title: Penitas resident sentenced for impeding federal law enforcement during arrest of others

body_text: BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 19-year-old South Texas man has been ordered to federal prison for interfering with officers in the course of their duties, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Diego Masiel Torres pleaded guilty Oct. 29, 2025. U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Torres to serve six months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court described Torres’ conduct as unlawful towards someone performing their official duties. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his sentence is warranted as no one is above the law. “There is, at present, an unfortunate belief that the public can freely obstruct law enforcement from carrying out their duties, and do so without consequence. Today’s sentence shows just how mistaken that belief is," said Ganjei. “If you want to express your disagreement with a particular federal law or policy, there is a right way to do so, and a wrong way — and tangling with the police is one hundred percent always the wrong way. Today, Mr. Torres learned that lesson the hard way.” “Those who endanger our agents and undermine the safety of our communities will face serious consequences,” said acting Special Agent in Charge John A. Pasciucco of HSI San Antonio. “Interfering with federal law enforcement is a grave offense, and today’s sentencing makes clear that such actions will be met with swift and decisive justice.” On Aug. 27, 2025, authorities were conducting a consensual worksite enforcement operation in Harlingen. Upon their arrival, several people fled from the area. While authorities attempted to apprehend an illegal alien, Torres attempted to physically interfere by trying to remove the individual from custody and placing the law enforcement officer in a chokehold. Additional agents intervened and subsequently arrested Torres. He has been and will remain in custody. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Salazar prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Boston Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking a Child

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man was convicted on Jan. 16, 2026 following a 4-day trial in federal court in Boston for sex trafficking and transporting a minor to Rhode Island to engage in prostitution. Tramonte Jamier Queen, 26, was convicted of one count of sex trafficking of a child and one count of transportation of minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. In November 2023, Queen was indicted by a federal grand jury. “Tramonte Queen preyed on a young, impressionable girl, selling her body for his own benefit. His actions were abhorrent, and we will continue to hold traffickers accountable for exploiting children,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to recover missing and exploited children and ensure that traffickers are brought to justice and punished.” “Tramonte Jamier Queen callously groomed and manipulated a 16-year-old girl with total disregard for her well-being and sex trafficked her out of his mother’s basement and across state lines,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “This case highlights our Child Exploitation – Human Trafficking Task Force’s unflinching commitment to pursuing justice for all victims of sex trafficking while sending a message to all offenders –we will find you, bring you to justice, and ensure you are ultimately punished.” Beginning in January 2022, Queen recruited a 16-year-old girl to engage in prostitution. He directed the victim to take photos of herself, including photos depicting the victim posing provocatively. Queen used these photos to attract sex buyers by posting them in online commercial sex advertisements. Shortly thereafter, Queen directed the victim to earn money for him by having sex with sex buyers. Queen communicated with the sex buyers and arranged for the victim to perform sex acts in the basement of his mother’s Dorchester home. Later, Queen continued trafficking the victim from hotels in Rhode Island. On Feb. 5, 2022, Queen was arrested as he was driving with the 16-year-old victim. The sex trafficking of a child and transportation charges each carry a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five 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. If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . U.S. Attorney Foley; FBI SAC Docks; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian A. Fogerty of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit and Jessica L. Soto of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.


title: New York Man Who Used Stolen Identities in U.S. Postal Service Fraud Scheme Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EZEKIEL BAILEY, 33, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment and one year of supervised release for using stolen identities to defraud the U.S. Postal Service. According to court documents and statements made in court, the U.S Postal Inspection Service began an investigation after receiving reports that an individual had been passing, and attempting to pass, bad checks to purchase thousands of dollars in postage stamps from U.S. Post Offices in Connecticut and surrounding states. The investigation revealed that Bailey had used the identities of three separate victims, fake driver’s licenses, and checks linked to empty bank accounts that had been created in the victims’ names, to purchase or attempt to purchase $134,297 in stamps from U.S. Post Offices in Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Massachusetts, and elsewhere. On January 20, 2023, Bailey was arrested on related state charges after he attempted to purchase 25 books of postage stamps for $300 at post office in Stonington. He possessed two fake driver’s licenses in the names of identity theft victims at the time of his arrest. He was charged federally on November 26, 2024. On September 15, 2025, Bailey pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, an offense that carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of two years. This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel George.


title: Sinaloa cartel driver convicted for role in drug trafficking operation

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: VICTORIA, Texas – A 51-year-old Harlingen resident has been convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. The jury deliberated for less than an hour before convicting Jimenez James Love guilty following a two-day trial. “For too long, the Sinaloa Cartel and other foreign terrorist organizations relied on drug couriers to finance their campaigns of violence and terror. That ends now,” said Ganjei. “By transporting the hidden narcotics, Love engaged in the calculated deception cartels have used to flood our streets with these poisons. His conviction demonstrates my office’s resolve to dismantle the financial networks that sustain these terrorists.” The investigation began June 30, 2021, when law enforcement discovered Love was transporting methamphetamine and fentanyl concealed in the gas tank of his girlfriend’s vehicle. At trial, the jury heard how authorities had conducted a traffic stop and discovered approximately 11 kilograms of methamphetamine and 5.32 kilograms of fentanyl. Love was hired as a driver to transport drugs for the Sinaloa Cartel. Love’s load was one of many shipments this arm of the organization had made. Testimony revealed that the number of shipments was so vast that an accurate number of shipments could not be determined. However, evidence revealed the single load of fentanyl that Love was carrying contained over two million potential lethal doses. The defense attempted to convince the jury that Love was not involved in an ongoing drug trafficking operation. The jury did not believe the claims and found him guilty as charged. U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton presided over the trial and set sentencing for April 17. At that time, Love faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine on both conspiracy counts. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth prosecuted the case.


title: Federal Prison Nurse Sentenced for False Statements Relating to Her Relationship with an Inmate

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: ST. PAUL – Jessica Lynn Larson, age 38, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court to six months imprisonment followed by a year of supervised release for one count of false statements, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. While working as a nurse at FMC Rochester, Larson had a compromising sexual relationship with an inmate. Larson and the inmate exchanged sexually explicit love letters in which they professed their love for one another and discussed various sexual acts. In April 2024, Larson and the inmate had a sexual encounter. Sexual relationships between staff and inmates are prohibited due to the power imbalance between them. Shortly after, other nurses at FMC Rochester reported the inappropriate relationship. When confronted about the relationship, Larson falsely accused the inmate of sexually assaulting her, forcing her to engage in a “fantasy” relationship, and threatening to hurt her children if she refused or reported the conduct. Bureau of Prisons staff members later found the love letters they exchanged proving Larson was lying. Moreover, several months later after being placed on administrative leave, Larson drove to Ohio from which she sent another love letter to the inmate who had been moved to another prison location. “The DOJ-OIG’s commitment to rooting out inappropriate relationships within correctional facilities is paramount. Such misconduct frequently facilitates contraband smuggling and bribery, directly compromising the safety of both staff and inmates,” said OIG Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Nutt. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Semivan prosecuted the case.


title: Activity in the U.S. Attorney's Office

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

body_text: Firearms Offenses Randall Thomas Bailey, 65. Of Cody, Wyoming, was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a person subject to a court order and possession of an unregistered firearm. According to court documents, in November 2024, the Cody Police Department contacted the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Cheyenne office after suspected pipe bombs were discovered while officers were executing a state search warrant at Bailey’s residence. Bailey had been arrested days earlier, and officers withdrew from the home upon locating the devices, requesting assistance from ATF and the Natrona County Bomb Squad. In total, law enforcement found 28 illegally possessed firearms including a machinegun, a silencer, and two functional pipe bombs. The Cody Police Department, Park County Sheriff’s Office, Natrona County Sheriff’s Office, and ATF investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on January 15 in Casper. Case No. 25-00115. Drug Trafficking Saul Andrew Garcia , 26, of Irwin, Idaho, was sentenced to120 month’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and three counts of distribution of cocaine. According to court documents, in November 2023 the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), Southwest Enforcement Team began an investigation into several individuals in the Jackson Hole area. Throughout the investigation, agents learned that Garcia and others were responsible for trafficking multiple pounds of cocaine from Phoenix, Arizona to Lincoln and Teton Counties in Wyoming and Bonneville and Teton Counties in Idaho. DCI and the DEA investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Jan. 15 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00082 Illegal Re-Entry of a Previously Deported Alien Ivan Jorge Lucero-Lazalde, 40, of Juarez, Mexico, was sentenced to time served (61 days) plus 10 days to allow for deportation proceedings for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the U.S. According to court documents, on Feb. 17, 2024, ICE located the defendant at the Albany County Jail. Lucero-Lazalde bonded out before ICE could take him into custody. He was subsequently arrested on Nov. 9, 2025. Based on the defendant’s fingerprints, ICE determined he had previously been removed from the U.S. and had not applied for permission to reenter after being formally removed in 2006. ICE investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Jan. 8 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00169 Orlin Yobani Mejia-Cabellero, 35, of Departamento de Copan, Honduras, was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Deportation proceedings will take place upon his release from prison. According to court documents, on Aug. 2, ICE located the defendant at the Natrona County Jail. Based on the defendant’s fingerprints, ICE determined he had previously been removed from the U.S. and had not applied for permission to reenter after being formally removed multiple times, including in 2008, 2010, 2013, and 2018. ICE investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Jan. 8 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00174 About the United States Attorney’s Office The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include: Project Safe Childhood Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious. Operation Take Back America Operation Take Back America is 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. It also streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Victim Witness Program The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to ensuring victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect. To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime


title: Raytown Man Pleads Guilty to Using Gun During CVS Robbery

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Raytown, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to using a firearm during an armed robbery of a CVS pharmacy in Kansas City, Mo. Ta’Rod Glenel Perkins, 28, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lajuan M. Counts to one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, specifically a robbery of a CVS pharmacy store. According to the written plea agreement, Perkins admitted that on February 13, 2025, he entered a CVS in Kansas City, Mo., wearing a Nike mask, black Nike coat, blue jeans, and gloves. Witnesses reported that the robber had a handgun and stated: “I want promethazine and oxy. I don’t want any trouble. Just give me promethazine and oxy.” Perkins jumped over the counter and grabbed a red tub that was filled with controlled substances. CVS employees were able to place a tracking device in the red tub that Perkins stole. This tracker led investigators to a residence in Belton, Mo., where Perkins was found. Investigators obtained a search warrant of the residence and found clothing worn by the robber during the robbery. A firearm was later recovered from a neighbor who found it hidden under a barbeque grill on his deck. Law enforcement officials swabbed the firearm for genetic material and DNA comparative analysis tended to show that Perkins’s DNA was present on the firearm. Under federal statutes, Ta’Rod Glenel Perkins is subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison and a minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, the Belton, Mo. Police Department, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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: Fatal bus shooting investigation results in federal weapons charges

body_text: HOUSTON – An 18-year-old Houston resident has been charged with illegally possessing a machine gun and unlawful receipt of a firearm and ammunition following the recent fatal shooting on a local Metro bus, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Patrick Santana Scott remains in custody on related charges and is expected to make his initial appearance in federal court at a later date. According to the criminal complaint filed Jan. 16, a Houston Metro bus was in service and carrying passengers Jan. 7. The charges allege Scott was seated near the rear of the vehicle with a backpack when it stopped at an intersection. At that time, another individual allegedly entered, walked toward the back of the bus and fired a weapon in Scott’s direction. Scott then retrieved a firearm from his backpack and pointed it towards the shooter, according to court documents. The gunfire allegedly resulted in the death of a female passenger seated in front of Scott, who succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head. The charges allege a juvenile male passenger was also treated for a gunshot wound. Court documents indicate that one of the shell casings from the scene was from a 9mm Glock handgun recovered the following day and linked to Scott. The weapon allegedly had a machine gun conversion device - commonly known as a “switch” - designed to convert it from semi-automatic to a fully automatic firearm. The charges further allege Scott was under indictment in Harris County for aggravated robbery at the time of the shooting. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law. “SDTX has zero tolerance for those violent criminals who would turn our public transit into battlefields,” said Ganjei. “Scott is alleged to have violated his bond conditions by possessing a firearm—a decision that directly contributed to the death of innocent young woman and the wounding of a teen bystander. The facts, as alleged, paint the picture of somebody with no respect either for the law or for the life and health of his fellow citizens. With these federal charges, the Southern District aims to change his way of thinking.” “While out on bond for aggravated robbery charges in Harris County, Patrick Scott was the last person who should have allegedly been in possession of a machine gun conversion device,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “A young woman was killed and a teenager endures a long recovery because of the disregard Scott and a teen rival held for innocent lives on that bus that afternoon. FBI Houston applauds the United States Attorney’s Office for holding alleged repeat violent offenders accountable at the federal level. We hope these charges make others consider the life-and-death consequences of their irresponsible actions.” If convicted, Scott faces up to 10 years in federal prison for possession of a machine gun and up to five years for receipt of a firearm and ammunition while under indictment. Both charges also carry the possibility of a $250,000 maximum fine. FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron Black is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Rapids Theatre owner and co-defendant sentenced for defrauding COVID programs out of more than $1.8 million

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that John L. Hutchins, 72, of Lewiston, NY, and Roberto Soliman, 45, of Niagara Falls, NY, who were convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, were sentenced by Judge Meredith A. Vacca. Hutchins was sentenced to serve 14 months in prison, while Soliman was sentenced to serve 20 months. Both defendants were also ordered to pay full restitution to the Small Business Administration and the victim banks. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Douglas A. C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that between March 2020, and March 2024, Hutchins and Soliman conspired with others to file fraudulent loan applications to obtain money through Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). The loans available for these programs were designed to provide emergency financial assistance pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES Act). Hutchins and Soliman applied for loans under the following companies, which were owned by Hutchins: • Rapids Theatre Niagara Falls, USA, Inc. • 1711 Main, LLC • Bear Creek Entertainment, LLC • Hutch Enterprises, LLC • The Hutchins Agency, LLC • CWE Entertainment, Corp. (owned by defendant Soliman) Between March and August 2020, Hutchins and Soliman received Economic Injury Disaster Loans totaling $779,500.00, SVOG loans totaling $989,905.05 and PPP loans totaling $115,978. In support of each of the loans, Hutchins and Soliman submitted false revenue and expense figures for the businesses on the loan applications. “These defendants conspired with others to take advantage of government programs designed to assist struggling businesses during the COVID 19 epidemic,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “By submitting false and fraudulent applications, Hutchins and Soliman lined their own pockets, thereby depriving struggling businesses that were actually eligible for this money. “Hutchins and Soliman abused a system of benefits put in place specifically for businesses experiencing hardships. Instead of using the money legitimately, the pair stole nearly $2 million from the program while others still waited in line. Today’s sentencing means that each of these fraudsters will now face the punishment of their illicit, greedy behavior,” said Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS-CI New York. The sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Harry Chavis, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Rose Brophy, Director of Field Operations, and the New York State Office of Professional Discipline. # # # #


title: Retired DEA agent going to prison for 5 years for conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that retired Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni, 61, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, four counts of obstruction of justice, and one count of false statement to law enforcement, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi, Nicholas T Cooper, and Casey L. Chalbeck, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that between 1998 and February 1, 2019, Bongiovanni served as a Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration. From 2001 until his retirement, he was assigned to the Buffalo Resident Office. Bongiovanni used his position as a DEA special agent to defraud the DEA, an agency that is a part of the Department of Justice and the Executive Branch of the United States government, by violating his oath to the United States Constitution and duty to enforce the drug laws of the United States. As a part of his agreement to defraud the United States in violation of his oath and duty, and as part of his agreement to accept bribes, Bongiovanni protected his friends, associates, and individuals he believed were members or associates of Italian Organized Crime in Buffalo, from investigation, arrest, and prosecution. Bongiovanni provided Michael Masecchia, a former Buffalo School teacher with connections to Italian Organized Crime, and others involved in the distribution of substantial quantities of marijuana, cocaine, and fentanyl pills, by providing law enforcement sensitive information about the existence of investigations, the identities of informants, and about sensitive law enforcement techniques and tactics. As part of his protection and in furtherance of his conspiracy to defraud the DEA, Bongiovanni opened a case file within the DEA, which he then used to obtain to ensure that other state and local law enforcement agencies, and federal agents, would defer the investigation of the individuals that the defendant was protecting to the defendant. Bongiovanni also used the DEA case file to enter information pertaining to drug traffickers he was protecting into deconfliction databases in order to alert himself if any other members of law enforcement were investigating coconspirators Bongiovanni was protecting. Relatedly, Bongiovanni was convicted of obstruction of justice and making materially false statements to an agent of the United States for preparing false and fraudulent official DEA memoranda, and making false statements to agents investigating Bongiovanni, to conceal his relationship with Peter Gerace Jr., an individual who was under investigation by the DEA, and others for drug trafficking and related offenses. “As a member of law enforcement, this defendant was in a position of trust in the eyes of the public,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “However, his criminal actions over the course of 10-plus years eroded that public trust and tarnished the reputation of the men and women in law enforcement who uphold justice with honesty and integrity every day.” “Law enforcement officers are entrusted with significant authority and violating that trust will not be tolerated. Today’s sentencing affirms that no one is above the law,” said Philip Tejera, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “Bongiovanni’s actions, however, do not represent the vast majority of law enforcement officers who protect their communities with integrity and honor. The FBI, and our law enforcement partners, remain committed to accountability and protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system.” “Bongiovanni flagrantly betrayed his oath, and the trust placed in him by the American people. Instead of upholding the law, he became the very criminal he was sworn to pursue,” said Erin Keegan, HSI Buffalo Special-Agent-in Charge. “Bongiovanni thought he was above the law, but today’s sentence proves otherwise. We are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure those who abuse positions of power are held accountable.” “The Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General is committed to ensuring the integrity of the Department’s law enforcement personnel by investigating alleged misconduct and supporting criminal prosecution when warranted by the evidence,” stated OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Ryan Geach. “The jury’s verdict in this case and today’s sentencing affirm the OIG’s mission.” “The sentencing today of retired DEA Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni sends a powerful message that those who betray their badge will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” stated DEA Northeast Associate Chief of Operations Frank Tarentino. “Any abuse of authority is a breach of trust that not only undermines public confidence but also erodes the foundation of integrity upon which society relies.” Michael Masecchia was previously convicted and sentenced to serve seven years in prison. Peter Gerace Jr. was convicted by a federal jury and is awaiting sentencing. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera; and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General New York Field Office Special Agent-in-Charge Ryan Geach. The Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti also assisted in the investigation. # # # #


title: Firefighter Sentenced to Over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children and Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activity

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A man from St. Helens, Oregon, was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for ordering live-streamed child sexual abuse and traveling to the Philippines to engage in illicit sexual activity while working as a firefighter for the Lake Oswego Fire Department. Kenneth Green, 57, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $50,000 special assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018. According to court documents, from 2017 through 2019, Green paid for and received livestreamed shows featuring the sexual abuse and exploitation of children in the Philippines. During the shows, Green gave child sex traffickers in the Philippines specific instructions on how to abuse the children and received child sexual abuse material from the traffickers. Devices seized from Green’s residence pursuant to a search warrant revealed additional chats with child sex traffickers. In 2019, Green spent months communicating with a trafficker in anticipation of traveling to the Philippines to abuse children. He discussed details related to travel, accommodations, and the sexual abuse of children ages 9 to 17 years old. In November 2019, Green traveled to the Philippines with the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors. Upon arriving, defendant claimed to get sick and could not meet with the trafficker. On February 7, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Green with sexual exploitation of children, receiving child pornography, interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity, and attempted foreign sex tourism. On October 24, 2025, Green pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity. Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eliza Carmen Rodriguez and Charlotte Kelley prosecuted the case. This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website .


title: La Jolla-Based Couple Charged with $100 Million Fraud

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Brett Rosen and Deborah Rosen of La Jolla were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that they, through their joint investment business, RB Capital Partners, Inc., engaged in a years-long securities fraud and money laundering scheme. According to the 24-count indictment, since 2020, the Rosens engaged in a market manipulation scheme through financing, promoting, and selling the stock of six publicly traded companies – Optec International, Inc., Sunshine Biopharma, Inc., BlockQuarry Corp., Solar Integrated Roofing Corp., Cyberlux Corp., and Ilustrato Pictures International, Inc. The indictment alleges that the Rosens’ promotions of these companies provided false and misleading information to investors, potential investors, and the market about their financing of and stock positions in these companies. The false and misleading information was designed to encourage the public to invest in these companies while the Rosens secretly dumped their own stock in these companies to make millions of dollars. According to the indictment and court documents, the Rosens used the profits of their massive securities fraud scheme to fund their lofty lifestyle, including to purchase a multi-million dollar home in La Jolla Shores. The United States acknowledges the assistance and cooperation of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Janaki G. Chopra and Joseph S. Smith. DEFENDANTS Case Number 26-CR-0192-DMS Brett David Rosen Age: 45 La Jolla, CA Deborah Rachel Rosen Age: 44 La Jolla, CA RB Capital Partners, Inc. La Jolla, CA CHARGES Conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371 Maximum Penalties: Five years in prison; $250,000 fine Securities Fraud, in violation of 15 U.S.C. §§ 78(b), 78ff & 17 C.F.R. §. 240.10b-5 Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison; $5 million fine Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h) Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison; $500,000 fine or twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the transaction Money Laundering, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1957 Maximum Penalties: Ten years in prison; $250,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Troutdale Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Violate the Clean Water Act for Discharging 500,000 Gallons of Pollutants in Hillsboro

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Troutdale, Oregon, woman pleaded guilty today in federal court for conspiring to violate the Clean Water Act by receiving and discharging industrial wastewater from a facility in Hillsboro, Oregon, to a sanitary sewer system. Kayla Hartley, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Clean Water Act. According to court documents, from February through September 2020, Hartley, as the Director of Operations at the Northwest Slurry Solutions and Hydro Excavation, LLC (“Northwest Slurry”) facility in Hillsboro, marketed the company as able to accept and dispose of industrial wastewater, despite having no permit or authorization to discharge that type of waste. Under Hartley’s leadership, Northwest Slurry accepted approximately 500,000 gallons of industrial wastewater containing chemical pollutants including hydrofluoric acid, titanium, molybdenum, vanadium, arsenic, and other heavy metals. Northwest Slurry discharged those half-a-million gallons of pollution to the Hillsboro sanitary sewer. When staff from Clean Water Services, which operates the sanitary sewer system in Hillsboro, visited Northwest Slurry’s facility, Hartley attempted to conceal the fact that her company was discharging industrial wastewater. On July 15, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Hartley with conspiracy to violate and violating the Clean Water Act. Hartley faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced on May 12, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge. This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from Clean Water Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew T. Ho and William M. McLaren are prosecuting the case. This case was an Environmental Crimes Task Force (ECTF) investigation. ECTF is an initiative in the District of Oregon that identifies, investigates, and prosecutes significant environmental, public lands, and wildlife crimes. ECTF leverages the resources and effort of federal, state, and local regulatory agencies and law enforcement to protect human health, safeguard natural resources and wildlife, and hold violators accountable. If you witness an event that may lead to an immediate threat to human health or the environment, please call 9-1-1. After alerting local emergency authorities, please also report incidents to the EPA’s Report a Violation website ( https://echo.epa.gov/report-environmental-violations ) or by calling the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802.


title: Repeat Offender Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – A Southwest Georgia resident with prior criminal convictions, including for domestic violence, was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Devon Marquell Rambo, 28, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Jan. 21. Rambo was found guilty at trial on May 28, 2025, of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. There is no parole in the federal system. “Our office will prosecute repeat offenders with violent criminal records when they are caught illegally possessing firearms in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney William R “Will” Keyes. “We are grateful for the continued strong collaboration with our law enforcement partners at every level, working with us for safer communities.” “When convicted felons repeatedly ignore the law and continue to carry guns, they leave us no choice but to bring the full force of federal prosecution,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, ATF Atlanta Field Division. “This verdict sends a clear message: We are watching, we are acting and we are not backing down.” “We are grateful for the assistance that we have been receiving from the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold offenders accountable,” said Albany Police Chief Michael Persley. “I hope this case serves as a warning that the illegal possession of weapons is not tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Albany Police Department (APD) officers responded to a report of shooting and disorderly conduct on Sept. 20, 2024, at around 10:30 a.m. at a residence on Avalon Avenue. Based on this, the officers obtained a search warrant and lawfully executed that search warrant on the residence. Officers found Rambo alone at the house. After he was apprehended, officers searched the residence, discovering that Rambo had covered his wife’s dog, furniture and several areas of the home with oil, which would make it difficult for officers to arrest him. During the search, they also found a black safe in one of the rooms, which contained a pistol and a semi-automatic rifle, two 9mm pistol magazines, one rifle magazine and ammunition along with Rambo’s social security card, credit card and Texas inmate identification card. Rambo has prior felony convictions in Texas for domestic violence and burglary. There was also an active arrest warrant out of Texas for aggravated assault at the time of this incident in Georgia. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Albany Police Department with assistance from the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office. Criminal Chief Leah McEwen and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara Lim and Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case for the Government.


title: Owner of Money Service Business Unlawfully Residing in the United States Sentenced for Conspiring to Launder Drug Proceeds

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.— A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States was sentenced to federal prison today for laundering money for drug traffickers in the Portland metropolitan area through her money service business La Popular. Brenda Lili Barrera Orantes, 40, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Barerra Orantes owned and operated La Popular stores in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Woodburn, Odell, and Canby, Oregon, as well as in Vancouver, Washington. From August through November 2024, La Popular stores sent over $4.2 million dollars through wire transfers to places in Mexico associated with drug trafficking. During this same time period, Barrera Orantes and other co-conspirators accepted $49,500 in cash that was represented as drug proceeds and laundered it through La Popular stores. Barrera Orantes accepted cash she believed was generated from drug dealing, and in exchange for a 10% commission, conducted wire transactions using techniques that made the laundered funds harder to detect, including using false sender information, structuring wire transfers into smaller amounts, and using different La Popular stores to help conceal the drug proceeds. On April 16, 2025, investigators executed federal search warrants at Barrera Orantes’ Beaverton residence and three La Popular stores in Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Vancouver and arrested Barrera Orantes. During the warrants, agents seized more than $300,000 in cash, a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, jewelry, and high-end clothing. On May 13, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 23-count indictment charging Barrera Orantes with money laundering and conspiracy, failure to file a currency transaction report, and failure to file a suspicious activity report. On October 24, 2025, Barrera Orantes pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. She also agreed to forfeit her Beaverton residence and all the seized cash and other property involved in her money laundering offense. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher L. Cardani and Julia Jarrett prosecuted the case.


title: Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Birmingham man has been sentenced for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona. Chief U.S. District Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Cordarius Dejuan Martin Terrell, also known as “Cordarius Dejuan Terrell,” 32, to 180 months in prison. In May 2025, Terrell pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to the plea agreement, on May 13, 2024, officers with the Birmingham Police Department Crime Reduction Task Force were attempting to locate and arrest Terrell in connection with multiple active felony warrants. Later that day, officers arrested Terrell at a gas station on Graymont Avenue West in Birmingham. Upon his arrest, Terrell was in possession of a .40 Caliber Smith & Wesson pistol. Terrell is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions that span from 2018 to 2023 for burglary, theft, and escape offenses. The ATF investigated the case along with the Birmingham Police Department Crime Reduction Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney W. Lee Gilmer prosecuted the case.


title: South Bend Man Sentenced to 262 Months in Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: SOUTH BEND – On January 21, 2026, Santiago Ortiz-Ruvalcaba, 30 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to five counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Ortiz-Ruvalcaba was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, Ortiz-Ruvalcaba sold methamphetamine to buyers on five occasions from November 2023 to January 2025. During one of the sales, Ortiz-Ruvalcaba also sold fentanyl and two firearms. During a search of Ortiz-Ruvalcaba’s house, police found a scale for weighing drugs, baggies, ammunition, and a handgun. Ortiz-Ruvalcaba has associations with the Latin Kings gang and multiple prior felony convictions. “Ortiz-Ruvalcaba trafficked both drugs and guns—an extremely dangerous mix,” said United States Attorney Mildred. “The sentence imposed today sends a clear message: The scourges of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and violence are not welcome in our community, and criminals like Ortiz-Ruvalcaba will be brought to justice.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Indiana State Police, the St. Joseph County Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, and the Pokagon Tribal Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander and Acting Criminal Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey.


title: PENSACOLA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO THREATENING TO KILL A PENSACOLA POLICE DETECTIVE

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tamal W. Jenkins, 19, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court for interstate threatening communication with intent to extort. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office has zero tolerance for acts of violence and threats directed toward law enforcement. We will continue to back up the brave men and women who keep our streets safe with aggressive prosecutions against anyone who dares to threaten their safety.” Court documents reveal that in July 2025 the Pensacola Police Department arrested suspects in a homicide investigation. Within days of the arrest, one of the Pensacola Police Detectives involved in the investigation received an electronic message making threats against her life for taking a suspect into custody. Law enforcement traced the threatening messages back to a device belonging to Jenkins. Jenkins faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment upon sentencing, which is scheduled for April 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Pensacola Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg. 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, human and drug trafficking. 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: FIFTEEN-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MARIANNA MAN IN METHAMPHETAMINE DISTRIBUTION AND PRISON CONTRABAND CONVICTIONS

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Bertram Jerrell Williams, 50, of Marianna, Florida, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on April 16, 2025, and pleading guilty to possession of contraband by a federal prisoner on November 13, 2025. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I commend the outstanding work by our federal law enforcement partners to stop this offender from flooding our communities with deadly poison, and his subsequent attempt to smuggle drugs into federal prison. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have made a promise through Operation Take Back America to deploy the full power of the Department of Justice to incapacitate the drug traffickers flooding our streets with poison, and my office will continue to deliver successful prosecutions like this to fulfill that promise.” According to court records, on March 7, 2024, the defendant sold over 80 grams of methamphetamine during an undercover law enforcement operation. The defendant was taken into federal custody for that offense in July 2024. While he was held at the Federal Detention Center in Tallahassee, Florida, the defendant was caught attempting to smuggle drug contraband into the facility after a visitation session he had on April 13, 2025. Bureau of Prison (BOP) staff searched the defendant’s left boot, where they discovered two, cylinder shaped plastic tubes that were found to contain marijuana and synthetic marijuana. “Not only does methamphetamine destroy an individual’s health, it destroys families and communities,” said DEA Miami Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin Bobbitt. “We’ve made numerous seizures of this poison—particularly in the Pan Handle region of Florida. We will not stop until these criminals are brought to justice.” The convictions and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Welch and Jessica Etherton. 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, human and drug trafficking. 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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: TALLAHASSEE FUGITIVE SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS IN PRISON FOR POSSESSION OF FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Justin Grantsteadman, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The U.S. Marshals are second-to-none in tracking down fugitives and bringing them to justice. My office stands ready to back up their hard work to get dangerous felons off our streets with successful prosecutions and lengthy prison sentences to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the perpetrators of violent crime.” Court documents reflect that the United States Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force located the defendant at a motel in Midway, Florida, due to an active warrant for absconding from state felony probation. Law enforcement arrested the defendant and found a Taurus 9-millimeter pistol in his front pocket, which had been reported stolen several days before in Tallahassee. “Grantsteadman was an armed and dangerous fugitive who thought he could outrun the law. Our community is now safer with him behind bars,” remarked Acting U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal. Upon his release from prison, Grantsteadman will be on three years of supervised release. The case involved an investigation by the United States Marshals Service, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain. 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, human and drug trafficking. As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors. 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: REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER INDICTED FOR ATTEMPTED ENTICEMENT OF A MINOR

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Dawaun Shunard Jackson, 40, of Tallahassee, has been indicted in federal court on one count of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of penalties for registered sex offenders. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Jackson appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin J. Fitzpatrick on January 13, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for March 16, 2026, before District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle in Tallahassee, Florida. If convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, Jackson faces between 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment. If convicted of penalties for registered sex offenders, Jackson faces an additional 10 years’ imprisonment consecutive to any other sentence. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen. 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 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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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 . 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: Western District of Texas Prosecutors File 229 New Immigration Cases in One Week

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 229 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from Jan. 9 to Jan. 15. Additionally, the district received 125 new habeas petitions bringing a total of 817 civil immigration cases received since Jan. 20, 2025. Charges were brought against illegal aliens with past convictions for violent crimes and DWIs, as well as alleged human smugglers and aliens with multiple prior removals. Among the cases, Ricardo Mujica-Calderon , a Mexican national, had illegally re-entered the United States, and sold a kilogram of methamphetamine to a confidential source. When agents executed a search warrant at Mujica’s house, he slammed the door shut and fled before being arrested in a neighbor's yard. Agents found approximately 13 kilograms of methamphetamine in Mujica’s home. Agents also found an AR-15, two "ghost guns", and three other pistols, all of which were loaded. While being transferred to jail, Mujica fought the officer in an attempt to escape. The officer pulled over, requested assistance from local authorities, and was able to secure him preventing the escape. Mujica’s criminal record includes a conviction for assault of a family member by choking/strangulation; a conviction for driving while intoxicated with a child under 15 years of age; and two convictions for illegal re-entry into the United States. On Jan. 13, ICE officers were conducting operations in San Antonio and approached a vehicle registered to Robyn Argote-Brooks . The driver, Argote, a Cuban national, had entered the US in Laredo where Customs and Border Protection issued Argote a Notice to Appear and paroled him into the U.S. on Oct. 11, 2024. His parole had been terminated on April 18, 2025. When officers decided to apprehend Argote, Argote rolled up his window and refused to come out. Argote turned on the ignition and drove his car in reverse causing the officers to jump out of the way of the moving vehicle. Argote then drove forward crashing into another government vehicle and injuring the officer who was driving that vehicle. In so doing, Argote caused $4,847.19 in damage. Argote was placed under arrest and transferred for processing. On Jan. 9, in Frio County, Rodrigo Jose Cedeno-Espinos , a citizen of Venezuela who illegally entered the U.S. on or about Oct. 1, 2023, attempted to escape the Dilley Immigration Processing Center by scaling the perimeter fence after having been detained for immigration proceedings. The Dilley Police Department was notified and Cedeno was in custody within an hour. A Hollywood Park Police Officer conducting a traffic stop for a traffic violation on Jan. 10, encountered four suspected foreign nationals. After requesting assistance from ICE/ERO, database checks identified Jesus Antonio Flores-Pineda , a citizen of El Salvador who had been previously removed from the U.S. to El Salvador on Dec. 23, 2022. Flores had been convicted in Nevada for Statutory Sexual Seduction and sentenced to a maximum of 48 months and a minimum of 16 months confinement. Flores has not been granted permission to reapply for admission to the United States after his removal. Lenin Israel Guifarro-Almendarez, an alien to the United States, was found in a storm ditch approximately 0.18 miles west of the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry in El Paso, on Jan. 16. The arresting agent determined that Guifarro is a native and citizen of Honduras without immigration documents allowing him to be or remain in the United States legally. Guifarro had previously been removed from the U.S. to Honduras on Dec. 2, 2024, through Alexandria, Louisiana. On Jan. 6, at the James R. Dominguez checkpoint on Highway 90 near Uvalde, a canine alerted Customs and Border Protection personnel to a black sedan. Passenger Maximiliano Arellano became combative, refused commands, and struck a Border Patrol agent in the chest, then resisted on the ground. Arellano is charged with one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer. Border Patrol Agents in Eagle Pass arrested Nelson Alexander Velasquez-Velasquez on Jan. 12. Velasquez was determined to be in the U.S. illegally after having previously deported on November 18, 2016, through Del Rio. These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including ICE, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Former Wisconsin Prison Employee Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Commit Bribery

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 15, 2026, Luz Naranjo (age: 46) of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit federal programs bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 666(a)(1)(B). According to court documents, Naranjo, a former correctional officer at Waupun Correctional Institution (WCI), received two bribe payments of $3,000 for smuggling contraband—including tobacco, cellular phones, and controlled substances—into WCI for an inmate. Naranjo is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary J. Corey and Kevin C. Knight for the Eastern District of Wisconsin are prosecuting the case. Trial Attorney Aaron L. Jennen, of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section, substantially contributed to the investigation. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Sarasota Doctor Sentenced to Fifteen Years for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor and Production of Child Sex Abuse Material

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Pete Supan (36, Bradenton) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge William F. Jung to 15 years in federal prison for coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and production of child sex abuse material. Supan pleaded guilty on October 7, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, Supan used an app to coerce and entice an individual under the age of 18 to engage in sexual activity. Supan misrepresented his age as 19 years old and persuaded, induced, enticed, or coerced the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Supan admitted to communicating with the victim who he knew was a minor. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry. It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify, rescue, and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Jacksonville 16-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Possessing a Firearm

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Malcolm Jewell Williams (39, Jacksonville) has been sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm after he was convicted of a felony and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and for possessing cocaine. The court also ordered Williams to forfeit the firearm used in the offense. Williams was found guilty after a jury trial on July 25, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, Williams was previously convicted of 16 felonies and 2 misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, each of which prohibited him from possessing firearms under federal law. On January 23, 2024, a detective from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) was posing as a drug user and encountered Williams in a gas station parking lot where Williams agreed to sell “molly” to the detective. After the sale, Williams fled from JSO officers on foot across a four-lane divided highway before being tackled in an alleyway next to a palm tree. In the base of the tree was a loaded firearm. Williams also had in his possession cocaine and a drug scale with residue. After Williams was transported to the Duval County Jail, he broke free from his flex cuffs and fled once again through downtown Jacksonville before being apprehended by JSO a second time. Four months prior, Williams had been arrested by the Camden County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office for possessing a half pound of methamphetamine, for which he was on bond at the time he committed this offense. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Camden County (Georgia) Sheriff’s Office, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura Cofer Taylor and Kelli Swaney. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Jury Convicts Bellair Man for COVID Loan Fraud Scheme Using Deceased Former Business Partner’s Identity

body_text: Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Stephen L. Gurba (69, Belleair) guilty of wire fraud, making a false statement to a financial institution, and aggravated identity theft. Gurba faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment on each wire fraud count (2 counts), up to 30 years in prison on the false statement charge (one count), and a 2-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment on each of the aggravated identity theft counts (2 counts). U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, between March and June 2020, Gurba submitted false and fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications and supporting documentation on behalf of Big Red Express Trucking, LLC and Zenith Express, LLC. To obtain approval and funding for the Big Red and Zenith EIDL loans, Gurba fraudulently assumed the identity of his former business partner who passed away in 2019, listed his former business partner’s name, signature, and other means of identification on the EIDL loan applications certifying under criminal penalty that the applications were true and correct. Gurba also used his deceased business partner’s name and forged his signature on the EIDL loan authorization agreements and loan notes he submitted to the Small Business Administration (SBA). During post-loan related communications with the SBA, Gurba continued to impersonate his deceased business partner. As a result of his fraudulent scheme, Gurba induced the SBA to approve and fund the Big Red and Zenith EIDL loans. Additionally, Gurba applied for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan on behalf of Big Red from an SBA authorized financial institution. Gurba certified and signed under criminal penalty that all the PPP loan proceeds would be spent on payroll, mortgages, rent, or other SBA authorized expenses. In reality, Gurba used PPP proceeds at a casino, to enrich himself and family members, payoff unrelated business debts, and other impermissible expenses. As a result of Gurba’s false statement, the financial institution approved and funded a $955,448.75 PPP loan to Big Red. This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.


title: Former Church Intern Sentenced for Sharing  Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Sand Springs man was sentenced for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Terence Kern sentenced Austin Ryder Sewell, 25, to 174 months imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Upon his release, Sewell will also be required to register as a sex offender. Judge Kern further ordered Sewell to pay $15,500 in restitution. That money goes directly to the victims identified in the child sexual abuse material that Sewell possessed. Court records show that between March and July 2025, the social media application, Kik, submitted more than 10 cyber tips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The reports indicated that Sewell was sharing videos that contained the sexual abuse of children. The investigation showed that Sewell had multiple Kik accounts and had been encouraging others to join chat groups focused on exchanging child pornography. During the investigation, law enforcement found that Sewell’s Facebook profile identified him as an intern at a church in Tulsa. Law enforcement found several chats on Kik where Sewell discussed sexual interest in children with other users. Among those chats, they found more than 98 videos and 24 images showing children, infants, and toddlers being sexually abused. The child sexual abuse material found was sent to NCMEC’s Child Victim Identification Program. They helped identify at least five known victims. Sewell will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Milwaukee Man Pleads Guilty to Aiding in Preparation of False Tax Returns

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 6, 2026, U.S. District Judge Brett Ludwig accepted the guilty plea of Cameron Summers to two counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2). According to the information and plea agreement, Summers worked at a tax preparation business in Milwaukee beginning in 2018. From 2020 through 2022, he filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over 400 individual income tax returns (Forms 1040) for clients, using his name, preparer tax identification number, and business name. Summers repeatedly used false items on clients’ tax returns to inflate refund amounts, including false business expenses, Sick and Family Leave Credits, Fuel Credits, and Educational Tax Credits. Summers made notations stating that he had “boosted” the refund amount on some returns, and told the IRS, Criminal Investigation Division, in an interview that he did everything he could to get a big refund, such as using whatever numbers were available and maximizing credits on the returns. The loss to the IRS totaled over $1.1 million. Sentencing is scheduled for May 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., before Judge Ludwig. At sentencing, Summers faces up to three years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine on each count, as well as a term of supervised release after completing any period of imprisonment. The IRS, Criminal Investigation Division, investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. Scully is prosecuting. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Maryland Cousins Indicted on Tax Return and Cares Act Unemployment Insurance Fraud Charges

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland unsealed a superseding indictment today, charging three cousins in connection with a tax-fraud scheme. Daiwor “Mark Brown” Woah-Tee, 52, of Belcamp, Maryland; Dekwii Woah-Tee, 47, of Baltimore, Maryland; and Laiworpaye Woah-Tee, 49, of Nottingham, Maryland, are charged with conspiracy to submit false, fictitious, and fraudulent claims. The superseding indictment also charged Daiwor Woah-Tee and Dekwii Woah-Tee with wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft stemming from a scheme to fraudulently obtain unemployment insurance (UI) benefits during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington D.C. Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Troy W. Springer, National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG); and Joseph V. Cuffari Ph.D., Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security (DHS-OIG). Beginning in January 2018, and continuing until December 2024, Daiwor Woah-Tee, Dekwii Woah-Tee, and Laiworpaye Woah-Tee knowingly and willfully conspired to defraud the United States and the Department of the Treasury by filing fraudulent Form 1040s seeking tax refunds from the IRS through fictitious claims based on fraudulent material representations. The co-conspirators identified and recruited individuals willing to become customers of their tax return business and obtained tax documentation and personal identifiable information from those individuals seeking tax return preparation assistance. Daiwor Woah-Tee used the information obtained from individuals to prepare tax filings with the IRS. Then the co-conspirators filed or caused the filing of false tax returns, which contained fabricated information regarding the taxpayer’s dependents, income, education expenses, and eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit. The co-conspirators caused the IRS to deposit funds into bank accounts that they controlled and then caused the IRS to deliver treasury checks to addresses they controlled. As a result, the co-conspirators obtained tax refunds they were not entitled to in connection with submitting tax returns in which they illegally sought at least $3.5 million in refunds. Dekwii Woah-Tee and Daiwor Woah-Tee were also charged with wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft arising out of their scheme to unlawfully obtain UI benefits during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The co-conspirators submitted UI applications to the Maryland Department of Labor on behalf of victims, often without the victim’s knowledge, falsely stating that the applicant was entitled to UI benefits. As a result, the co-conspirators caused the Maryland Department of Labor to deposit UI benefits into bank accounts that they controlled, allowing them to withdraw the funds for their own personal use. The co-conspirators sought UI benefits in excess of $550,000. Charges in the superseding indictment are allegations, not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. The District of Maryland Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the IRS-CI, DOL-OIG, and DHS-OIG for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys John D’Amico and Matthew Phelps who are prosecuting this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Tennessee Man Convicted for Three Bank Robberies and One Attempted Bank Robbery Ending in a Shootout

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A federal jury in Memphis, Tennessee, convicted a man on Friday for a series of brazen bank robberies, one of which ended with the defendant shooting two people with an assault rifle. At trial, the defendant was convicted of robbing three banks and joining a conspiracy that robbed a total of five bank branches. This is the last of eight defendants indicted in this case, which charged robberies and related firearm charges. All defendants have now been convicted either by guilty plea or at trial. “This defendant was part of a violent robbery crew whose actions put lives in grave danger and seriously injured innocent people,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The series of bank robberies committed by these eight defendants terrorized bank employees and customers and threatened the lives of hardworking Americans. The Criminal Division will aggressively prosecute those who commit violence, just as it has here.” “Bank robbery committed with a firearm is an inherently violent offense and threatens the very fabric of our financial institutions that provide commercial services to citizens and the community,” said U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee. “These brazen and disturbing armed robberies of multiple Memphis banks by Patterson and his co-conspirators terrorized the community and inflicted fear and harm on multiple victims. Now they will have plenty of time in federal prison to suffer the consequences of their violent criminal conduct, and the citizens of Memphis will be safer for it.” “Friday’s conviction should send a strong message that violent crime will not be tolerated, and law enforcement will not rest until violent offenders are caught, prosecuted, and held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to fight violent crime in communities across Tennessee.” Evidence at trial proved that over about eight months between April 2023 and December 2023, the defendant, Mario Patterson, 45, joined a conspiracy with his co-defendants to rob banks throughout Memphis. The robbers even attempted to rob the same bank branch twice. Patterson carried a gun in each robbery, and during one attempted robbery he shot two people with an assault rifle. In another robbery, Patterson wore a bulletproof vest and pointed a rifle at bank employees while a co-defendant stole thousands of dollars from the bank. By the end of 2023, Patterson and his group stole over $160,000 from Memphis-area banks. Patterson’s sentencing is scheduled for April 24. Three of Patterson’s co-defendants ─ Robert Haley, Devin Hinds, and Joshua Cribbs ─ were sentenced in late 2025 for their role in the offenses, with Haley receiving 17 years in prison, Hinds receiving 16 years and 1 month in prison, and Cribbs receiving 12 years in prison. The four additional co-defendants, Travis Drain, Monterrio Trenell, Marquarius Trenell, and Courtney Trenell, face sentencing later this year. The FBI and the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case. This case is part of the Safe Streets Task Force’s efforts to prosecute violent crimes in Memphis, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Trial Attorney Ashleigh Atasoy of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, with assistance from Trial Attorney Aaron Hendricks, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory A. Wagner and Tony Arvin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.


component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: WASHINGTON – A federal jury in Memphis, Tennessee convicted a man on Friday for a series of brazen bank robberies, one of which ended with the defendant shooting two people with an assault rifle. At trial, the defendant was convicted of robbing three banks and joining a conspiracy that robbed a total of five bank branches. This is the last of eight defendants indicted in this case, which charged robberies and related firearm charges. All defendants have now been convicted either by guilty plea or at trial. “This defendant was part of a violent robbery crew whose actions put lives in grave danger and seriously injured innocent people,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The series of bank robberies committed by these eight defendants terrorized bank employees and customers and threatened the lives of hardworking Americans. The Criminal Division will aggressively prosecute those who commit violence, just as it has here.” “Bank robbery committed with a firearm is an inherently violent offense and threatens the very fabric of our financial institutions that provide commercial services to citizens and the community,” said U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee. “These brazen and disturbing armed robberies of multiple Memphis banks by Patterson and his co-conspirators terrorized the community and inflicted fear and harm on multiple victims. Now they will have plenty of time in federal prison to suffer the consequences of their violent criminal conduct, and the citizens of Memphis will be safer for it.” “Friday’s conviction should send a strong message that violent crime will not be tolerated, and law enforcement will not rest until violent offenders are caught, prosecuted, and held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to fight violent crime in communities across Tennessee.” Evidence at trial proved that over about eight months between April 2023 and December 2023, the defendant, Mario Patterson, 45 , joined a conspiracy with his co-defendants to rob banks throughout Memphis. The robbers even attempted to rob the same bank branch twice. Patterson carried a gun in each robbery, and during one attempted robbery he shot two people with an assault rifle. In another robbery, Patterson wore a bulletproof vest and pointed a rifle at bank employees while a co-defendant stole thousands of dollars from the bank. By the end of 2023, Patterson and his group stole over $160,000 from Memphis-area banks. Patterson’s sentencing is scheduled for April 24. Three of Patterson’s co-defendants ─ Robert Haley, Devin Hinds, and Joshua Cribbs ─ were sentenced in late 2025 for their role in the offenses, with Haley receiving 17 years in prison, Hinds receiving 16 years and 1 month in prison, and Cribbs receiving 12 years in prison. The four additional co-defendants, Travis Drain, Monterrio Trenell, Marquarius Trenell, and Courtney Trenell, face sentencing later this year. The FBI and the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case. This case is part of the Safe Streets Task Force’s efforts to prosecute violent crimes in Memphis, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Trial Attorney Ashleigh Atasoy of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, with assistance from Trial Attorney Aaron Hendricks, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory A. Wagner and Tony Arvin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case. ### CRM 26-38 If you have questions, please use the contacts in the message or call the Office of Public Affairs at 202-514-2007.


title: Jury Convicts Florida Fuel Supplier of 34 Felonies at Trial in Multimillion-Dollar Scheme to Defraud U.S. Department of War and Other Federal Agencies

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – A federal jury in West Palm Beach found Jasen Butler, 37, of Jupiter, guilty of 34 felonies, including wire fraud, money laundering, and forgery for orchestrating a scheme to defraud the U.S. Department of War and other federal agencies out of over $4.5 million. After the verdict, U.S. District Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks immediately remanded Butler into custody at the United States’ request. As charged in the indictment, Butler submitted altered and fake invoices to U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships through the SEA Card Program, which allows U.S. vessels to purchase critical fuel to conduct military operations around the world. According to the evidence at trial, Butler, the owner of Independent Marine Oil Services LLC, submitted dozens of falsified documents such as wire transfer memos and invoices to multiple U.S. warships, including the USS Patriot, between August 2022 and January 2024. These ships were attempting to purchase fuel in international ports such as Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Croatia to defend strategic American interests around the globe. Butler received over $4.5 million dollars in payments for phony expenses that Butler had not incurred. After Butler came under scrutiny by Navy officials, he continued his scheme by concealing his identity from government officials. Butler adopted a false name and feigned employment by a fictitious fuel division of a different company. Butler used the millions in fraud proceeds to personally enrich himself and purchase multiple multi-million dollar properties in Florida and Colorado. “This defendant brazenly defrauded the U.S. Military out of millions of dollars and put critical fuel resources at risk, all to fund his cushy and fictitious lifestyle,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice will continue to uncover these schemes and bring perpetrators to justice to protect the American people and their tax dollars.” “The defendant — a convicted felon — defrauded his own country in order to unjustly line his own pockets,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Omeed A. Assefi of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “He deprived the United States Armed Forces of the resources they need to help keep our country safe. Despite his fake identity, fake job, and fake invoices, a jury of his peers saw through it and found him guilty of 34 felonies. We salute our wonderful trial team and applaud Judge Middlebrooks’s decision to imprison the defendant for his crimes pending sentencing.” “This defendant didn’t just commit fraud, he betrayed the trust placed in those who support our nation’s warfighters,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “By falsifying invoices and siphoning millions from a program designed to keep U.S. military vessels operational around the world, he put critical missions and taxpayer dollars at risk. Today’s verdict makes clear that schemes targeting our military supply chain will be met with swift accountability and severe consequences.” “The Coast Guard Investigative Service is pleased with the jury’s verdict in this case, which sends a strong message that fraud against our military and the American taxpayer will not be tolerated,” said Acting Assistant Director Josh Packer of the Coast Guard Investigative Service. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners and prosecutors for their outstanding collaboration and dedication throughout this investigation. CGIS remains committed to protecting the integrity of federal procurement and ensuring that those who seek to exploit government resources are brought to justice.” “The guilty verdict in this case is a direct result of our commitment to safeguarding the Department of Defense's critical supply chain,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Sargenski of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “This scheme stole millions from the American taxpayer and threatened to undermine a program essential for our global military operations. DCIS, working alongside our law enforcement partners, will relentlessly pursue and hold accountable those who seek to defraud our military and exploit systems designed to support our nation's warfighters.” “Those who profit from illicit schemes that defraud the American people and place our warfighters and national security at risk will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Gross of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Economic Crimes Field Office. “Mr. Butler exploited the integrity of the SEA Card Program — a vital logistical capability that enables the U.S. Navy to conduct rapid, global refueling operations and sustain mission readiness. NCIS and our law enforcement partners remain committed to rooting out criminal activity that undermines public trust in the integrity of the Department of the Navy’s procurement process.” Sentencing is set for April 8, 2026. Butler faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud, up to 10 years for each count of forgery, and up to 10 years for each count of money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The case was investigated by the Coast Guard Investigative Service, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service, as a part of the Department’s Procurement Collusion Strike Force. Trial Attorneys Jonathan Pomeranz, Ebonie Branch, and Haley Pennington of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section, and Deputy Chief Elizabeth Young of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, tried the case. In November 2019, the Justice Department created the Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF), a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government — federal, state and local. To learn more about the PCSF, or to report information on bid rigging, price fixing, market allocation and other anticompetitive conduct related to government spending, go to www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force . Anyone with information in connection with this investigation can contact the PCSF at the link listed above. Whistleblowers who voluntarily report original information about antitrust and related offenses that result in criminal fines or other recoveries of at least $1 million may be eligible to receive a whistleblower reward. For more information on the Antitrust Whistleblower Rewards Program, visit www.justice.gov/atr/whistleblower-rewards . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 25-cr-80093. ###