title: Illegal alien from El Salvador convicted at trial on federal immigration and child sexual exploitation charges

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal judge convicted an illegal alien from El Salvador on charges of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and illegally reentering the United States after removal subsequent to a felony conviction. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, pursuant to an order of removal, Mario Alexander Bonilla Canales, 50, previously was removed from the United States on at least three occasions. In June of 2025, Bonilla Canales used Facebook to contact a person he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, but who was actually an undercover law enforcement agent. Over three days, and directly after the undercover agent from the Fairfax County Police Department’s Child Exploitation Unit told him that she was 14, Bonilla Canales aggressively requested that she send him sexually explicit images and asked her to meet for sex. He eventually traveled to a park in Fairfax County to meet her for sex. When police attempted to stop him, he fled the scene, damaging two police vehicles and ignoring lights and sirens. Bonilla Canales faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison when sentenced on Sept. 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Homeland Security Investigations, Washington, D.C., investigated this case with significant assistance from the Virginia State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob Mercer and Colt Rainwater are prosecuting the case with assistance from Special Assistant United States Attorneys Lyndi McVey and Richard Krupczak. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. This case is also 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. 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. 1:26-cr-4.


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Spring Cleaning

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE — The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Spring Cleaning, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the FBI to combat gang-related threats and enhance public safety. The operation coordinated with federal, state, and local law enforcement and targeted the illegal flow of firearms and narcotics in our communities. The operation began on March 1 and ended May 31. In total, Operation Spring Cleaning led to over 1100 arrests, over 600 charges filed, and almost 600 search warrants conducted. The operation also resulted in the seizure of: Almost 1000 illegal firearms, dozens of which were equipped with machine gun conversion devices (MCDs) as well as over 75 stand-alone MCDs; Over 2,700 pounds of illegal narcotics including Over 500 kilograms of cocaine or more than 1100 pounds, Nearly 700 pounds of methamphetamine, Over 550 pounds of marijuana, Nearly 50 kilograms of fentanyl or more than 100 pounds, Almost 40 kilograms of heroin or more than 85 pounds, More than 7 kilograms of crack cocaine or more than 16 pounds, and More than 13,200 pills of MDMA, also known as ecstasy or molly. The operation also resulted in significant enforcement actions in the District of New Mexico. Federal prosecutors charged Lucas Maldonado with drug trafficking and firearms offenses after he allegedly supplied nearly five pounds of methamphetamine to undercover law enforcement officers and was later found in possession of fentanyl, firearms, and ammunition. In a separate case, Pete Kimbell was charged in federal court after allegedly selling multiple firearms and ammunition to an undercover law enforcement officer. Additionally, Crisantos Garcia was charged with federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses following an FBI investigation into an alleged scheme to provide weapons to an inmate seeking to escape from custody. Two FBI agents in tactical gear stand near the back of an armored vehicle and a Ford pickup truck during a SWAT operation. Two FBI agents in tactical gear stand near the back of an armored vehicle and a Ford pickup truck during a SWAT operation. Nighttime scene of vehicles lined up on a road, with mountain silhouette and city lights in the background. “When our neighborhoods are safe from the scourge of deadly drugs, individuals and families can prosper,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Trump Administration has made significant progress in removing this poison from our streets, a key step in our commitment to making America safe again.” “This FBI understands that communities across our country have been ravaged by gangs and the firearms and narcotics they flood our streets with,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Spring Cleaning represents our total commitment to crushing this kind of violent crime and eliminating the criminal networks who facilitate them – with over 1,000 arrests, 1,000 firearms seized, and 3,000 pounds of narcotics removed from our neighborhoods. Righteous operations like this show this FBI is only getting started and will continue delivering the most prolific run of crime reduction in U.S. history.”


title: Little Eagle Man Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Failing to Register as Sex Offender

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a South Dakota man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on June 8, 2026. Adrian Paul Martinez, age 70, was sentenced to five months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. This sentence runs consecutively to a five-month tribal sentence imposed for the same underlying conduct. Martinez was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in December 2025. He pleaded guilty on February 19, 2026. Martinez was federally convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse of a Minor in 1990. As a result, he is required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. In February 2022, Martinez registered a Little Eagle, South Dakota address as his primary residence. During the winter of 2024, Martinez stayed 42 nights at the Prairie Knights Casino in Fort Yates, North Dakota. He failed to update his registration to reflect that he habitually lived at the casino despite being directed to do so by law enforcement. This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Sex Offender Registration Notification Act Compliance Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case. Martinez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his federal sentence. This case was brought as a 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. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit, 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: Mishicot Teacher and Track Coach Sentenced for Production of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 16, 2026, United States District Judge Byron B. Conway sentenced former Mishicot Middle/High School teacher and track coach Ryan S. Schroeder (age 39), to 336 months’ imprisonment following his conviction for Production of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a). According to court documents and arguments presented in court, Schroeder sexually assaulted a minor student for approximately two years, beginning when the girl was in the eighth grade. Schroeder then abused a second student, then 13-years-old, who informed the school district of Schroeder’s sexual abuse towards her. Law enforcement searched Schroeder’s cell phone and discovered that he had been sending images to both of the minors. Ultimately, he pled guilty to creating a video involving one of the minors which contained sexually explicit conduct with the child. Judge Conway described the defendant’s crime as a serious criminal offense involving “so much more than the production of child pornography.” He condemned Schroeder’s “deviant behavior” and described him as a “family man who was living a fraud” and a “mentor who became a predator.” Judge Conway determined that 28 years (336 months) of imprisonment was an appropriate sentence noting that his abuse of trust was higher given that his dual role of teacher and track coach gave him extended access to the victims. Following his release from prison, Schroeder will spend the remainder of his life on supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law. “This defendant stole the innocence of these children and deserved the very lengthy prison sentence he received,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “He abused the position of trust given him by the school, parents and society as a whole. The team from the investigators to the prosecutors did an outstanding job bringing this defendant to justice.” “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed and the lasting impact they have had on the victims and their families. I want to commend the outstanding work of Detective Nate Steber, whose dedication and pursuit of the truth helped bring this case to a successful conclusion. Investigations involving the exploitation of children are among the most difficult cases law enforcement encounters,” stated Manitowoc County Sheriff Daniel Hartwig. “While no sentence can erase the trauma these victims endured, it is our hope that today’s outcome provides a measure of closure and an opportunity for healing as they move forward. The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting children and holding those who abuse positions of trust fully accountable for their actions.” Mishicot Police Chief Paul Granger stated, “This investigation began within our community and serves as a reminder that child exploitation can occur anywhere, even in places where families expect their children to be safest. From the moment these allegations were brought forward, the Mishicot Police Department, led by Detective James Brooks' diligent investigative efforts, took immediate action to ensure the allegations were thoroughly investigated and that the victims received the support and protection they deserved.” “I am proud of the work performed by our officers and our law enforcement partners throughout this investigation. Today's sentence sends a clear message that individuals who use positions of trust and authority to exploit children will be identified, investigated, and held fully accountable. While no sentence can undo the harm caused to these victims, we hope this outcome provides a measure of justice and allows them to continue their healing journey. The Mishicot Police Department remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting children and pursuing those who prey upon the most vulnerable members of our community.'" This case was investigated by the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office, the Mishicot Police Department and with the assistance of the Manitowoc County District Attorney’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Humble and Timothy W. Funnell. 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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Hondo Man Who Threatened to Violently Overthrow the U.S. Government in 2025 Found Guilty by Federal Jury

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – A federal jury in San Antonio convicted a Hondo man today of one count of Interstate Threatening Communication, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Justin R. Simmons. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jay Anthony Villarreal, 25, left his home in Hondo on June 28, 2025, with the intent to carry out an attack in Washington D.C., to overthrow the government. Villarreal was armed with an AR-15 semi-automatic assault weapon, a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, along with extra loaded magazines and multiple boxes of ammunition for each gun. He also possessed in his vehicle a police scanner, binoculars, a Bible, and a copy of the Texas Penal Code. As part of his plan to overthrow the government, Villarreal used social media in an effort to solicit military veterans to join him. A friend of Villarreal’s in Maryland saw the social media post on the morning of June 29, 2025, viewed it as potential mass murder situation, and reported it to the FBI. Another of Villarreal’s acquaintances from Hondo was disturbed by the messages and wanted to avert a mass killing so he reported it to the Hondo police. Furthermore, multiple family members and friends sent messages to Villarreal while he was on his drive from Hondo to Washington D.C., prompting him to turn around in the Beaumont area and return home on June 29 at approximately 8:00 pm. Later that day, FBI agents searched Villarreal’s home, resulting in the discovery of two U.S. military smoke grenades—all in addition to the firearms and materials he had in his vehicle. Villarreal was arrested on July 2, 2025. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery presided over a jury trial that began on June 15, 2026, and resulted in the guilty verdict. A sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for Sept. 21. “Today, a federal jury found this defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt for threatening to carry out a violent attack in our Nation’s capital,” said U.S. Attorney Simmons. “Thankfully, in this case, friends and family members recognized the veracity of the threat and contacted the FBI, preventing what could have been a mass casualty event. Given the darkness that invades the minds of so many, and the prevalence of violent acts committed in the name of politics, it is more important now than ever to say something if you see something. That single decision can lead to a swift response and lives saved, as it did in this case. Special thanks to the FBI and Hondo Police for acting quickly and recognizing the seriousness of the situation.” “Threats of violence against the U.S. government or the community, particularly when coupled with access to firearms, demand the utmost seriousness,” said Daniel Faith, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “We commend the Hondo Police Department for its swift action and prompt reporting to the FBI. We also would like to thank members of the community who saw something and reported their concerns to law enforcement. This guilty verdict underscores the strength of our coordinated efforts through the FBI San Antonio Joint Terrorism Task Force and makes clear that those who threaten violence will be brought to justice.” The FBI-Joint Terrorism Task Force, including the San Antonio Police Department, Hondo Police Department, and UTSA Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Roomberg and Kirk Mangels are prosecuting the case. ###


title: Mercer County Woman Pleads Guilty to $175,731.31 Fraud Scheme Targeting Federal Veterans Health Care Benefits

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Karen Shea Radford, 47, of Princeton, pleaded guilty today to theft of government money. Radford admitted to stealing $175,731.31 from a United States Department of Veterans Affairs health care benefits program through a false billing scheme. According to court documents and statements made in court, from June 29, 2017, through on or about August 14, 2023, Radford executed the fraud scheme while an owner of Healthcare Therapy Services LLC (HCTS), doing business as Medical Massage Therapy in Princeton. Radford submitted false bills to the Civilian Health and Medical Program of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) during the time period for medical services not rendered. As part of her guilty plea, Radford admitted that HCTS provided massage services to two CHAMPVA beneficiaries once a week between June 29, 2017, and August 14, 2023, but billed the program $83,619.67 for one of these beneficiaries and $81,323.16 for the other by falsely claiming they received massages multiple days per week including weekends. Radford further admitted that she falsely billed CHAMPVA $10,695.29 for a third beneficiary between May 21, 2018, and May 16, 2022, and $93.19 for a fourth beneficiary between October 4, 2017, and October 11, 2017, all for services never performed. Radford is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Radford also owes $175,731.31 in restitution. United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer D. Gordon is prosecuting the case. On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-55. ###


title: Illegal alien from Chile sentenced to 45-months and ordered to pay over $47,000 in restitution for multi-state identity fraud scheme

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced an illegal alien from Chile to 45-months for her extensive identity theft scheme spanning 7 states and impacting 18 victims. Mayorie Fernandez-Ormeno, 37, pleaded guilty to five counts for conspiracy to commit access device fraud, access device fraud, attempted access device fraud, aggravated identity theft and illegal reentry after deportation. She will serve a total of 45-months imprisonment, after which she is expected to be deported. The court also ordered Fernandez-Ormeno to pay $47,218.84 in restitution to her victims. “This defendant showed no respect for our laws,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “She illegally entered the country and then made a living stealing other people’s identities. Those who thumb their nose at our sovereignty and prey on hardworking Americans will face the full force of federal law. Our office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to uphold the rule of law.” A superseding indictment was returned in February 2025 following Fernandez-Ormeno's arrest in Philadelphia. Fernandez-Ormeno had previously been removed from the United States but unlawfully returned in October 2023. According to court documents, from approximately February 1, 2024 to April 25, 2024, Fernandez-Ormeno engaged in an extensive identity fraud scheme where she and her coconspirator would target and steal credit cards from individuals at local retailers and use those credit cards for their own personal use. Over the course of her conspiracy, Fernandez-Ormeno stole credit cards from victims in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon, resulting in loss of $47,218.84 to 18 different victims. “This sentence demonstrates the consequences for those who exploit stolen identities and victimize hardworking Americans across multiple states,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI will continue to aggressively investigate transnational fraud schemes and work with our partners to ensure that those who commit these crimes are brought to justice and held financially accountable to their victims.” 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. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. Homeland Security Investigations and the Edwardsville Police Department contributed to this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Howard prosecuted the case.


title: Oklahoma City Man Faces Federal Charges Following Deadly Shootout with Law Enforcement

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal superseding indictment has been filed, charging BENJAMIN HARRISON PLANK , 38, of Oklahoma City, with multiple federal offenses arising from a deadly shootout and high-speed chase involving multiple law enforcement agencies, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to carry out their duties and serve our community,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Any attack on them will not be tolerated, and the Justice Department will work tirelessly with its partners to hold the individual accountable to the fullest extent.” According to a federal criminal complaint and supporting affidavit, on August 22, 2022, three deputies with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office went to an Oklahoma County residence to evict Plank pursuant to a court order. When they arrived, Plank refused to exit the residence and the deputies prepared to make a lawful forced entry. Before they could enter, Plank fired multiple rounds from an AR-15-style rifle from inside the residence, killing one deputy at the scene. Plank then exited the residence and shot another deputy multiple times. That deputy survived the injuries. Plank also exchanged gunfire with the third deputy. Court records further reflect that following the initial shootout, Plank loaded a backpack containing firearms and drug paraphernalia into a boat mounted on a trailer attached to his truck and fled the scene. A dangerous high-speed pursuit ensued, during which Plank continued to fire at law enforcement officers, including officers assisting the United States Marshals Service. The pursuit ended outside Tinker Air Force Base after Plank was observed throwing the rifle from the driver’s-side window of the truck. He was arrested shortly thereafter. On June 16, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a seven-count superseding indictment charging Plank with two counts of prohibited person in possession of firearms, two counts of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon, two counts of discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of attempted murder of certain officers. If convicted of all charges, Plank faces no less than ten years and up to life in federal prison and fines of up to $1,750,000. The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations, and that Plank is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn M. Hutzell is prosecuting the case. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Former Quincy Official Sentenced for Embezzling City Funds

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Fitchburg man and former Quincy official was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a scheme to embezzle funds from the City of Quincy, Mass. Thomas F. Clasby, Jr., 62, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to six months in prison, to be followed by six months of home confinement and one year of supervised release. Clasby was also ordered to pay $136,061.71 in restitution. In March 2026 , Clasby pleaded guilty to embezzlement, mail and wire fraud and interstate transportation of stolen property. Clasby was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2025 . “Clasby’s actions misdirected taxpayer funds, degraded government services and eroded the public’s trust,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “I hope that today’s sentence sends a deterrent message to others, that if you steal from taxpayer funded programs you will be held accountable.” “Stealing money from taxpayer funded programs dedicated to supporting our seniors is an egregious breach of public trust, and utterly disgraceful,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations Boston Division. “As the Director of Quincy Elder Services, Thomas Clasby used his position to embezzle tens of thousands of dollars that should have been spent on the city’s residents to instead fund a framed self-portrait, treat himself to 153 pounds of bourbon steak tips and a snow blower, and buy gifts for his wife, his son, and a Toyota Prius for his secret girlfriend. Public corruption does so much damage to people’s trust in the system, at every level, and cases like this one only fuel the FBI’s commitment to tackling it to ensure crooked public employees like Mr. Clasby are brought to justice and held fully accountable.” Clasby was the Director of the Quincy Department of Elder Services (Elder Services) between approximately 1999 and April 2024. Beginning in 2019, Clasby used the City’s purchasing process to pay personal expenses and generate cash for himself. For example, Clasby arranged for the City to pay $8,950 to a music studio to produce recordings of Clasby singing songs; $2,236 to food service vendors for 153 pounds of bourbon steak tips; $4,800 for a Toyota Prius; and $1,658 for a signature, lacquered, mounted and framed self-portrait, all of which were personal expenses. In addition, Clasby arranged for the City to pay over $38,000 to a New York consulting company owned by Clasby’s friend. The consulting company never provided goods or services to any City department. Instead, Clasby’s friend cashed the City checks and delivered the cash to Clasby at a rest stop in Framingham, Mass., a ferry terminal in Bridgeport, Conn. and at the friend’s New York apartment. Starting in June 2021, Clasby stole the majority of cash receipts generated by Elder Services at the Kennedy Center in Quincy. U.S. Attorney Foley and FBI SAC Docks made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Quincy Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina E. Barclay of the Public Corruption and Special Prosecutions Unit prosecuted the case.


title: St. Louis Felon Admits Being Caught with 17 Guns after Fleeing Police, Standoff

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

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon from St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday admitted being caught with 17 guns after fleeing from police and triggering a standoff at his home. Demond Spruill, 51, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Wednesday to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On March 12, 2024, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents, assisted by members of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department SWAT team, were planning to conduct a court-approved search of Spruill’s home in the 4400 block of Lexington Avenue. Prior to serving the search warrant, law enforcement encountered Spruill and pulled his red Dodge Charger over near the 2800 block of Marcus Avenue. Spruill refused to get out of the car and instead sped off. When officers and agents arrived at Spruill’s home, he was leaving the home and walking toward his car. Spruill then ran back inside the house and refused to leave. After negotiating with law enforcement via telephone, Spruill surrendered. During a search, officers and agents found 17 firearms, including two that were stolen. They also found five bullet-resistant vests and a large quantity of assorted ammunition inside his bedroom. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Lake is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.


title: Tallahassee Serial Felon Indicted on Gun Charge

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Willie Harris, III, 48, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge. Harris appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026, at 8:30 am before United States District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. If convicted, Harris faces a minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. 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. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: New Jersey Man Sentenced to More Than 29 Years in Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material on the Dark Web

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 350 months in prison for distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on a dark web site dedicated to discussing and trafficking in CSAM. “The court’s sentence today holds Drew Holzlein accountable for his role in helping run a community on the dark web dedicated to trafficking in visual depictions of minors being subjected to horrific acts of sexual abuse,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Those who engage in this disgusting conduct will be investigated and prosecuted. The clear message in this case and others just like it is that Holzlein and his co-conspirators will not skate by because of the anonymity afforded by the dark web. We will still find you.” “By serving as a moderator on a dark web forum devoted to the dissemination of child sexual abuse material, the defendant did not merely enable exploitation — he curated and sustained a marketplace of depravity,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer for the District of New Jersey. “This sentence marks a critical measure of accountability and affirms my Office’s unwavering commitment to vindicating the rights and dignity of the most vulnerable. We will persist in our efforts to expose and dismantle these clandestine networks, wherever they operate.” “This offender provided access to a platform where multiple perpetrators conspired to create and share CSAM,” said Assistant Director Heith Janke of the FBI’s Criminal Division. “The arrest of this moderator led FBI Newark and the FBI Child Exploitation Operational Unit to investigate and disrupt the activities of additional child exploitation offenders and abusers. The FBI will continue to track down these criminals, ensure that they are held accountable for their crimes, and secure justice for their victims.” According to court documents, Drew Holzlein, 57, of Manchester, New Jersey, was a member and moderator of a website on the dark web that was dedicated to the proliferation of CSAM. From approximately 2019 until his arrest in January 2024, Holzlein was an active participant on this site and shared thousands of sexually explicit images of nude, prepubescent minors with the site’s many users. A search of Holzlein’s home in January 2024 recovered multiple electronic devices containing images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation and abuse of prepubescent children. Holzlein was interviewed during the search and admitted to law enforcement that he was an active member on this dark web site for years and served as a moderator on the site. Holzlein was previously convicted in New Jersey of two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and the FBI Newark Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorney William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Belgiovine for the District of New Jersey 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Miami Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Charge Connected to Cryptocurrency Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Florida man pled guilty in federal court in connection with a $1.8-billion cryptocurrency fraud scheme. Rodney “Bitcoin Rodney,” Burton, 56, of Miami, who also has a residence in Prince George’s County, Maryland, pled guilty to conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business stemming from his role as a promoter of the cryptocurrency scam. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington D.C. Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Pete Gizas, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – New York. According to the plea agreement, from June 2020 to January 2022, Burton conspired to provide unlicensed money transmitting services to promote HyperFund and used investors’ funds to enrich himself. HyperFund, which purported as a legitimate cryptocurrency investment platform, but in truth, was a global wire-fraud scheme that obtained $1.8 billion from victim-investors worldwide. HyperFund’s promotional materials made various false claims, including that investors who purchased HyperFund “memberships” would receive between 0.5 and 1 percent daily in passive rewards until the company either doubled or tripled the investor’s initial investment. Additionally, HyperFund attempted to convince investors that it could generate such high rates of return by claiming that it would disburse payments, in part, from its revenues from large-scale crypto-mining operations. But HyperFund did not have such operations. Beginning in 2021, HyperFund began blocking investor withdrawals. As part of the scheme, Burton controlled several companies that purported to offer consulting services but were in fact unlicensed money transmitting businesses. He personally received at least $7,851,711 in proceeds from the operation of the unlicensed money transmitting business, including from HyperFund victim-investors located in Maryland. Burton faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business. Sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, at 11 a.m., in front of U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the IRS-CI and HSI for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina A. Hoffman who is prosecuting the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry into United States

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national was sentenced in federal court today by United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough to three months in federal prison without parole for illegal reentry by an alien previously convicted of a felony. Genaro Torres-Rizo, 48, a citizen of Mexico living in Chillicothe, Mo., was arrested Feb. 22, 2025, in Chillicothe, Mo. Torres-Rizo has been removed five times from the United States and was convicted in the District of New Mexico of illegal reentry by a removed alien in 2013. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Mahoney and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Nichols. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Convicted Sex Offender Charged with Child Exploitation Crimes in Nepal

body_text: A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Illinois returned a superseding indictment today charging an Illinois man with eight counts of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors in Nepal and one count of committing those offenses while required to register as a sex offender. According to court documents, Kenneth Joseph Coombs, 58, of Collinsville, Illinois, traveled from the United States to Nepal in August 2016 and sexually abused underage boys while staying at a hotel in that country between August and September of that year. Each of the first eight counts of the indictment is premised on his sexual abuse of a different child in Nepal. Coombs used a combination of force, involuntary intoxication, and payments to the children to commit the sex acts. Coombs also took photos of some of the children engaged in the sexually explicit conduct he directed, and those photos were recovered from his electronic devices by law enforcement. At the time Coombs committed these offenses, he was required to register as a sex offender based on having a qualifying prior sex offense conviction in the state of Missouri. Coombs was convicted in Nepal of pedophilia and served a nine-year prison term. Coombs was arrested by U.S. law enforcement following his deportation from Nepal to the United States in September 2025, and he has been held in custody since that time. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft of the Southern District of Illinois and Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley of the FBI Springfield Field Office made the announcement. FBI Springfield is investigating the case and received substantial assistance from the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal. Trial Attorney Jessica L. Urban of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly S. Arshi for the Southern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc . An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Repeat offender charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 39-year-old Everson, Washington resident was charged federally late today with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Nathaniel A. Muniz-Spry was taken into custody at a Whatcom County hospital following an early morning shooting yesterday June 16, 2026, near the U.S. /Canada border in Blaine. According to records filed in the case, U.S. Border Patrol agents were sent to the area near the U.S./Canada border after a surveillance camera showed someone walking in an area that is a frequent location for illegal border crossings and smuggling activity. Agents encountered Muniz-Spry and worked to confirm his identity. During the encounter, agents learned that there was an “approach with caution” alert in his NCIC records stemming from a prior contact with law enforcement. When officers searched Muniz-Spry an officer felt a gun at his waistband. Muniz-Spry resisted and ultimately broke away as the agent secured the gun. Muniz-Spry attempted to flee, and was shot in the leg. He was taken to the hospital for medical care and was released later in the day to law enforcement. Muniz-Spry is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his criminal convictions: Unlawful possession of a firearm (Skagit County 2018); Unlawful possession of a short barreled shotgun or rifle (Skagit County 2018); Possession of a stolen vehicle (Skagit County 2018); Bail jumping (Whatcom County 2018); Unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree (Whatcom County 2018); Burglary in the second degree (Whatcom County 2014); Bail jumping (Whatcom County 2014); Felony violation of a no contact order (Whatcom County 2011); and Residential burglary (Whatcom County 2009). The Case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from Blaine Police Department, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigation (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Woods with assistance from the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.


title: Latham Man Indicted for Receipt of Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – – Ethan Rupeka, age 22, of Latham, New York, was arraigned 5/29 on an indictment charging him with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. Rupeka was arraigned on Friday May 29 th before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart and was released on Monday June 1st to probation pending trial. The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. According to the indictment, Rupeka received child pornography on social media messaging services, and possessed the child pornography on four different electronic devices. The material found stemmed from a search warrant conducted on defendant’s residence on February 12, 2025 by the New York State Police, stemming from a cyber tip by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “The reprehensible conduct exhibited by this defendant was identified thanks to the dedicated efforts of the NCMEC. Their work allowed the New York State Police and FBI to arrest Mr. Rupeka who will now be prosecuted by my office to ensure he can no longer victimize children for his perverted satisfaction.” “FBI Albany’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is deeply committed to working with partners to swiftly investigate predators like Mr. Rupeka and ensure they are held accountable for their disturbing behavior. We will continue to leverage every resource necessary to protect our most vulnerable from these monsters.” Said Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “These types of investigations are difficult and show the lengths child predators will go to exploit children. It is through great partnership that we continue to hold those accountable who seek to put a child in harm’s way. I applaud the diligent work done by our State Police members and law enforcement partners that led to this indictment and ensures the defendant will serve time for these deplorable crimes.” The Receipt of Child Pornography charge filed against Rupeka carries a mandatory minimum term of 5 years in prison, a maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. In addition, a conviction will require Rupeka to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. The charge in the indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is investigating the case, with assistance from the New York State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Paul DerOhannesian is prosecuting the case as Part of Project Safe Childhood. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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: Illegal Alien - Former Nicaraguan Tactical Instructor Sentenced for Assault of HSI Special Agent

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Nicaraguan National Michel Manuel Garcia Rojas was sentenced Wednesday June 17 th in Albany by The Honorable Mae A. D'Agostino to 51 months in federal prison. Garcia Rojas pled guilty on February 9, 2026 to a single count indictment charging assaulting, resisting, and impeding a federal officer, in violation of 18 U.S.C. Section 111(a)(1) and (b). First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo Acting Field Office Director Philip Rhoney made the announcement in Albany today. On March 5 th , 2025, Garcias Rojas was detained charged by the Rotterdam Police Department for misdemeanor charges including petit larceny. Pursuant to the Laken Riley Act, Federal Agents attempted to detain the defendant and his partner upon their release from Rotterdam Police custody, for detention and immigration removal proceedings pursuant to their lack of lawful authority to be in the United States. While handcuffed, the defendant resisted lawful arrest and fled the special agents. During the course of the encounter an HSI Special Agent attempted to rearrest the defendant during what proved to be a violent fight, at one point repeatedly throwing the agent into an exterior door inside a vestibule, which prevented police officers inside the building from coming to the agent’s aid. The defendant’s assault on the agent caused a variety of injuries to the Agent. Throughout the altercation captured on audio and video surveillance, the Special Agent can repeatedly be heard calmly telling the defendant to “stop resisting,” while the defendant screams in rage. Ultimately, through the force of several law enforcement agents and the use of tasers the defendant was subdued and arrested. The violent assault of a federal agent by a criminal alien, is the unfortunate result of the prior administrations failed immigration policies” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III . “Thanks to the Laken Riley act, violent aliens such as this defendant can be detained and removed from our country. Let Mr. Garcias Rojas be an example to anyone who interferes with and/or assaults members of law enforcement – conducting lawful enforcement actions, this administration will leverage the resources of the federal government to enact justice and protect the American people.” Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone : “This defendant, trained in defensive tactics, ran from federal agents, fought them and continued to resist in attempt to flee and attack law enforcement. Across the nation and here in New York, law enforcement personnel – enforcing the laws as they exist – are operating in an increasingly complex and dangerous threat environment. Despite the growing threats, HSI remains resolute in our mission to protect our communities and uphold the law. We stand united with our law enforcement partners and the communities we serve and will ensure that any attack on law enforcement is vigorously investigated and prosecuted." The assault on our HSI colleague while in the course of their official duties comes at a time when open border activists routinely demonize ICE for enforcing the laws passed by Congress, and blatantly false anti-ICE rhetoric from irresponsible politicians is at an all-time high, ,” said ERO Buffalo Acting Field Officer Director Philip Rhoney . “Criminals and agitators will not stop us from carrying out our mission in a way that best serves national security, public safety and border security. I remain grateful to our officers and our federal partners for their work to keep violent illegal aliens off the streets in our state and our country.” Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Clark prosecuted the case.


title: Eight Drones Seized and Two Violation Notices Issued During June 16 FIFA World Cup Events

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), FBI-Kansas City, and Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS) joint operation intercepted eight drones yesterday during FIFA World Cup 2026 events at Kansas City Stadium and FIFA Fan Festival for violations of temporary flight restrictions (TFRs). All eight drones and controllers were seized by the FBI. Two drone operators were issued misdemeanor violation notices by FAMS. The counter-drone operation also resulted in the apprehension of a female wanted on six outstanding arrest warrants. Since June 11, the CUAS joint operation has detected 19 drones operating in TFR zones around Kansas City stadium, Fan Festival, and other event locations. These detections have resulted in 18 contacts by law enforcement with drone operators, 14 drone seizures, and 5 federal criminal citations. “Not only is flying drones in TFR zones illegal, it’s dangerous. My office is committed to keeping our community and visitors safe by keeping our skies drone free,” said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price. “If you see a drone breaking the rules, report it. If you are flying an illegal drone, think twice because violators will be held accountable by the Department of Justice.” Checking for TFRs before every drone flight is required by federal law. A list of approved providers offering free airspace awareness tools for desktop and mobile devices is available at faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly. Violations of these TFRs can result in civil fines up to $75,000, criminal fines up to $100,000, up to a year in prison, and seizure of the drone. If you spot unsafe drone activity, report it immediately by calling 9-1-1 or 1-800-CALL-FBI.


title: Baltimore Man Sentenced for Role in East Baltimore Shootout

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man received a federal-prison term, today, stemming from an attempted drive-by shooting. U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Maddox sentenced James Beverly, Jr., 40, to 54 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in connection with the East Baltimore shootout. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD). “Drive-by shootings create fear, violence, and instability in our neighborhoods,” Hayes said. “Beverly demonstrated a reckless disregard for human life, and today’s sentence holds him accountable. Importantly, because this is a federal sentence, there is no possibility of parole. Our Office remains committed to protecting our communities from violent offenders like Beverly.” “ATF is on the front lines of the fight against violent crime,” Doerrer said. “We are proud to stand with our federal and local partners in holding Beverly accountable for his incredibly dangerous behavior.” According to court documents, in February 2024, Beverly, with his jacket and pants pocket filled with fentanyl and cocaine base packaged for distribution, stood on an East Baltimore corner. He also possessed a loaded semi-automatic pistol. Beverly is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior felony convictions, including convictions for first-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder. As Beverly stood on the corner, a dark-colored SUV pulled alongside Beverly. Then the passenger opened fire, shooting approximately 10 rounds at Beverly. When the shooting started, Beverly fell to the ground and remained there as the gunman fired additional shots. After the shooting stopped, and the vehicle began pulling away, Beverly pulled out his firearm, rolled over, and started firing in the direction of the fleeing vehicle. A surveillance camera captured Beverly recklessly discharging the firearm 11 times at the vehicle after he was no longer under attack. Beverly then threw the gun into a nearby deli. Then when law enforcement responded to a call about the shooting, BPD officers apprehended Beverly, found narcotics and cash on him, and recovered the firearm from the deli. 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. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. U.S. Attorney Hayes thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Patricia McLane and Stanton Lawyer for their work on the case. 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 . # # #


title: Milwaukee Woman Sentenced to Prison for Preparing False Tax Returns

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 16, 2026, U.S. District Judge Brett Ludwig sentenced Jasmeika Simon to one year and one day in federal prison for aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2). Simon operated a tax preparation business that filed hundreds of false and fraudulent returns on behalf of clients in exchange for fees. According to court records, Simon worked as an independent contractor and tax preparer for “Unlimited Taxes and More,” a Georgia‑based tax preparation company with affiliates nationwide. From 2022 through 2024, she submitted more than 300 individual income tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) containing false information designed to inflate clients’ tax refunds. Simon repeatedly used fabricated items—including business expenses, Sick and Family Leave Credits, Fuel Credits, and ordinary dividends—to artificially increase refund amounts. She recruited clients through word‑of‑mouth and Facebook advertising, often preparing returns with minimal input from the taxpayers. “Tax fraud steals from all honest Americans who work hard and pay their taxes honestly,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “This defendant committed tax fraud hundreds of times and rightly received a sentence to the federal penitentiary.” In imposing the sentence, Judge Ludwig emphasized the seriousness of Simon’s conduct, the need for just punishment, and the importance of deterring others from engaging in similar fraud. Judge Ludwig also ordered Simon to pay more than $250,000 in restitution and to serve one year of supervised release following her prison term. The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter J. Smyczek. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Caddo Parish Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Prison for Child Pornography Charges

component: Criminal - Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section

body_text: SHREVEPORT – On June 10, 2026, Morgan J. Moore, 36 of Shreveport, was sentenced to the statutory maximum of 240 months in federal prison and 10 years of supervised release after a jury found him guilty of one count of Possession and seven counts of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentences will be served concurrently. On May 28, 2024, Caddo Parish detectives received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Moore had uploaded child pornography onto the KIK messaging app. A search warrant for Moore’s residence recovered multiple devices containing approximately 19,125 files containing child pornography. According to court documents, digital evidence of these crimes included graphic videos depicting sexual abuse of children as young as four years old. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, with NCMEC providing additional investigative material. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cheyenne Wilson and Earl Campbell with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Amanda Morgan. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer , under Case Number 5:25-cr-00050. ### Public Affairs United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Louisiana USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Recidivist Fraudster Sentenced To 160 Months In Prison

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton announced that MATTHEW BLAKE MORROW-WU, a/k/a “Blake Wu,” a/k/a “Blake Ho,” a/k/a “Blake Morrow,” a/k/a “Matthew Wu,” a/k/a “Matthew Ho,” a/k/a “Matthew Blake Morrow,” was sentenced today to 160 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein for perpetrating a scheme to defraud a Manhattan architecture firm during the COVID-19 pandemic, after which he obstructed justice and pled from prosecution. On April 28, 2025, MORROW-WU pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, substantive wire fraud and mail fraud, impersonation of a federal officer, falsification of records, and obstruction of justice. “Morrow-Wu, a recidivist, preyed on a small business during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent proceeds,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “When he was caught, Morrow-Wu then tried to cover up his crimes and fled from prosecution. Today’s sentence should make clear to fraudsters that there are significant consequences for their crimes.” According to the charging documents and other filings and statements made in court proceedings: Between approximately 2020 and January 2023, MORROW-WU defrauded a Manhattan architecture firm (“Firm-1”) and its owners of nearly $400,000 through fraudulent check deposits and credit card transactions. MORROW-WU carried out his scheme by using inside information obtained from Firm-1, which he used to steal money from Firm-1 and its clients, including by depositing Firm-1’s funds directly into his own bank accounts and accruing tens of thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges on Firm-1’s credit cards. This scheme was the latest in MORROW-WU’s lengthy history of fraud, including prior convictions for identity theft, check fraud, credit card fraud, passport fraud, and obstruction of justice. In addition to these convictions, MORROW-WU—despite not being a licensed attorney—misappropriated the state bar license of an attorney with a similar name, which he used to fraudulently obtain legal employment and to fraudulently incorporate various law offices. MORROW-WU also undertook significant efforts to conceal his fraudulent scheme, including by forging correspondence by Firm-1 and using his fake law practices as cover. Moreover, in October 2022, MORROW-WU sent the victims a forged target letter purporting to be from the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, which threatened the victims with criminal prosecution for committing fraud. MORROW-WU was arrested and charged with fraud offenses in January 2023. In February 2025, while on bail pending trial, MORROW-WU submitted to the Court a false letter from a purported doctor claiming, inaccurately, that MORROW-WU had metastatic cancer, in an effort to delay his then-upcoming trial. Thereafter, MORROW-WU was charged with obstruction offenses and, after failing to appear for a scheduled court conference, fled to California, where he was apprehended by law enforcement. * * * In addition to the prison term, MORROW-WU, 42, of Jersey City, New Jersey, was sentenced to 3 years of supervised release, ordered to forfeit $406,788.08, and ordered to pay $197,965.38 in restitution. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Special Agents of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the U.S. Postal Inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and thanked the U.S. Marshals Service and the Solano County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with the apprehension of MORROW-WU. The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry J. Fang, Michael R. Herman, Henry L. Ross, and Angela Zhu are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Three New Attorneys Sworn in to Serve the District

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: United States Attorney Ellis Boyle administered the oath of office to two Special Assistant United States Attorneys and one Assistant United States Attorney to serve the EDNC. Their appointments advance the office's mission of upholding the rule of law and serving the people of our district. We are pleased to welcome them aboard and look forward to their contributions to the office and community.


title: Brockton Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government Funds in Connection With Stolen $931,000 Tax Refund Check

body_text: BOSTON – A Brockton woman pleaded guilty on June 11, 2026 in federal court in Boston to stealing a nearly $1 million United States Treasury tax refund check. Lana Ruel, 70, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government funds. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for Oct. 1, 2026. In December 2025 , Ruel was arrested and charged. Ruel attempted to deposit a United States Treasury tax refund check issued to a healthcare company in Brooklyn, New York. Prior to the attempted deposit, Ruel incorporated a company in Massachusetts and opened a bank account in the same name of the healthcare company that was the payee on the tax refund check. After the attempted deposit, the bank froze Ruel’s account. Ruel then called the bank and said that she could “explain what the check was, where it came from, and what it’s for…” Over a period of two years, Ruel created four additional companies in Massachusetts that did not have a legitimate business purpose. For one of those companies, Ruel opened an account at approximately 10 different banks. Ruel also received wire transfers in some of the accounts and then wired the funds to different accounts or made cash withdrawals. The banks have closed all these accounts. The charge of theft of government funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years 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; Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Nicholas Bucciarelli, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Saltzman of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case. On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: D.C. Man Sentenced to Five Years for Armed Carjacking in Columbia Heights

body_text: WASHINGTON – Avery Ricardo Robinson III, 26, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 60 months in connection with an armed carjacking last year in Northwest, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “Robinson carjacked his victim for sport. He terrorized his victim at gunpoint, left his victim with a death threat ringing in his ears, and then abandoned his victim’s stolen vehicle only a mile away,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “This office will continue to pursue serious sentences for defendants who treat their neighbors as prey.” Robinson pleaded guilty March 10, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan to one count of carjacking. In addition to the five-year prison term, Judge AliKhan ordered Robinson to serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 72-month prison term. According to court documents, on Sept. 20, 2025, in the early morning hours, the victim parked a 2017 Nissan Altima near the 1400 block of Park Road NW. Robinson rode up on a bicycle, pulled a firearm from his waistband, and demanded the victim's possessions. Robinson forced the victim at gunpoint to throw his cellphone to the ground, hand over the car keys, and remove a necklace from his own neck. Robinson then warned the victim he would shoot him if he saw him again. Left with no phone and no transportation, the victim walked away. Robinson used the keys he had taken from the victim to get into the Nissan Altima and drive off. Police recovered the vehicle about a mile from the scene. Two days later, when Robinson was arrested, he was found in possession of a loaded handgun with a round in the chamber. At the time of the carjacking, Robinson was on bench warrant status in connection with two separate cases involving stolen vehicles. He previously was convicted in 2025 of unlawful taking of a motor vehicle in Maryland. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Washington Field Office. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caelainn Carney. Surveillance cameras captured the carjacking on video. In this picture, Robinson holds a firearm in his right hand as he reaches towards his victim. 25cr327


title: Mexican national sentenced for role in large-scale international cocaine trafficking offense

component: Criminal - Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Mexican national was sentenced today to 14 years in prison for his role in a conspiracy to import approximately 1,900 kilograms of cocaine into the United States. According to court documents, Jesus Rauda-Avila was a member of a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) led by Marisela Flores-Torruco that was responsible for importing multi-hundred-kilogram quantities of cocaine into the United States. The DTO, which had operations in New York, Texas, and elsewhere in the United States, sourced its cocaine from Colombia and provided logistical and financial support to coordinate the narcotics’ passage through Central America and Mexico and into the United States. During the investigation, law enforcement made several cocaine seizures, including approximately 971 kilograms of cocaine on April 21, 2017, and 500 kilograms of cocaine on May 10, 2017, nearly all of which was attributable to the DTO. From 2016 to October 2017, in coordination with Flores-Torruco’s DTO, Rauda-Avila arranged and directed the transportation of funds, drivers, and vehicles from northern Mexico to southern Mexico to purchase and pick up cocaine, which was subsequently transported into the United States for distribution. Rauda-Avila conducted at least ten such narcotics purchases in partnership with Flores-Torruco’s DTO, each involving between 100 and 400 kilograms of cocaine. Rauda-Avila pled guilty to conspiring to import cocaine to the United States. Two of Rauda-Avila’s and Flores-Torruco’ co-conspirators, Qiyun Chen, and Jose Francisco Mendoza-Gomez , have been convicted in the Eastern District of Virginia for their roles within the DTO, as have several individuals involved with the related Chinese money laundering network. Flores-Torruco pled guilty to possession, manufacture, or distribution of a controlled substance and was sentenced to 16 years and eight months in prison. Chen pled guilty to money laundering conspiracy and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Mendoza-Gomez pled guilty to conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit, investigated the case, with assistance from DEA’s offices in Cartagena (Colombia), Bogota (Colombia), Panama City, Mexico City, and Guatemala City. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service provided substantial assistance in the investigation. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition from Mexico. Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher M. Carter and Edgardo J. Rodriguez for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Chelsea R. Rooney of the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Washington, D.C., comprises agents and officers from the FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; DEA; Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Naval Criminal Investigative Service; Transportation Security Administration Federal Air Marshals Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Enforcement and Removal Operations; and Washington Baltimore HIDTA, with the prosecution being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section's (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations. MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims. 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. 1:17-cr-147.


title: Stamford Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking, Gun Possession Offenses

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OMAR PARRA, also known as “D” and “Dee,” 39, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 100 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses. According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stamford Police Department identified Jimmy Arce as a distributor of fentanyl in southwestern Connecticut. During the investigation, investigators regularly observed Arce supplying Parra with fentanyl for redistribution, and made multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl, as well as crack cocaine, from Parra. Parra was arrested on March 14, 2024. On March 15, 2024, a search of Parra’s residence and vehicle revealed distribution quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and crack; items used to process and package narcotics; a loaded .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun; and $16,574 in cash. Parra has been detained since his arrest. On December 9, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and a quantity of heroin; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Parra’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and arson offenses. Arce pleaded guilty and on January 12, 2026, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment. This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Stamford Police Department, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Danbury, and Darien Police Departments. The DEA HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Stolfi Collins and Geoffrey M. Stone.


title: Dorchester Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery of Local Bank

body_text: BOSTON – A Dorchester man pleaded guilty on June 11, 2026 in federal court in Boston to the robbery of a local bank. The defendant has a prior federal conviction for bank robbery and state convictions for armed and unarmed robberies. Joseph Wilcox, 58, pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery in relation to the robbery of Santander Bank in East Boston. U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy scheduled sentencing for Sept 17, 2026. In October 2025 , Wilcox was indicted by a federal grand jury. Wilcox was arrested on a criminal complaint on Oct. 1, 2025. At approximately 11:40 a.m. on Sept. 6, 2025, Wilcox entered a Santander Bank in East Boston, approached the bank teller, showed a note stating, “give me all 20’s” and told the teller, “don’t **** with me.” The teller ultimately gave Wilcox $4,150 in cash. According to court records, Wilcox has a prior federal conviction from 2015 for three counts of bank robbery; a 2010 state conviction for unarmed robbery; and a 2004 state conviction for armed robbery. The charge of bank robbery provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julissa Walsh of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Five Men Arrested and Charged in Plot to Attack and Kill Government Officials and Others Attending the Ultimate Fighting Championship at White House

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department announced today charges against five men for an alleged plot to carry out an attack to kill government officials and others attending the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Freedom 250 event held at the White House last Sunday. The FBI launched an investigation into the plot and identified a group of conspirators who procured weapons and made plans to carry out the attack. The FBI made arrests over the weekend in Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska, and California. The investigation remains ongoing. “The FBI, our law enforcement partners and our U.S. Attorneys did what they do every day to make America Safe through quick response and vigilance in investigating, disrupting, and dismantling this alleged plan before it could be carried out,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “We will take immediate and aggressive action to identify and prosecute those who incite and plan acts of violence.” “On June 10, FBI and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region — and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “While the result represented the best of investigative work, it was also nothing out of the ordinary for this law enforcement team — we are built to detect, respond to, and bring to justice those who threaten the lives of American citizens — particularly during large gatherings like the historic UFC 250 fight. That’s exactly what we did here. I want to thank our great agents and partners, this work remains ongoing and we will continue to update the public as permitted.” “Protecting the President of the United States and the White House grounds is priority number one for the U.S. Secret Service,” said Director Sean M Curran of the U.S. Secret Service. “The landscape has changed, and as a result we have seen a dramatic rise in threats against our protectees. I am proud of the men and women of the Secret Service that vigorously monitor, investigate, and arrest those that plot to interfere with our protective mission. We are grateful for our extraordinary partnerships we share with DHS, DOJ, Acting Attorney General Blanche, FBI-JTTF, Park Police, and DC Police.” According to the charges, Tycen C. Proper, 19, of Danville, Ohio; Bryan Omar Roa, 24, of Calimesa, California; Michael Alan Thomas, 32, of Pinon Hills, California; Daniel K. Eskridge, 32, of Kidder, Missouri; and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez, 31, of Omaha, Nebraska, conspired to plan and execute a mass casualty event targeting U.S. officials in attendance at UFC Freedom 250 hosted on the White House grounds. The conspirators allegedly planned to deploy drones armed with explosives in and around the UFC Freedom 250 event in order to force an evacuation of the event and then planned to deploy snipers to fire upon “high value targets” within the fleeing crowd. Tycen Proper According to filed complaints in the Southern District of Ohio, the Western District of Missouri, the District of Nebraska, and the Central District of California, investigators interviewed Proper at a medical facility on June 11. During the interview, he allegedly said he had planned with others a coordinated attack against the U.S. government during the UFC event at the White House. He said members of the group who wanted to participate in the attack began communicating with each other around March. More serious members of the group, including Proper, moved their communications to an encrypted chat app. They planned to fly small drones with explosives to detonate over the north side of the UFC arena, forcing high value targets to evacuate the premises; the group would then act as snipers and shoot these individuals. Before executing the plan, Proper and other conspirators allegedly planned to rendezvous in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Screenshot of messages and maps on Proper’s phone, from the complaint filed in the Central District of California. Screenshot of messages and maps on Proper’s phone, from the complaint filed in the Central District of California. Proper allegedly amassed firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and tactical gear at his home in Ohio, and he identified potential targets, including multiple members of Congress. A photo of Proper’s gun, from the complaint filed in the Central District of California. Bryan Roa According to the complaint filed in the Central District of California, law enforcement executed a search warrant of Roa’s residence and vehicle where they allegedly seized a rifle, handgun, tactical belt, ammunition and a rifle magazine, a two-way radio, and an infrared laser target pointer. A search of Roa’s phone allegedly found messages in a group with Thomas, Proper, and others discussing an attack at the UFC event at the White House, with some users discussing using drones rigged with explosives to initiate the attack, with rooftop snipers killing individuals. Law enforcement also allegedly found Instagram videos Roa had posted of himself shooting guns. Roa’s Instagram post of him shooting guns, from the complaint filed in the Central District of California. Michael Thomas According to the complaint filed in the Central District of California, Thomas allegedly participated in a group chat planning an attack at the UFC event at the White House. In a group chat, on June 7, he allegedly wrote “$1300 gets us the drones and the charges. Yes we should all pitch in and we need it asap…” In another group chat, Thomas, under a pseudonym, allegedly described “tiers” of operators within their anti-government group, with tier 1 being operators on the ground, tier 2 being drivers and drone operators, tier 3 being logistical suppliers, and tier 4 being social media influencers. “Tier one status is not something to take lightly. … We will make sure they have…All the tier 2 support we can provide. We will try to break them out of jail if we need to.” In the same group chats, Thomas discussed meeting with Roa in person in Southern California in order to conduct “marksmen training” and reflected that the group needed to train for “gorilla style warfare.” In a June 13 search warrant, FBI agents allegedly seized from Thomas’ residence a rifle, 30-round extended magazines for the rifle, 180 of rounds of ammunition, and a pistol. Daniel Eskridge Eskridge was charged with conspiracy to commit murder on White House grounds. According to an affidavit filed in the Western District of Missouri, the FBI identified Eskridge while reviewing electronic communications on Proper’s cell phone. The co-conspirators had electronic chats on encrypted social media platforms. In those chats, members of the group allegedly discussed assassinating several U.S. Senators, Representatives, and prominent business executives. Members of the group targeted some legislators based on the group’s perceived belief that the legislators accepted money from pro-Israel lobbies. When discussing potential targets, Eskridge indicated that the target was “big and someone a majority of the country knows.” In the discussions, power grids were also identified as potential targets. On May 22, Eskridge distributed a picture of tactical equipment, including a rifle, helmet, and ballistic vest. The photograph is below. Photo of tactical equipment from Eskridge, from the affidavit filed in the Western District of Missouri. Also according to the affidavit, in a separate chat group, a conversation took place in early June when Eskridge and some of the other chat group members discussed their plan to attack the UFC Freedom 250 event. Specifically, Thomas stated, “Pensilvania [sic] avenue.” Eskridge said the group should obtain $1,300 in U.S. currency and they needed “5 teams of 3 each team consisting of 1 sniper, 1 tier one operator as support/ look out, [and] one drone operator.” Eskridge said the money would provide them the funding to purchase “drones and charges,” and encouraged the group to all “pitch in.” On June 13, law enforcement officials executed a federal search warrant of Eskridge’s residence. Agents recovered rifles, a shot gun, pistol, and other tactical gear. A photograph of the equipment from the June 13 search is below: Tactical gear recovered by the FBI from a June 13 search of Eskridge’s residence, from the affidavit filed in the Western District of Missouri. Abraham Alvarez According to the charges filed in Nebraska, the FBI identified Alvarez as the individual using the name “Shepherd” in an encrypted chat app that was used to plan an attack on the UFC Freedom 250 event scheduled to be held at the White House on June 14. The FBI assessed that Alvarez, also known as “Shepherd,” was responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the planned attack, based on conversation excerpts in June when Shepherd posted, “This is the best action I see. Position your teams in the purple dots (counter sniper and drones) Long range (circled area) (great shot) Easy out into the river.” Shepherd also allegedly posted other messages including replying to another member on making drones with explosives, “As many and as deadly as we can get.”; that he was working on drones; and had one drone and was working on more. The complaint further alleges that Shepherd provided a picture and directions for a safe zone at an old church in Nebraska. He instructed the other members to take back roads or the river down to the “pick up location.” Later that same evening, Shepherd also provided locations in the area for drone launch points and sniper positions. Screenshot of a church, sent by Alvarez, “Shepherd,” to encrpyted chat group, from the complaint filed in the District of Nebraska. If convicted of conspiracy to commit murder, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Conspiracy to commit violence on White House grounds carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A criminal complaint merely contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Man Sentenced to More Than 33 Years in Prison for Operating Online Chat Group That Shared Child Pornography

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: CHICAGO — A man has been sentenced to more than 33 years in federal prison for operating an online chat group that shared large amounts of child pornography. CHRISTOPHER MARTIN operated and led a group chat on the instant-messaging mobile application Kik. Martin moderated the chat and enforced the rules. The primary rule was that if members wanted to stay in the group, they had to constantly share photos and videos of child pornography. For example, when a prospective user wanted to join the group, Martin wrote, “Send what you got. Anything young is fine for group trade . . . Send youngest.” If group members were slow to share child pornography, Martin would pressure them to do so, writing, “If you don’t send [images to the group] you will be removed [from the group].” Martin was also a prolific sharer and trader of child pornography in his group chat. Martin, 46, of Markham, Ill., pleaded guilty earlier this year to federal charges of transportation of child pornography. On June 11, 2026, U.S. District Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall sentenced Martin to 33 years and nine months in federal prison. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. “Defendant’s offense is extremely serious,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Elie Zenner argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “Defendant’s facilitation of the sharing of hundreds of images and videos of young children being abused helped to drive the creation of those images and videos, and the creation of future images and videos of other abused children.” If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by logging on to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1-800-843-5678. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.