy to commit health care fraud carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2025. U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark; the Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz; the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Silvestro; and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christopher F. Algieri with the investigation leading to the charge. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett J. Schuman of the Health Care Fraud and Opioid Enforcement Unit. ### Defense counsel: Joshua S. Lowther, Esq., Atlanta, GA kasbee.information.pdf


title: Two District Men Ordered To Be Held Without Bond in Violent Armed Kidnapping and Carjacking

body_text: WASHINGTON – Damon Middleton, 32, and Michael Alston, 27, both of the District of Columbia, were ordered to be held without bond today following their arrests for armed kidnapping and carjacking, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. According to court documents, on May 9, 2025, a male victim was parking his Dodge Caravan at his home in the District when he was approached by two men who hit him on the head and demanded money. One of the subjects allegedly took the victim’s keys, entered his apartment, and ransacked it. The two men then drove the victim in the victim’s Dodge Caravan to various Maryland ATMs to withdraw funds from the victim’s CashApp and bank accounts. The men eventually left the victim zip-tied in Hyattsville, Maryland, and drove off in his vehicle. Law enforcement later located the torched remains of the victim’s Dodge Caravan within the District. Middleton and Alston were charged in an indictment, which was unsealed on July 11, 2025, on charges of federal kidnapping and transportation of a stolen vehicle, as well as District of Columbia charges of armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence. This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Washington Field Office’s Violent Crimes Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sabena Auyeung and Mark Levy. 25cr190


title: Choctaw County Trio Sentenced For Roles In 2020 Double Homicide

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that three Fort Towson, Oklahoma co-conspirators in a 2020 double homicide were sentenced in federal district court. Ashlie Nicole Rose Martin, age 22, was sentenced to 456 months in prison for one count of Conspiracy to Commit Murder. Chad Jon’Dale Voyles, age 23, was sentenced to 420 months in prison for one count of Murder in Indian Country. Bryson Noel Miller, age 19, was sentenced to 300 months in prison for one count of Murder in Indian Country. The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office. According to investigators, on December 22, 2020, Martin, then age 17, recruited Voyles, age 18, and Miller, age 15, to murder her parents. That evening, Martin let Voyles and Miller into her house through a rear window. Miller and Voyles found Martin’s mother sleeping on a couch and beat her to death. All three assisted in burying her in a shallow grave in the backyard. After the murder of Martin’s mother, the co-conspirators cleaned up and disposed of evidence of the murder. Over the next few hours, Martin attempted to arrange plans to flee, while Voyles and Miller awaited the arrival of Martin’s father at Martin’s residence. When Martin’s father arrived, Voyles ambushed him and fired at him with a compound bow and field-tipped arrow. Voyles missed, leading to a struggle with the father. Ultimately, Miller intervened and struck the father in the head with a dumbbell. Once incapacitated, Voyles and Miller doused the man in gasoline and set him and the house on fire. The crimes occurred in Choctaw County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation and within the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “In December 2020, two lives were tragically cut short, and the entire community of Fort Towson was gripped by fear and disbelief,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “The ruthless violence displayed by all three defendants in this case undoubtedly proves they belong behind prison walls. The efforts of the FBI and our law enforcement partners have guaranteed they will each feel the full weight of the federal justice system.” “The defendants’ actions were brutal and horrifying,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “Although nothing can erase the effects of these crimes or ease these families’ agony, the sentences imposed remove three very dangerous people from our community for a very long time.” The Honorable David C. Joseph, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, sitting by appointment, presided over the hearing. The defendants will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve non-paroleable sentences of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Traster represented the United States.


title: Massachusetts Couple Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar Ponzi Scheme

body_text: BOSTON – A couple from Randolph, Mass., have pleaded guilty to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded dozens of individual investors out of millions of dollars. Milendophe Duperier, 33, and Vanessa Joseph, 26, pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled both sentencings for Oct. 14, 2025. Duperier and Joseph were charged in May 2025 . Duperier acted as an investment advisor, soliciting investments from individuals and advising them that their funds would be invested in the securities markets. Joseph was Duperier’s girlfriend and business partner. Between early 2018 and December 2022, Duperier and Joseph defrauded dozens of individual investors by falsely representing that Duperier would use the entirety of their investments to purchase securities. However, instead of investing the funds in the securities markets as promised, Duperier and Joseph used the funds to pay prior investors and for personal purchases and expenses – including payments for luxury vehicles and mortgage and credit card debt. In total, the charging documents allege that Duperier and Joseph defrauded individual investors, some of whom had invested their life savings, of more than $3.2 million. As part of the scheme, Duperier and Joseph applied for and received small business loans for various entities and used the loan proceeds to pay purported investment returns to victim investors. In addition, Duperier made false statements and excuses to investors as to why he had not made promised interest payments and/or could not return the investors’ principal. The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. 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. If you have questions, concerns or information about this case, please reach out to usama.victimassistance@usdoj.gov . 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. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mackenzie A. Queenin and Leslie A. Wright of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.


title: Armenian National Extradited to the United States Faces Federal Charges for Ransomware Extortion Conspiracy

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—An Armenian national extradited from Ukraine to the United States faces federal charges for his role in Ryuk ransomware attacks and extortion conspiracy targeting companies throughout the United States, including a technology company operating in Oregon. Karen Serobovich Vardanyan, 33, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Vardanyan was extradited from Ukraine to the United States on June 18, 2025. Levon Georgiyovych Avetisyan, 45, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Avetisyan is the subject of a United States extradition request in France. Oleg Nikolayevich Lyulyava, 53, and Andrii Leonydovich Prykhodchenko, 53, both Ukrainian nationals, have been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Lyulyava and Prykhodchenko are not in custody. According to court documents, between March 2019 and September 2020, Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have illegally accessed computer networks of victim companies to deploy Ryuk ransomware on hundreds of compromised servers and workstations. Ryuk ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt data on a victim's computer or network and prevents the victim from accessing the encrypted files until a ransom is paid. Ryuk has been used to target thousands of victims worldwide across a variety of sectors, including private industry, state and local municipalities, local school districts, critical infrastructure, and hospitals and other healthcare services and providers. Ryuk attacks have severely disrupted these entities’ abilities to function by restricting access to data and impacting communications. As part of the scheme, ransom payments were extorted from victim companies in exchange for decryption keys to regain access to their data. A ransom note was placed on the computer systems demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin, a form of cryptocurrency, and provided an email address that victims could use to communicate with the cybercriminals. Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have received approximately 1,610 bitcoins in ransom payments from the victim companies, which was valued at over $15 million at the time of payment. Vardanyan made his first appearance in federal court June 20, 2025, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a seven-day jury trial scheduled to begin on August 26, 2025. If convicted, Vardanyan faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for each count. The case is being investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Katherine A. Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Vardanyan’s arrest and extradition from Ukraine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Ukrainian authorities for their assistance in this matter. An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Harnett County Felon Sentenced for Possessing Firearms During Search for Missing Child

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Harnett County man was sentenced to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing multiple firearms as a convicted felon. On May 17, 2024, Joe Levaughn Smith, Sr., 63, pled guilty to the charge. “This case highlights the power of strong law enforcement partnerships to make our communities safer across the board,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “A missing child was safely recovered, and an armed felon was held accountable. We remain committed to protecting public safety and pursuing justice.” “The successful recovery of a missing child, seizure of multiple firearms, and the prosecution of this individual responsible for violations of federal law demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our Deputy U.S. Marshals and law enforcement partners,” said Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “The outstanding collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities during this investigation is unparalleled. We remain committed to pursuing individuals who prey on the vulnerable and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.” According to court documents and other information presented in court, on January 25, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Bunnlevel in connection with the recovery of a mother and child who had been missing from Fayetteville since 2016. Investigators with the U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS), the Fayetteville Police Department, the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), ATF, and other agencies located the individuals at Smith’s residence. Smith became irate and noncompliant during the search, stating he had COVID-19 and intentionally coughing in the direction of the officers as they attempted to detain him. Smith had previously threatened a government employee and law enforcement in 2021 during an attempted welfare check. A search of the residence led to the seizure of four firearms: a .22 caliber rifle, a sawed-off 12-gauge shotgun, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a 9mm handgun. Smith, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law. 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 USMS, the Fayetteville Police Department, and the HCSO investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Foxx 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. 5:22-CR-00017-D.


title: Saugus Man Indicted for Role in Conspiracies to Distribute Thousands of Pills Containing Meth and Fentanyl

body_text: BOSTON – A Saugus man was charged in an eight-count indictment for his alleged role in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl. George Krabey, 46, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine; three counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and one count of distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Krabey was initially arrested and charged by criminal complaint in May 2025. According to charging documents, between December 2024 and April 2025, Krabey repeatedly met with a cooperating source working with law enforcement and sold the source thousands of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl. On April 22, 2025, Krabey was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by law enforcement in Danvers. It is alleged that the Krabey was enroute to Salisbury to sell the cooperating source 4,000 counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine. During a search of the vehicle, a shoebox was located in the back seat area that contained 5,296 pills containing methamphetamine with a weight of approximately two kilograms. The charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. 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 Jared A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Revere, Saugus and Peabody Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Waterbury Cocaine Distributor Sentenced to More Than 3 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARMELO CANCEL, also known as “Bebe,” 31, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 37 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for supplying cocaine to two Waterbury drug trafficking organizations. According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task Force and other law enforcement agencies investigated two drug trafficking organizations based in the city of Waterbury. One organization was headed by Angel Quiros, also known as “Papa John,” and operated in the area of William Street, and the other was headed by Daniel Diaz-Rivera and operated in the area of Maple Avenue. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, video surveillance, GPS tracking of vehicles, and numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that the two organizations distributed cocaine, crack, and fentanyl through a network of sellers. Cancel supplied cocaine to both organizations, which worked together to further their operations. Cancel, Quiros, Diaz-Rivera, and 14 other individuals were charged with federal offenses as a result of the investigation. Cancel and several codefendants were arrested on November 29, 2023. In association with the arrests, investigators executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately 700 grams of crack cocaine, more than 900 vials (“caps”) of crack, approximately 200 grams of loose fentanyl, more than 1,600 dose bags of fentanyl/heroin, two stolen firearms, numerous rounds of ammunition, and more than $39,000 in cash. On April 23, 2025, Cancel pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Released on $100,000 bond, he is required to report to prison on September 17. Quiros and Diaz-Rivera pleaded guilty to related charges. Quiros awaits sentencing and, on June 23, 2025, Diaz-Rivera was sentenced to 210 months of imprisonment. The FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task includes members from the FBI, the Waterbury Police Department, the Naugatuck Police Department, and the Connecticut Department of Correction. The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, Wolcott Police Department, and Meriden Police Department have assisted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the Waterbury State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.


title: Newport News felon sentenced to four years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm while on supervised release

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News man was sentenced today to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on May 20, 2024, two police officers observed that James Earl Hooker, 35, appeared to have a firearm in his waistband as he was walking in downtown Newport News. When one of the officers attempted to speak with Hooker, he immediately fled on foot. During the pursuit, a loaded handgun fell from Hooker’s waistband. The officers recovered the firearm after apprehending Hooker. Hooker has multiple prior federal convictions for conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and mail fraud. At the time of Hooker’s arrest, he was under federal court supervision for his 2022 conviction for pandemic-related mail fraud in the Eastern District of Virginia. As a previously convicted felon, Hooker cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. The four-year sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm will be served consecutive to an eight-month sentence for his supervised release violations. Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Coleman prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-1.


title: Member of Drug Trafficking Organization That Distributed Controlled Substances Shaped to Resemble Candy Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization (DTO) on the North Shore of Massachusetts. In November 2023, millions of doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder with street value estimated to be over $7 million, were seized from a stash location and clandestine laboratory used by organization. Deiby Felix, 41, of Lynn, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In February 2025 , Felix pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to manufacture and distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and other controlled substances; and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Felix was arrested and charged along with Emilio Garcia and Sebastien Bejin in November 2023 . In July 2023, an investigation into an overdose death in Salem led investigators to a DTO led by Felix, Bejin and Garcia. On Nov. 1, 2023, searches were conducted at four locations in Lynn that resulted in what is believed to be one of the largest single-location seizures of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Massachusetts and the region. The seizure included nine kilograms (20 pounds) of pink heart shaped fentanyl-laced pills pressed to look like candy. Additional narcotics and five firearms were also seized. During the course of the investigation over 75 kilograms (198 pounds) of fentanyl and methamphetamine was seized, along with multiple additional kilograms of cocaine and dozens of kilograms of cutting agents, including xylazine, that is used to adulterate controlled substances. In total, an estimated eight million individual doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder was seized. The street value is believed to be upwards of $8 million. Searches of Felix’s residence resulted in the seizure of more than three kilograms (6.6 pounds) of pressed pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl, a firearm and a clandestine drug laboratory that had been built into a small room in the basement. Multiple industrial pill presses, mixing equipment and other manufacturing paraphernalia and equipment were also recovered. Bejin was sentenced in May 2025 to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In May 2025 , Garcia was sentenced to 18 years in prison, to be followed five years of supervised release. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office and the Lynn, Lynnfield and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.


title: California man sentenced to 15 years in prison for selling meth and fentanyl in Bozeman

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: MISSOULA – A California man who distributed meth and fentanyl in Bozeman beginning in 2022 was sentenced today to 180 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. Shante Maurice Anthony, 47, pleaded guilty in March 2025 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged in court documents that the DEA received information in 2024 that Shante Anthony had been selling drugs in Bozeman and the surrounding areas since 2022. Agents learned Anthony lived in California and would repeatedly travel to the Bozeman area to distribute meth and fentanyl. Informants told the agents Anthony would mail drugs to Bozeman and then fly to Montana, pick up the drugs, and distribute them. One source said Anthony had been following that pattern for five or six months and the DEA obtained flight records that confirmed Anthony was traveling to Bozeman an average of two times per month. On November 20, 2024, Anthony was planning a trip to Bozeman the following day and sending a package that likely contained drugs. On November 22, 2024, he contacted the Postal Service to check the status of the package. The DEA contacted a Postal Inspector, who located the parcel at the Bozeman Post Office. The package was searched and the agents seized 1,000 fentanyl pills and a quarter-pound of meth. Text messages and phone conversations between Anthony and others confirmed he was distributing the drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the DEA and the Missouri River Drug Task Force. 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: Former Maryland Police Officer Sentenced to 74 Months for Excessive Use of Force in the District

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: WASHINGTON – Philip Dupree, 40, a former police officer with the Fairmount Heights, Maryland Police Department, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 74 months in prison following his conviction at trial on June 17, 2024, in connection with violating a man’s civil rights by using unreasonable force, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. A federal jury found Dupree guilty on June 17, 2024, of one count of deprivation of rights under color of law. In addition to the 74-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ordered Dupree to serve threeyears of supervised release. “When the defendant used unnecessary and excessive force on a man in handcuffs, he violated his duty and betrayed his oath to serve and protect,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “The Court’s sentence serves as a stark reminder that members of law enforcement must not break the faith with the communities we all serve.” According to court documents, Dupree was on duty as a Fairmont Heights Police officer during the early morning hours of Aug. 4, 2019, when he conducted a traffic stop on Eastern Avenue NE, in the District of Columbia. After detaining the driver and the driver’s sister, Officer Dupree pepper-sprayed the driver in the face while the driver was handcuffed and seated in Dupree’s police car. The jury found that Dupree’s use of force constituted excessive force by a law enforcement officer. “Our government requires police officers to abide by the laws they enforce and to protect the constitutional rights of all persons in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Civil Rights Division. “Dupree abused his authority as a police officer, and today Dupree was held accountable for his actions.” "Law enforcement officers have a duty to enforce the laws while protecting the rights of those they serve," said Steven J. Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. "Today's sentence underscores this responsibility and demonstrates the FBI's resolve to pursue public servants who abuse their positions of power and trust." The case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office. It was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Sanjay Patel of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Howland of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. 22cr275


title: Three Defendants Sentenced to Combined 24 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Carjacking

body_text: CLEVELAND – The last of three defendants involved in a 2021 carjacking and kidnapping was sentenced this week. Anton Woodley, 22, Cashaun Woodley, 24, and Lavontay Johnson, 23, all of Cleveland, each previously pleaded guilty to carjacking after they used firearms to drive an individual around the city so they could steal his money and take his motor vehicle by force. Court documents show that on Dec. 12, 2021, a male victim visiting downtown Cleveland met two women who suggested they visit a nearby apartment building. After arriving, one of the women contacted the defendants to tell them about the man she had just met. She then worked out a plan to help them rob him. The Woodley brothers and Johnson traveled to the apartment and waited outside for the male victim to exit the building. When the victim appeared and walked out to his vehicle, the Woodley brothers and Johnson ambushed him at gunpoint. They pressed a pistol up against the back of his head and ordered him into the backseat of his car. The defendants abducted the victim and entered the car, with the Woodley brothers flanking the victim with guns while Johnson drove away. With a gun pressed into his side, the defendants demanded money from the victim. They forced him to transfer several hundred dollars out of his accounts and disclose his financial information on his cellphone. After some time driving around the east side of Cleveland, they released the victim on East 80 th Street and then sped away in his vehicle. The victim’s car was recovered later that month when Garfield Heights police chased Johnson. As he fled the stolen vehicle on foot, officers found a Glock 23, 40 caliber pistol in Johnson’s flight path. U.S. District Court Judge Pamela A. Barker imposed the following sentences: Anton Woodley was sentenced July 15, 2025, to 78 months (6.5 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment. Lavontay Johnson was sentenced March 13, 2025, to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment. Cashaun Woodley was sentenced Dec. 19, 2024, to 100 months (8.3 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Each defendant was ordered to pay $1,240 in restitution. This investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division, Cleveland Division of Police, and the Garfield Heights Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Joines prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.


title: Repeat offender sentenced to 10 years for possessing drugs with intent to distribute while on parole

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison and, upon release, will serve five years on supervised release, for possessing drugs with the intent to distribute them following a refusal of a routine search of his residence while on parole. According to court documents, on Oct. 20, 2022, two Alaska Department of Corrections parole officers visited Andrew Lee, 42, at his residence for a routine search pursuant to Lee’s conditions of parole release in a state criminal case where he was convicted of second-degree murder. Lee shared this residence with multiple family members. Lee led the parole officers to a bedroom he claimed he shared with his father. During a search of this bedroom, the parole officers found no material evidence that Lee stayed in the bedroom The parole officers searched his vehicle and located two cell phones and a “tooter” straw, both of which are consistent with drug paraphernalia. When parole officers attempted to determine who resided in the other three bedrooms in the residence, Lee claimed that two of the three were occupied by his aunt and mother, respectively, while the final bedroom was occupied by a different individual. Lee stated that this room was locked, and the parole officers were not allowed to enter. The parole officers spoke on the phone with the individual who allegedly lived in that bedroom. That individual said he was the owner of the residence, that he lived in Georgia and that the bedroom was Lee’s. The parole officers asked Lee about inconsistencies in his statements and Lee immediately began yelling at his father in a different language. The parole officers informed Lee he was being detained and handcuffed him for their own safety. When the parole officers attempted to unlock the bedroom door, Lee’s father stopped them. The parole officers asked Lee whether we would comply with the search, and he started yelling at his father in a different language again. The parole officers decided to arrest Lee for refusing to submit to the search. The parole officers remanded Lee to the Anchorage Correctional Complex. During in-processing, correctional officers located roughly $1,500 in cash and over 57 grams of pure methamphetamine, over 28 grams of heroin and nearly 5 grams of fentanyl packaged in multiple baggies on his person. On Jan. 18, 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Lee, and on April 11, 2024, Lee pleaded guilty to possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute. “Mr. Lee participated in the dangerous drug trade while on parole for a violent felony—and will now spend 10 years behind bars for it,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Let this sentence serve as a clear message: our office, in partnership with law enforcement, will pursue drug traffickers and seek harsh penalties for those who threaten the safety of our communities.” “While on parole, the defendant continued to threaten the safety of our communities by committing federal drug trafficking crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Following a collaborative investigation by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, this sentencing reflects our continued commitment to hold drug traffickers accountable, while protecting Alaska’s communities from the dangers of illicit drug activity.” The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case as part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, with assistance from the Alaska Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody Tirpak prosecuted the case. ###


title: Little Rock Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Federal Prison After Committing Arson at Two Little Rock Fitness Centers

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Miles Andrew Caldwell will spend the next 84 months in federal prison after intentionally starting three fires at two different fitness centers in Little Rock, Arkansas. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. An investigation revealed that on November 16, 2023, Caldwell, 20, of Little Rock, arrived at the Little Rock Athletic Club at approximately 11:00 a.m. Caldwell then walked down the hallway and entered the men’s restroom on the first floor. A few minutes later, he exited the restroom and walked down the hallway past the operating daycare center that was occupied by several children (mainly babies and toddlers) and staff members. Caldwell then entered the basketball court. Later, after exiting the basketball court, Caldwell walked back to the daycare, looking through the large windows of the daycare center before taking the stairs to the second floor. Moments later, women in the tennis hallway reported the smell of smoke. The smoke filled the tennis hallway which caused the fire alarm to sound. Children, daycare staff, and other occupants of the tennis area exited the building through the smoke-filled hallway. The investigation revealed that the fire was set in a paper towel dispenser in the first-floor men’s restroom. Caldwell also set fire to the paper towel dispenser, trash receptable, and toilet paper dispenser in the second-floor men’s restroom. Later that same day, at approximately 3:49 p.m., the Little Rock Fire Department responded to 10 Fitness on North Rodney Parham Road, where its men’s restroom also sustained fire damage. Firefighters observed smoke present in the main gym, with thicker smoke in the area of the bathrooms. The Little Rock Fire Marshal determined that the toilet paper dispenser in the handicapped stall of the men’s restroom had been set on fire. The investigation revealed that Caldwell scanned into 10 Fitness, entered the men’s restroom, remained for approximately one minute while no one else entered, and left the gym after a total of approximately five minutes, without using any equipment. After smoke became visible in the area between the gym and restroom, the fire department was called. In the parking lot, Caldwell remained in his vehicle for 10 additional minutes, waiting until after firefighters arrived to leave. Investigators reviewed security footage from the Little Rock Athletic Club and located the suspect, later identified as Caldwell. Investigators also obtained security footage from 10 Fitness and identified an individual wearing the same clothes, shoes, and headphones as the suspect at the Little Rock Athletic Club. Caldwell was later located at his residence. In the home and his vehicle investigators located shoes and a hooded sweatshirt consistent with what was observed on security footage. On November 20, 2023, Caldwell was arrested on a federal complaint. On December 5, 2023, Caldwell was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of arson. Caldwell pleaded guilty to one count of arson committed at the Little Rock Athletic Club on February 4, 2025. Judge Moody also sentenced Caldwell to three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Little Rock Fire Department and the Little Rock Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly knon as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Two Chinese nationals facing federal charges in southern Illinois for staffing massage parlors with prostitutes

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging two Chinese nationals with offenses related to operating illicit massage businesses in southern Illinois and Indiana. Jianhong Hu Allbright, 57, of Shoals, Indiana, and Yalong Cao, 25, of Schaumburg, Illinois, are each facing one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the U.S. and one count of money laundering conspiracy related to employees engaging in prostitution at the Oriental Home Spa & Massage in Centralia, Sunflower Spa in Mount Vernon, Rose Spa in Harrisburg, Oasis Massage Spa in Vandalia and Oriental Massage Parlor in Corydon, Indiana. Allbright is also facing one count of transporting an individual to engage in prostitution. “Massage parlors engaged in prostitution are not the romanticized fantasy from the movie “ Pretty Woman ”—they are criminal enterprises that create and exploit financial dependency to trap immigrants and others, coercing them into degrading subjugation,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute sex trafficking and work to vindicate the rights of vulnerable victims across southern Illinois.” According to court documents, the charged conduct occurred between March 2022 and June 2024 at five massage parlors in southern Illinois and Indiana. “The Illinois State Police commitment to fighting human trafficking is unwavering,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “We are dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable, pursuing traffickers with every available resource, and working hand in hand with our partners to dismantle the networks that exploit human lives. This is not just law enforcement—it’s a moral obligation.” Allbright is accused of managing the parlors’ day-to-day operations including arranging transportation and providing supplies for the female employees to engage in commercial sex acts. “HSI will not tolerate criminals who exploits vulnerable women under the guise of legitimate business,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “We will continue working side by side with our law enforcement partners to dismantle trafficking networks and hold offenders accountable.” Cao is facing charges for allegedly recruiting employees to engage in prostitution and collecting the proceeds. “IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) is committed to tracing money trails to the door of anyone involved in human trafficking,” said IRS-CI St. Louis Special Agent in Charge William Steenson. “Partnering with other law enforcement agencies to destroy these networks is a top priority for our agency.” The pair are accused of advertising the illicit acts at their massage parlors on websites. An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury. Money laundering conspiracy convictions are punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment and fines up to $500,000. Convictions of transporting an individual to engage in prostitution are punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment and fines up to $250,000, and convictions for conspiracy to commit an offense against the U.S. are punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment. The Illinois State Police Trafficking Enforcement Bureau, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation and the Illinois Department of Revenue are working the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karelia Rajagopal is prosecuting the case.


title: Tennessee Resident Pleads Guilty After Driving to Clifton Park for Sexual Abuse of a Minor

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Donald Jenkins, age 37, of Clarksville, Tennessee, pled guilty on Monday to traveling across state lines to the Capital Region with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement. Jenkins admitted that in September 2024 he began communicating with an individual to discuss and plan his sexual abuse of someone he believed to be an 11-year-old child residing in Clifton Park, New York. Jenkins ultimately devised a plan to rent a car in Tennessee and drive to Clifton Park in order to sexually abuse the child. On November 19, 2024, Jenkins was arrested after arriving in Clifton Park at a prearranged meeting location. He admitted that he obtained a sexually transmitted disease (STD) test earlier in the day and brought numerous pairs of child’s underwear as a gift for the minor. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “No matter where you reside, if you try to prey on children in the Northern District of New York, we will find you, arrest you, and seek to convict you and punish you to the fullest extent of the law.” HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated: “Donald Jenkins rented a car, obtained child’s underwear and STD testing kits, and traveled across state lines as part of his plan to sexually abuse someone whom he believed was an 11-year-old child. I thank personnel with HSI Albany, the Northern District of New York, and the New York State Police, for consistently taking proactive steps to protect the public from predators.” Jenkins is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci on November 12, 2025. He faces a maximum term of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. HSI and the New York State Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Federal Charges Filed in Violent Assault and Strangulation

component: USAO - New Mexico

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man is facing federal charges after allegedly assaulting and strangling a woman, leaving her with serious injuries. According to court documents, on March 13, 2025, officers from the Bureau of Indian Affairs responded to a 911 call reporting a violent assault at a residence on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Upon arrival, officers found a victim suffering from extensive injuries, including a fractured orbital bone, swelling, and multiple bruises consistent with repeated physical assault and strangulation. The investigation revealed that over a two-day period, Philman Sam Pike , 24, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, allegedly physically assaulted and strangled the victim multiple times to the point of near unconsciousness. The victim was treated by emergency medical personnel at the scene and transported to a hospital for further care. Medical examinations confirmed significant injuries and evidence of strangulation. Officers located Pike hiding in a nearby residence and arrested him without incident. Pike is charged with assault by strangling and or suffocating and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Pike faces up to 10 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today. The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson K. Dering V is 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: Fourth Member of Chicago Carjacking and Robbery Crew Sentenced to Federal Prison

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: CHICAGO — A man who committed multiple carjackings and robberies in Chicago, including carjacking a vehicle with an infant in the back seat, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. DWIGHT HASBERRY, 32, of Chicago, and three others engaged in a series of carjackings and robberies in the overnight hours of Sept. 28 and 29, 2022. The defendants have been in law enforcement custody since 2022. On July 10, 2025, U.S. District Judge Manish Shah sentenced Hasberry to 15 years in federal prison. Earlier this year, Judge Shah sentenced the three other members of the carjacking and robbery crew—DAMANDRE HENLEY, TYLER OATES-NELSON, and DAVARIO MCDOWELL, all of Chicago—to prison terms ranging from 15 to 22 years. The sentences were announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. The carjacking involving the infant occurred late on the evening of Sept. 28, 2022, when the four men carjacked a Volkswagen Tiguan SUV in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. Henley, Hasberry, and McDowell pointed guns at the driver and the infant in a rear car seat and ordered them out of the vehicle. The driver removed the infant from the car before Henley, Hasberry, and McDowell got into the Volkswagen SUV and drove away. A short time later, the four men, now all traveling in the stolen SUV, drove to Chicago’s Ravenswood Manor neighborhood, where Henley, McDowell, and Hasberry robbed one victim at gunpoint of their cell phone, wallet, and keys, and another victim of their backpack. The crew then robbed a nearby 7-Eleven convenience store. With Oates-Nelson waiting in the stolen SUV, Henley, McDowell, and Hasberry entered the store carrying guns. Henley used his gun to strike a store clerk in the head while forcing him to open the cash register. The defendants fled the store with cash, cigarettes, and liquor bottles. “Defendant’s crimes terrorized innocent Chicagoans and showed a complete disregard for human life, for societal norms, and for the law,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Elie Zenner argued in the government’s memorandum filed with the Court ahead of Hasberry’s sentencing hearing. “Robberies scare away businesses and ruin neighborhoods. Carjackings like those here not only leave the victims scarred and perhaps looking for new places to live and new jobs, but they impact the sense of safety and security for all Chicagoans.”


title: Nevada Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty To Fraudulent Medicare Wound Care Billing

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas nurse practitioner pleaded guilty today to conspiring to fraudulently bill Medicare for amniotic wound allografts for patients that were medically unreasonable and unnecessary in exchange for illegal health care kickbacks. Mary Huntly, 67, was charged with one-count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks. United States District Judge James C. Mahan scheduled sentencing for October 15, 2025. According to court documents and admissions made in court by Huntly, she applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Huntly admitted that, from September 2022 through April 2024, her wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those false claims. “The defendant applied medically unnecessary allografts for patients and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent Medicare claims,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We are committed to working with our partners at the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS to pursue and hold criminal actors accountable for preying on vulnerable citizens and stealing from health care programs.” “Medicare and Medicaid, crucial components of our nation's health care system, are funded by a limited pool of resources,” said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Mary Huntly admitted to exploiting the system and taking advantage of America’s most vulnerable populations. She was a trusted healthcare provider, focusing on wound care, and her abuse is significant. The FBI and our federal partners will continue to bring rapacious healthcare professionals like Huntly to justice.” “Health care professionals who aim to enrich themselves by performing medically unnecessary procedures undermine the integrity of Federal health care programs and expose their patients to potential harm,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who commit health care fraud.” At sentencing, Huntly faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and Acting Special Agent in Charge John E. Helsing for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office made the announcement. This case was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada and Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit . ###


title: Former Real Estate Investment Coach Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud in Connection with a $3 Million Dollar Real Estate Investment Scheme

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Manchester woman plead guilty today in federal court for operating a fraudulent real estate investment scheme, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces. Robynne Alexander, age 63, plead guilty in federal court to one count of wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott scheduled Alexander’ sentencing for October 15, 2025. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, beginning in 2018, the defendant, previously a real estate investment coach, began raising funds from her coaching clients for a New England real estate venture, Raxx‑LeMay, LLC. Despite promising to acquire and renovate two commercial properties in Manchester she only raised $700K of the $2M minimum required by the May 2018 deadline. Among the terms of her agreement with investors, if the minimum dollar amount was not raised by that date, investors were to get their money back with interest. Despite not having raised the required minimum dollar amount, the defendant did not return investor money with interest, but instead proceeded to use investor money for purposes that were not permitted under the offering terms. Nevertheless, she completed the purchase in July 2018 using expensive hard‑money loans and improperly diverted investor funds to other entities she controlled, to repay outside investors, and to fund additional projects. Over the next few years, the defendant used investor capital across multiple projects without proper authority or disclosure. For example, she transferred the Raxx‑LeMay properties to a new entity she controlled in early 2022, despite lacking investor approval, leaving Raxx‑LeMay with no assets and investors with total losses of about $850,000. In a separate project, Elm and Baker, LLC, Alexander solicited $750,000 to convert a Manchester property to apartments but diverted more than half of the funds to repay unrelated investors and personal loans, culminating in foreclosure on that property in 2023. Similarly, in late 2022, she solicited funds for a large‑scale resort project in Laconia receiving $250,000 from investors toward the purchase before misappropriating at least $75,000 and ultimately failing to close on the property, causing the project to dissolve. Across at least eight ventures, the defendant defrauded at least 24 investors of roughly $3,023,000. The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 20 years of imprisonment. The statute provides for a supervised release term of up to 3 years, and a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the pecuniary gain, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. The Securities and Exchange Commission and the New Hampshire Bureau of Securities Regulation provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S Attorney John J. Kennedy is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Auburn Man Charged with Federal Program Fraud

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: MONTGOMERY, Ala. – An Auburn, Alabama man charged with federal crimes related to loans received through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act is now in federal custody, announced Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson. On July 15, 2025, law enforcement conducted an operation to execute search warrants and locate 52-year-old Cesar Campos-Reyes, who was indicted by a federal grand jury on four counts of bank fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and one count of money laundering. The United States District Court in Montgomery unsealed Campos-Reyes’s criminal indictment today. Campos-Reyes surrendered to federal authorities Tuesday evening. Two sources of relief provided by the CARES Act are the Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP, and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Both programs were intended to help eligible small businesses by giving them working capital to make regular payments for operating expenses such as payroll, rent or mortgage expenses, utilities, or business debt. The indictment alleges that Campos-Reyes made false representations when applying for multiple loans for various restaurants owned and operated by him and for using the proceeds for unauthorized purposes. The charges are the result of a wide-ranging investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). This operation received significant support from the Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force, which is a collaborative law enforcement unit including the FBI and HSI. Additional assistance was provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Alabama Department of Corrections, Auburn Police Department, Opelika Police Department, Prattville Police Department, Wetumpka Police Department, Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Service. A criminal indictment or complaint is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If convicted on all charges, Campos-Reyes faces a sentence of up to 30 years in prison along with significant fines. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle R. Turner and John J. Geer, III. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Belgrade man sentenced to 6 years in prison on drug charges

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: MISSOULA – A Belgrade man who intended to distribute fentanyl was sentenced today to 72 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. Justin Olen Brown, 40, pleaded guilty in February 2025 to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged in court documents that on February 23, 2024, Brown was stopped by law enforcement while driving near Ramsey, Montana. The officers saw three lock boxes and multiple items of drug paraphernalia in the car and applied for a search warrant, which led to the seizure of 173 grams fentanyl. Brown admitted to buying the fentanyl pills in Spokane, Washington, and said he was planning to sell them pills in Montana. Brown also admitted he had taken similar trips to obtain fentanyl pills for sale in the past. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by Southwest Montana Drug Task Force, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. 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: Fitchburg Man Arrested for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Fitchburg man has been arrested and charged for allegedly distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via Kik Messenger. Sean Pettigrew, 50, was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography. Pettigrew was arrested today and was ordered detained pending a hearing scheduled for July 18, 2025 in federal court in Worcester. According to the charging document in April 2025, Pettigrew was identified as a member in a Kik Messenger group devoted to the sexual abuse of children. It is alleged that Pettigrew sent multiple images depicting CSAM in private messages to an undercover agent posing as a member of the chat. A subsequent search of Pettigrew’s Kik Messenger account allegedly revealed that he had sent multiple CSAM files to other users on the app. Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274. The charge of distribution of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $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 Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office 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 . The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Trinitarios Leader Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy

body_text: BOSTON – The former leader of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios was sentenced today in federal court in Boston on RICO conspiracy charges. Aaron Diaz Liranzo, a/k/a “Sosa,” 26, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Nathaniel M. Gorton to 14 years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In March 2025 , Diaz Liranzo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. Diaz Liranzo was arrested and charged in February 2025 at which time he was the Leader of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios. The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to or organize and execute violence, and undertaken extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members. In February 2025 , federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multi-jurisdictional investigation, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members. During a period from at least 2021 through 2025, Diaz Liranzo served as the Primera or Number One of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios. Diaz Liranzo admitted to participating in a shooting that took place in March 2019 that targeted multiple rival gang members outside of a Lynn nightclub. The victims were lured there by another member, who posed as a woman who needed a ride. Equipped with a firearm and knowledge of the victim’s whereabouts and vehicle they were driving, the defendant travelled to the nightclub and opened fire on the vehicle, discharging at least six rounds. During the incident, Diaz Liranzo shot two of the three victims seated in the car. Both victims suffered life-threatening injuries, but ultimately survived the incident. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the Suffolk District Attorney’s Office; the Rockingham County District Attorney’s Office (NH); and the Andover, Boston, Lawrence, Peabody and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Worcester Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Unlawful Possession of Two Loaded Firearms, Ammunition and Silencer

body_text: BOSTON – A Worcester man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Worcester for unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon and possessing an unregistered silencer. Ryan Davidson, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to six years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. In March 2025 , Davidson pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of possessing an unregistered firearm-silencer. In August 2023 , Davidson was indicted by a federal grand jury. The grand jury returned a superseding indictment against Davidson in November 2023. On or about May 9, 2023 in Worcester, Davidson was stopped by police for a marked lane violation and for concerns about the Georgia “dealer” license plate on his vehicle. After failing to provide proof of insurance on the vehicle, Davidson was told he could leave with a citation but that his car would have to be towed, and an inventory search would be conducted pursuant to the tow. Davidson told police he did not want them to search his car and shortly thereafter, he fled the scene on foot. Davidson was apprehended in a backyard on an adjacent street, at which time he was arrested. At the time of the incident, Davidson was wearing a GPS monitoring device in connection with open state charges involving a firearm. During the inventory search of Davidson’s vehicle, a heavy black bag was located in the trunk . In the bag, was a black balaclava and a zipped blue bag. Inside the blue bag, a Polymer P80, 9-millimeter pistol with no serial number, with a 9-millimeter magazine inserted containing 10 rounds of ammunition, a silencer and a box of 9-millimeter ammunition containing 9 rounds were located. A Taurus 9-millimeter pistol with a round in the chamber and a magazine inserted containing six rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition was also recovered in the glovebox. Davidson possessed the Taurus 9-millimeter pistol and 26 rounds of 9mm ammunition after having been convicted of previous felonies for which he had been sentenced to 7-10 years in prison. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Scott Riordan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Chief Paul Saucier of the Worcester Police Department made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin J. Brown of the Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, 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 https://www.justice.gov/PSN .