title: Florida Attorney Sentenced to 102 Months for an Attempted Bombing Near the Chinese Embassy in Washington D.C.

body_text: WASHINGTON – Christopher Rodriguez, 45, of Panama City, Fla., was sentenced today to 102 months in federal prison for the September 2023 attempted bombing near the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Washington, D.C., and for the November 2022 bombing of a satirical sculpture depicting communist leaders Vladimir Lenin and Mao Zedong in San Antonio, Texas. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Washington Field Division. Rodriguez, a licensed Florida attorney and a U.S. Army veteran, pleaded guilty August 2, 2024, to damaging property occupied by a foreign government, explosive materials—malicious damage to federal property, and receipt or possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device). In addition to the 102-month prison term, U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg ordered Rodriguez to serve three years of supervised release. According to court documents, on September 23-24, 2023, Rodriguez drove from his home in Panama City, Fla., to Northern Virginia with a rifle and 15 pounds of explosive material. On the way, he stopped in Harrisonburg and Charlottesville, Va., to buy a black backpack, nitrile gloves, and a burner cell phone. On September 24, he parked his car in Arlington, Va., and used the burner phone to arrange for a taxi to drive him to within a few blocks of the Chinese Embassy. Between midnight and 3 a.m. near the back wall of the Embassy in Northwest Washington, Rodriguez placed the explosives-filled backpack next to a streetlight. Rodriguez then attempted to detonate the explosives by shooting at the backpack with a rifle. Rodriguez missed his target, and the device failed to detonate. Law enforcement officers later recovered the backpack containing explosive material, three shell casings, and bullet fragments from the ground along the outer perimeter wall of the Chinese Embassy. Impact marks were found on the Embassy wall near the bullet fragments behind the backpack. According to court documents, DNA obtained from the black backpack was found to be consistent with DNA evidence obtained from a previous arrest of Rodriguez in June 2021 in California. During the California incident, Rodriguez possessed three firearms and apparent explosive material consistent with the explosives used during the Chinese Embassy attack. DNA evidence obtained from Rodriguez pursuant to a buccal swab warrant later confirmed this DNA match. Between November 5 and 7, 2022, according to court documents, Rodriguez rented a vehicle in Pensacola, Fla., and drove to San Antonio, Texas. At about 2:25 a.m. on November 7, Rodriguez scaled an eight-foot fence to enter a courtyard on the 300 block of West Commerce Street, San Antonio. Inside the courtyard, he placed two canisters of explosive materials at the base of a satirical steel sculpture titled “Miss Mao Trying to Poise Herself at the Top of Lenin’s Head.” At 2:30 a.m., Rodriguez used a rifle to shoot at the canisters at the base of the statue, causing an explosion that caused damages of at least $325,000 to the Miss Mao sculpture. Law enforcement arrested Rodriguez on November 4, 2023, in Lafayette, Louisiana. He has been held since that date. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Washington Field Division. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Florida, the Western District of Louisiana, and the Western District of Texas; the ATF’s Tampa, New Orleans, and Houston Field Divisions; the FBI’s Washington and San Antonio Field Offices; the San Antonio Field Office of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the U.S. Secret Service, Uniformed Division and Foreign Missions Detective Unit; the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security; and the Metropolitan Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jolie F. Zimmerman and Stuart D. Allen. Valuable assistance was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maeghan Mikorski and Kelly Stephenson and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael McCarthy. 23cr392


title: Berlin Resident Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Intending to Distribute Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and Cocaine

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Berlin man was sentenced yesterday in federal court for trafficking approximately a pound of methamphetamine, over 200 grams of fentanyl, and over 100 grams of cocaine, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces. Douglas Gray, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha D. Elliott to 96 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On October 15, 2024, Gray pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. “When law enforcement encountered the defendant, he was in possession of distribution-level quantities of multiple drugs,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Law enforcement in New Hampshire prioritizes investigating and prosecuting those who choose to sell drugs in our communities for their own personal profit. This significant sentence reflects the seriousness of this conduct, and it will not be tolerated.” “Career criminal Douglas Gray’s intent to push this poison into our communities could have resulted in deadly consequences for the people who live and work here, and he’ll spend the next eight years behind bars answering for it,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prevent illegal drugs from hitting our streets in order to make our cities and towns safer.” The investigation revealed that in 2023 the defendant arrived after-hours to an automotive shop in Concord known to law enforcement for drug trafficking. After leaving the shop, the defendant traveled northbound. Investigators searched his vehicle and found nearly a pound of methamphetamine, over 200 grams of fentanyl, and over 100 grams of cocaine. The Federal Bureau of Investigation Major Offender Task Force and the New Hampshire State Police led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Concord Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske prosecuted the case. This effort 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: Hugo Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Firearm Charge

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

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Maxie Darryl Caston, age 58, of Hugo, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition. The Indictment alleged that on September 6, 2024, Caston knowingly possessed one .22 caliber revolver, one .20 gauge break-open shotgun, one .243 Winchester caliber bolt-action rifle, two .22 caliber semi-automatic rifles, one .22 caliber lever-action rifle, together with six rounds of .22 Magnum caliber ammunition, one round of .20 gauge ammunition, 13 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, and five rounds of .243 Winchester caliber ammunition after having been previously convicted a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment. The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Caston will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.


title: Ravia Resident Pleads Guilty To Failure To Register As A Sex Offender

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Eastern

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joses Ric-e Beck, a/k/a Ric-e Beck, age 37, of Ravia, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Failure to Register as Sex Offender. The Indictment alleged that Beck received a felony conviction from the State of Oklahoma on August 12, 2008, for Lewd or Indecent Proposals to a Child Under Sixteen and was required to register as a sex offender. From August 30, 2023, until December 20, 2023, Beck failed to register and update his registration despite entering, leaving, or residing in Indian country, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Marshals Service. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Beck will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Bove and Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.


title: Thunderguards Motorcycle Club Member  Sentenced For Trafficking Firearms

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. – Shannon T. Hanson, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Robert Dorsey, 47, of New Jersey, was sentenced on March 11, 2025, to 46 months incarceration for trafficking firearms. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews pronounced the sentence. According to court documents, between September and October 2023, Dorsey sold a total of four firearms during three separate transactions to a law enforcement informant in New Jersey and Delaware. The firearms included a privately made firearm (PMF), known commonly as a “ghost gun”, as well as a firearm that had been stolen from Maryland just a month before Dorsey sold it to the informant on the black market. Additionally, Dorsey had reason to believe one of the firearms he sold would be used in a violent crime. Further, Dorsey sold the informant crack cocaine and heroin on over five occasions, sometimes selling both drugs and a gun as part of the same transaction. Dorsey was the self-proclaimed vice president of a Thunderguards Motorcycle Club chapter, known as the “North Pole”, in Wilmington, DE. During the investigation Dorsey referred to his role as a “one-percenter” or active member of the Thunderguards, told individuals about his role and chapter affiliations with the Thunderguards, and in fact, other members of the Club were present with Dorsey during the last firearm sale to the informant in Delaware. Acting U.S. Attorney Hanson, said, “Trafficking firearms, especially PMFs and stolen guns, is a serious threat to public safety. Illegally trafficking guns provides individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearm with ready access to deadly weapons. I commend the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for disrupting the unlawful trafficking of firearms in the New Jersey and Delaware region. I want to thank ATF, Delaware State Police, and our local law enforcement partners for their thorough investigation.” This investigation is an example of ATF’s dedication to working with our state, local and federal partners in identifying, pursuing, and investigating violent offenders who illegally possess or utilize firearms to commit violent crimes, and those who engage in the unlawful trafficking of firearms. ATF is proud and honored to have such a great working relationship with these outstanding law enforcement organizations and these results demonstrate how the partnerships between our agencies work to protect our communities and hold criminals accountable,” stated Special Agent in Charge LC Cheeks Jr., ATF Newark Field Division. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Delaware State Police, New Jersey State Police, and Pennsville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel S. Frey prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 23-CR-91-RGA.


title: Tewksbury Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Tewksbury man was sentenced yesterday for sex trafficking and the interstate transportation of seven separate victims for the purposes of prostitution. Jermall Anderson, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In November 2024, Anderson pleaded guilty to seven counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion, one count of coercion and enticement, and one count of interstate transportation for the purpose of prostitution. Anderson was indicted in August 2023 , along with two co-conspirators. “Jermall Anderson preyed on vulnerable women, targeting and sexually exploiting homeless and drug addicted women for his own benefit. He controlled his victims with fear, violence and drugs all so that he could profit off of them,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley “The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to fight for sex trafficking victims and hold accountable those who victimize them. I applaud the brave victims who stood up against Jermall Anderson. In doing so, they took back control of their lives and assured that a violent and depraved predator is no longer a threat to the community.” “Anderson and his co-conspirators weaponized addiction to control women and force them into sex trafficking. Through violence, threats, and addiction, he trafficked women through several states for his financial benefit. After today’s sentence, he is facing the consequences of his cruelty and greed – serious federal prison time,” said Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “With the final resolution of this case, those that Anderson victimized can now move forward with renewed dignity and independence.” From 2012 through 2016, Anderson, along with his co-conspirators, used physical violence, threats and the giving and withholding of heroin and cocaine to force seven different victims to prostitute on their behalf. Anderson and his co-conspirators targeted vulnerable victims, specifically those struggling from drug addiction, homelessness and lack of economic resources. Anderson recruited women struggling with drug addiction directly from detox and drug rehabilitation facilities and forced and coerced them into providing commercial sex for his financial benefit. The defendant trafficked these victims throughout New England, New York and New Jersey. Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . U.S. Attorney Foley and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the HSI Office in New Haven, Conn., the Lynn and Tewksbury Police Departments (Mass.) and the Hampden (Conn.) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Hassink of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.


title: New York Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Traveling to Engage in Sex with a Minor

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: CHARLESTON, S.C. — Jerome S. Goldstein, 78, of Long Beach, New York, was sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison after pleading guilty to traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Evidence presented to the court showed that in late 2022, members of the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), conducted an undercover investigation targeting online sexual offenders. As part of this investigation, an officer created an undercover online persona of a 13-year-old girl on a social messaging app. Between Nov. 28, 2022, and Feb. 15, 2023, Goldstein communicated online with the undercover officer. In their conversations, Goldstein requested that the purported 13-year-old child engage in sexual acts and send him child sexual abuse material. He also informed her that he planned to travel from New York to South Carolina to have sex with her. On Feb. 15, 2023, Goldstein drove from Long Beach, New York to Goose Creek, South Carolina to meet the purported 13-year-old, and to engage in illicit sexual conduct with her. When Goldstein arrived, he encountered law enforcement officers instead and was placed under arrest. Goldstein admitted that he traveled from New York to South Carolina to engage in illicit sexual conduct with the girl. Goldstein had planned to take to a hotel room he had reserved. United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks sentenced Goldstein to 46 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice 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, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc . This case was investigated by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), including the FBI Columbia field office, Homeland Security Investigations, Goose Creek Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Trussville Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Trussville man has been sentenced for drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples. U.S. District Court Judge R. David Proctor sentenced Antonio Sedell Ellis, 50, to 48 months in prison. In October 2024, Ellis pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. According to the plea agreement, on May 9, 2023, a Trussville police officer observed a black Ford F-450 traveling on Interstate 59 and cross the outside fog line several times. The officer initiated a traffic stop of the driver, later identified as Ellis. During the stop, the officer could smell alcohol coming from inside the vehicle and asked Ellis to exit the vehicle. Although Ellis initially complied with the officer’s requests, he then attempted to walk away from the scene and refused to follow the officer’s orders. Additional officers responded and successfully apprehended Ellis. He was placed into the back of the patrol car so that a full search of Ellis’s vehicle could be completed. The search uncovered a package containing one kilogram of cocaine, several bags of cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. The FBI investigated the case along with the Trussville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany T. Byrd prosecuted the case.


title: Former Harford County Sheriff’s Office Detective Facing Federal Charges for Sexual Exploitation of two Children

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Ryan Christopher Hall, 50, of Woodstock, Maryland, charging him with Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material. Hall is a former domestic violence detective who served 27 years with the Harford County Sheriff’s Office. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven N. Shoemaker, Jr.; Sheriff James T. DeWees, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office; and Sheriff Jeff Gahler, Harford County Sheriff’s Office. According to the 10-count indictment, from May 2017 thru October 2024, Hall sexually abused two minor children. Authorities discovered that Hall installed cameras to produce child sexual abuse material and possessed child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Hall faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count of Sexual Exploitation of a Child. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Hall’s initial appearance in federal court is set for Wednesday, March 19, before Magistrate Judge A. David Copperthite. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. This case is 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 Attorney’s 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc . Learn more about Internet safety education by clicking on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. Know2Protect is a Department of Homeland Security national public awareness campaign to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent and combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse ; explain how to report online enticement and victimization; and offer resources for victims and survivors and their supporters. Learn more about Know2Protect at www.dhs.gov/know2protect . U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI, the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit, and Carroll County Sheriff’s Office Crimes Against Children Unit for their combined effort and work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Elizabeth McGuinn who is prosecuting the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Six Leaders of Transnational Maritime Drug Trafficking Organization Indicted for Distributing Multi-Ton Quantities of Cocaine

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: An indictment was unsealed yesterday in federal court in Brooklyn charging Elkin Armando Alomia Quinones, Diego Luis Obregon Aguirre, Edwin Obregon Castro, Juan Matias Obregon Castro, also known as “Mauricio,” Rodrigo Obregon Saavedra, also known as “Don Ricky” and Narjel Paredes, also known as “Nacho,” with conspiring to violate and violating the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act and with an international cocaine distribution conspiracy that resulted in the seizure of over 5,000 kilograms of cocaine for distribution in the United States. The indictment was returned under seal by a grand jury in November 2024. The six defendants were arrested yesterday in Colombia. The United States is seeking the defendants’ extradition to face charges in the Eastern District of New York. John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Division (DEA New York) and Michael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York), announced the arrests and charges. “As alleged, the defendants are members of a Colombian transnational maritime drug trafficking organization that specializes in building semi-submersible vessels and using the vessels to transport multi-ton quantities of cocaine to Mexico and Central America, for ultimate distribution in the United States,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “With today’s arrests, the defendants’ conspiracy has been torpedoed. The United States will not tolerate the export and distribution of dangerous drugs into our homeland. My Office is determined to prosecute these defendants in a federal courtroom in Brooklyn where they will be held accountable for their crimes.” Mr. Durham praised the outstanding investigative work of DEA New York’s Strike Force, DEA Bogota and HSI New York’s El Dorado Task Force. Mr. Durham also expressed his appreciation to Colombia’s Cuerpo Técnico de Investigación, DEA Puerto Rico, DEA Madrid and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico for their substantial assistance. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of the Judicial Attaché in Bogotá provided significant assistance in this matter. “The removal of over 5,000 kilograms of cocaine from international waters, destined for the United States, illustrates the DEA’s global pursuit to identify and target those international drug traffickers and Transnational Criminal Organizations that are using semi-submersible fleets to poison our city streets,” stated DEA New York Special Agent in Charge Tarentino. “Today’s indictment against these six individuals is a reminder of the reach and unity of effort the DEA and our law enforcement partners demonstrate when pursing those criminals looking to profit from the illicit drug trade.” “As alleged, investigators repeatedly intercepted the defendants' attempts to transport cocaine via semi-submersible vessels traveling through international waterways. While their ill-intended ingenuity knows no bounds, the unified strength and versatility of the U.S. federal law enforcement system has once again stopped a dangerous, allegedly cartel-aligned drug trafficking organization in its tracks. Securing the homeland from dangers posed by foreign organizations and threats is among HSI’s top priorities. We are relentlessly prepared to confront bad actors seeking financial gain by whatever means necessary,” stated HSI New York Acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso. As alleged in the charging document and other court filings, the defendants led a maritime transnational criminal organization that specialized in building self-propelled semi-submersible vessels in remote locations in Colombia and South America and used those semi-submersible vessels to transport multi-ton quantities of cocaine from Colombia to Central America and Sinaloa Cartel controlled areas of Mexico, for ultimate distribution in the United States. Using intelligence from multiple sources, including lawfully intercepted calls and communications, the investigation revealed that the defendants led a sophisticated maritime drug distribution operation consisting of multiple inter-connected phases. First, members of the conspiracy sought investors to finance multi-ton cocaine loads, including financing the construction of the semi-submersible vessels and payments to crew members and co-conspirators. Then, members of the conspiracy built and hired engineers and workers to assist in building self-propelled semi-submersible vessels capable of carrying thousands of kilograms of cocaine. They also hired crew members to transport the narcotics in the vessels. Before launching the cocaine-laden vessels from the Pacific coast of Colombia towards areas controlled by the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico, members of the conspiracy conducted countersurveillance on the high seas by strategically positioning fishing vessels on the same route that the semi-submersible would navigate in order to detect the presence of law enforcement in the area. As a result of the investigation, law enforcement seized multiple thousand kilograms of cocaine traced to this transnational criminal organization, including two seizures charged in the indictment: The June 27, 2023, seizure of approximately 2,312 kilograms of cocaine aboard a semi-submersible vessel built by the defendants’ criminal organization; and The October 7, 2023, seizure of approximately 3,300 kilograms of cocaine aboard a semi-submersible vessel built by the defendants’ criminal organization. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The New York Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Strike Force is a Federal Task Force comprised of Federal, State and Local law enforcement officers who enforce the narcotic laws of the United States Government and bring those to justice who break these laws relating to large scale drug and money laundering operations that reach all corners of the globe. This Task Force includes members of the DEA, HSI, Internal Revenue Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, New York City Police Department, New York State Police and multiple other local police departments in the tri-state area. HSI New York leads and directs all operational and administrative activities of the El Dorado Task Force (EDTF). The EDTF is comprised of more than 200 law enforcement personnel representing approximately thirty-five (35) federal, state, and local law enforcement and regulatory agencies. The mission of the EDTF is to disrupt, dismantle, or render ineffective, organizations involved in the laundering of proceeds of narcotics trafficking and other financial crimes. The charges in the indictments are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, all defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life in prison. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section, and as part of the work of the Office’s Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Lorena Michelen and Katherine Onyshko are in charge of the prosecution. The Defendants : ELKIN ARMANDO ALOMIA QUINONES Age: 39 Colombia DIEGO LUIS OBREGON AGUIRRE Age: 46 Colombia EDWIN OBREGON CASTRO Age: 40 Colombia JUAN MATIAS OBREGON CASTRO (“Mauricio”) Age: 48 Colombia RODRIGO OBREGON SAAVEDRA (“Don Ricky”) Age: 68 Colombia NARJEL PAREDES (“Nacho”) Age: 55 Colombia E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-462 (EK)


title: New York Man Indicted For Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Terrence Roberts, age 43, of Brooklyn, New York, was charged on February 27, 2025, by a federal grand jury with felon not to possess a firearm, unlawful possession of a machinegun, transporting prohibited weapons without a license, and receipt or possession of an unregistered firearm in violation of the national firearms act. According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on September 2, 2024, in Columbia County, Roberts possessed a Glock 19X and a Taurus G3C with loaded magazines as a felon prohibited from possessing a firearm. It is also alleged that Roberts possessed a machinegun made by a full auto switch on the rear of the slide of the Glock 19X and transported it from Ohio to Pennsylvania. Lastly, it is alleged that the machinegun was not registered to him under the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Scott Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The maximum penalty under federal law for the most significant offense is 15 years, supervised release and a fine. A sentence for each of these offenses also includes a period of supervised release following imprisonment. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Prison Sentence in Fatal Navajo Nation DUI Case


title: Roanoke Woman Pleads Guilty in Paycheck Protection Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke woman, who conspired with dozens of other individuals to commit wire fraud as part of a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program, pled guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court in Roanoke. Jaimeka Michelle Austin, 31, pled guilty yesterday to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Austin was indicted in June 2024 along with 23 others as part of a 142-count indictment alleging wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, making false statements, and fraud in relation to an emergency benefits program. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses. Between June 2020 and December 2020, Austin communicated with several individuals, including a tax preparer, to inquire about obtaining a tax refund loan and a PPP loan. In January 2021, after some back-and-forth discussion, Austin and the tax preparer began discussing obtaining PPP loans for other people by using false information on applications. They agreed to charge prospective loan applicants $5,000 to obtain a $20,000 PPP loan. Austin recruited individuals to apply for PPP loans via social media and word of mouth, knowing that most who would be applying were not eligible to receive such loans because they did not own a business and were not self-employed at the time – two conditions required for PPP loans. Austin and her co-conspirators submitted more than 100 fraudulent PPP loan applicants on behalf of the applicants, including for those that did not have a pre-existing business. These applications included multiple false statements, inflated business income, and fraudulent IRS Schedule C forms. Austin also submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications for her own business, Mechelle’s Boutique. As a part of these applications, Austin vastly inflated the amount of revenue that Mechelle’s Boutique received. Based on her fraudulent submissions, Austin ultimately received two PPP loans totaling over $52,000. On October 4, 2021, Austin used some of the proceeds from her PPP fraud scheme to purchase a new construction single-family home in Charlotte, North Carolina. However, because Austin was already concerned that the “feds” were watching her and did not want to draw additional attention from the federal government, she sought to conceal the source of the funds she was using to make her $70,000 down payment on the home. As a result, Austin gave $70,000 of her fraudulent proceeds to a third party; the third party then wired the funds to the closing attorney. Austin and the third party falsely represented that this money was a gift from the third party and that it did not originate from Austin. Austin closed on the Charlotte property two days later and used her fraud proceeds to pay some of the mortgage payments on the property. In May 2022, Austin filed a quitclaim deed granting herself and her mother joint ownership rights over the Charlotte property. In April 2023, Austin and her mother listed the Charlotte property for sale, and it went under contract for $398,000. Austin and her mother were set to receive just under $95,000 in proceeds from this sale. In May 2023, the United States seized these sale proceeds, and, pursuant to an August 2024 default judgment, this money was forfeited to the United States. Austin has agreed to pay full restitution for her offenses and has agreed to a forfeiture money judgment in the sum of $190,390. Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division and Kareem A. Carter, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement. At sentencing, Austin faces up to 20 years in federal prison on the conspiracy to commit wire fraud count and up to 10 years on the money laundering count. She is the third of the 24 defendants charged in the indictment to plead guilty. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason M. Scheff and Lee S. Brett are prosecuting the case are prosecuting the case for the United States.


title: Aliquippa Cocaine and Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on March 12, 2025, to 10 years of imprisonment, to be followed by five years of federal supervised release, on his drug trafficking conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Kijana Stephaun Lowe, 27. According to information presented to the Court, Lowe was a participant in a drug trafficking organization that was the subject of a joint investigation by federal, state, and local law enforcement operating under the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program in Beaver County. Prison call recordings between Lowe and an inmate at State Correctional Institution Phoenix revealed that Lowe would order kilogram quantities of cocaine and fentanyl from the prisoner, who would then direct a co-defendant to deliver the controlled substances to Lowe. Lowe in turn supplied the drugs to another co-defendant, who would subsequently sell them to end users. In November 2021, investigators learned that an in-person delivery of kilogram quantities of cocaine was planned to Lowe in the Western District of Pennsylvania. On November 8, 2021, law enforcement conducted a surveillance operation at the Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Pittsburgh, where they observed two co-defendants exit the bus station with suitcases and enter a vehicle driven by a third co-defendant. Mobile surveillance followed the vehicle to a motel in Coraopolis. A separate surveillance detail followed Lowe from his residence to the same motel, where they observed Lowe enter the motel room occupied by the three co-defendants, and then, back outside, accept one of the suitcases transported from the bus station. Law enforcement detained the individuals and executed search warrants on the suitcase, the motel room, and Lowe’s vehicle. The suitcase contained nearly 10 kilograms of cocaine, while Lowe’s vehicle contained over $280,000 that was to be used to purchase the seized cocaine. In conjunction with the interdiction, law enforcement obtained search warrants for cell phones found in the possession of Lowe and one of the co-defendants. Digital extractions revealed numerous communications and photographs between the conspirators regarding their drug trafficking activity. Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman emphasized that the amount of fentanyl and cocaine attributable to Lowe in this drug trafficking organization was staggering and that these controlled substances were a poison to the community. Judge Stickman also denied Lowe’s request to have his federal sentence run concurrently to a recent parole revocation related to his last felony drug trafficking crimes, explaining to Lowe that he “do(es) not get a free crime.” Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kara Cotter prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lowe and his co-conspirators.


title: Federal Jury Convicts Georgetown Man of Unauthorized Archaeological Digging of Arrowheads and Illegal Possession of a Firearm

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal jury in Alexandria has returned a guilty verdict against Roy Everett Jordan, Jr. , 57, of Georgetown, Louisiana, for the unauthorized removal of archaeological resources and illegal possession of a firearm. United States District Judge Dee D. Drell presided over the trial. It took just 30 minutes for the jury to find Jordan guilty of the crimes. According to information presented in court, in 2022, U.S. Forest Service agents learned that there had been unauthorized digging at four Native American archaeological sites in the Kisatchie National Forest in the Grant Parish, Louisiana. The digging had been done in places where arrowheads and other human-altered stones were known to be present. Through their investigation, agents obtained photo evidence of Jordan being in the area where the digging was taking place. Just a few hours after photo evidence was taken of him conducting unauthorized digging, Jordan made a post on social media about a find that he had made that day in that location and the piece of pottery he found. A search warrant was obtained for Jordan’s residence and upon execution of that warrant, agents found numerous arrowheads and pottery shards. A table covered in a camouflage cloth was found which matched the photo Jordan had posted on social media. In addition, there was an outbuilding/shed on the property that was full of Jordan’s belongings and numerous arrowheads and pottery shards in multiple places. Agents found clothing in the shed that matched what Jordan had worn in the photo evidence that was obtained by law enforcement agents. In addition, agents found and seized a loaded ISSC semi-automatic .22 caliber pistol. Jordan has three prior felony convictions prohibiting him from possessing any firearm or ammunition. Testimony by an archaeologist at trial established that the value of the restoration and repair of the disturbed archaeological sites at the Kisatchie National Forest will be greater than $500. Jordan faces a sentence of not more than 2 years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both, on the conviction for removal of archaeological resources, as well as restitution for the damage caused at the archeological sites. He also faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000, for the firearms conviction. The case was investigated by the U.S. Forest Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police and Grant Parish Sheriff's Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys William C. Gaskins and Mike Shannon. # # #


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Being Felon In Possession of Firearms

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced on March 12, 2025, that AVERY JULIEN (“JULIEN”) , age 29, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00, by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long. JULIEN had previously pled guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), on October 29, 2024. According to court records, on September 14, 2022, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) deputies and New Orleans Police Department officers executed a search warrant at JULIEN ’s New Orleans residence after learning that JULIEN may have committed a carjacking in Jefferson Parish. During the search, two firearms, a Sig Sauer Model P229, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sig Sauer Model P250, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, were located in JULIEN ’s bedroom. JULIEN ’s DNA was located on both firearms. Federal law prohibits convicted felons, such as JULIEN , from possessing firearms. In 2018, JULIEN was convicted of felonies in two separate cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. JULIEN knew he had been convicted of these felonies at the time he possessed the firearms. 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. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Georgia Man Guilty of Hate Crime Attack Against Letter Carrier

component: USAO - Georgia, Middle

body_text: MACON, Ga. – A Washington County, Georgia, man who made threats and racial slurs against a letter carrier and then six months later escalated his threats when he hit the letter carrier’s vehicle with his tractor was found guilty of aggravated assault and other charges. William Charles Franklin, 36, of Tennille, Georgia, was found guilty on all counts charged against him in the indictment: obstruction of the mails (Count 1), assault upon a federal officer (Count 2), aggravated assault upon a federal officer (Count 3) and retaliating against a witness (Count 4) on March 11, following a two-day trial. In addition, on March 12, Franklin was found guilty of a hate crime enhancement for Counts 2-4, an increased penalty. Franklin faces a maximum sentence of six months in prison and a $100,000 fine for Count 1 and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for Counts 2-4. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over this case. The Court will determine a sentencing date. There is no parole in the federal system. “Violent, hate-filled attacks against federal employees and residents of the Middle District of Georgia will not be tolerated,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “I want to thank the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their dedication to ensuring justice and in helping us hold the defendant accountable for harming a letter carrier.” “As Washington County Sheriff, I am proud that the diverse citizenry of Washington County works together for the good of our community. I am disappointed when I learn of criminal behavior motivated by racial animus,” said Washington County Sheriff Joel Cochran. “I hope this conviction and sentence sends a clear message that those who commit such crimes will be held accountable and such behavior will not be tolerated.” “The safety and security of postal employees is core to the mission of the Postal Inspection Service,” said Jessica L. Wagner, Acting Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Atlanta Division. “The partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office has been mutually beneficial to quickly and safely resolve this incident, which resulted in bringing this individual in this case to justice.” According to court documents, evidence and statements referenced in Court, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) received a complaint on June 11, 2024, and began an investigation into threats and obstruction made by Franklin to a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier serving the Washington County, Georgia, area. Under the advice of the supervisor, the letter carrier recorded the end of a confrontation between him and Franklin, arguing about moving the letter carrier’s vehicle. Franklin was recorded using racial slurs against the letter carrier and stated that his free speech was protected. The letter carrier was recorded stating that if he was off duty, such statements and threats would lead to a fight. Franklin responded that they could “square up” right then. The letter carrier said no because he would lose his job. Franklin can be heard getting agitated and aggressive with the letter carrier and issuing more salacious racist slurs about him and the community where he lives. The letter carrier told investigators that Franklin threatened to punch his face, run him over with Franklin’s tractor and call someone else to come to the location to bring a rope so that Franklin could “drag” him away. A family member corroborated that Franklin called to request a rope. On Dec. 3, 2024, the letter carrier’s vehicle was involved in a hit-and-run with a green tractor in Washington County. The letter carrier observed the tractor come towards the USPS vehicle, and he pulled over to allow the tractor to pass. The tractor hit the letter carrier’s vehicle, destroyed a stop sign and fled the scene. Soon afterward, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the USPIS discovered a tractor matching the description in a nearby field, its engine still warm with fresh damage. The tractor was registered to Franklin. In addition, two witnesses reported seeing a vehicle registered to Franklin’s wife come to the area immediately following the incident at a high rate of speed. Warrants for Franklin’s arrest and the seizure of his and his wife’s cell phones were issued on Dec. 5. After reviewing Franklin’s phone, agents found where Franklin had saved the letter carrier’s picture following the incident on June 11. They found additional evidence that supported the finding that Franklin’s crimes were motivated, at least in part, by the race and color of the letter carrier. Franklin was taken into custody on Dec. 6. At his arrest, agents found two AR-15 styled rifles inside his truck and Franklin was carrying a loaded pistol. The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the GBI and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sonja Profit and Elizabeth Howard are prosecuting the case for the Government.


title: Ponte Vedra Man Posing As A Tutor Pleads Guilty To Attempting To Entice A Minor To Engage In Illegal Sexual Activity

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Kevin Patrick Wilson (39, Ponte Vedra) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement and coercion of a minor. Wilson faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Wilson was arrested on July 24, 2025, and ordered detained pending the resolution of his case. According to court documents, on July 20, 2024, an individual posted a public message in a Facebook group seeking a tutor for her child. On the day of the post, an individual posing as a woman, but later identified as Wilson, reached out and directed the poster to contact her “husband,” Wilson, by text message. The poster contacted Wilson and had a short text conversation. The poster said she was seeking tutoring assistance for an 11-year-old child. Wilson sent a picture of himself and asked for a photo of the child. The text message conversation ended shortly thereafter. The poster later contacted the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office about the interaction. On July 24, 2024, an undercover detective posing as the guardian of a 12-year-old female “child” reached out to Wilson about tutoring services for the “child.” After the undercover detective initiated the conversation, Wilson began discussing sexual topics involving the “child” and meeting the “child” to perform sexual acts with the “child.” Wilson also spoke to undercover detectives portraying the “child” via phone and text message. Wilson and the undercover detective portraying the guardian of the “child” ultimately agreed to meet during the evening of July 24, 2024, for Wilson to engage in sexual acts with the “child.” Wilson was arrested when he arrived at the predetermined meeting location. This case was investigated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Jacksonville. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington. It is another case 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.justice.gov/psc.


title: Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism to Visit Leadership of Four Big Cities Rocked by Incidents of Antisemitism

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Today, the Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism notified the local leaders of New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston that it wanted to meet soon to discuss their responses to incidents of antisemitism at schools and on college campuses in their cities over the last two years. The Task Force, created pursuant to President Trump’s Executive Order on Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism, told the cities it wanted to engage with local leadership, including the mayors, district or city attorneys, and local law enforcement. Leading Task Force member and Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Leo Terrell informed Eric Adams of New York, Karen Bass of Los Angeles, Brandon Johnson of Chicago, and Michelle Wu of Boston that the Task Force was aware of allegations that the schools in their respective cities may have failed to protect Jewish students from unlawful discrimination, in potential violation of federal law. Mr. Terrell said he intends for the Task Force to meet with city leadership, impacted students, local law enforcement, and community members as it gathers information about these incidents and considers whether federal intervention is warranted. “Too many elected officials chose not to stand up to a rising tide of antisemitism in our cities and campuses following the horrific events of October 7, 2023,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Actions have consequences – inaction does, too.” “The Task Force looks forward to meeting with the mayors and other municipal leaders in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston to quickly and effectively identify ways that, working together or apart, we return safety, civility, and sanity to our nation’s schools,” said Mr. Terrell. “These meetings, in conjunction with our visits to university campuses around the country, are just two of the many actions President Trump and Attorney General Bondi are taking to end this scourge of anti-Semitism.” If you have been discriminated against, you can file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division, at civilrights.justice.gov . President Trump’s Executive Order can be found here: Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism – The White House .


title: Mexican National Indicted For Illegal Reentry Into The United States

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Omar Marin-Lopez (41, Mexico) with illegal reentry of removed alien. If convicted, Marin-Lopez faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison. According to court documents, Marin-Lopez is a citizen and national of Mexico. He was previously removed from the United States on July 17, 2008; October 4, 2012; and January 11, 2013. On November 5, 2024, Marin-Lopez was again found in the United States in Hillsborough County. Marin-Lopez did not receive the consent of the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security for the United States to apply for readmission to United States. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Violent Felon Sentenced to more than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Dealing Meth and MDMA while on Supervised Release

body_text: EVANSVILLE— Mikeal Luckett, 51, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 211 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute MDMA, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, on June 13, 2023, law enforcement officers conducted a search of Luckett’s Evansville home. Officers found a loaded stolen Taurus G2C 9mm pistol, approximately 26.2 grams of MDMA, approximately 6.4 grams of pure methamphetamine, digital scales, and $10,286 in cash. The pistol and MDMA were hidden together in an opening above the duct work in Luckett’s basement. Officers also found $1,530 in Luckett’s pockets. In 2012, Luckett was convicted of felony Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine in federal court in Kentucky and was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Luckett was on federal supervised release at the time of this most recent incident. Luckett had been previously convicted of several violent offenses, including assault and aggravated assault. “Drug dealers like this defendant peddle deadly substances with utter disregard for human life, seeing only dollar signs and not the faces of the many loved ones that have been lost to overdoses and drug abuse,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This prosecution and sentence demonstrate that our office will continue to work alongside DEA, ATF and local Drug Task Forces to ensure the most dangerous reoffenders are held accountable.” “There is no place in our community for those who spread pain and destruction through the distribution of illegal drugs. That disregard for human life is compounded when firearms are used to threaten violence to protect their illegal business,” stated Thomas A. Greco, Acting Special Agent in Charge for ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to bring offenders like the defendant to justice and make our communities safer for everyone.” “Individuals, especially repeat offenders like Mr. Luckett, who are on probation, and recklessly distribute poisonous drugs in our communities must be held accountable for their actions,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Gannon. “DEA commends the outstanding work being conducted by our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office, in combating dangerous criminals.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case. This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. ###


title: New Haven Man Admits Trafficking Pills Containing Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, today announced that GREGORY GRANT, 34, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to a methamphetamine trafficking offense. According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately January 2022 and March 2024, Grant’s alleged co-conspirator, Tyrone Brown, mailed parcels containing methamphetamine pills from Georgia to addresses in New Haven associated with Grant. Investigators identified approximately 79 suspicious parcels shipped from Brown to Grant during that time. In January 2023, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of an intercepted parcel and found 16 ziplock sandwich bags containing a total of more than four kilograms of multicolored pills containing methamphetamine. The investigation also revealed that Grant made multiple payments to Brown during the conspiracy. Grant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for June 11. Grant has been detained since his arrest on March 27, 2024. Brown, 33, of Lithonia, Georgia, has been charged by indictment and is currently being sought by law enforcement. As to Brown, Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, and the Hartford, Plainville, and Meriden Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel J. Gentile and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.


title: Georgian Organized Crime Boss And Associates Convicted And Sentenced For Extortion Offenses

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced the sentences imposed on VAZHA GABADADZE, TEIMURAZ TAVBERIDZE, KAKHA KATSADZE, and DAVIT TIKARADZE for extortion offenses. The defendants include the leader of a criminal enterprise from the Republic of Georgia and his associates. The last of the defendants to be sentenced, TAVBERIDZE, was sentenced to 21 months in prison today by U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff after having been convicted on December 9, 2024, following a one-week jury trial. The remaining three defendants were previously sentenced to terms of prison ranging from 12 to 30 months. Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Vazha Gabadadze and his associates threatened to mutilate and kill a victim if he did not provide them with money. They intimidated the victim, relying on their connections to violent organized crime, to obtain thousands of dollars. But thanks to the dedication of the FBI and the career prosecutors of this Office, all four defendants have been brought to justice and will serve federal prison time for their crimes.” According to the Indictment, public court filings, and statements made in court: GABADADZE is a crowned “ vor v zakone ” and the leader of a criminal enterprise from the Republic of Georgia. A vor v zakone , which is a Russian phrase that translates to “thief-in-law” or “thief within the code,” is part of a fraternal order of criminals that dates back to the time of the czars. The vor stands at the highest level of Russian and Georgian organized criminal groups. Traditionally, vory demand and receive tribute from criminals and laypersons, license criminal activity by others, and resolve disputes between members of the criminal community. Payment demands are enforced by violence and threats of violence. TAVBERIDZE, KATSADZE, and TIKARADZE each worked under GABADADZE’s supervision and control. In 2017, in Georgia, GABADADZE approached an individual (the “Victim”) and demanded $15,000, claiming that the Victim’s friend owed GABADADZE the money. The Victim subsequently moved to the U.S. In 2022, GABADADZE followed the Victim to the U.S. and reinitiated the extortion. GABADADZE and the other defendants pursued, harassed, and threatened to kill and maim the Victim and his family if he did not pay. Those threats were particularly violent and included, among others, that one or more of the defendants would “break [the Victim’s] spine over his knee,” “peel out [the Victim’s] eyes,” that the Victim would be beaten beyond recognition to his family, and that the Victim’s dead body would be found “when the snow melts.” Each of the defendants played a particular role in executing the extortion. GABADADZE was the leader of the scheme and ultimate beneficiary of the extortion payments. TAVBERIDZE was primarily responsible for pursuing and communicating with the Victim and, in that capacity, personally threatened the Victim and collected extortion funds from the Victim. KATSADZE managed the collection of the extortion payments, receiving such payments from TAVBERIDZE and passing them along to GABADADZE. TIKARADZE served as GABADADZE’s secretary and threatened the Victim on at least one occasion. In total, the defendants received approximately $19,000 during the course of the extortion. * * * GABADADZE and KATSADZE each pled guilty to one count of Hobbs Act extortion. TIKARADZE pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act extortion. TAVBERIDZE was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act extortion and one count of Hobbs Act extortion after trial. A chart containing the sentences that each of the defendants received is set forth below. Defendant Age Sentence of Imprisonment Vazha Gabadadze 42 30 Months Teimuraz Tavberidze 55 21 Months Kakha Katsadze 46 21 Months Davit Tikaradze 54 12 Months Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Podolsky also thanked U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the New York City Police Department for their assistance in the investigation. This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Getzel Berger, Varun Gumaste, Chelsea Scism, and Daniel Richenthal are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Weaverville Man Sentenced To 24 Years For Carjacking And Discharging A Firearm That Seriously Injured A Postal Worker

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Jaden Isaiah Garay, 25, of Weaverville, N.C. was sentenced today to 24 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for carjacking and discharging a firearm that caused serious bodily injury to a U.S. Postal Carrier, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to prison term imposed, Garay was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $640,582.81 to the victim and $73,868.14 to the Office of Worker’s Compensation Program. Jessica Wagner, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), which oversees Charlotte; R.E. “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI); Colonel Freddy L. Johnson, Jr., Commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol; Sheriff Buddy Harwood of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office; Sheriff Banks Hinceman of the Burke County Sheriff’s Office; Sheriff Ricky T. Buchanan of the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office; Chief Chad Wilson of the Mars Hill Police Department; and Chief Allen Lawrence of the Marion Police Department, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement. “Garay’s violent crime spree was a blatant disregard for the law and human life,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “His rampage put innocent lives at risk and ended with the near-fatal shooting of a postal worker simply doing her job. Today’s sentence holds Garay accountable for his reckless crimes. I commend the law enforcement agencies involved in Garay’s apprehension. Together, we will work to protect those who serve our communities.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail, and most importantly, providing a safe environment for Postal employees and the communities they serve,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Wagner. “We fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing this individual to justice.” According to court documents and court proceedings, Garay stole a loaded semiautomatic handgun and several loaded ammunition magazines from his relatives’ home following an argument with them. Court records show that, at approximately 11:50 a.m., while Garay was driving his car on interstate I-26 near Mars Hill, the defendant used the stolen gun to fire a shot into a passing vehicle with an underage passenger inside. The bullet shattered the front passenger window and was lodged in the vehicle; fortunately, it did not hit the occupants. The bullet was later recovered by law enforcement and matched the stolen ammunition. Following the shooting incident, Garay drove into the town of Mars Hill, where he abandoned his vehicle, taking the stolen firearm with him. Garay then walked through a residential neighborhood, breaking and entering into a home while the homeowner was inside. Garay encountered the homeowner, threatened to shoot her dog, and ordered her to get on her knees. The homeowner refused to do so and told Garay that if he was going to shoot her, he would have to do it while she was standing. Garay then went to the garage, where he tried to start one of the vehicles. He was unsuccessful, so he left the residence and continued walking through the neighborhood. According to court records, as Garay was walking around the neighborhood, he encountered T.R., a rural postal carrier for the United States Postal Service who was delivering mail to a residential mailbox in her Jeep Wrangler. Garay approached T.R., told her he needed her car, and pointed the handgun at T.R. The victim attempted to comply with Garay’s demand but had to pull forward slightly to exit the vehicle because her door was blocked by a mailbox. Garay then shot T.R. in the face, and T.R. fell out of her vehicle and to the ground. Garay got in the victim’s vehicle and drove off, leaving T.R. laying on the ground with a serious gunshot wound to her head. According to filed court documents, sometime later, Garay drove T.R.’s stolen vehicle onto I-40, where he was spotted by law enforcement. Police officers began a pursuit of the vehicle with lights and sirens activated. Garay refused to stop and instead fled at a high rate of speed. Officers deployed “stop sticks” on the interstate, but Garay did not stop even after he drove over the stop sticks. Garay eventually exited the interstate, and continued to elude officers, driving three miles further on backroads. He eventually came to a dead end where he abandoned the victim’s Jeep and fled on foot into a wooded area, still armed with the stolen firearm. Dozens of law enforcement officers searched for Garay, who spent the night hiding in the woods. Early the next morning, Garay was taken into custody and the stolen firearm was recovered. T.R. sustained life-threatening injuries from the gunshot wound. Some of the victim’s injuries are permanent and she faces a lengthy recovery. On April 15, 2024, Garay pleaded guilty to carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Garay is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended the USPIS, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the North Carolina Department of Correction K9 Team, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, Burke County EMS, Burke County Emergency Management, and Burke County Communications Center, the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, the Morganton Department of Public Safety, the Marion Police Department, and the Mars Hill Police Department for their investigation of the case and for their invaluable assistance in apprehending Garay. U.S. Attorney Ferguson also thanked Madison County District Attorney Seth Banks for his Office’s assistance and coordination with the federal investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.


title: Philadelphia Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Nafiysh Knox-Schenck, 33, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky to 39 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon, a charge arising from an incident last year in which the defendant resisted arrest by officers of the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD). Knox-Schenck was charged by indictment in June and pleaded guilty in November. As detailed in court filings, on May 13, 2024, two PPD officers attempted to place the defendant into custody based on an outstanding arrest warrant. While struggling with the officers, Knox-Schenck pulled a loaded firearm from his waistband and tossed it into the street. Another person then took the firearm and tossed it into a nearby wooded lot. After a struggle, the officers were able to get Knox-Schenck handcuffed and placed him in their vehicle. While the officers went to retrieve the firearm and their body worn camera that had fallen off during the struggle, someone opened the door to the police vehicle and Knox-Schenck was able to flee on foot and escape police custody. Philadelphia police officers then obtained another arrest warrant for the defendant and, with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service, were able to arrest Knox-Schenck on May 15. “Knox-Schenck knew he wasn’t allowed to have a gun, given his criminal record, but he didn’t let that stop him,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “We and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable felons who have decided that federal gun laws don’t apply to them. Every illegal firearm taken off the street makes the community safer.” “ATF is committed to working with our partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals like Nafiysh Knox-Schenck who endanger our neighborhoods,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Keeping guns out of the hands of criminals is a key means to preventing violent crime.” 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. The case was investigated by the ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Tracie J. Gaydos, on assignment from the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General.


title: Charlottesville Man To Serve 10 Years for Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – A Charlottesville, Virginia man, who believed he was communicating online with the father of a 12-year-old boy and arranged to meet the purported 12-year-old boy to have sex with and in front of the child, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison on child pornography charges. William Combs, 54, pled guilty in January 2024 to a one-count Information charging him with possession of child pornography. According to court documents, in July 2023, Combs engaged in an online chat with who Combs believed to be the father of a 12-year-old boy. During these discussions, Combs attempted to arrange a meeting with the 12-year-old for the purpose of having sex with the minor. Shortly before the time of the scheduled meeting, Combs cut off all communication with the alleged father. Pursuant to a search warrant, law enforcement obtained the physical address associated with the IP address linked to the user identified as Combs. On August 10, 2023, officers conducted a search of Combs’ residence and recovered several electronic devices. Following a forensic review, agents identified more than 25,000 files depicting minor children and suspected minor children engaged in sex acts. These files included prepubescent children and children who had not yet obtained the age of 12 years old. The Department of Homeland Security- Homeland Security Investigations and the Albemarle County Police Department investigated the case. Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C., Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck, and Col. Sean Reeves, Chief of Albemarle County Police Department, made the announcement. The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/ .


title: Venezuelan National arrested with large load of drugs

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 22-year-old Venezuelan National made his initial appearance this week in U.S. District Court in Seattle, following his arrest in Federal Way, Washington with a large amount of suspected narcotics, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Sebastian Velasquez-Perez was taken into custody at St Francis Hospital after he was treated for a drug overdose. He remains in federal detention pending a hearing scheduled for March 17, 2025. According to the criminal complaint, on March 8, 2025, Federal Way Police were called to a Federal Way motel when staff discovered Velasquez-Perez unresponsive in his room. The staff administered two doses of NARCAN and performed CPR. Velasquez-Perez was transported to the hospital, and law enforcement obtained a court order to search the room. In the room law enforcement seized: five bags containing approximately 3.2 kilograms of methamphetamine; 12 bags of a powdery substance that will be tested as a possible controlled substance; five bags of fentanyl pills – approximately 5,000 pills in all; and two bags of black tar substance appearing to be heroin. Also in the room three cellphones, a digital scale with drug residue, and nearly $8,000 in cash. There were no documents in the hotel room indicating that Velasquez-Perez was legally present in the United States. The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI), and the Valley Narcotics Enforcement Team (VNET).


title: Websites seized, ten arrested, in prison drug distribution scheme in the Eastern District of Texas

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PLANO, Texas – Three internet domains have been seized and ten individuals arrested in a scheme to provide drugs in prison, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. The internet domain name HerbalIncenseUSA.com and two related domains, Herbal-Biz.com and Herbal-Empire.com, were seized on March 6, 2025, following an investigation into drug distribution over the internet and through the U.S. Mail. According to information provided in court, the three websites are alleged to have sold a variety of controlled substances, to include synthetic cannabinoids, aka “K2” or “Spice” specifically marketed as fictitious legal mail for the express purpose of smuggling the drugs into prisons and correctional facilities through the U.S. Mail and with the assistance of corrupt guards. “K2” supplied by the sites was responsible for multiple overdoses of prisoners being held on pre-trial detention in the Eastern District of Texas and throughout the country. A sheet of paper soaked in the drug sells for approximately $1,000 within a prison. “K2” distribution is difficult for correctional facilities to detect, as there are no reliable presumptive drug test kits that identify the drug. The investigation identified the three websites as being the primary supplier of “K2,” shipping thousands of drug parcels to the Eastern District of Texas and tens of thousands being shipped nationwide yearly. Gross revenue from the websites was in the millions of dollars each year. Those arrested and named in two separate federal indictments in the Eastern District of Texas are as follows: Rana Alrichani, 46, of San Jose, CA; Taleen Gabriel Zakarian, 36, of Glendale, CA; Daniela Inman, 58, of Anaheim, CA; Ioana Harhoiu, 35, of Irvine, CA; Ziad Tohme, 48, of Burbank, CA; Gabriel Raad, 50, of Land O’Lakes, FL; Daisy Chalfoun, 40, of Land O’Lakes, FL; Luisa Shahinyan, 33, of North Hills, CA; Harout Payaslyan, 36, of Valley Village, CA; and Manuk Payaslyan, 40, of Los Angeles, CA. This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The seizures are part of a joint investigation with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. This matter will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas. A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Federal Grand Juries in Bowling Green and Paducah Indict 4 Illegal Aliens for Immigration Offenses

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Bowling Green and Paducah, KY – Federal grand juries in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky, returned indictments on March 11th and 12th, 2025, charging 4 individuals with illegal reentry after deportation or removal. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement. According to the indictments: Pablo Felipe Baltazar, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 14, 2025, Baltazar was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about July 16, 2018, June 17, 2024, and August 4, 2024. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO. Roman Cornejo-Melchor , age 50, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 13, 2023, Cornejo-Melchor was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about February 22, 2012, March 15, 2013, and April 13, 2013. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO. Arcenio Perez-Martinez , age 49, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 28, 2025, Perez-Martinez was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about September 13, 2019 and April 4, 2020. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO. Oscar Rene Rodriguez , age 38, a citizen of El Salvador, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 28, 2025, Rodriguez was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about July 9, 2009. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, and Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, are prosecuting the cases. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Honduran National Guilty of Re-entry of a Deported Alien

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – ActingU.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that EVIN ENRIQUE FUNEZ-CRUZ (“FUNEZ-CRUZ”) , age 22, a native of Honduras, plead guilty on March 12, 2025, to reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and (b)(1). According to court documents, FUNEZ-CRUZ , was apprehended in St. Tammany Parish on or around January 6, 2025. He had been previously deported to Honduras on June 21, 2024. FUNEZ-CRUZ faces a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.


title: Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics Trafficking

body_text: JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Azheem Ellis, 49, pleaded guilty to Count One of the Superseding Indictment before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ellis conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin, cocaine, and crack. Ellis was one of the targets of a federal wiretap and was intercepted obtaining quantities of the drugs that he distributed to others. Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2025. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ellis. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.


title: Mexican National Arrested For Illegal Reentry By A Previously Deported Alien

body_text: Ocala, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the arrest of Felipe Garcia-Vasquez (39, Morriston) on a criminal complaint charging him with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Garcia faces up to two years in federal prison. According to court records, Garcia is a Mexican national who was previously removed from the United States on January 21, 2013. He has never applied to the Attorney General of the United States and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for permission to re-enter the United States. On February 26, 2025, he was found voluntarily back in the United States. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Franklin, Kentucky Man for Child Sexual Exploitation Offenses

body_text: Bowling Green, KY –A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on March 12, 2025, charging a Franklin, Kentucky man with distributing child pornography, possessing child pornography, and sexually exploiting children. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Sheriff Jere Hopson of the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement. According to the indictment, Joseph N. Roush, 27, was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography, and one count of sexual exploitation of children. The defendant previously made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 70 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Adult man guilty of pretending to be minor to illegally enter the country

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: BROWNSVILLE, Texas – An 18-year-old Honduran citizen has admitted to making false statements in a juvenile immigration case, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. On Feb. 2, Elger Fabricio Cotto-Navarro represented to law enforcement he was an unaccompanied minor as he attempted to enter the country near Roma. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) must provide care for each unaccompanied alien child who has no lawful immigration status in the United States for whom there is no parent or legal guardian in the country with the ability to provide such care and custody. As such, Cotto-Navarro was placed in a facility charged with the housing and needs for unaccompanied alien children. Cotto-Navarro identified himself as a minor with a date of birth of May 2007 to his case manager. However, the investigation revealed Cotto-Navarro was actually an adult posing as a minor. Cotto-Navarro denied the allegations and made a written statement, still claiming to be a juvenile. He later acknowledged he was born in 2006 and an adult. He admitted he provided an incorrect date of birth and that his submitted written statements attesting to being a juvenile while in DHHS custody were false. U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. will impose sentencing June 17. At that time, he faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will remain in custody pending that hearing. DHHS-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Marian is prosecuting the case.


title: Remaining Defendants Plead Guilty in Twin Cities Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: ST. PAUL, Minn. – The remaining defendants in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed fentanyl throughout the Twin Cities region have pleaded guilty, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. According to court documents, between August 2022 through December 2023, Phyu Win Jame, 28, Amaya Tiffany-Nicole Mims, 24, Da’Shawn Natori Domena, 25, Cornell Montez Chandler, Jr., 26, Robiel Lee Williams, 24, Quijuan Hosea Bankhead, 31, Stardasha Christina Davenport-Mounger, 25, Fo’Tre Devine White, 28, and Shardai Rayshell Allen, 25, conspired to distribute fentanyl in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. To accomplish their conspiracy scheme, several of the co-defendants frequently traveled to Phoenix to obtain fentanyl pills from suppliers, hid the pills inside stuffed animals, and then mailed them to addresses in and around the Twin Cities. Law enforcement in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties became aware of the trafficking and initiated a joint investigation, which resulted in the seizure of six packages containing over 30,000 grams of fentanyl pills. Between August 6, 2024, and March 12, 2025, Davenport-Mounger, Domena, Williams, White, Allen, Bankhead, Mims, and Jame each pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court before Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Chandler was sentenced to over 13 years in federal prison by Judge Bryan on November 14, 2024. Sentencing hearings for the other defendants will be scheduled in the near future. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Dakota County Drug Task Force, the Washington County Drug Task Force, and the Ramsey County Violent Crime Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Campbell Warner is prosecuting the case. See also: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/indiana-man-pleads-guilty-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/three-additional-individuals-charged-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/six-individuals-charged-twin-cities-fentanyl-distribution-conspiracy