title: Richmond Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Child Pornography

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Richmond, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for receiving child pornography, after having a prior state conviction for possession of child pornography. Derek Shain, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 25 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Shain to serve supervised release for Life following his incarceration. On January 16, 2025, Shain pleaded guilty to one count of receiving child pornography, after having a prior state conviction for possession of child pornography. According to court documents, Shain communicated with a 15-year-old minor female on a social media platform. He requested and received an image of child pornography from the minor female. A background investigation of Shain confirmed that Shain was a registered sex offender at the time of this offense. Shain also has prior state convictions for attempted child molestation in the first degree and age misrepresentation with intent to solicit a minor. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen A. Brackett. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sugar Creek, Missouri Police Department. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Fallcatcher Principal Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud, Wire Fraud, in Scheme That Defrauded Investors Out of Approximately $5 Million

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Henry Ford, also known as Cleothus Lefty Jackson, 51, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky to one count of securities fraud and seven counts of wire fraud. According to court documents and statements made in court, Ford founded and operated a business named Fallcatcher, the stated goal of which was to develop and market an electronic system designed to track use of medication by addiction recovery patients to prevent relapse. In May 2018, Ford was seeking additional investors in Fallcatcher, which had been running out of funding. At this time, Ford used an acquaintance in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania who had access to a network of investors to raise funds from these investors. Ford provided his acquaintance false and misleading information about the Fallcatcher investment proposal, so that the acquaintance would agree to send the information to his investor network. Additionally, Ford made presentations in person to potential investors, who were part of this acquaintance’s network, at locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. During these presentations, Ford made false and misleading statements regarding the proposed investment opportunity and showed investors a fraudulent letter of interest, which falsely stated that a major insurance company had agreed to conduct a pilot program using Fallcatcher’s system. Ford caused his acquaintance to distribute further false and misleading statements after these presentations. As a result of these deceptive fundraising efforts, Ford caused approximately 50 investors to invest approximately $5 million in total in Fallcatcher. In 2018, the Securities & Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) began to investigate Fallcatcher. During the SEC investigation, in the fall of 2018 and the first half of 2019, Ford took various actions to conceal his fraud upon the investors in Fallcatcher. For example, Ford, through his counsel, produced to the SEC an email purporting to show that the fraudulent letter of interest described above was legitimate. In fact, the email produced to the SEC, like the letter of interest, was also shown to be false and fabricated. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2025. The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Murray and Francis A. Weber. The SEC’s New York Regional Office investigated and litigated the civil securities fraud charges which formed the basis of a portion of the criminal prosecution.


title: Georgia Man Sentenced to Serve 16+ Years in Prison for Attempting to Distribute a Large Amount of Fentanyl from Mexico

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: MACON, Ga. – A Georgia man who was collaborating with a Mexico source of supply to distribute 1.7 kilograms of fentanyl in the Macon community was sentenced to serve more than 16 years in prison for his crime. Ike Jackson, Jr., 38, of Lizella, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 200 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Marc Treadwell on May 12. Jackson, Jr. previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute on Feb. 21. There is no parole in the federal system. “Drug traffickers are gravely harming our communities by distributing dangerous substances like fentanyl,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “This case highlights our commitment to partner with law enforcement to hold those who push fentanyl accountable as we strive to eliminate these deadly drugs from our streets.” “Jackson endangered countless lives by trafficking large quantities of deadly fentanyl,” said Jae W. Chung, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “The success of this investigation is proof that those destroying our communities with fentanyl will be held accountable.” According to court documents and statements made in court, on Feb. 14, 2024, DEA agents received information from a confidential source (CS) about an individual possessing two kilograms of fentanyl living at Jackson, Jr.’s address and matching his description. The CS said they had been in contact with a source of supply from Mexico who shared this information. On Feb. 15, 2024, agents arranged a controlled purchase from the Mexican source of supply for two kilograms of fentanyl from Jackson, Jr. at his home or at a motel in Macon. Surveillance was established at both locations; Jackson, Jr. was at the motel and Bibb County Sheriff’s deputies took him into custody as he was leaving the motel. Inside his motel room, agents found a black backpack containing a handheld radio with the name “IKE” taped on it and a headphone box secured with tape. Inside the box, agents found a clear kilogram-sized bag of fentanyl and a kilogram-sized vacuum-sealed bag of fentanyl, both packages totaling 1,713.7 grams. The defendant was later recorded calling a family member from the jail pleading with them to go to the motel and get his “bag of clothes” (referring to the backpack containing the large amount of fentanyl) but was told nothing was in the room. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelby Brunette prosecuted the case for the Government.


title: Former Financier Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Family Member Out of $8.4 Million

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – A former financier previously disciplined by the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission pled guilty today in the Southern District of Florida to defrauding his elderly family member out of approximately $8.4 million. According to court documents, Brett Thomas Graham, 61, began assisting his family member after she became a widow in approximately 2017. In approximately November 2018, Graham assisted her with retaining a financial advisor headquartered in New York, New York. In approximately February 2019, the family member sold a townhouse in New York, New York, for approximately $9 million. In approximately September 2019, Graham began transferring money from her accounts into his own checking account. Graham spent the money on himself. In approximately December 2020, Graham assumed the role of the family member’s power of attorney, by which he was obligated to act in her best interest. Graham used the opportunity to continue his scheme to defraud. In one instance, in December 2020, Graham asked the financial advisor for an additional $250,000, writing that the money was needed for the family member’s “higher medical & care expenses.” After receiving the money, Graham spent it on himself. In another instance, in November 2022, Graham asked that the financial advisor make an additional $400,000 available, writing that the funds were necessary for “[a]mazing [investment] opps…” After receiving the money, Graham spent over $300,000 on his credit card, art, travel, and rent. Law enforcement was able to seize approximately $2 million worth of jewelry and art purchased with fraud proceeds. Graham’s sentencing is scheduled to take place before Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks on September 16. U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement. The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli S. Rubin is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra Demirci for the Southern District of Florida handled asset forfeiture. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 25-cr-20103. ###


title: Mexican National Indicted for Illegally Possessing a Firearm and Illegal Re-Entry into the United States

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national was indicted by a federal grand jury today for possession of a firearm while unlawfully present in the United States, and illegal re-entry into the United States after being previously deported. Israel Ramirez-Jaramillo, 33, a citizen of Mexico who was previously residing in Osage Beach, Missouri, was charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. According to the indictment, Ramirez-Jaramillo was found in possession of a SCCY, model 9mm caliber pistol on April 20, 2025. The indictment alleges that he was previously deported and removed from the United States on July 13, 2011, and never obtained the consent of the Attorney General and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cecily L. Hicks. It was investigated by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), and the Osage Beach, Missouri Police Department. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Port Arthur woman sentenced to federal prison for trafficking fentanyl

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

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Port Arthur woman has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing fentanyl for distribution in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. Kailynn Ina Hardy, 25, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on May 13, 2025. According to information presented in court, in August 2023, law enforcement began investigating Hardy for suspicion of drug trafficking in Jefferson County. During the investigation, officers were able to obtain fentanyl-laced pills which Hardy had distributed. Hardy admitted to being involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving at least 400 grams of fentanyl. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Beaumont Police Department; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; Port Neches Police Department; FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Port Arthur Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan C. Lee and Matt Quinn. ###


title: Man Who Attempted to Stab Flight Attendant and Open Airplane Door Mid-Flight Pleads Guilty

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Leominster, Mass. man pleaded guilty today in connection with an incident in which he attempted to open an emergency exit door while aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston and then attempted to stab a flight attendant in the neck with a broken metal spoon. Francisco Severo Torres, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025. Torres was charged by criminal complaint in March 2023 following his arrest at Boston Logan International Airport. He was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023 . On March 5, 2023, Torres was a passenger aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston. Approximately 45 minutes prior to landing, the flight crew received an alarm in the cockpit that a starboard side door located between the first class and coach sections of the aircraft was disarmed. Upon inspection, a flight attendant found that the door’s locking handle had been moved out of the fully locked position – approximately a quarter of the way towards the towards the unlocked position – and that the emergency slide arming lever had been moved to the “disarmed” position. The flight attendant reported this to the captain and flight crew after securing the door and emergency slide. In subsequent discussions, a fellow flight attendant reported that he had observed Torres near the door and believed Torres had tampered with the door. A flight attendant then confronted Torres about tampering with the door, to which he responded by asking if there were cameras showing that he had done so. The flight attendant then notified the captain that they believed Torres posed a threat to the aircraft and that the captain needed to land the aircraft as soon as possible. Shortly thereafter, Torres got out of his seat and approached the starboard side door where two flight attendants were standing in the aisle. One of the flight attendants saw Torres mouthing something that he could not hear. Video taken by a passenger depicts Torres yelling at points that he would “kill every man on this plane” and “I’m taking over this plane.” Torres then thrust towards one of the flight attendants in a stabbing motion with a broken metal spoon, hitting the flight attendant on the neck area three times. Passengers then tackled Torres and he was restrained with the assistance of flight crew. Torres was immediately taken into custody upon the flight’s arrival to Boston. During subsequent interviews, passengers who were aboard the flight reported that Torres asked a fellow passenger where on the safety card it showed where the door handle was located during the flight attendants’ safety briefing prior to takeoff and that Torres was seen pacing in a galley before attacking the flight attendant. The charge of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.


title: Jefferson County men sentenced to federal prison for robbing neighborhood grocery store

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – Two Beaumont men have been sentenced to federal prison for violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. Johnaton Rechard Hite, 22, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on May 13, 2025. Cody Lane Wilson, 28, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by Judge Crone on May 13 th . According to court documents, on April 11, 2024, local law enforcement officers responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Kidd Grocery Store, located at 8608 Kidd Road, in Beaumont. Upon arrival, the store clerk reported that a man entered the store armed with an AR-15 style rifle and threatened to shoot him if he did not open the safe. The subject took approximately $1,340 in cash and fled the store. Deputies reviewed surveillance footage of the robbery and observed the robber was a black male wearing a woman’s brown or black wig, a white hoodie jacket, dark pants, sunglasses, one white shoe and one black shoe. While responding to the robbery call, deputies observed a 2004 Honda Accord leaving the grocery store and conducted a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Wilson. Wilson was detained and gave consent to search his vehicle where deputies located wigs, one black shoe, and one white shoe. Wilson told deputies that he and Hite planned to rob the grocery store with Wilson as the getaway driver while Hite robbed the store. However, Wilson got scared and fled the scene leaving Hite behind. While deputies were conducting their investigation with Wilson, dispatch received another call from a concerned citizen near the grocery store reporting someone was knocking on their door. Deputies responded to the location and located Hite hiding on the porch of the caller’s residence. Next to where Hite was hiding, deputies found $1,340 in cash. This case was sentenced as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Quinn. ###


title: Parkersburg Man Sentenced for Immigration Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Frederick Sayre Anderson, 65, of Parkersburg, was sentenced today to three years of federal probation and ordered to pay $75,000 in restitution for concealing, harboring, and shielding an alien from detection. According to court documents and statements made in court, from in or about January 2011 until May 7, 2021, a foreign national of Madagascar worked and lived at Anderson’s Parkersburg business. As part of his guilty plea, Anderson admitted that the foreign national entered the United States on a 90-day fiancée K-1 nonimmigrant visa that he obtained. Anderson further admitted that he knew the visa required him to marry the foreign national within 90 days, that he never married her, and that he knew her presence in the United States became unlawful once her K-1 visa expired on April 8, 2011. Anderson also admitted that the foreign national did not receive compensation for the work she performed at his business, a laboratory that provides water quality testing kits to state and local governments across the country. The foreign national slept in an office at the business that was converted into a bedroom. The business had no shower facilities. The foreign national showered at the home of Anderson’s business partner, John Robert Coe, or cleaned herself with baby wipes when Coe’s residence was unavailable. The foreign national exhausted her life savings while working for Anderson without receiving income. Anderson encouraged the foreign national to obtain credit cards and advised her to lie about her income to obtain them. Anderson used the foreign national’s credit cards to pay business operating expenses and for travel, including a trip to the Cayman Islands that Anderson took with one of his friends. Anderson admitted that he took steps to prevent government officials from finding the foreign national. Immigration agents visited Anderson’s business at least three times in May 2021. In advance of one of those visits, Anderson had the foreign national hide on the property. During the visit, Anderson falsely told the agents that the foreign national did not live at the business, that she had left months prior, and that he did not know where she was. “In this strange and saddening case, the defendant harbored an illegal alien for a decade and took advantage of her at every opportunity,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “Faithfully executing the immigration laws of the United States is critical to public safety, national security, and the rule of law, and this office is committed to the total and efficient enforcement of those laws.” Coe, 66, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty on January 22, 2025, to continuing to employ a known illegal alien and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 7, 2025. As part of his plea agreement, Coe has paid $54,740 in restitution. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the West Virginia State Police, and the Parkersburg Police Department. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-187. ###


title: Mexican National Arrested for Unlawful Reentry

body_text: BOSTON – A Mexican national has been arrested for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation. Bernardo Lorenzo-Guatemala, 38, was arrested on May 9, 2025 and charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston he was ordered detained pending a hearing scheduled for May 15, 2025. According to the charging documents, Lorenzo-Guatemala was deported from the United States on June 4, 2019. It is alleged that sometime after his removal, Lorenzo-Guatemala unlawfully reentered the United States. Immigration and Customs Enforcement became aware of Lorenzo-Guatemala’s unlawful presence in the United States following his arrest on July 2, 2024 for operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license. Lorenzo-Guatemala has multiple prior felony convictions including a February 2016 conviction for Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Liquor; a July 2015 conviction for Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle; and a June 2014 conviction for Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Liquor. The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Sullivan the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Delaware Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking and Forced Labor

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: A federal jury in the District of Delaware convicted Clifton H. Gibbs, 68, of Sussex County today on multiple counts of sex trafficking and forced labor. Specifically, the jury convicted Gibbs of seven counts of sex trafficking seven adult victims, five counts of forced labor, and one count of interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution. According to the evidence at trial, Gibbs exploited the victims’ heroin addiction and fears of withdrawal sickness to compel the victims to engage in commercial sex, panhandle, perform demanding manual labor on his property, and to steal goods for him to resell. Gibbs’ co-defendant, Brooke Waters, 46, previously pled guilty to sex trafficking, forced labor, and interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution charges. “Today’s conviction vindicates the rights of multiple victims who the defendant trafficked over several years within the District of Delaware,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant preyed on individuals suffering from opiate addiction and cruelly exploited them for his own profit. The Justice Department is committed to aggressively fighting human trafficking and seeking justice for its victims.” “I hope that today’s verdict brings some measure of closure for the victims in this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson for the District of Delaware. “I commend the victims’ bravery and willingness to testify to bring this defendant to justice. Our communities are much safer, and this verdict should serve as a warning to other individuals who exploit victims for personal gain.” “The conviction of Clifton H. Gibbs highlights the strong partnership between Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of Justice in the fight against human trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Edward V. Owens of HSI Philadelphia. “Gibbs preyed on vulnerable individuals, feeding their addiction for profit through forced labor and commercial sex. HSI remains committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle trafficking networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and through our victim centered approach, support victims as they reclaim their lives.” “The crimes uncovered in this case are among the most egregious that Homeland Security Investigations encounters,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of HSI Maryland. “Exploiting vulnerable individuals through coercion, abuse, and manipulation is nothing short of reprehensible. This kind of predatory behavior destroys lives and undermines the fundamental values of human dignity and freedom. HSI remains unwavering in its mission to dismantle criminal networks, bring perpetrators to justice, and protect the safety and well-being of our communities, especially those who are unable to protect themselves.” The evidence presented at the seven-day trial demonstrated that Gibbs sought out individuals, often young women, who were addicted to heroin, and without any money or a stable place to live, promising to take care of them by giving them housing, food, clothing, and easy access to drugs. He then provided many of them with heroin for free to ease their withdrawal sickness. He allowed them to live in trailers or campers on his two rural properties in Sussex County. He then instructed the women to engage in commercial sex, instructing his co-defendant to take photos of them and post online advertisements for them to do “dates” with commercial sex buyers. Gibbs kept all the proceeds from the commercial sex acts and provided the women with small amounts of heroin and cocaine to avoid withdrawal sickness. Gibbs positioned himself to control the victims’ access to heroin and thereby controlled the onset of withdrawal sickness. Exploiting the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness, Gibbs profited from the commercial sex acts in which he compelled the women to engage. Gibbs and his co-defendant also recruited heroin-addicted individuals to “boost” or steal goods for him to re-sell, panhandle, and do manual labor on his properties. In the same way he did with the young women he compelled to engage in commercial sex, Gibbs exploited the victims’ fear of withdrawal sickness to coerce this labor for his profit. Gibbs also used physical force with some of his victims by hitting, kicking, or threatening to shoot those who disobeyed his orders or talked back. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. Gibbs faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Briana Knox for the District of Delaware and Trial Attorneys Christina Randall-James and Leah Branch of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted the case. Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org . Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking .


title: DC U.S. Attorney Ed Martin’s Prepared Remarks at a May 13 Press Conference

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: [WASHINGTON] U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., held a May 13 press conference at the Patrick Henry Building here to discuss his tenure as the District of Columbia’s top federal and local prosecutor, the quality-of-life challenges facing the district under its current Home Rule ordinance and the recent immigration actions taken. These are his remarks as prepared: When President Donald J. Trump asked me to be his U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, I immediately accepted because I knew it was a tip of the spear assignment—and I knew if I did the job the way President Trump wanted done, it would get plenty of attention—and so has. I am proud of what we have done to Make DC Safe Again. The president has given me a new assignment as the Director of the Weaponization Working Group and the DOJ Pardon Attorney. I loved my job as D.C.’s U.S. Attorney, but I am really going to love how judge Jeanine Pirro takes up mission with her passion and intelligence and real-world experience as a prosecutor and judge. She really is amazing. I have already been working with her. My motivation to speak to you today is twofold: First, I wish to highlight our success in fighting illegal immigration. Second, I wish to express my concern that too many bad guys are being let go by our courts – specifically, I note two Fentanyl dealers found in possession of illegal machines guns. We have recently completely an illegal immigration initiative. I salute the brave men and women of law enforcement who are making D.C. safer by capturing illegal aliens – including 189 in the last week alone. I want to commend Jonathan Hornok, the head of my criminal section, and our national and local law enforcement partners for the successful execution of operation restore justice here in the district. However, I want to warn the district residents that the D.C. local leadership has made D.C. a Sanctuary City. This makes D.C. more dangerous not safer. It needs to change and now. My second point deals with the deteriorating role of our justice system – specifically the courts – in putting bad guys away. Recently, two Fentanyl dealers found in possession of multiple guns were not detained in court. This soft on crime decision making is dangerous. It needs to change. The president was gracious recently to remind people we reduced crime 25 percent in the president’s first 100 Days—but it was not easy. it took attention and resources— law enforcement and our prosecutors had to focus on getting bad actors off the streets. We need help with this. Congress gave the District of Columbia Home Rule, but with that comes the responsibility to the city’s residents, businesses and workers—and a responsibility to the rest of the country to cherish our nation’s capital. When the district’s leadership exploited home rule to make Washington a Sanctuary City—they acted as if Washington is just another city—it is not. When our justice system thinks justice is a revolving door when bad actors like the ones with guns and Fentanyl get back on the streets, we have a problem. As we approach the president’s America250 celebration, there needs to be a robust discussion about D.C.’s Sanctuary City status and its justice system —and if that means Home Rule goes away, so be it. With that, I am ready to take your questions.


title: Idaho Man Indicted after Allegedly Assaulting U.S. Park Rangers in Southern Utah

body_text: ST. GEORGE, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging an Idaho man after he allegedly assaulted federal officers with his vehicle at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Southern Utah. Gregory Aaron Farley, 51, of Hazelton, Idaho, was charged by complaint on May 3, 2025. According to court documents, on May 3, 2025, two U.S. Park Rangers working at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area responded to a dispatch call that reported an erratic driver in a white pick-up truck near Lake Powell. At 7:47 p.m., the rangers conducted a traffic stop on Highway 89 on a pick-up truck matching the vehicle description. Farley was the driver and while one of the rangers was speaking to him, Farley fled the scene at a high rate of speed, nearly hitting one of the rangers. The rangers returned to their patrol vehicle and pursued Farley. During the pursuit, Farley turned around and collided into the driver’s side of the rangers’ vehicle. As a result, the rangers were pushed into the shoulder of the road, the airbags deployed, and the driver’s side door was rendered inoperable. After Farley hit the rangers’ truck, he reversed his truck and was still facing the rangers’ truck. In response, both rangers fired their weapons at Farley. Additional officers arrived on the scene, Farley exited his truck, and received medical aid. He was then taken into custody. Farley is charged with assault on an employee of the United States with a Dangerous Weapon. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for May 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate judge in Room 2B of the courthouse located at 206 West Tabernacle Street, St. George, Utah 84470. Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen P. Dent and Joseph M. Hood of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law . Attachments: gregory_aaron_farley.complaint.pdf gregory_a._farley_indictment.pdf


title: Marshall Man Charged with Drug and Gun Offenses

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Marshall, Mo., man was indicted today with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms after a prior felony conviction. James Joseph Elsea, 62, was previously charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in a criminal complaint filed in Jefferson City, Mo., on May 2, 2025. According to an affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Pettis County officers served a “no knock” state search warrant at Elsea’s residence on May 2, 2025. An officer was attempting to cut through a security bar on the door when four rounds were fired at the officers from within the residence. Pettis County communications subsequently received a 911 call from Elsea, who stated that he had just shot someone. Two Pettis County deputies were injured by shots fired during the search warrant. According to the affidavit, ATF agents responded to the scene and seized a Taurus model PT111 G2A (G2C), 9mm semi-automatic handgun, which was loaded with one round in the chamber and five rounds in the magazine. Agents also seized a Mossberg, model MC1SC, 9mm semi-automatic handgun. Elsea is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Project Safe Neighborhoods This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Florida Woman Pleads Guilty to Possession of Stolen Money

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Semiha Nilgun Gencsoy, 71, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, pleaded guilty today to possession of stolen money. Gencsoy admitted that she fraudulently received $328,478.38 in West Virginia public employee pension benefits. According to court documents and statements made in court, Gencsoy’s father was a professor of mechanical engineering at West Virginia University. When he retired in June 1985, he qualified for and began receiving West Virginia public employee pension benefits. Gencsoy’s father died in June 2007, and her mother began receiving survivor benefits from the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board (WVCPRB) as his widow. The monthly payments were directly deposited into a join bank account that Gencsoy shared with her mother. Gencsoy’s mother died in April 2008, and Gencsoy was appointed to administer her estate. As part of her guilty plea, Gencsoy admitted that she knew her father’s benefits expired upon the death of her mother, and that she had a duty to notify the WVCPRB of her mother’s death and to close their joint banking account. Gencsoy further admitted that she did neither. From approximately May 2008 through June 2023, the joint bank account received more than 180 monthly survivor’s benefit pension payments totaling $328,478.38 through direct deposit. Gencsoy admitted that she routinely transferred the survivor benefit pension payments to a bank account she controlled solely after each direct deposit and used the money to pay for her personal expenses. Gencsoy is scheduled to be sentenced on August 28, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Gencsoy also owes $328,478.38 in restitution. Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board (WVCPRB) and the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-75. ###


title: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-led Nationwide Crackdown, including 5 in the District Of New Jersey

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, NJ – On May 7, 2025, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country. “The success of Operation Restore Justice shows the Department of Justice’s unwavering dedication to finding and prosecuting child predators. I will apply the full power of my office to bring these criminals to justice and ensure the safety of every child. Through coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, we deploy all resources to pursue justice and take decisive action against anyone who exploits the most vulnerable members of our community.” - U.S. Attorney Alina Habba “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.” “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.” “This week was a snapshot of the never-ending work our agents and TFOs do day in and day out to apprehend and hold accountable the vilest of criminals,” says Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly. “Though this marks the conclusion of Child Abuse Awareness Month, our mission is omnipresent: to protect vulnerable children from these predators by bringing them to justice. Let this be a continued reminder to guardians of children everywhere, to stay present and vigilant in your young one’s lives. FBI Newark would like to thank the tireless work of our partner agencies; together we will continue to weed these monsters out of society.” This initiative was a joint effort with federal, state and local partners to coincide with the end of Child Abuse Prevention Month between and highlight the FBI’s ongoing efforts to confront these crimes. Investigating child sex abuse is an ongoing, high-priority mission of the FBI. Agents and task force officers made the following five arrests in New Jersey from April 28 and May 2, 2025: David Tuytjens, age 69, was arrested for possession of child pornography. Natasha Rivas, age 23, was arrested for distribution of child pornography. Dwayne Smalls Jr., age 24, was arrested for distribution of child pornography. Elliott Souder, age 52, was charged with receipt and possession of child pornography. Keshawn Harley, age 38, was charged with possession and production of child pornography, and sex trafficking of a minor. Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. Other online resources: Electronic Press Kit Violent Crimes Against Children How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Final defendant in local drug conspiracy sentenced to 10 years for trafficking meth to Anchorage

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Ohio man was sentenced May 8, 2025, to 10 years in prison for trafficking multiple pounds of meth to Anchorage. According to court documents, Christian Landry, 32, of Shaker Heights, Ohio, repeatedly traveled to Alaska from out-of-state to distribute meth in 2022 and 2023. The investigation started in late 2022, when an undercover officer began purchasing methamphetamine from Elzie Isley, 47, of Anchorage. Isley was a local drug dealer. Law enforcement officers identified Landry as one of Isley’s drug sources, allegedly responsible for trafficking over 20 pounds of meth from the Lower 48 to Alaska to sell. On Feb. 9, 2023, law enforcement served a search warrant on the residence where Landry was staying with another co-defendant and recovered a loaded pistol, more than $20,000 in cash and several pounds of meth. Throughout the course of the investigation, officers seized and forfeited over $34,000 and 23 firearms connected to the drug trafficking conspiracy. “This case is yet another example of a drug trafficking organization flooding Anchorage with dangerous narcotics from the Lower 48,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “My office will work with our law enforcement partners across the state to ensure that anyone who threatens the safety of our communities with these poisonous substances will serve years, and for this man, a decade, in prison." “Drugs and guns are always a losing combination,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “This and the other lengthy sentences are commensurate to the damage they caused the community. Mr. Landry chose to endanger Alaskans, and now he faces the consequences.” Co-conspirators in this case are as follows: Isley pleaded guilty on Dec. 14, 2023, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on April 25, 2024; Antonio Wallace, 32, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Oct. 18, 2023, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on Feb. 5, 2024; Ricky Lokeni, 38, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Jan. 9, 2024, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on April 24, 2024; Ryann Hobert, 27, of Anchorage, pleaded guilty on Nov. 8, 2023, and was sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment on March 27, 2024; and Jaron Steele, 34, of Paramount, California, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to time served (235 days’ imprisonment) on May 7, 2024. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Beausang prosecuted the case. ###


title: Nevada Man Sentenced To Prison For Threatening United States Senators

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who pleaded guilty to threatening a United States Senator from Nevada and threatening family members of two United States Senators was sentenced today to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents, from October 11 to 25, 2023, John Anthony Miller left numerous threatening voicemails at the offices of two United States Senators. Miller threatened to assault and murder a United States Senator with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the United States Senator while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the United States Senator on account of the performance of official duties. On October 24 and October 25, Miller threatened to assault and murder a member of the immediate family of two United States Senators, with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the United States Senators while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the United States Senators on account of the performance of official duties. “The threats against these U.S. Senators and their families were vile, dehumanizing, and shameful,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the National Security Division. “Today’s sentence reflects the Department’s firm resolve to holding accountable those who seek to intimidate and harm our public officials. Such threats of violence have no place in our country.” “With today’s sentencing, the defendant will pay the price for making threats of violence,” said Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “It is unacceptable to threaten public officials or anyone else, and the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable anyone who engages in such illegal activity.” “Violent threats against any individual are unacceptable, but when they are directed at elected officials and their family members, threats have the potential to impact democracy itself by silencing those chosen to represent the American People,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The sentencing of John Anthony Miller exemplifies the FBI's commitment to hold accountable those who seek to illegally threaten or intimidate others.” Miller pleaded guilty to one-count of threatening a federal official and two-counts of influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official by threatening a family member. United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey presided over the sentencing hearing. This case was investigated by the FBI Las Vegas Division with valuable assistance provided by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Capitol Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Jacob Operskalski and Daniel R. Schiess prosecuted the case. To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov . If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately. ###


title: Passaic County Man Charged with Sex Trafficking of a Minor, and  Production and Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County, New Jersey man has been charged for child sex trafficking and child pornography offenses, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced. Keshawn Harley, 38, of Paterson, New Jersey is charged by complaint with one count of sex trafficking of a minor, one count of production of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. Harley appeared on May 6, 2025, before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark federal court and was detained. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Beginning in or around May 2022, minor victims began attending “after-hours” parties hosted by Harley at residences in Paterson, New Jersey, at which the victims engaged in commercial sex acts. Harley’s cell phone contained a picture of a news article regarding these victims being missing minors and numerous communications indicating that Harley was arranging for one of the minor victims to engage in commercial sex work. Harley’s cell phone also contained videos of that minor victim engaging in sex acts with Harley. The charge of sex trafficking of a minor carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the FBI Newark’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly with the investigation leading to the charges. She also thanked IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan, and the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance. This investigation was conducted as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey’s Human Trafficking Task Force, which was formed in 2025. The Task Force brings together federal and state agencies to collaborate and dedicate resources to combat human trafficking and prosecute human trafficking offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The Human Trafficking Task Force is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service, and the New Jersey Office of Attorney General. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Kober of the Criminal Division in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ### Defense counsel: Adalgiza Nunez, Esq. harley.complaint.pdf


title: Asylum grantee sent to prison for role in fentanyl conspiracy

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 24-year-old Mexican national has been sentenced for his role in a conspiracy to distribute approximately 987 grams of fentanyl powder and 4,568 fentanyl pills, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Azael Barrientos-Regalado pleaded guilty Sept. 13, 2024. U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Barrientos-Regalado to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that it was a serious crime. Barrientos was granted political asylum in 2020 based on credible fear of the Mexican cartels. The investigation revealed Barrientos-Regalado helped facilitate the transportation and delivery of 1.4379 kilograms of fentanyl from the Rio Grande Valley to the Houston area for further redistribution throughout the United States. He coordinated the transportation by hiring drivers to move the drugs though the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoints. Authorities later seized 987 grams of fentanyl powder and 4,568 pills weighing 450.9 grams, which also contained fentanyl. Barrientos-Regalado will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. The Drug Enforcement Administration and BP conducted the joint investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Liesel Roscher and Joseph Griffith prosecuted the case.


title: Carver Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for Oxycodone Conspiracy

body_text: BOSTON – A Carver man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his involvement in an oxycodone conspiracy. Michael Atwood, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 35 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In November 2024, Atwood pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone pills. Campbell was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023 along with five co-conspirators. Between approximately November 2023 and June 2023, Atwood obtained oxycodone pills from co-defendant John Campbell that he redistributed to others. The amount of oxycodone pills that the defendant obtained from Campbell ranged from hundreds to more than a thousand at a time. On July 12, 2023, during a search of Atwood’s residence approximately $63,000 in cash was seized. In January 2025 , Campbell was sentenced to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division, made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office; and the Barnstable, Dennis, Bourne, Mashpee, Yarmouth, Sandwich and Falmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Mulcahy, and Samuel R. Feldman of the Criminal Division and Alexandra Amrhein of the Asset Forfeiture Unit prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Defendants Charged for Running Over $3.1 Million Check Fraud Scheme Targeting U.S. Treasury, Others

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – An indictment was unsealed in the District of Utah, charging Pitshou Yunga Kafuku, 42, Beni Musogo Kahwara, 25, and Hugues Simo-Fotue, 42, with counts of bank fraud conspiracy, bank fraud, theft of government funds, passing fraudulent U.S. Treasury checks, possession of stolen mail, and money laundering. Kafuku and Kahwara made their initial appearances on April 22, 2025, and were ordered detained pending trial by Chief Magistrate Judge Dustin B. Pead. Simo-Fotue made his initial appearance May 12, 2025 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. As alleged in the indictment, the defendants conspired together and with others to defraud U.S. banks by depositing counterfeit, stolen, and otherwise fraudulently obtained checks, including U.S. Treasury checks. Court documents further allege that the defendants would quickly transfer any successful deposits to different accounts or overseas, including by sending thousands of dollars to business entities in China and Singapore. As alleged, between January 2022 and February 2025, these efforts yielded over $3.1 million in fraud proceeds. Documents filed with the court also state that some of the checks were stolen from intercepted letters and items of mail sent from the United States to business entities and individuals in Africa. The case is being investigated jointly by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Valuable assistance was provided by the Utah Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorney Tanner Zumwalt of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Richmond man sentenced to four years in prison after being found with over 20 kilograms of cocaine

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to court documents, on Sept. 16, 2024, law enforcement conducting mobile traffic enforcement in Henrico County observed Sterling Hill Jr., 37, making an improper lane change. Officers then observed Hill failing to stop at a stop sign, and a traffic stop was initiated. A K9 narcotics officer and his partner were on scene, and the canine alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, officers located a grocery bag in the rear floorboard of the vehicle that contained multiple kilograms of powder cocaine. Officers located more cocaine in a toolbox on the rear passenger seat. In total, Hill possessed over 20 kilograms of cocaine. Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; and Colette Wallace McEachin, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Richmond, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Groover, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman prosecuted the case. The Henrico Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-163.


title: Oklahoma Man Sentenced To 30 Years In Prison For Sexually Exploiting Children

component: Criminal Division

body_text: WASHINGTON - An Oklahoma man was sentenced yesterday to 30 years in prison for producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, Landon Joe Black, 25, of Stilwell, was sentenced for producing CSAM featuring two child victims that he shared on the “dark web.” Black would pose as a young girl on the internet to establish relationships with children and would then direct them to create CSAM. He would then share images of his victims along with their ages, as well as other CSAM images, on the dark web. He would refer to some of his victims as “baits.” Documents found on Black’s computers included a draft how-to guide for other offenders. Black also collected detailed information about one child, including information about their family, school, and daily movements. The pictures Black produced and shared continue to circulate, causing significant ongoing harm to his victims. Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office made the announcement. The FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Gwendelynn Bills of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Pippin for the Eastern District of Oklahoma prosecuted the case, with substantial assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Marek. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes National Police Week, Sacrifice and Dedication of Fallen Officers

component: Department of Justice

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In observance of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and pays tribute to the officers who have fallen in the line of duty. This year, National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 11, through Saturday, May 17, 2025. “We honor the dedicated and brave law enforcement officers across the country and here in the Central District of Illinois, said Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore. “Every day, these officers go to work to make our communities safer. Our office is incredibly fortunate to work with these public servants and has seen firsthand the good that they do for those in our own district. Their important work, however, all too often places them in danger, and, tragically, officers across the nation and in our district have lost their lives in the line of duty. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and colleagues.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The Central District of Illinois grieves the officers who served and were killed in the line of duty in 2024 and this year. In this district, Illinois State Police Trooper Corey S. Thompson tragically lost his life in the line of duty in a traffic accident in Champaign County, Illinois, on October 18, 2024. One hundred and forty-eight federal, state, county, municipal, military, tribal, and campus officers died in the line of duty in 2024, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund . The names of more than 345 officers killed in the line of duty who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial will be read on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the 37 th Annual Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C. To view a livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2025/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org . ### Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.


title: Illegal alien admits to role in nationwide scheme to sell fake Texas paper vehicle tags

body_text: HOUSTON – The final man charged in a large-scale conspiracy to commit wire fraud in relation to the sale of hundreds of thousands of fraudulent Texas paper license plates has pleaded guilty, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Emmanuel Padilla Reyes, 35, was a fugitive until authorities apprehended him in September 2024. Reyes and co-conspirators used the internet, email and iMessage to sell fraudulent state-issued buyer tags and deliver them to buyers nationwide. As part of his plea, Reyes admitted to using at least two aliases, including another person’s name and Social Security number, to get used car dealer licenses. He used them in a scheme to fraudulently issue and sell at least 550,000 Texas temporary buyer tags without selling any vehicles. The illegal tags pose a danger to the public and law enforcement as buyers use them to avoid registration, safety inspections and liability insurance. They can also be used to conceal identities from law enforcement. The investigation revealed fake vehicle tags gave criminals the means to create ghost cars that were invisible to law enforcement and used to commit crimes ranging from driving with no insurance to committing robberies and drive-by shootings. In Texas, used car dealers must obtain an independent General Distinguishing Number (GDN) license via the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles’ online eLicensing portal to legally buy, sell or exchange vehicles. Licensed dealers can access the secure eTag portal to create temporary buyer tags and may add other users to their account. At the time of the original indictment in the case, there were no restrictions on the data entered into the portal. Reyes provided false information, such as fake identities, drivers licenses, lease agreements and business signs, in an online application portal to obtain GDN licenses for two fictitious dealerships “King’s Ranch Autoland” and “Texas Motor Company.” Reyes and his co-conspirators then advertised Texas buyer tags for sale on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks will impose sentencing July 23. At that time, Reyes faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Co-defendants Leidy Areli Hernandez Lopez, 44, Octavian Ocasio, 53, and Daniel Christine-Tani, 36, were also charged and convicted in the scheme and were sentenced to prison. Lopez, also in the United States illegally, failed to report to prison. A federal grand jury returned an indictment Feb. 20 charging her with failure to surrender. Lopez is considered a fugitive, and a warrant remains outstanding for her arrest. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000. The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from Travis County Constable Office - Precinct 3, Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and New York Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Belinda Beek and Adam Goldman are prosecuting the case.


title: Former Owner of District Marijuana Dispensary Pleads Guilty to Over $1.2 Million in Federal Tax Evasion

body_text: WASHINGTON – Jennifer Brunenkant, 68, the founder and former owner of Herbal Alternatives II, LLC, a marijuana dispensary licensed in the District of Columbia, pleaded guilty today in connection with her years-long failure to pay federal income and employment taxes associated with her business. The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s Washington D.C. Office. Brunenkant, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. AliKhan to attempting to evade or defeat tax. Judge AliKhan will determine any sentence for Brunenkant after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Brunenkant is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20, 2025. In pleading guilty, Brunenkant admitted that, from tax years 2017 to 2021, she failed to pay federal income and employment taxes that were due to the IRS in connection with substantial income she received from, and employees she had with, Herbal Alternatives II. Brunenkant further attempted to evade paying those taxes by falsely attesting on her annual Unincorporated Business Franchise Tax Forms, filed in the District of Columbia, that she had filed her federal income tax returns – when in fact she had not. Brunenkant continued trying to avoid detection when she repeatedly told law enforcement during a July 2023 interview that she had filed her returns. At Brunenkant’s sentencing hearing the government will seek restitution of more than $1.2 million, money due for Brunenkant’s unpaid federal income and employment taxes. This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Kelly. 25cr056


title: Toppenish Man Pleads Guilty to Assault and Firearm Charges  for Shooting at Law Enforcement

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Leland James Vijarro, age 26, of Toppenish, Washington, pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington to assault and firearm charges for shooting at federal officers. Based on court documents and information presented at the change-of-plea hearing, at around 9 p.m. on February 10, 2024, law enforcement in Toppenish, Washington, responded to reports that two vehicles were chasing one another. According to these reports, the vehicles’ occupants were firing gunshots at one another When officers responded to the scene and stopped one of the vehicles involved, Vijarro, who was a passenger in the vehicle, got out and ran from the scene, armed with a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition. Vijarro then fled into a nearby home in attempt to hide from law enforcement. At this point, law enforcement set up a permitter around the home where Vijarro was apparently hiding. Just before 11p.m., Vijarro walked into the backyard of the home and fired three shots at law enforcement. Vijarro then stood on top a pallet in the backyard, took up a shooting stance while aiming at law enforcement, and fired two more shots. Two Yakima County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were hit by bullets fired by Vijarro. Vijarro eventually surrendered to law enforcement after breaking into a home next door and barricading himself inside. These events, including the shots fired at law enforcement, occurred on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation. Mr. Vijarro is not an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation. At the change-of-plea hearing, Vijarro admitted that he intentionally fired at law enforcement officers, who had set up a perimeter around the home he had barricaded himself in. “Firing at law enforcement officers is an intolerable act of violence that puts lives at risk and undermines public safety,” stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. Mr. Vijarro’s reckless and dangerous actions could have resulted in tragedy. I commend the officers involved for their professionalism and restraint. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to hold violent offenders accountable and protect our communities.” “During Police Week, we are especially reminded of how law enforcement place themselves daily in harm’s way to protect us. FBI Seattle and our partners are committed to combatting violent crime to keep our communities safe, including on tribal lands,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “From the vehicle chase to the hiding in houses, so many parts of this scenario were dangerous and could have resulted in far worse results than the damaged sheriff’s office vehicles. We are thankful no one was injured by Mr. Vijarro’s actions.” United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Vijarro’s plea and set sentencing for August 11, 2025. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse. 1:24-cr-02055-MKD


title: Fatal crash on Blackfeet Indian Reservation sends Browning man to prison

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Browning man who admitted to driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol when he crashed into another vehicle killing the driver was sentenced today to 16 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. Chasen James Kipp, 25, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to involuntary manslaughter. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that on October 21, 2023, Kipp was driving his 2022 Dodge Charger near the Cut Bank airport when he crossed the center lane of traffic, collided with a sedan, and killed the driver, Jane Doe. When law enforcement officers arrived at the scene, they saw Kipp trying to flee. An officer described Kipp staggering and could smell alcohol on him. The officers detained Kipp, who said he had consumed two mixed drinks at the Pioneer Bar in Cut Bank and was returning to his home in Birch Creek. Kipp was arrested and consented to a blood draw, where he told the medical provider he was too drunk to remember the crash and he “came to” when the airbags deployed. He estimated he was driving 60 mph at the time of the crash. Paramedics pronounced Jane Doe dead at the scene. She died from blunt force trauma sustained from the crash. The Montana Highway Patrol conducted the crash investigation and determined Kipp was going 82 mph in a 65-mph zone when he crossed the center line and struck Doe’s vehicle. The toxicology report showed his blood alcohol content was .114 and he had cocaine in his system. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, the Cut Bank Police Department, the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montana Highway Patrol. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . XXX


title: Wolf Point man pleads guilty to multiple assault charges on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation

body_text: GREAT FALLS - A Wolf Point man accused of assaulting two individuals on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. The defendant, Philip Ray Azure, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon related to two separate incidents. Azure faces a term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for September 24, 2025. Azure was detained pending further proceedings. The first incident occurred on March 16, 2023, when Azure went to John Doe’s residence in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Azure and John Doe were friends and were drinking alcohol together. Azure became intoxicated and was asked to leave for being too loud. A family member of Doe’s, who also lives in the home, started to walk Azure out. As he was leaving, he struck the family member. John Doe confronted Azure about hitting his family member. Azure pulled out a knife and stabbed Doe in the chest and then turned and walked away without saying anything. Doe was rushed to the hospital for treatment of his serious injuries. The stab wound pierced his lung, causing a partial collapse that caused blood, gas, and air to build in the space between his lungs and rib cage. Doe was airlifted to Billings for surgery. After surgery to repair his lung, Doe spent a week in the hospital before being discharged. The second incident happened on January 27, 2024. Azure and several friends, including two co-defendants, and the victim, John Doe 2, were in a yard in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, playing a game of “slap-boxing.” The fighting escalated and eventually the group separated. Azure and his co-defendants returned home, and John Doe 2 arrived a short time later asking for his phone. Azure and his co-defendants exited the home and confronted Doe 2 in the driveway. Several people witnessed the assault. One witness described seeing Azure and his co-defendants hitting John Doe 2 and saw someone using a bat and someone else using a hammer. A second witness saw Azure and his two co-defendants approach Doe 2 while he backed away and said all three “jumped” Doe 2. That witness saw Azure use a bat during the assault. Doe 2 died at the scene before law enforcement arrived. According to an autopsy, he died from blunt and sharp force injuries to the head and chest, including a stab wound to the chest that perforated Doe 2’s sternum, heart, and esophagus. Azure was arrested the day after the second assault. He initially claimed he wasn’t there when Doe 2 was assaulted. He later admitted he was involved but didn’t remember the details because he was intoxicated. He claimed Doe 2 had a big knife and he ultimately hit Doe 2 with a bat to stop him from using the knife. None of the other witnesses reported seeing Doe 2 with a knife. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and Wolf Point Police Department conducted the investigation. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn . XXX


title: Mexican fishermen indicted for illegal red snapper harvesting in U.S. waters

body_text: BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A Brownsville grand jury has indicted a crew of four men from Matamoros, Mexico, for unlawfully transporting fish taken from the Gulf of America, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Previously arrested upon the filing of a criminal complaint, Miguel Angel Ramirez-Vidal, 32, Jesus David Luna-Marquez, 20, Jesus Roberto Morales-Amador, 27, and Jose Daniel Santiago-Mendoza, 22, are expected appear for their arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Betancourt May 22 at 1:45 p.m. On April 17, the crew of four allegedly attempted to transport and export roughly 315 kilograms of red snapper illegally taken from U.S. waters. The charges allege they intended to sell the fish in Mexico. The criminal complaint alleges authorities observed the crew’s panga-style fishing vessel in the Gulf of America, seven miles north of the U.S.-Mexico maritime boundary line and 21 miles east of South Padre Island (SPI). The crew was allegedly fishing with approximately four kilometers of heavy nylon fishing line and 1,200 fishing hooks. The complaint further alleges they were in an unmarked and unregistered vessel which was not flying the flag of any nation and operating without running lights. The charges allege none of the crew had a permit to fish in U.S. waters nor had a quota for red snapper in violation of federal law. If convicted, they face up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations, Coast Guard Investigative Services, Coast Guard Station SPI, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Texas Parks and Wildlife and South Padre Island Police Department conducted the joint investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William Hagen is prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Kodiak fisherman sentenced to prison for directing illegal transport of crab from Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Kodiak fisherman was sentenced today to one year in prison and will serve two years on supervised release for leading a plan to illegally transport crab from Alaska to Washington on two crab catcher vessels, in violation of the Lacey Act. In February and March 2024, Corey Potter, 64, owned and operated two crab catcher vessels and harvested Tanner and golden king crab in the waters of Southeast Alaska on those vessels. The vessels were captained and operated by co-defendants, Kyle Potter, 30, and Justin Welch, 34. Corey Potter directed Kyle Potter and Welch to transport their harvest of live crab to Seattle, where they intended to sell it for a higher price than they would receive in Alaska. Before leaving Alaska, neither vessel landed their harvest at a port nor reported the harvest on a fish ticket, which all three defendants knew was a requirement under state law. At the time, one vessel had over 4,200 pounds of live Tanner crab aboard, while the other had over 2,900 pounds of live golden king crab aboard. A portion of the Tanner crab was infected with Bitter Crab Syndrome (BCS), a parasitic disease that is fatal to crustaceans. Several crab fishermen reached out to Corey and Kyle Potter expressing concern for the impact transporting crab out of state could have on the industry because of BCS. Despite the concerns, Corey Potter moved forward with his plan to transport the catch knowing some of the crabs were infected with BCS. Following the multi-day trip from Alaska, roughly 42% of the king crab died and was unmarketable. Since the other vessel had BCS contaminated crabs, the entire catch of Tanner crab was transferred to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to dispose of in a landfill. In March 2024, law enforcement served a search warrant on Welch and one of the fishing vessels. Welch informed Corey and Kyle Potter of the search and both defendants deleted text messages detailing the plans to sell the crab for better prices and the risk of BCS before their phones were seized by law enforcement. On Feb. 7, 2025, Corey Potter pleaded guilty to two counts of violating the Lacey Act, which are felony convictions. During sentencing, the Court also ordered Corey Potter to a worldwide commercial fishing ban throughout the duration of his supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the Court emphasized the defendant’s leadership role in the offense and the harm he caused by failing to make accurate and timely reports to regulators. “Crabbing is a vital component of Alaska’s fishing industry. Mr. Potter blatantly disregarded state and federal fishing laws and ignored the concerns of other fisherman when he directed his two captains to execute the illegal transport, resulting in the reckless loss of over 5,000 pounds of crab,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “The laws protecting this industry help ensure Alaska’s fisheries are sustainable for years to come. My office will continue to work with state and federal law enforcement partners to prosecute federal criminal violations that jeopardize Alaska’s fisheries.” "Alaska’s fisheries are a global model of sustainable, data-driven management, made possible by the dedication of honest fishermen, strong regulatory oversight, and a commitment to upholding fairness across the industry,” said Benjamin Cheeseman, Assistant Director, NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement, North Pacific Division. “This sentencing serves as a clear reminder that there are serious consequences for those who break the rules. We remain committed to holding violators accountable and safeguarding Alaska’s fisheries for future generations.” The co-defendants in this case received the following sentences: Kyle Potter pleaded guilty and was sentenced on July 10, 2024, to five years’ probation, which includes a five-year worldwide commercial fishing ban during the term of supervised release, and a $20,000 fine. Welch pleaded guilty and was sentenced on June 25, 2024, to three years’ probation and a $10,000 fine. NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey prosecuted the case. ###


title: Oneida County Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Receive and Distribute Child Pornography and Distribution, Receipt, and Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – John Kelly, age 82, of Rome, New York, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to receive and distribute child pornography and to distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). As part of his guilty plea, Kelly admitted that in August of 2022, he began conspiring with his co-defendant, Richard Hockersmith, to exchange child pornography. Kelly further admitted that he and his co-defendant exchanged child pornography by mailing an SD card containing the child pornography back and forth. Kelly also admitted that during a search of his residence on February 23, 2024, he still possessed images and videos of child pornography on the same laptop computer he had used to access the SD card he had exchanged with his co-defendant. Hockersmith previously pled guilty on December 10, 2024, to possessing and conspiring to receive and distribute child pornography. U.S. Attorney Sarcone stated, “We will find and prosecute those who distribute child pornography in the Northern District of New York, whether by mail, computer or otherwise. Justice has been served, but our work continues. Every child deserves to grow up safe, and we will never stop fighting for their protections. This predator will never harm another child again. Let this be a message: we will find you, we will expose you, and we will bring you to justice – no mercy, no hiding, no exceptions.” At sentencing, which is currently scheduled for September 10, 2025, in Albany, New York before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Kelly faces a term of imprisonment of at least 5 years and up to 20 years, a supervised release term of between 5 years and life, and a maximum fine of $250,000. Kelly will also be required to pay restitution to the victims of his offenses and will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. The case is being investigated by HSI with assistance from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .