title: Mexican Transnational Criminal Organization Co-Leader Gets 30 years in Federal Prison, $500K Money Judgment for Deadly Alien Smuggling Operation

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio Monday to 365 months in prison for his leadership role in a conspiracy to transport hundreds of illegal aliens, resulting in at least one death, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. According to court documents, Pedro Luis Martinez-Jaquez, 36, of Piedras Negras, was a leader in an alien smuggling organization (ASO) that operated in southwest Texas from at least January 2021 through July 2022. Martinez-Jaquez and another co-conspirator supplied and organized the illegal alien loads and crossed them into the U.S. for the first leg of their journey. In one instance, Martinez-Jaquez called a co-conspirator, Miguel Angel Rivera, and said that one of the illegal aliens being transported had “passed out” and that he would “deal with it.” A search of Rivera’s phone during the investigation revealed photos of the alien, who was deceased. Martinez-Jaquez’s phone number was found to be linked to the ASO via WhatsApp messages with Rivera, Rivera’s sister Luz Rivera, and co-conspirator Erica Aracely Carmona. A subsequent search of Martinez-Jaquez’s residence resulted in the discovery of 74 phones, 14 of which were seized. The remaining 60 phones were suspected to belong to illegal aliens who had been transported into the U.S. The majority of the 285 audio messages between Martinez-Jaquez and Luz Rivera referenced pickup coordination, as well as the storage and harboring of illegal aliens. ICE Homeland Security Investigations learned that the ASO was charging $9,500 per illegal alien to be smuggled into the U.S., with half of the proceeds going to Martinez-Jaquez. The ASO smuggled more than 500 illegal aliens and generated over $4.7 million in proceeds between January 2021 and July 2022. Throughout their operation, the ASO used custom made “tow-behind” trailers to transport illegal aliens. The ASO began using an 18-wheeler with a false compartment inside the tractor trailer that held up to 40 aliens, but that trailer was interdicted by federal law enforcement on the first smuggling attempt. Martinez-Jaquez was named in an initial indictment on Aug. 17, 2022, and in a superseding indictment on Feb. 28, 2024. He was arrested March 8, 2024, and on Nov. 26, 2024, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death. In addition to the 30-year imprisonment, Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses ordered a $500,000 money judgement. “Martinez-Jaquez is one of the most prolific facilitators of alien smuggling in the last decade,” said U.S. Attorney Simmons. “Over the course of an 18-month operation, he made hundreds of thousands of dollars transporting illegal aliens into the United States. The work we have done to secure the border over the last year has made it very difficult for ASOs like this one to operate and enrich themselves while endangering the lives of those they smuggle. This is a fight worth having, and it is one in which we, in the Western District of Texas, will continue to engage.” Co-conspirators Evan John Herrera and Miguel Rivera were sentenced in May 2025 to 151 months and 216 months in federal prison, each with credit for time served. In January, Carmona was sentenced to 132 months in prison . The final defendant, Jose Eduardo Rodriguez Moreno, is scheduled to be sentenced on March 25. ICE HSI investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maverick County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Miner 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: Swiss Businessman Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to International Securities Fraud Scheme

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years. According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million. Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement. The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case. Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Concludes Investigation Into Fatal Shooting

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that there is insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights or District of Columbia charges against two Metropolitan Police Department officers for a fatal shooting that occurred on Nov. 14, 2025, and fatally injured a 41-year-old District resident inside a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the MPD. Internal Affairs Division conducted a comprehensive review of the incident, which included a review of law enforcement and civilian accounts, security camera footage, Body Worn Camera (BWC) footage, physical evidence, recorded radio communications, forensic reports, and reports from MPD. According to the evidence, on Nov. 14, 2025, officers were summoned to a residence in the 4400 block of Reservoir Road, NW. The police had been notified that an internal alarm had been triggered. The owner of the home was not home at the time and notified the police. Upon their arrival, officers observed that the lights were on in the house and that there was someone inside. An officer went to the basement door and observed a male, later identified as Kevin Booker, in the basement. The officer identified himself and requested that Mr. Booker unlock the door. Mr. Booker ignored the request and left the basement area. The officers entered the house through an unlocked door. While searching for the male, the officers loudly identified themselves and announced the presence of law enforcement. As one officer proceeded to the second floor, Mr. Booker emerged from a darkened room brandishing a knife and a screwdriver and charged at the officer. The officer immediately discharged his service weapon striking Mr. Booker. A second officer arriving at the landing at that point discharged an Electronic Control Device (ECD), commonly known as a Taser. Despite lifesaving efforts by law enforcement and an emergency medical team, Mr. Booker succumbed to his injuries and died later at a hospital. After a careful, thorough, and independent review of the evidence, federal prosecutors found insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer willfully violated the civilian’s rights. Investigations generally The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews all police-involved fatalities to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to conclude that any officers violated either federal criminal civil rights laws or District of Columbia law. The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division investigates all police-involved fatalities in the District of Columbia.


title: Swiss Businessman Extradited To The United States Pleads Guilty To International Securities Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS — A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years. According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million. Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2026. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office made the announcement. The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case. Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant United States Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy. ###


title: Texas Trio to Serve More Than 22 Years in Federal Prison Collectively Following Attempted Armed Robbery of Brink's Technician

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – RAYMOND ISHUN EDWARDS , 33; MARCUS ELEBY-KING , 33; and HAROLD ELEBY-KING , 35, of Texas, have been sentenced to serve cumulatively 273 months in federal prison for attempted armed bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, on September 30, 2024, an armed Brink’s technician was working on an ATM in Midwest City when he was approached by two masked men. One of the men, later identified as Harold Eleby-King, pointed a firearm at the victim’s head while the other masked man, later identified as Edwards, unsuccessfully attempted to access the ATM. The men then took the victim’s firearm after a physical struggle before they fled in a car driven by Marcus Eleby-King. The three were arrested the following day in Wichita, Kansas. On December 3, 2024, a federal Grand Jury charged Edwards, Harold Eleby-King, and Marcus Eleby-King with attempted armed bank robbery. The three defendants have since pleaded guilty and admitted they knowingly attempted to take money controlled by a bank by force, violence, and intimidation. At a sentencing hearing on March 5, 2026, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Edwards to serve 92 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Harold Eleby-King and Marcus Eleby-King were previously sentenced, with Harold receiving 97 months and Marcus receiving 84 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for both. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Midwest City Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nichols, Jr. prosecuted the case. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Binghamton Man Charged for Threats to President, ICE Agents

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Jeffrey Scott Hamm, Jr., age 32, of Binghamton, NY appeared in federal court Friday, February 27, for an initial appearance on a charge of making threats to the President and federal agents using interstate communications. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Division Craig Tremaroli made the announcement. The Complaint alleges that on multiple dates in January, 2026, Hamm posted comments on YouTube threatening violence against the President, unnamed ICE agents, and supporters of the President. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated: “The defendant used interstate communications to threaten President Trump, ICE agents, and others with acts of violence. This Office, together with the FBI, will pursue anyone who makes such threats swiftly and aggressively. The defendant would have been better off saving his breath; now he’ll have plenty of time to reflect on his words while facing the consequences for them in federal court. Threats of this nature will not be tolerated, and anyone who ignores this warning will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.” Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Hamm tried to hide behind a keyboard, but this arrest should prove if you’re making dangerous threats of violence online, the FBI will find you and hold you accountable. Threats of violence against the President, public officials, law enforcement, or any member of our community are illegal and will not be tolerated. FBI Albany will continue to leverage the partnerships and resources of our Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) to identify, investigate, and ensure anyone taking part in such illegal activity is brought to justice.” Hamm appeared in federal court on Friday, February 27 in Binghamton, New York before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric and was ordered detained pending further proceedings. The charges in the Complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The charge filed against Hamm carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen C. Green is prosecuting the case.


title: Tennessee Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to $80M Pandemic-Relief Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: WASHINGTON — The owner of a tax preparation business in Tennessee pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a massive fraud scheme that steered approximately $80 million in pandemic relief funds designed to help small businesses and workers to herself and her clients. According to court documents and statements made in court, Renata Walton, 45, of Mississippi, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Moscow, Tennessee. From approximately March 2022 through August 2023, Walton conspired with one of her employees to file false tax returns for clients seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. Congress created both the ERC and the paid sick and family leave credit to aid struggling businesses during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The employee, Nicole Jones, also known as Nicole Dickerson, of Cordova, Tennessee, previously pleaded guilty on Aug. 15, 2025, for her role in the offense. Among other schemes, Walton and Jones reported fictitious wages on clients’ tax returns to fraudulently claim the ERC and paid sick and family leave credits, knowing their clients had not paid wages to their employees in those amounts and were not entitled to the credits. Walton also filed false applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, government funding intended to provide financial assistance to Americans suffering economic harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. To support these false claims, Walton submitted false tax forms to the SBA. As a result of the scheme, clients received tax refunds, often exceeding $100,000, and then Walton and Jones received a fee from the clients, which was typically around $15,000 per return. When the IRS began contacting clients to recover the fraudulently issued pandemic program funds, Walton obstructed the IRS’s efforts. She gave the clients letters to provide to the IRS falsely asserting, among other things, that the fictitious wages Walton and Jones reported on their tax returns to claim the ERC were legitimate. Walton and Jones also did not file tax returns for tax year 2022, so they did not pay taxes on the income they earned through their criminal schemes. In total, Walton filed tax returns and other documents claiming nearly $80 million in pandemic funds and tax refunds that she and her clients were not entitled to receive, causing a loss of more than $52 million to the United States. Jones was also responsible for a portion of these fraudulent claims. Both Walton and Jones face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of money laundering, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of assisting in the preparation of a false tax return and a maximum penalty of one year in prison for willful failure to file a return. Walton also faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for obstruction of justice. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Walton is scheduled to be sentenced on June 18. Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant of the Western District of Tennessee made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Trial Attorney Caroline Pearson of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Bateman and Tony Arvin for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case. ### CRM 26-236 If you have questions, please use the contacts in the message or call the Office of Public Affairs at 202-514-2007.


title: St. Louis Area Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Distributor Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Henry E. Autrey on Monday sentenced a man involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in the St. Louis area to 19 years in prison. Neil Phifer, 40, was one of 13 defendants charged with drug conspiracy in 2023. All have pleaded guilty. Phifer was the last to be sentenced. Phifer pleaded guilty on August 5, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. He admitted receiving multiple kilograms of meth and fentanyl from his supplier in California and distributing those drugs in the St. Louis area through his network. Investigators repeatedly conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Phifer and seized cocaine, meth and fentanyl from someone who bought it from Phifer. Investigators also intercepted a total of $40,300 in proceeds of drug sales being mailed back to California and 5.8 kilograms of meth that were being shipped to St. Louis. During an August 2022 court-approved search of an apartment in St. Louis, investigators found 5.4 kilos of fentanyl, 1.4 kilos of meth and other drugs as well as Phifer’s handgun and $16,850 in drug proceeds. After Phifer moved apartments, he was caught with cocaine base, fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, drug proceeds and 1.6 kilos of meth, his plea agreement says. At his next apartment, investigators found cocaine base, 1.5 kilos of fentanyl and another pistol. California-based drug supplier Stanley Harris, 51, is serving a 200-month sentence and another supplier, Victor Medina, 43, of Los Angeles, is serving a sentence of 120 months. During the investigation, packages mailed by Harris containing more than 14 kilos of meth and two kilos of fentanyl were seized and more than $90,000 in cash from drug sales heading to Harris were intercepted. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use. With the collaborative efforts of our federal law enforcement partners, Postal Inspectors investigate those utilizing the U.S. Mail for illicit activities, including the distribution of narcotics. Today’s sentencing reflects the diligent investigative work by Postal Inspectors, and our law enforcement partners,” said Acting Inspector in Charge, Mary Johnson, who leads the Chicago Division, which includes the St. Louis Domicile Office. “The exceptional work of the DEA’s agents and partners broke down a criminal drug trafficking network stretching from California to Missouri,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. "Our investigation led to the removal of kilogram quantities of poisonous drugs and firearms from an organization known for inciting fear. Now, Neil Phifer is staring down a 19-year sentence in federal prison for his role pushing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into our communities. Our agents work tirelessly to save American lives and reduce violent crime fueled by drug trafficking and this sentencing is a testament to our resolve.” The Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case with assistance from officers with the North County Police Cooperative and police departments in St. Louis, St. Louis County, Shrewsbury, Ballwin and St. Charles City. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.


title: California Man Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Multimillion-Dollar Fraud Scheme Targeting More Than a Dozen Victims

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Richard Patterson, Jr., 44, of Norco, California, was sentenced yesterday to 68 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for conspiring to commit wire fraud and failing to appear for a court hearing. Patterson was also ordered to pay $2,030,000 in restitution to more than 15 identified victims. As admitted in his August 2025 plea agreement, Patterson and his two coconspirators, Dashawn Hill and Judy Ramos, carried on an “advance payment scheme,” wherein they made fraudulent representations to solicit upfront investments of between $5,000 and $550,000 from victims. Patterson and his coconspirators claimed they would use these upfront monies to pay fees for financial products that would generate 200% to 1000% risk-free returns. Patterson and his coconspirators instead used the victims’ money to pay for their living expenses, travel, entertainment, rent, and other personal expenses. According to court documents, Patterson used the money to live a millionaire’s lifestyle, renting a luxury condominium at Ala Moana, buying luxury goods, and enjoying luxury travel. As part of the scheme, Patterson held himself out under the alias “Xavier Carter,” used a fake accent, and claimed to be a foreign national when presenting himself as “Xavier Carter.” Collectively, Patterson and his coconspirators defrauded victims of over $2 million. A week before his federal fraud trial was set to begin on October 28, 2024, Patterson failed to appear for two in-person court hearings. Patterson ceased communications with his counsel, refused to travel to Hawaii, and then fled the Central District of California, where he was out on bond. Patterson was arrested in the Southern District of California and brought back to Hawaii. His flight led to the continuance of the scheduled trial. Co-defendants Dashawn Hill and Judy Ramos each also pled guilty pursuant to plea agreements and are scheduled to be sentenced on June 2, 2026 and May 13, 2026, respectively. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Albanese prosecuted the case.


title: San Diego Man Indicted for $6 Million Counterfeit U.S. Postage Stamp Scheme

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO –Wayne Fister, aka Wayne Wong, was indicted by a federal grand jury for selling millions of counterfeit U.S. postage stamps, earning more than $6 million as part of the scheme. The indictment, unsealed yesterday, charged Fister with Mail Fraud, Selling Counterfeit Stamps, and Money Laundering. According to court documents and statements made in court, since July 2024, Fister used his account in an online marketplace to sell the counterfeit U.S. postage stamps. In one instance, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service intercepted five different packages intended for Fister, in total containing more than one million counterfeit stamps. Fister is alleged to have procured the counterfeit stamps from a manufacturer in China as part of the mail fraud scheme. Fister is also accused of using a significant portion of criminal proceeds from counterfeit stamp sales to purchase a home in San Diego. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan Brooks and Alyssa Sanderson. *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. DEFENDANT Case Number 26cr0723 Wayne Fister Age: 38 San Diego, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Mail Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1341 Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison and $1 million fine Selling Counterfeit Stamps – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 501 Maximum Penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine Money Laundering – Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1957 Maximum Penalty: Ten years in prison and $250,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCY United States Postal Inspection Service


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Collects $13,502,232.06 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2025

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak announced today that the District of Utah collected $13,502,232.06 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $8,716,979.03 was collected in criminal actions and $4,758,253.03 was collected in civil actions. Additionally, the District of Utah worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $65,084,852.14 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $11,526.48 was collected in criminal actions and $65,073,325.66 was collected in civil actions. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to providing restitution to victims of federal crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah. “Financial recoveries are a critical part of the Department’s mission to hold those who violate the law accountable for the injury they cause to crime victims and the general public.” In June 2025, the District of Utah recovered $1,250,333 for the victims of Patrick Brody’s fraudulent real estate investment Ponzi scheme. In July 2025, the District of Utah recovered $350,000 for victims of Jacob Dalton’s securities fraud scheme. After his conviction, the United States discovered that Dalton attempted to use a close family member to shield the funds from recovery and avoid paying restitution. Decisive action by the United States prevented the funds from being lost and led to garnishment of the funds for payment to Dalton’s victims. See press release: Utah County Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison After Running a $1.6M Affinity Fraud Scheme . The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Utah, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $11,267,324 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.


title: Pasco Man Sentenced to 5 Years Imprisonment for Receipt of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on March 5, 2026, District Court Judge United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke, sentenced Ricardo Velazquez Reyes, age 23, of Pasco, Washington, to five years of imprisonment for the Receipt of Child Pornography. Judge Dimke also ordered that following his sentence, Velazquez Reyes serve a 15 year term of supervised release, register as a sex offender, and abide by a number of conditions pertaining to Velazquez Reyes’s use and access to electronic devices. Velazquez Reyes was also ordered to pay $154,000 in restitution to minor children depicted and identified in the sexual exploitation files he received, possessed and distributed. According to court documents, a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an undercover investigation into individuals utilizing an online platform to distribute, receive and possess files known to law enforcement to constitute child pornography. On multiple occasions spanning from December of 2023 through March of 2024, Velazquez Reyes distributed known child pornography files depicting minor children to the undercover Special Agent. In March of 2024, a search warrant was executed at Velazquez Reyes’s residence in Pasco. HSI agents and members of the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SER-ICAC) served the warrant. Multiple electronic devices were seized from Velazquez Reyes’s residence. An HSI forensic examiner located more than 1,000 child pornography files on Velazquez Reyes’s electronic devices. These files depicted minor children, including those under the age of 12, engaged in sex acts, bondage and defecation. Velazquez Reyes was interviewed by detectives with the SER-ICAC on scene. Velazquez Reyes admitted that he had obtained child pornography utilizing the dark web and that he was sexually stimulated by child pornography. Velazquez Reyes also advised that he was enrolled as a student in a cybersecurity program at a local college at the time of his arrest. “Mr. Velazquez Reyes distributed sickening images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of minor children in our community and abroad” stated First Assistant Serrano. “This material often depicts the worst day of a young child’s life, yet Mr. Velazquez Reyes distributed these images and videos and gained personal gratification from them. Thanks to the proactive work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional ICAC team, Mr. Velazquez Reyes was identified, apprehended and prosecuted for his conduct, preventing the further distribution of these horrific images and videos.” “Every image or video of child sexual abuse represents a real child who was victimized,” said Damon Jansen Commander of the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (SER-ICAC) Task Force. “When offenders download, possess, and distribute this material, they are continuing the cycle of abuse for those victims. This case highlights the importance of proactive investigations and strong partnerships between Homeland Security Investigations and our Southeast Regional ICAC Task Force. Together, we are committed to identifying offenders, rescuing victims, and holding those who exploit children accountable.” “By leveraging our advanced cyber capabilities, HSI relentlessly pursues those who traffic in the abuse of children and ensures they are brought to justice,” said HSI Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Together with our local partners, we are protecting vulnerable victims and helping to rescue children worldwide from this horrific exploitation.” The case was investigated by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which is comprised of special agents with Homeland Security Investigations and local detectives from the Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco Police Departments, along with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland. 4:24-CR-6015-MKD


title: Eagle River man sentenced to 10 years for possessing a firearm as a felon during a crime of domestic violence

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Eagle River man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for using a prohibited firearm during a crime of domestic violence. According to court documents, in November 2023, Anchorage police officers were called after a bystander contacted a female victim after she escaped a domestic violence assault. The victim told police that Kyle Reynolds, 28, strangled her, slashed the tires of her vehicle and threatened her with a pistol. Reynolds also took the victim’s phone so she could not report the assault. Anchorage police officers arrested Reynolds that same day. Officers recovered the knife Reynolds used to slash the victim’s tires and a handgun in Reynolds’ truck. Shortly after his arrest, Reynolds called his mother and co-defendant, Elizabeth Chardome, 68, from custody and allegedly instructed her to force entry to his residence and attempt to secure a second firearm. Court documents alleged that Chardome, knowing that her son was prohibited from possessing firearms, purchased for Reynolds the firearm used to assault the victim. Before the charged conduct, Reynolds had a prior felony conviction for assault and failing to stop at the direction of a peace officers resulting in injury. Reynolds is also a recidivist domestic violence offender. On April 22, 2024, Reynolds was charged by complaint with one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. On Aug. 21, 2024, Chardome and Reynolds were indicted by a federal grand jury with crimes related to the November 2023 incident. Chardome is charged with one count of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm and is scheduled for trial on April 27, 2026. During sentencing, the Court also ordered Reynolds to serve three years on supervised release following the completion of his custodial sentence. “Mr. Reynolds’ extensive criminal history reflects repeated abuse of women and a persistent disregard for the law,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “This sentence sends a clear message that violent crimes committed with prohibited firearms will be met with significant penalties under federal law. I commend the survivor’s remarkable courage and the swift actions of law enforcement in holding Reynolds accountable.” “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions. Mr. Reynolds escalated an already dangerous domestic violence situation with a firearm he was prohibited from possessing,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais of the ATF Seattle Field Division. “When someone with a history of violence chooses to arm themselves, both the victim and community are at even greater risk. Our agency will continue to prioritize protecting survivors and ensuring that those who repeatedly commit acts of violence face meaningful consequences.” The ATF Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander prosecuted the case. ###


title: U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson Convenes Summit With Federal, State, And Local Law Enforcement On Public Safety In Mecklenburg County

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson convened a summit focused on public safety and reducing violent crime in Mecklenburg County, bringing together leaders and representatives from federal and state law enforcement agencies, local police departments, prosecutors, and other stakeholders across the county. “Violent crime in Mecklenburg County is getting more serious by the day, and we must do something to stop it,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “No one should go to sleep at night worried bullets are going to come through their window. But solving the problem is going to take all of us, and that is the point of this summit: to work together to keep our citizens safe.” Participants discussed law enforcement initiatives, including past successes and future plans, and how to better coordinate to reduce violent crime. The group discussed all facets that play a role in reducing crime, including bond in state court cases, recidivism, juvenile crime, and crime prevention. The summit also focused on safety on public transportation—the veins and arteries of our community. And leaders at the summit addressed root causes of crime, such as the mental health crisis in our community that plays a long-term role in a large number of violent crime cases. Federal representatives reiterated their commitment to local crime reduction efforts and explored ways the federal government can support partnerships to enhance public safety. “The public is safest when we work together,” Ferguson said. “By sharing ideas and coordinating our efforts, we can better respond to crime and address its root causes and collateral effects, such as mental health issues.”


title: Former restauranteur sentenced to 30 months in prison for defrauding elderly victim

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – The former owner of a Lake Sammamish restaurant was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle 30 months in prison for wire fraud and filing a false tax return in connection with his theft from a former elderly customer, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Richard Dale Radcliffe, 62, admitted on November 12, 2025, that he illegally took $515,000 from the financial accounts of an elderly woman he befriended for the purpose of personally benefiting from her wealth. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Lauren King said, “(The victim) trusted and believed that you would use her money for her care… You used your access and control over accounts to enrich yourself…. You exploited her for your gain to the tune of half a million dollars.” “This defendant ingratiated himself into the life of an elderly widow, encouraging her to make him and his family beneficiaries in her will,” said First Assistant Neil Floyd. “But he did not wait for her death to start taking her money – he raided her accounts to pay for his own luxuries. His callous conduct is deserving of this prison sentence.” According to documents filed in the case, Radcliffe cultivated a friendship with a widow who lived near his restaurant after he learned about her significant wealth. The widow was elderly and suffering cognitive decline. Within a few months of their friendship beginning, Radcliffe arranged for a friend of his to serve as the power of attorney for the victim, with Radcliffe still having access and control over the victim’s bank accounts. Radcliffe became the beneficiary of her will shortly thereafter. The victim had no surviving family members, and trusted Radcliffe to assist her with her finances and take care of her bills. Radcliffe abused his access to her accounts and used her money for his own real estate purchases, gambling, travel, and restaurant operation expenses. He convinced his friend, as power of attorney, to liquidate over $800,000 from the victim’s retirement account to fund the purchase of a home for himself in North Carolina by falsely claiming that he was entitled that amount as reimbursement for money that he spent on the victim’s care and for remodeling her home. The victim ultimately moved into an assisted living facility and passed away in November 2020. The facility where the victim lived noted that Radcliffe resisted paying for extra services and supplies she needed, claiming she did not have the money to pay for them. Instead, Radcliffe moved into her $2 million waterfront home and later inherited her sizable estate. Following the victim’s death, Radcliffe attempted to claim a life insurance benefit by posing as her deceased spouse. The life insurance company reported the fraud attempt to the FBI, thus kicking off the federal investigation. However, numerous local investigations were already underway because several individuals reported their concerns to Washington State Adult Protective Services and the King County Sheriff’s Office about Radcliffe’s exploitative behavior. In asking for a 46-month sentence Assistant United States Attorney Grace Zoller wrote to the court, “at its core, this case is about taking advantage of someone in their most vulnerable state. Radcliffe met an elderly widow, alone for the first time in over fifty years following the death of her partner, who was suffering from cognitive decline and (he)saw it as an opportunity to line his own pockets. Radcliffe manipulated that elderly widow with attention and flattery to the point she believed she was in a romantic relationship with Radcliffe…” When Radcliffe filed his taxes in February 2021, he failed to report the $437,000 he embezzled from the victim’s accounts. That additional income resulted in a tax liability of $124,000 he did not report to the IRS. As part of his plea agreement Radcliffe will pay $124,000 to the IRS. “It was exceptionally cold-hearted of Mr. Radcliffe to prey on this victim’s loneliness and age," said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. "He befriended her to take advantage of her, stealing her money, taking her home and estate. But ultimately, Mr. Radcliffe’s greed caught up with him, resulting in today’s well-deserved prison sentence. The FBI, IRS, and other partners will carefully follow the money to hold fraudsters accountable for their crimes.” “While Mr. Radcliffe’s victim is, unfortunately, no longer with us, we’re glad the public knows her story,” said Carrie Nordyke, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Seattle Field Office. “We hope this ruling gives pause to fraudsters who think they can escape accountability by targeting the vulnerable.” Radcliffe will be on supervised release for three years following prison and was ordered to pay a $20,000 fine in addition to the forfeiture of $515,000 and $124,000 restitution to the IRS. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), with valuable assistance from the King County Sheriff’s Office and Washington State Adult Protective Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Manca and Grace Zoller.


title: Beaverton Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Minors Online and Receiving Child Pornography

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Beaverton, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually exploiting multiple minors online and receiving sexually explicit images and videos of the minor victims. Misael Flores Ramirez, 35, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison and 15 years of supervised release. According to court documents, it was reported that, from April 2023 through September 2023, Flores Ramirez was in contact with a 12-year-old minor victim. Flores Ramirez sent over 30 sexually explicit images and videos of himself to a minor victim who he met on the social media application Wink. Flores Ramirez requested and received over 30 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from the minor victim and threatened to stop talking if the images were not sent. A search of Flores Ramirez’s phone revealed over 2,000 images of CSAM and contact with other minors. Specifically, beginning in February 2023 through March 2023, Flores Ramirez requested and received sexually explicit images from a 14-year-old minor victim. He then shared the videos and images of the minor victim with multiple Telegram users. Flores Ramirez used WhatsApp and Telegram chatrooms devoted to trading CSAM to receive images and share videos of minor victims. On September 10, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Flores Ramirez with sexual exploitation of children, transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography. On September 18, 2025, Flores Ramirez pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children and receipt of child pornography. Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley prosecuted the case. Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org . 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 .


title: Former Randolph postal employee pleads guilty to stealing gift card from the mail

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Melissa Olson, 47, of Randolph, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to theft of mail by postal employee, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated Olson was hired by the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 2023 as a rural carrier associate assigned to the Randolph Post Office. Between April and May 2023, Olson opened a stamped, first-class mail envelope that had been entrusted to her for delivery and removed a Visa gift card from the envelope. Olson also admitted that on various dates in 2023, she opened various envelopes and mail that were entrusted to her for delivery, and rifled through the items, delaying their delivery. The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent-in-Charge Northeast Field Office. Sentencing is scheduled for July 9, 2026, before Judge Sinatra. # # # #


title: Second Man Charged with Murder Relating to Methamphetamine Trafficking

body_text: HONOLULU – A second man, Taliau Tauvela-Afalava, 31 of Aiea, Hawaii, was charged and made his initial appearance in court today for his role in a murder stemming from the victim’s alleged failure to pay for methamphetamine. This superseding indictment adds Tauvela-Afalava as a co-defendant with Filimone Tavake, 38, of San Francisco, whom the grand jury indicted on March 21, 2024 and law enforcement arrested on March 22, 2024. According to court documents, on March 27, 2021, Tauvela-Afalava and Tavake allegedly killed the victim in connection with a drug distribution conspiracy. The victim was shot multiple times as he was standing outside his home. Video surveillance footage obtained during the investigation showed a vehicle with no license plates driving near the victim’s home shortly before the shooting. Subsequently, the vehicle parked and video captured two males walking toward the street where the victim’s residence was located. A few minutes later, gun shots were heard on the surveillance video, and the same two males were seen running from the direction of the victim’s residence toward the vehicle. Law enforcement identified and located the vehicle seen in the video. A law enforcement analysis connected the vehicle’s infotainment system to phone numbers linked to Tavake and Tauvela-Afalava. Tauvela-Afalava is charged with carry, use and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; causing the death of a person through use of a firearm; killing while engaged in conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, Tauvela-Afalava faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson for the District of Hawaii; Special Agent in Charge David K. Porter of the FBI Honolulu Field Office; and Interim Chief Rade K. Vanic of the Honolulu Police Department made the announcement. “The Second Superseding Indictment charging Taliau Tauvela-Afalava as the second shooter in the death of victim Malakai Maumalanga demonstrates our firm commitment to investigating and charging the violent crime often associated with drug trafficking,” said United States Attorney Ken Sorenson. “These allegations underscore the devastating reality that where illegal drugs flow, violence inevitably follows,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “The FBI, alongside our local partners, is committed to protecting our communities by removing the most violent offenders from our streets.” “The Honolulu Police Department worked closely with the FBI during this investigation,” said Lieutenant Deena Thoemmes, HPD Criminal Investigation Division, Homicide Detail. “We remain committed to partnering with federal authorities to hold those responsible for violent crimes accountable.” The charges in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines. The FBI and Honolulu Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Nammar and Trial Attorney Christina Taylor (detailee) of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.


title: Former Corrections Officer and Mililani Resident Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Kenneth Kazuichi Arasato, Jr., 63, of Mililani, Hawaii, was sentenced today to 63 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for possessing child pornography. Arasato was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to an identified victim. Arasato, a former corrections officer, pled guilty on August 28, 2025 to a two-count indictment charging him with possession of child pornography. According to information presented to the Court at sentencing, Arasato used an encrypted communications platform and password-protected vault application on his cellular phone to hide his activities. He possessed over 200 images of child pornography, including at least one image that depicted an infant and other images that depicted prepubescent minors. The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mohammad Khatib 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: Fort Dodge Man to Federal Prison for Firearms Offense

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who possessed stolen and unregistered short-barreled firearms was sentenced yesterday to more than eight years in federal prison. Jason Jay Hoogland, 38, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 31, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession of an unregistered firearm-short barreled. At the hearings, Hoogland admitted that on January 20, 2025, in Fort Dodge, he possessed a stolen pistol and a short-barreled 20-gauge shotgun which was not registered to him as required by law. Law enforcement located these items, and drug paraphernalia, at defendant’s residence which was searched after Hoogland used a gun to assault a man at a local hospital. Later, on April 23, 2025, in Fort Dodge, Hoogland possessed another stolen firearm and short-barreled firearms not registered to him. Law enforcement located these items when aiding in the eviction of Hoogland from the residence where he was staying. Hoogland was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Hoogland was sentenced to 97 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Hoogland is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF). 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. 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. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-03033. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Mexican National Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms to Mexico

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

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 84 months in prison for conspiracy to traffic firearms, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Justin R. Simmons. According to court documents, Martin Edgar Garza Pacheco, 42, of Melchor Muzquiz, Coahuila, was arrested at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry based on an investigation into the trafficking of firearms from the U.S. into Mexico. The investigation determined Garza Pacheco used co-conspirators Shiddartha Salinas Avila and Victor Ulysses Ybarra-Daniels to purchase a total of 36 firearms at various retail stores in the San Antonio area. Once the firearms were purchased, Garza Pacheco would travel from Mexico to San Antonio via the Eagle Pass POE, then smuggle the firearms back to Mexico in his vehicle. Garza Pacheco was arrested April 22, 2023, and charged with one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms. He pleaded guilty to the indictment on Aug. 21, 2023. Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses presided over the case. Ybarra-Daniels was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison on Oct. 8, and Salinas Avila was sentenced to 42 months on Nov. 3, 2025. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, ICE Homeland Security Investigations, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nallely Duarte and Daisy Gonzalez 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: Ganjei announces intent to resign from position of United States Attorney

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei has announced he will resign as chief law enforcement officer for the Southern District of Texas effective upon his appointment to the federal bench. “The American people provided our office with a mandate to secure the border, annihilate the drug trade, and crack down on violent crime in their communities—and every day the men and women of SDTX work tirelessly to deliver on that commitment. In the past year we’ve accomplished more than we ever thought possible, but there’s still no time to rest,” said Ganjei. “Ensuring that the Southern District of Texas is a safe place to live, work, and raise a family is more than just a job, it’s a promise we’ve made to our fellow citizens. In meeting this challenge, I could not have asked for greater colleagues, greater law enforcement partners, or greater support from our Southern District communities. Although I will now be hanging up my spurs as an advocate, I look forward to serving the American people in a new capacity.” Ganjei was responsible for prosecuting and defending the interests of the United States in one of the largest districts in the country, with the Southern District of Texas stretching across 43 counties, covering 44,000 square miles, and having over nine million residents. Ganjei oversaw nearly 400 employees, including over 200 Assistant U.S. Attorneys, spread across the district’s seven offices. Since Ganjei’s appointment in January 2025, the Southern District of Texas has prioritized border security and immigration enforcement, the aggressive prosecution of violent crime, and the dismantling of transnational criminal organizations, particularly narcoterrorists. During his tenure, SDTX prided itself on being both aggressive and nimble, filing over 10,000 indictments and nearly 18,000 criminal complaints, while maintaining a 96 percent conviction rate. To date in fiscal year 2026, SDTX is projected to file more cases than any other district nationwide. In 2025, SDTX delivered a record number of southern border-related enforcement actions, with over 14,000 individuals charged in cases related to immigration and smuggling, assaults on officers, firearms offenses, violent crimes, narcotics trafficking, and other matters. To date in 2026, over 2000 additional persons have already been charged in similar actions. The number of illegal crossings and encounters have plummeted to their lowest level in more than half a century. The Southern District of Texas’s Civil Division also played a major role in the office’s efforts to secure the border, working to obtain parcels of land and easements to facilitate border wall construction, as well as handling over 1300 habeas corpus petitions brought by illegal aliens seeking immediate release from custody. On the criminal side of border security, the Southern District secured the extradition of three Guatemalan nationals on charges arising from a fatal human smuggling event in Chiapas, Mexico in 2021. This event, in which a tractor-trailer, packed with at least 160 people, crashed, resulted in the death of more than 50 people, including unaccompanied children, and injured over 100 more. The smugglers, now in federal court in Laredo, face a potential life sentence. Under Ganjei, the Southern District of Texas has been a national leader in the prosecution of narcoterrorist gangs and cartels. In December of 2025, SDTX charged four alleged members of Tren de Aragua (“TdA”) with material support of a terrorist organization and cocaine distribution. Two of the men charged—Yohan Jose Romero and Juan Gabriel Rivas Nunez—are believed to be two of the top three leaders of TdA. In Galveston, eight high-level Mara Salvatrucha (“MS-13”) gang members pleaded guilty to racketeering activity, including murder, extortion, and drug trafficking, and are now facing prison terms of 35-50 years. In Operation Liquid Death , the Southern District of Texas indicted a father and son on charges of conspiring to materially support a Mexican cartel and money laundering based on the duo’s alleged illegal importation of tens of millions of dollars of stolen oil. The Southern District has also been tireless in its pursuit of U.S.-based criminal organizations and has adopted a more aggressive posture toward the use of federal racketeering (RICO) charges, which carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. In Houston, SDTX brought racketeering, murder, firearms, and drug trafficking charges against 20 suspected members and associates of the “Free Money” gang , a group accused of committing numerous high-profile violent crimes, including a brazen June 2022 daytime shootout in a shopping center parking lot. Also in 2025, the Southern District of Texas indicted 14 members of the Katy-based “Welcome to Hell” chapter of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang on 22 counts of racketeering, assault, and murder stemming from, in part, a violent turf war with a rival motorcycle gang. Under Ganjei’s leadership, SDTX also launched several innovative, “first of its kind” initiatives to address to address longstanding and persistent criminal threats. One such program was Operation Lighthouse , an effort to combat sexual assault of rideshare passengers. The initiative leverages federal resources and sentencing laws to secure more meaningful penalties against perpetrators, bring justice to victims, and ultimately promote a greater sense of safety within the ridesharing community. Another initiative, Operation Pick-Off , targets criminal illegal aliens who are currently serving terms of probation following convictions for state crimes, such as murder, drug offenses, human smuggling, fraud, burglary, assault, and other crimes. The multiagency effort, launched in August 2025 in the Rio Grande Valley , will remain an ongoing enforcement priority for the Southern District. In one quality-of-life initiative, Operation Double Down , the Southern District targeted and shut down 30 illegal gaming rooms in greater Houston, which operated openly and attracted drug dealing, prostitution and other blight. The operation, believed to be one of the largest in the Southern District’s history, resulted in the indictment of 16 defendants and the seizure of over $16 million in currency, accounts, and assets. During Ganjei’s tenure, the Southern District of Texas also took a more aggressive approach to the threat posed by Chinese-backed espionage against the United States. The Southern District indicted Xu Zewei , an alleged China state-sponsored hacker, for his suspected involvement in U.S. computer intrusions, including that of U.S.-based universities and researchers conducting COVID-19 vaccine, treatment, and testing research. Zewei was later arrested in Italy at the United States’ request. More recently, in Operation Gatekeeper , SDTX indicted three individuals for their alleged role in the illegal smuggling of $160 million of critical AI technology destined for the PRC. Finally, the Southern District collected a total of $148,149,674.47 in combined criminal, civil, and asset forfeiture actions in calendar year 2025. Across all criminal matters, SDTX collected $21,572,847.34 in restitution for crime victims and recovered an additional $85,932,764.13 through civil enforcement actions for the American taxpayer. Working with partner agencies and divisions, the Southern District also collected $40,644,063 through asset forfeiture. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes. Then-Acting Attorney General James McHenry named Ganjei as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Jan. 29, 2025. Ganjei later received the unanimous vote of the district judges in May 2025, re-appointing him to continue his service to the district. Ganjei is a longtime federal prosecutor who previously served as Acting U.S. Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas. Ganjei joined the Department of Justice in 2008 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney on the U.S.–Mexico border. As an AUSA, Ganjei prosecuted organized crime, immigration, narcotics, and human trafficking cases, as well as fraud, public corruption and white collar matters. Before joining the Department, Ganjei clerked for the Honorable Richard Allen Griffin of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and for then-U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Erickson, who has since been elevated to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Ganjei has also taught on the subjects of civil, criminal, and constitutional law at both the collegiate and law school levels. Immediately prior to his service with the Southern District of Texas, Ganjei was Chief Counsel to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitution, where he oversaw all legal matters related to criminal justice, border security, judicial nominations, antitrust, intellectual property, and religious liberty. On Nov. 12, 2025, President Trump nominated Ganjei to serve as a United States district court judge for the Southern District of Texas. The United States Senate confirmed Ganjei on Feb. 3, 2026. Ganjei is now set to begin his tenure as a judge in the Houston Division of the Southern District. Ganjei was the first Persian-American to ever serve as a United States Attorney anywhere in the country, and, upon appointment to the federal bench, will become the first-ever Persian-American federal Article III judge. Upon Ganjei’s departure, management responsibilities will be handed off to John G.E. Marck, who presently serves as the office’s First Assistant U.S. Attorney.


title: FEDERAL DRUG & GUN CHARGES FOR PENSACOLA FELON

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Travis W. Carroll, 26, of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Carroll appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Bolitho for his initial appearance at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is scheduled for April 6, 2026, at 8:30 am in Pensacola before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers. If convicted, Carroll faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine count; up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon count; and a minimum mandatory 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, consecutive to any other sentence on the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE RESIDENT INDICTED FOR NEGLECT OF A CHILD

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Devon Mae Witryk, 28, of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with one count of neglect of a child. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today. Witryk appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is scheduled for April 6, 2026, at 8:30 am in Pensacola before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers. If convicted, Witryk faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment. The case was investigated by Eglin Security Forces Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer is prosecuting the case. 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. 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 available 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: Owner of Durable Medical Equipment Company Sentenced  for $59M Medicare Fraud

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A Texas man was sentenced Friday to 90 months in prison for his role in a $59.9 million conspiracy to pay kickbacks and submit claims for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME) to Medicare. According to court documents, Patrick Cassells, 65, of Fulshear, Texas, owned and operated three DME companies and concealed his role in one of those companies by falsely identifying another individual as the sole owner and manager in a Medicare enrollment application. Cassells paid illegal kickbacks to co-conspirators who sent him signed doctors’ orders and other paperwork necessary to bill Medicare for orthotic braces such as knee, back, shoulder and wrist braces. The kickbacks were disguised by referring to the doctors’ orders as “leads” and the services provided as “marketing.” Based on these orders, which were issued without doctors examining or treating the patients, Cassells submitted claims to Medicare that falsely represented that the braces were medically necessary. In total, through the three companies, Cassells caused over $59.9 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, for which Medicare paid over $27 million. Cassells used proceeds of the fraud to purchase personal vehicles and vehicles that he intended to export to Nigeria. In June 2024, Cassells pleaded guilty in the Southern District of Texas to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. In addition to the prison sentence, Cassells was ordered to pay $25,402,614.97 in restitution and forfeiture, and to forfeit four vehicles and three properties in the Houston area. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas; Special Agent in Charge Jason Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Region; Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams of the FBI’s Houston Field Office; and Chief William Marlow of the Texas Attorney General’s Office, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit made the announcement. HHS-OIG, FBI, and the Texas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case. Acting Assistant Chief Catherine Wagner and Trial Attorney Adam Tisdall of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristine Rollinson for the Southern District of Texas prosecuted the case. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of eight strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit .


title: TALLAHASSEE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Theodore Roosevelt Robinson, Jr., 32, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty to the federal charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to devote the full power of the Department of Justice toward cleaning up our streets and removing violent criminals like this defendant from our communities. Our citizens deserve to live in safety, and that is exactly what my office will deliver with aggressive prosecutions of dangerous criminals.” A federal investigation revealed that on or about September 16, 2025, the defendant sold a 12-gauge shotgun during a law enforcement operation. At the time of the firearm sale, the defendant was a felon and could not legally possess a firearm, based upon his prior convictions on state charges of possession of methamphetamines, drug trafficking, and attempted armed robbery. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before District Judge Mark E. Walker. He faces up to fifteen years in prison, three years supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Begins March With 187 New Immigration Cases in Western District of Texas

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – Federal prosecutors in the Western District of Texas filed 187 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from Feb. 27 to March 5, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons. Charges were brought against human smugglers and illegal aliens with past convictions for violent crimes, DWIs, and multiple prior removals. Among the new cases, Mexican national Erick Eduardo Carillo-Fierro was charged with illegal re-entry after being arrested by USBP agents near Val Verde. His first deportation was Feb. 6, but he has been convicted three times in California. In 2009, Carillo-Fierro was sentenced to 15 years and 8 months in prison for carjacking and fleeing with a weapon from a pursuing officer. While serving that sentence in 2011, he was convicted for manufacturing a weapon in prison. In 2022, he was convicted for possessing narcotics, drugs, or alcohol in prison. U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested Mexican national Jorge Salinas-Cabrera near Kinney on Monday. Salinas-Cabrera is charged with illegal re-entry after being previously deported four times, the most recent being on Aug. 16, 2025. In addition to a 2013 illegal re-entry conviction, his criminal history includes two convictions for assault causing bodily injury, one conviction for driving while intoxicated, and one for evading arrest. Mexican national Luis Fidel Leos-Angel was encountered at the Bexar County Jail in January after he was arrested for assault causing bodily injury to a family member and evading arrest. He was released from the jail on Tuesday and transported to ICE Enforcement Removal Operations San Antonio for processing. Leos-Angel’s criminal history revealed he was previously convicted of aiding and abetting the transportation of an unlawful alien and sentenced to 18 months in prison. In Austin, a Guatemalan national was arrested for a supervised release violation after serving a 27-month federal prison sentence. Freyman Mejia-Vasquez has been removed from the U.S. seven times, and his criminal record includes interfering with an emergency call, a DWI, and assault causing bodily injury. Salvadoran national Oscar Enrique Ramos-Tepas is charged in Austin with illegal re-entry, having been previously removed from the U.S. twice. In 2024, he was convicted for assault impeding breath or circulation and tampering with evidence with intent to impair. Ramos-Tepas has also been convicted of a DWI, two violations of a protective order and two additional assaults causing bodily injury. Mexican national Miguel Angel Torres-Rueda aka Everado Torres-Rueda was found in the Travis County Jail and detained by ICE. Torres-Rueda has been deported twice. His prior convictions include two DWIs, one assault causing bodily injury, and an improper entry by an alien. Guatemalan national Efrain Celso Garcia-Pedro was found approximately 5.7 miles east of the Tornillo Port of Entry on Feb. 28. He had previously been removed on Aug. 29, 2025, four months after receiving 20 years of probation and community service in Cherokee County, Georgia for exploiting and inflicting pain to deprive essential services to a disabled or elder person. Mexican national Armando Jose-Gaspar aka Armando Pedro Juan was also arrested in El Paso after he was found near the 4000 block of Truman Avenue. Jose-Gaspar has been removed from the U.S. 10 times, the last being in December through Nogales, Arizona. 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: Ohio Man Sentenced for Illegal Firearm Possession

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati, Ohio, man, Brian E. Hunter, 33, was sentenced on Friday, to 48 months in prison, by Chief U.S. District Judge David Bunning for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court records, on May 26, 2025, law enforcement stopped a vehicle driven by Hunter for traffic violations. During the search of the vehicle, law enforcement located remnants of marijuana and a stolen, loaded pistol on the driver’s side floorboard. Hunter also had a large amount of cash in his pocket that was not seized. Hunter was aware at the time of the traffic stop that he had prior felony convictions and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Hunter was previously convicted in 2013 of Having Weapons Under Disability for illegally possessing a firearm after his alleged involvement in a shootout at the A to Z market in Cincinnati, and in 2014 for Felonious Assault and Trafficking in Cocaine. Under federal law, Hunter must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. Paul McCaffrey, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Louisville Field Division; and Sheriff Les Hill, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by ATF and Boone County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel King is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. – END –


title: Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm Crimes

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Brooklyn, Maryland, man pled guilty in federal court in connection with drug trafficking and firearm offenses. Sadontae Barnett, 22, is charged with possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Christopher R. Heck, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Secretary of State Police, Maryland State Police (MSP). According to the guilty plea, on February 22, 2024, law enforcement conducted a controlled delivery of a package containing narcotics to Barnett’s residence. The day before, law enforcement interdicted the package and discovered it contained a large quantity of fentanyl pills. The package included approximately 40 grams of pills. Barnett put the package in a backpack and armed himself with a Glock Model 36, .45 caliber handgun. When law enforcement attempted to stop Barnett, he ran and tossed the backpack and firearm before officers quickly apprehended him. Barnett faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of life. His sentencing date is forthcoming. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI and MSP for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stanton Lawyer and Jonathan Tsuei who are prosecuting this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Berkshire County Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Exploitation

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – An Adams, Mass. man has been sentenced for sexual exploitation of children and producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Brian Warner, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 28 years in prison, to be followed by seven years of supervised release. An amount of restitution will be determined at a hearing scheduled for June 11, 2026. In November 2025 , Warner pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children. He has remained in federal custody since his May 2024 arrest. Over a six-year period, Warner repeatedly abused a child for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that conduct. Searches of Warner’s devices showed that he possessed hundreds of images of CSAM, including imagery of a child known to him. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Merck of the Springfield Office 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Wholesale steel distributors settle Paycheck Protection Program false claims

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – Seven Allied Crawford corporations who are wholesale steel distributors incorporated in seven separate states, including Virginia (Allied Companies), have agreed to pay $3,316,973.98 to settle civil False Claims Act (FCA) allegations arising from the submission of statements on their applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, specifically, that each of the Allied Companies falsely certified it was eligible to receive the loans. The United States alleged that the Allied Companies received PPP loans of more than $2.7 million, which later were forgiven, after submitting statements on loan applications falsely certifying eligibility, and again on applications for forgiveness of the loans between February 2021 and October 2021. The settlement began with a lawsuit, United States ex rel. GNGH2, Inc. v. Allied Crawford (Petersburg), Inc., filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims presented to the federal government and share in a portion of the government’s recovery . The whistleblower will receive a ten-percent share of the settlement. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. The matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McIntosh. A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia . Case records may be found on PACER under case number 3:25-cv-200. The civil claims settled are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.


title: Final Defendant Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking Operation

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – The last of four defendants charged in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy was sentenced last week to 10 months in federal prison. Three other defendants were sentenced to federal prison previously. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement. On March 5, 2026, Geramy Frederick , 45, of Louisville, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine. On January 9, 2026, Scott Sabol , 61, of Louisville, was sentenced to 5 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine. On December 18, 2025, Michael Vaden , 37, of Louisville, was sentenced to 6 years and 7 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine. On October 15, 2025, Jessica Stout , 45, of Louisville, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substance, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of distribution of methamphetamine. According to Court documents, Frederick , Sabol , Vaden , and Stout , conspired with each other and others to possess with the intent to distribute and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine between February and March of 2024 in and around Louisville. Frederick distributed half-pound quantities of methamphetamine to another in February, March, and April of 2024. He also possessed with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine in April of 2024. In May and June of 2024, Sabol distributed 51 grams of methamphetamine, 88 grams of methamphetamine, and 330 grams of methamphetamine to another. Vaden sold pound quantities of methamphetamine to another in April and June of 2024 and two pounds of methamphetamine in July of 2024. Finally, Stout possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine in April of 2024 and distributed 51 grams of methamphetamine to another in May of 2024. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is being investigated by the FBI and LMPD. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Lantz and Frank Dahl are prosecuting this case, with assistance from paralegal specialist Adela Alic. 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. ###