title: Utah Man Sentenced to 2 Years for Cyberstalking Charges

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Jonas D. Saunders, 22, of Vernal, Utah, was sentenced on June 4, 2026, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, for one count of cyberstalking and one count of using a telecommunications device to abuse, threaten, and harass. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Saunders to a total of 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Saunders’ release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release. Saunders met Victim 1 in the fall of 2021 when they were both freshman at the same university. A falling out occurred and Saunders eventually transferred schools. In February of 2025, after seeing Victim 1 was in a new relationship, Saunders began threatening and harassing Victim 1 online and through other methods of communication. Saunders’s threats and harassment extended to several of Victim 1’s family members and boyfriend whom he also directly threatened. Many of the threats involved threats to kill Victim 1 and her loved ones using extreme methods. Saunders’s actions included threats made on Instagram and X, through emails, and repeated calls to Victim 1 and her family. Further harassing actions of Saunders included seeking the assistance of a “hacker” to break into Victim 1’s accounts; sending a mass email to college students at Victim 1’s university exclaiming that Victim 1 was promiscuous and listing her email address; encouraging others on social media to contact Victim 1 and harass her further; and creating a website about her all with the intent to degrade, abuse, and harass her. Saunders’s conduct did not stop until police departments in both Victim 1’s and Saunders’s locations became involved. United States Attorney Lesley Woods said, “Cyberstalking terrorizes its victims and traps them in a living nightmare. Cyberstalkers can reach their victims anytime, day or night, and they are relentless in their harassment of victims. The United States Attorney’s Office will be equally relentless in its prosecution of these offenders.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


title: Alleged “Red Legs” member charged with having Molotov Cocktails

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man suspected as being part of a violent extremist group is scheduled to appear before a federal judge after being charged through criminal complaint in Kansas City, Kansas, for illegally possessing explosive devices. According to court documents, Jarred G. Gilliam, 31, of Kansas City, Kansas, is charged with possessing destructive devices. The exact starting date is unknown, but from about June 3, 2025, and continuing until about June 3, 2026, Gilliam is accused of having three destructive devices commonly known as Molotov Cocktails. According to court documents, Gilliam is a suspected member of Red Legs, a group which promotes committing violent attacks on government agencies and the military. Gilliam is accused of using an encrypted messaging application to communicate with other suspected Red Legs members to plan assaults using incendiary devices. The proposed targets include local and federal government entities and property, particularly U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Missouri National Guard, and political groups. According to the complaint against Gilliam, the following are communications sent through the messaging app: • “If ice moves to kc, thoughts on an armed response” • “It wouldn’t make sense to panic now, the time for panicking has long passed. Now we must make our peace, arm ourselves, and prepare to do what is necessary” • “After we build our ranks and adequately arm ourselves, we can look into escalation” • “I recommend we start slow at first. Maybe some basic sabotage… We should locate abandoned warehouses where we could potentially secure seized armor… First, we need to find a way to track military shipments, we don’t want to derail the wrong train” • “What are the chances we could get away with using drones to drop incendiary’s [sic] to demolish key infrastructure” • “I like the idea of using drones carrying cocktails to demolish key structures…Frozen water areas.” The defendant is scheduled for his initial court appearance Monday, June 8, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Jennifer B. Wieland of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. During this investigation, several other alleged Red Legs members were identified including Lake Ethan Roberts , 26, of Kansas City, Missouri, who is being federally prosecuted for possession of unregistered destructive devices by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Life Sentence Imposed for Murderer in 21 Defendant Arlington, TX Street Gang Prosecution

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: The twenty-one members and associates of the violent Kiccdoe street gang that ravaged the streets of Arlington, Texas, have pled guilty to federal charges of racketeering (RICO conspiracy) or other drug and violent crimes in aid of racketeering charges , announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. Yesterday, June 4, one of those defendants, Chauncey Ross, 22, of Arlington, Texas, was sentenced to life in federal prison by United States District Judge Mark T. Pittman for his role in the RICO conspiracy. “I will not tolerate gang-related violence in our district, so rest assured that our gang-related prosecutions will continue,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “I am extremely proud of the work done by my prosecutors on this case, and I hope the citizens of Arlington feel safer knowing that these gang members are behind bars. Through his conduct, defendant Ross earned the life sentence he received, and I hope his sentence serves as a warning to all gang members in our community.” “This defendant’s role in the commission of a murder and his involvement in a violent gang that terrorized the Arlington community warrants the life sentence imposed in this case,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent criminal organizations that threaten the safety of our communities.” “This is a major win for our community,” said Arlington Police Chief Al Jones. “In Arlington alone, we documented more than 180 criminal incidents, many of them violent in nature, involving the members of this street gang. I have no doubt that our city is safer with these defendants off our streets. I’m extremely grateful to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas for their partnership on this case and for helping us achieve this outcome.” During the sentencing hearing, the government drew the court’s attention to various aspects of evidence for its consideration in determining Ross’s sentence. The government argued that Ross had shot and killed one young male and shot and injured another young female, while she was shielding her infant child with her body. And that shortly after committing the murder, Ross had recorded a rap song bragging about the incident—with lyrics that “fiending for murder . . . gave [him] an itch,” among other graphic lyrics directly referencing the victim and the murder. In addition to Ross, seven other defendants have been sentenced for their roles in the racketeering conspiracy (RICO conspiracy) or conduct stemming from their association with the Kiccdoe gang: • Kyron Oates, 22, of Grand Prairie, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment. During the sentencing hearing, the government highlighted evidence that showed that Oates was one of two shooters in a pre-meditated attempted murder occurring in February 2024. • Cortez Atkinson, 19, of Fort Worth, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 176 months imprisonment. During the sentencing hearing, the government drew the court’s attention to evidence showing that Atkinson initiated a gang-related shootout directly outside of an apartment complex, during which a stray bullet struck a 13-year old girl while she was in her bedroom. • KeyShawn Burton, 21, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 127 months imprisonment. During the sentencing hearing, the government argued that Burton not only trafficked narcotics but also actively participated in online group chats with other Kiccdoe gang members to conspire to shoot and kill a member of a rival gang. • Jaylen Jeshawn Franklin, 23, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 122 months imprisonment. During the sentencing hearing, the government highlighted evidence that showed Franklin had conspired with other Kiccdoe gang members to commit at least two drive-by shootings – in January and November 2022, and he also posted in a Kiccdoe group chat an image of one of the houses to target for the shootings. • Sir James Mack Williams, 22, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 92 months imprisonment. During the sentencing hearing, the government emphasized evidence showing that Williams was a shooter during a November 2022 drive-by shooting spree of two separate houses in Arlington, Texas. • Raphael Opare, 19, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to a RICO conspiracy and was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment. In addition to trafficking narcotics, R. Opare admitted in court documents that he, together with other Kiccdoe gang members, conspired to kill a member of a rival gang in retaliation for a shooting that had occurred in April 2024. • JaMarion Manogin, 20, of Forney, Texas, pled guilty to two counts of Use of a Communication Facility in Causing or Facilitating the Commission of a Felony under the Controlled Substances Act and was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for engaging in drug trafficking while using a cellphone. The remaining 13 defendants are scheduled to be sentenced in the coming weeks: • June 12, 2026: Bradley McArthur, Jr., 21, of Fort Worth, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. Vernell Woods, 19, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. • June 18, 2026: LaMarion Austin, 21, of Dallas, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. Isaiah Wiley, 21, of Dallas, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. Joseph Hill, 18, of Fort Worth, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. Marcus Shaw, 20, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. • July 2, 2026: Sadedrick Wilson, 22, of Fort Worth, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. Dillen Opare, 20, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. DaTraven Warren, 18, of Mansfield, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. DeMarco Westmoreland, 19, of Mansfield, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. • July 9, 2026: Michael Mensah, 18, of Grand Prairie, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. • September 10, 2026: Jakayla Totten, 21, of DeSoto, Texas, pled guilty to one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering. • September 17, 2026: Blake Aaron Scott, 22, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to RICO conspiracy. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Arlington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura G. Montes and Eric B. Chen prosecuted the case with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Capoccia.


title: Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Submitting Fraudulent FEMA Claims for Lahaina and California Wildfire Federal Disasters

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Daylyn Harris, 35, of Honolulu, Hawaii, was sentenced on June 5, 2026, to 24 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiring to commit wire fraud in connection with false claims he submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) seeking disaster relief related to the Lahaina and Pacific Palisades wildfire disasters, as well as a separate obstruction of justice charge. Harris was also ordered to pay $60,458 in restitution to FEMA. His codefendant Chelsea Johnson was previously sentenced to four months in prison. According to Court records, Harris and Johnson conspired to defraud FEMA by submitting false disaster relief claims tied to the Lahaina and Pacific Palisades wildfires. They claimed lost income, housing, and property even though they did not live in the disaster area or suffer those losses. Specifically, Harris falsely claimed that he resided in Lahaina during the Lahaina wildfires, and that he lost housing, income, suffered medical bills, and lost property as a result. Johnson assisted the fraud by posing as Harris’s Maui landlord. Johnson then falsely claimed to live in Pacific Palisades, California during the Pacific Palisades wildfires and falsely claimed she lost housing and incurred other expenses as a result. Together, Harris and Johnson received over $60,000 in disaster relief from FEMA intended for victims of the wildfires. After he pled guilty, Harris also submitted fabricated flight records to the court to refute allegations that he had violated his conditions of pretrial release. For this conduct, he was charged with and pled guilty to obstruction of justice. “At a time when federal resources were desperately needed by victims of the Lahaina and Pacific Palisades wildfires, Harris stole from the public to satisfy his own greed,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Preventing, investigating, and prosecuting the theft and fraudulent diversion of disaster relief funds is a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and those who seek to profit through fraud off of the devastation and hardship of our neighbors will face swift and certain justice in federal court.” This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Albanese prosecuted the case. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Illinois Investment Advisor Indicted on Federal Fraud Charges for Allegedly Swindling Clients in Ponzi Scheme

body_text: CHICAGO — An Illinois investment advisor has been indicted on federal fraud charges for allegedly swindling at least three clients in a Ponzi scheme. JOHN MYERS operated Illinois-based Sterling Capital Investments, LLC. From 2022 to 2025, Myers fraudulently solicited and obtained money from three victims, including a husband and wife from Michigan, based on false representations about the performance and value of the investments, according to an indictment returned Thursday in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Myers provided false documentation reflecting the investments were worth more than they were, when Myers knew the value had actually decreased due to his trading losses, the indictment states. Myers engaged in a Ponzi scheme by using some investor funds to repay prior investors, the indictment states. Myers, 41, of Chicago, is charged with four counts of wire fraud. Arraignment in federal court in Chicago is set for June 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Edmond E. Chang. The indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Hasten. The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Each count of wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. u.s._v._myers_no._26_cr_278_n.d._ill._-_indictment.pdf


title: North Carolina Man Who Trafficked Fentanyl Into Virginia Sentenced

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: CHARLOTESVILLE, Va. – A North Carolina man. who trafficked fentanyl from North Carolina into Virginia, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison. Semaj Montaque Sledge, 35, pled guilty to one count of distributing 400 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl. “Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have killed a quarter million Americans,” First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci said. “This office is committed to eradicating the illegal distribution of this toxin from the Western District of Virginia.” According to court documents, on August 26, 2025, Sledge traveled from North Carolina to Virginia to sell an individual approximately 252 grams of pressed fentanyl in exchange for $8,000. The transaction was observed by law enforcement. Several days later, Sledge once again traveled from North Carolina to Virginia to sell the same individual fentanyl. This time selling 437 grams of fentanyl in exchange for $14,500. This purchase was once again observed by law enforcement. A few weeks later, officers with the Virginia State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested Sledge along I-64 near Zions Crossroads in Virginia. First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Christopher Goumenis, DEA Washington Division Special Agent in Charge made the announcement. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Virginia State Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Swartz is prosecuting the case for the United States.


title: Honduran national pleads guilty to reentering U.S. illegally

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: BILLINGS – A man who previously had been removed from the country four times admitted to charges of illegal reentry today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. The defendant, Tony Noe Oviedo Zelaya, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of reentry to the United States after having been previously removed. Oviedo Zelaya faces 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided at the change of plea proceedings. U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Oct. 8, 2026. Oviedo Zelaya remained in custody pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Oviedo Zelaya is a native citizen of Honduras and that he illegally entered the United States on multiple occasions. West Yellowstone police officers pulled over Oviedo Zelaya on April 14, 2026, and discovered he was driving on a suspended license. They learned he was a Honduran national who had been removed from the country on four different occasions. The last time was March 21, 2025, when he was barred from returning to the U.S. for 20 years. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Immigration and Custom Enforcement conducted the investigation.


title: Blair County Man Sentenced to Over Eight Years in Prison for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A resident of Claysburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 97 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Derek Hunter, 34, on June 5, 2026. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around June 2024 to in and around August 2024, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Hunter conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Further, in and around August 2024, Hunter distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hunter.


title: United States Obtains $3.4M in a False Claims Act Judgment Against Nebraska Pharmacist

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: On May 29, 2026, the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska entered a default judgment for the United States totaling $3,423,389.84 against Joan Kicken and AME P.C. d/b/a Campbell Drug, for violations of the False Claims Act. The court entered this judgment after Kicken and AME failed to defend against the United States’ allegations. In its complaint, filed on October 31, 2025, the United States alleged that Kicken owned and operated AMC P.C. d/b/a Campbell Drug in Oshkosh, Nebraska, and sought to unjustly enrich herself by submitting fraudulent billing to Medicare and Medicaid. The complaint alleged that Kicken sought reimbursement from Medicaid for prescription drugs for which valid prescriptions were never issued, billed Medicaid for prescription drugs that were never dispensed, and billed Medicare and Medicaid for name-brand medications (with higher reimbursement rates) when Kicken dispensed generic versions of the same medications. It was further alleged that Kicken knew such actions and billing methods were improper, but she continued to do so for monetary benefit. “Medicaid and Medicare exist to ensure that every American has access to the care they need. Fraud against these programs is an attack on that promise,” said the United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods. “This case demonstrates that we will pursue healthcare fraud aggressively and without hesitation because protecting the integrity of our public health system is protecting the public itself.” “Those who defraud Medicaid and Medicare will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Linda T. Hanley, Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS/OIG). “HHS OIG will not hesitate to investigate, expose, and pursue individuals who knowingly steal from federal healthcare programs. When providers refuse to follow the law, we will take decisive action—alongside our federal and state partners—to protect these programs and the people they serve.” Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers said, “Medicaid funds are provided by hardworking taxpayers. Stolen Medicaid funds harm Nebraska’s most vulnerable citizens. Thanks to the partnership of the Medicaid Fraud Unit, USAO, and OIG, the stolen funds were recovered and will be returned to those who truly need them.” On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 800 HHS TIPS (800-447-8477). HHS-OIG and the State of Nebraska’s Medicaid Fraud and Patient Abuse Unit provided investigative support.


title: Jason Khan, Owner Of Foot Fetish Company, Charged In Manhattan Federal Court With Sex Trafficking Offenses

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today the unsealing of a three-count Indictment charging JASON KHAN with sex trafficking offenses. KHAN was arrested this morning in the Northern District of New York and will be presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer E. Willis. “As alleged, Jason Khan lured his victims in under the lucrative promise of being a foot model, before he repeatedly and violently sexually assaulted and raped them,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “We commend the victims for their courage in coming forward, and we urge anyone else who has been a victim of Khan, or knows anything about his alleged crimes, to do the same. Our investigation is ongoing.” “Jason Khan allegedly operated a website to exploit multiple women’s employment aspirations and lure them to hotel rooms before brutally raping them,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “The FBI-NYPD Human Trafficking Task Force continues to target sexual predators who abuse women.” “This defendant lured women to hotel rooms under the false pretense of offering employment opportunities, and then raped and sexually assaulted them,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “This horrific behavior has no place in our city, and we will not allow predators to prey on vulnerable women. The NYPD will always protect survivors of sexual assault and work to stop the deception, exploitation, and abuse of traffickers. I am thankful to the men and women of the NYPD, our partners at the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York for their tireless work to bring this perpetrator to justice.” As alleged in the Indictment and other filings and statements made in public court proceedings: From at least 2019 to 2021, KHAN, who resides primarily in New York City and Albany, operated the foot fetish website FootPadNYC.com. KHAN used his foot fetish website to lure and recruit victims to hotel rooms under the pretense of providing them with job opportunities as foot models. As depicted in the below image, the “Employment” section for KHAN’s website sought to attract foot models with the promise of “get[ting] paid to have your feet worshipped.” KHAN and others working with him then scheduled meetings with aspiring “foot models” in Manhattan hotel rooms. When the aspiring models showed up to be interviewed by KHAN, he sexually assaulted or raped them. On at least three occasions, KHAN deployed this playbook: scheduling interviews with women who were seeking professional opportunities as foot models and using the promise of this additional income to lure them to Manhattan hotel rooms. Once in the hotel room, KHAN raped or sexually assaulted the women—penetrating two of the victims vaginally and, among other things, forcibly putting the third victim’s feet on his penis. Each victim expressed her lack of consent to the sexual activity, but her non-consent was ignored by KHAN. Each of the victims reported her assault to law enforcement and others, and two of the victims performed rape kits in a hospital in the aftermath of their rapes. If you have been victimized by KHAN in any way, or have any additional information about his alleged illegal behavior, please call the FBI at 212-384-2700, reach out to us at JasonKhanVictims@fbi.gov, or fill out this questionnaire . KHAN is depicted below. * * * KHAN, 47, of Albany and New York, New York, is charged with three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, each of which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. The statutory maximum and mandatory penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI-NYPD Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in New York, as well as the assistance of FBI Albany and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. This case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg, Lisa Daniels, and Remy Grosbard are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitutes only allegations and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Panama City Serial Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Firearms

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

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – John D. Ford, 49, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This serial offender had a dozen prior felony convictions, and continued to not only illegally possess firearms but also trafficked those guns to other criminals. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute career criminals, like this defendant, to keep our communities safe.” Court documents reflect that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives assisted the Bay County Sheriff’s Office in the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Panama City. Three firearms were found in the defendant’s bedroom (a short-barreled shotgun and two pistols), along with job application paperwork with the defendant’s biographical information on it and court paperwork for the defendant. The defendant admitted that one of the firearms belonged to him. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s cellphone and discovered messages that indicated that the defendant was trading or selling the recovered firearms. The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms because of 12 prior felony convictions. Ford’s federal prison term will be followed by two years of supervised release. Forfeiture was ordered as to the recovered firearms. The case involved a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain. 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. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Tallahassee Convicted Felon Indicted for Possession of a Firearm & Ammunition

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Jarvis Wayne Myers, 40, has been indicted in federal court for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge. Myers appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick, in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida before United States District Court Judge Mark E. Walker. If convicted, Myers faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment. This case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emma Schwan and Jason R. Coody. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Justice Department Moves to Strip U.S. Citizenship from 17 Naturalized Sex Offenders, Fraudsters, Drug Dealers, and More

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Department of Justice announced today that it filed denaturalization actions in various U.S. district courts against 17 individuals accused of serious offenses—including sexual abuse of a minor, wire and bank fraud, and distributing drugs wholesale without a license. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a naturalized U.S. citizen’s citizenship may be revoked, and certificate of naturalization canceled, if the naturalization was illegally procured or procured by concealment of a material fact or by willful misrepresentation. “When criminal aliens exploit the naturalization process by breaking the law, there are consequences. Criminal aliens are lying about their past crimes, including drug dealers, sexual predators, and fraudsters. Gaining U.S. citizenship is a privilege and under the steadfast leadership of President Trump, this Department of Justice maintains a zero-tolerance policy for the abuse of this process,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “We continue to work around the clock with our interagency partners to make sure U.S. citizenship is granted to those who truly deserve it.” “American citizenship is a privilege, and it must be earned honestly. If you come here break our laws, and lie in your immigration proceedings, you forfeit that privilege ,” said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “DHS will not stand idly by while Americans are harmed by criminals including sex offenders, perpetrators of fraud, and drug traffickers who have exploited our generosity and gamed our immigration system. We will continue to use every lawful avenue to denaturalize and remove aliens.” “We will not turn a blind eye to those who unlawfully obtained U.S. citizenship,” Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Anyone thinking they can defraud the naturalization process should think again. We will continue to pursue anyone who unlawfully or fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship.” Leidys Delmas Garcia (Age 54/Cuba): Delmas Garcia is a native of Cuba who was convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The U.S. seeks an order revoking Delmas Garcia’s naturalization based on her admission in criminal proceedings that she and her co-conspirators established and operated 30 physical therapy clinics in Florida that fraudulently billed commercial insurance provider Blue Cross, Blue Shield approximately $36,728,595 for physical therapy services that were not medically necessary and/or never provided. During her naturalization interview, Delmas Garcia represented under penalty of perjury that she had not committed crimes for which she had not been arrested and that she had never given false or misleading information to any U.S. government official while applying for any immigration benefit. Neither was true. Jean Claude Alfred (Age 68/Haiti) : The United States filed a denaturalization action against Jean Claude Alfred, a native of Haiti who naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 1994. Beginning in September 1993, approximately one month before filing his naturalization application, Alfred repeatedly sexually abused his minor daughter and continued that conduct during the pendency of his naturalization proceedings. During the naturalization process, Alfred represented in his application and under oath that he had not committed any crime for which he had not been arrested and concealed his ongoing criminal conduct. In 1996, a Florida jury convicted Alfred of attempted sexual battery upon a child in a familial or custodial relationship and lewd, lascivious, and indecent assault upon a child under the age of 16 for Alfred's criminal conduct that began in September 1993, before he naturalized. The denaturalization complaint alleges that Alfred illegally procured his citizenship because he provided false testimony which prevented him from establishing good moral character required for naturalization. The complaint further alleges that Alfred obtained citizenship through the concealment and willful misrepresentation of material facts concerning his sexual abuse of a minor. Andrea Marroquin (Age 44/Colombia) : Marroquin is the daughter of a major Colombian drug trafficker who inherited his money when he died. She obtained permanent residence in the United States by concealing her bigamous marriage to a United States citizen. Between 2003 and 2011, she conspired to engage in wire and bank fraud and money laundering, using her late father’s drug money to finance fraudulent real estate transactions in Miami, Florida. She became a naturalized citizen in 2009 by concealing her crimes. The United States has brought four claims against Marroquin seeking her denaturalization, including claims she knowingly lied to immigration authorities and lacked the good moral character to become a U.S. citizen. Maria Lourdes Montoya (Age 63/Mexico): On June 4, 2026, the United States brought a denaturalization action against Maria Lourdes Montoya, who misrepresented her husband’s identify to secure permanent residence and later citizenship. In support of both her application for permanent residence and naturalization, Montoya represented herself to be the spouse of a U.S. Citizen—Gilberto Montoya. But Montya was never married to Gilberto Montoya, who died decades earlier. Instead, Montoya was marred to Ernesto Orozco-Viramontes, a Mexican national who had assumed the identity of Gilberto. Montoya was aware of her husband’s deception and leveraged it to obtain immigration benefits, including naturalized citizenship. The United States filed a five-count complaint against Montoya seeking to cancel her naturalized citizenship. Tahir Lekaj (Age 43/Yugoslavia) : Lekaj was admitted to the United States in August 1999 and subsequently obtained permanent residence. When he applied to naturalize in 2004, Mr. Lekaj wrote in his application that he had never committed a crime for which he had not been arrested. He later repeated that claim orally and under oath during his naturalization interview. His application was approved, and he naturalized in May 2005. However, in 2022, the State of Connecticut convicted Mr. Lekaj of two counts of sexually abusing a child under the age of 15 in January 2003. Evidence at trial indicated that the victim was 10 years old when the abuse began. The United States filed a complaint seeking to revoke Mr. Lekaj’s citizenship because he illegally procured his citizenship because he was unable to demonstrate the good moral character required of naturalization because of the sexual abuse. Additionally, Mr. Lekaj is subject to denaturalization because he willfully misrepresented or concealed the sexual abuse while seeking United States citizenship. Talman Harris (Age 49/Jamaica): Over an eight-year period, including during his 2012-2014 naturalization proceedings, Talman Harris, a native of Jamaica, conspired to manipulate the price and volume of shares of stock in publicly traded companies, causing more than $54 million to be invested in artificially controlled shares and an ultimate loss to investors of approximately $39 million from the scheme. In 2016, after Harris naturalized, a jury found him guilty of wire fraud and conspiring to commit securities fraud and wire fraud, with his fraudulent wire transfers and the conspiracy occurring during the period in which Harris was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character to naturalize. The denaturalization complaint against Harris alleges that, during the period in which he was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character, he committed a crime involving moral turpitude, committed unlawful acts that adversely reflected on his moral character, and falsely testified about his crime. The complaint additionally alleges that Harris willfully misrepresented the material fact of his crimes during his naturalization proceedings. Armando Mendoza (Age 39/Mexico): Before Mendoza naturalized, he began knowingly receiving sexually explicit images of minors as early as 2009. In his 2011 naturalization application and interview, however, Mendoza, a Mexico native, claimed that he had never committed a crime or offense for which he had not been arrested. In 2013, after he naturalized, Mendoza pled guilty to the receipt of such images. The denaturalization complaint against Mendoza alleges that, during the period in which he was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character, Mendoza was precluded from doing so because he had committed a crime involving moral turpitude, committed unlawful acts that adversely reflected on his moral character, and falsely testified about his crime. Additionally, the complaint alleges that Mendoza willfully misrepresented the material fact of his crime during his naturalization proceedings. Neeraj Sharma (Age 50/India): Neeraj Sharma, a native of India, was both the owner and chief executive officer of Magnavision LLC, a staffing company located in New Jersey. As an officer of Magnavision LLC, Sharma signed and filed eleven fraudulent H-1B visa petitions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). Each petition included false representations that the visa beneficiaries would be employed with a particular global financial institution, and also included letters on official corporate letterhead with forged signatures of the executives. In 2017, Sharma applied for naturalization, and under penalty of perjury, falsely asserted that he had never: (a) committed a crime or offense for which he was not arrested; (b) given any U.S. Government officials any information or documentation that was false or misleading; and (c) lied to any U.S. Government official to gain immigration benefits. Based on these material falsehoods, USCIS approved his application, and Defendant became a U.S. citizen in December 2017. Subsequently, Defendant was convicted of Fraud and Misuse of Visas, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1546, with the date of offense between April 25, 2015, through April 27, 2017. The United States seeks to revoke Defendant’s naturalization, pursuant to 8 U.S.C. § 1451(a), as an alien who illegally procured his naturalization by: (1) failing to disclose unlawful acts; (2) providing false testimony; and (3) concealment of a material fact and willful misrepresentation. Federico Michel Fermin (Age 54/Dominican Republic): From September 2004 through August 2005, Federico Michel Fermin, a native of the Dominican Republic, conspired with others to distribute more than $1.7 million in prescription drugs wholesale without a license. As part of the criminal conspiracy, Fermin altered drug packaging and caused it to be altered so that the prescription drugs that were distributed to pharmacies would appear to have been purchased from persons who were licensed to distribute them. On May 12, 2011, a jury convicted Fermin of conspiracy to distribute prescription drugs wholesale without a license, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. He was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment. However, during his naturalization process, Fermin represented, under penalty of perjury, that he had never knowingly committed any crime for which he had not been arrested and testified under oath to the same at his naturalization interview. Accordingly, Fermin illegally procured is naturalization as a United States citizen because he misrepresented and concealed facts that were material to determining his eligibility for naturalization. Abdikadir Ali Kadiye (Age 54/Somalia): On June 3, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota filed a civil denaturalization complaint in District of Minnesota against Abdikadir Ali Kadiye. Beginning in April of 1997, Kadiye sought admission to the United States by filing applications under two separate identities. Kadiye initially sought admission to the United States under the identity Liban M. Degel and he claimed that he was married with no children. After an immigration judge denied his application for immigration benefits, Kadiye submitted a second application under the identity of Abdikadir Ali Kadiye. After his naturalization, Kadiye admitted to a customs and border patrol agent that he had previously used two identities for admission for admission. Victor San Shing Kwok (Age 50/People’s Republic of China): On June 4, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney for the District of the Northern District of Georgia filed a civil denaturalization complaint against Victor San Shing Kwon in the Northern District of Georgia. In September 1994, Kwok sought admission to the United States under the identity of Xin Cheng Guo. After an immigration judge denied his application for an immigration benefit, Kwok sought admission to the United States by marrying a U.S. citizen. In his application to adjust his resident status, Kwok failed to disclose the prior denial of his prior application for an immigration benefit and his pending order of removal. There is no record that Kwok departed the United States as ordered by the immigration judge. Louise Hunkporti (Age 64/Congo): In 1995, Hunkporti applied for and was denied an immigration benefit. When he was denied the immigration benefit, Hunkporti adopted a new identity and submitted a falsified application using the new identity. Hunkporti naturalized as a U.S. citizen on March 2, 2010 under the adopted identity. After USCIS digitized its paper fingerprint cards, the U.S. Department of Justice discovered that the fingerprints Hunkporti submitted when she naturalized matched those she submitted when she applied for the immigration benefit in 1995. The complaint alleges eight counts for her numerous misrepresentations and unlawful acts that adversely reflect her moral character. Fernando Cristancho (Age 69/Colombia): Cristancho, an ordained Roman Catholic priest, entered the United States as a religious worker and then used his leadership position in the church to gain access to minor victims. In that capacity, Mr. Cristancho sexually groomed and abused a minor parishioner from when the victim was 11 to 13 years old. Mr. Cristancho later admitted to the crime—and egregious conduct involving other minor victims—and pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b), resulting in a 22-year prison sentence. The denaturalization complaint filed against Mr. Cristancho charges that he hid his ongoing crime from immigration officials, thereby illegally procuring his naturalization by concealing material facts and willfully misrepresenting his unlawful sexual activity and by his inability to demonstrate the requisite good moral character in support of his application. (Park/Burley) Ronnie Price (Age 40/Trinidad and Tobago): Before his naturalization in 2016, 30-year-old Ronnie Price had sexual intercourse with a female who was under 16 – a statutory rape crime to which he eventually pled guilty. During his naturalization proceedings, however, Price claimed he had never committed a crime for which he had not been arrested, he falsely testified to the same, and he concealed facts that would have uncovered his criminal activity. The denaturalization complaint alleges that Price engaged in unlawful conduct during a critical statutory period during which he was required by law to maintain good moral character, that he provided false testimony during his naturalization interview, and that he did so in order to conceal his crimes and willfully misrepresent material facts that would have revealed his ineligibility for the privilege of United States citizenship. Rodger George Gurdon (Age 55/Jamaica): Prior to naturalizing in 2011, Rodger George Gurdon, a native of Jamaica, engaged in a conspiracy to steal and resell medical products from military hospitals operated by the Department of Defense. Gurdon likewise engaged in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 100 kilograms of a substance containing marijuana. In 2013, after he naturalized, Gurdon pled guilty to Conspiring to Steal Pre-Retail Medical Products, Interstate Receipt of Stolen Property, and Conspiring to Distribute Marijuana, with the conspiracies occurring during the period in which Gurdon was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character to naturalize. The denaturalization complaint against Gurdon alleges that, during the period in which he was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character, Gurdon was precluded from doing so because he had committed unlawful acts that adversely reflected on his moral character, and falsely testified about his crimes. Additionally, the complaint alleges that Gurdon willfully misrepresented the material fact of his crimes during his naturalization proceedings. (McManus/Bic) Jheromell Obejera Arcilla (Age 39/Philippines): On Friday, June 5, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland filed a civil denaturalization complaint in the United States District Court in Greenbelt, Maryland, against Jheromell Obejera Arcilla, a native of the Philippines who, prior to his naturalization, began sexually abusing the 15-year-old daughter of his biological cousin, with whom he lived. The sexual abuse lasted for over a year, during which time Mr. Arcilla successfully naturalized. In 2020, a grand jury indicted Mr. Arcilla on three counts of sexual offenses in violation of the Maryland criminal code, and in 2021, Mr. Arcilla pleaded guilty to one of those counts, sex abuse of a minor. Mr. Arcilla lied about the commission of this crime in connection with his naturalization application. The United States has brought three claims against Mr. Arcilla seeking his denaturalization, including claims that he lacked the good moral character to become a U.S. citizen and that he knowingly lied to immigration authorities. Milagros Marileisis Acosta Torres (Age 40/Cuba): Before Milagros Marileisis Acosta Torres naturalized, she was part of a larger conspiracy to defraud a tribal casino in Florida. Her husband and several others stole millions of dollars from the casino by creating false credit vouchers. Acosta Torres subsequently engaged in various financial transactions involving the criminal proceeds to disguise the fact that they were obtained though fraud and to circumvent transaction reporting requirements imposed by federal and state law. But in her naturalization application and interview, Acosta Torres falsely claimed that she had never committed a crime or offense for which she had not been arrested. The denaturalization complaint against Acosta Torres alleges that she is subject to denaturalization because during the period in which she was statutorily required to demonstrate good moral character, she committed unlawful acts that adversely reflected on her moral character and falsely testified about her crime. Additionally, she willfully misrepresented the material fact of her crime during her naturalization proceedings. These cases were prosecuted by the Justice Department’s Office of Immigration Litigation, with assistance from USCIS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, Northern District of Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, and New Jersey. The claims made in the complaints are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Inmate Sentenced to Additional 57 Months of Incarceration for Racketeering Activity at Cambria County Prison

body_text: JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A former inmate at the Cambria County Prison was sentenced in federal court to an additional 57 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of conducting and participating in the affairs of an enterprise through racketeering activity, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendant is among 10 individuals charged through an Indictment unsealed in July 2025 with racketeering charges related to the Cambria County Prison (read the Indictment news release here ). United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Blake Young, 37, on June 5, 2026. Judge Haines ordered the sentence to be served consecutively to the 92-month prison sentence imposed on Young in May 2024 on his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of heroin, cocaine base, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2023 to in and around December 2023, while incarcerated at the Cambria County Prison, Young conducted and participated in the affairs of an enterprise through racketeering activity. Specifically, Young bribed correctional officers and medical staff to smuggle contraband into the prison, namely cell phones, K2, and Suboxone, which were then sold to other inmates for a substantial profit. To date, four of the 10 defendants in the case have pleaded guilty, with two now having been sentenced. Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, and the Cambria County Prison for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Young.


title: Former Tallahassee Postal Employee & Accomplice  Plead Guilty to Federal Crimes

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida –Taija Avion Smith, 25, and Jaheed Anthony Williams, 24, both of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit mail theft, theft of a mail key, bank fraud conspiracy, and multiple counts of aggravated identity theft. Williams also pleaded guilty to 14 counts of bank fraud. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Postal service employees occupy positions of public trust through which they are expected to responsibly process and deliver our nation’s mail. This defendant repeatedly violated that public trust while seeking to enrich herself and her co-defendant at the expense of others, but thanks to this multi-agency investigation and successful prosecution their scheme has been dismantled and federal prison awaits both defendants.” Court documents reflect that between March 11, 2021, and May 21, 2024, Smith was employed by the United States Postal Service, in Tallahassee, Florida. Due to her employment, Smith had access to a postal key, which she stole and gave to her co-defendant, Williams. Together, Smith and Williams conspired to steal U.S. Mail, which included stealing mailed checks that they fraudulently deposited in financial institutions and thereafter split the proceeds of their scheme. Court records also show that Smith fraudulently received and used online bank login credentials of other individuals as part of the conspiracy. Smith and Williams face the following penalties: up to 5 years’ imprisonment on the conspiracy to commit mail theft count; up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the unlawful possession or theft of a mail key; up to 30 years’ imprisonment on the bank fraud conspiracy count; and a mandatory consecutive term of 2 years’ imprisonment for each of the aggravated identity theft counts. Williams also faces up to 5 years’ imprisonment on the theft of mail count and up to 30 years’ imprisonment for each bank fraud count. This case was jointly investigated by the Tallahassee Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen. Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for July 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida, before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. Williams’s sentencing is scheduled for August 10, 2026, at 3:30 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida, before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Firearm and Ammunition

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to five months of incarceration on his conviction of violating federal firearms law, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Michael Allen Barnes, 42, also ordering Barnes to serve two years of supervised release following his imprisonment, with the first 150 days of supervised release to be served on home detention with location monitoring. According to information presented to the Court, on April 11, 2024, law enforcement arrested Barnes in downtown Pittsburgh pursuant to an outstanding Georgia arrest warrant. From the waistband of Barnes’ pants, law enforcement recovered a chambered pistol loaded with approximately nine rounds of ammunition. Barnes had been previously convicted of burglary in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Barnes. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: D.C. Man Sentenced to 26 Years for the October 2023 Murder of His Ex-Romantic Partner in Her Home

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Desmond Thurston, 48, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced yesterday in connection with the murder of 52-year-old Patricia Johnson, his ex-romantic partner, in October 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Thurston pleaded guilty on February 4, 2026, to one count of second-degree murder while armed in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. On June 5, 2026, the Honorable Judge Rainey Brandt ordered Thurston to serve 26 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. “By breaking into Patricia Johnson’s home in defiance of a court order and committing a horrific act of violence, Desmond Thurston showed a complete disregard for the law and for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “This sentence holds him accountable and affirms our dedication to protecting those who seek safety from abuse.” According to the government’s evidence, on September 28, 2023, Patricia Johnson called 911 to report that Thurston had threatened her. The two had been in a relationship for several years. The next day after Johnson called 911, she obtained a Temporary Protection Order (“TPO”) against Thurston. On September 30, 2023, Metropolitan Police Department officers responded twice to Ms. Johnson’s residence, which she had shared with Thurston for years, to advise Thurston that they could escort him in to get needed items, but that he was not allowed in the residence. Thurston returned to Johnson’s home around 3:00 a.m. on October 1, 2023, despite the TPO and warning from MPD, and broke in, snapping a chain lock off the wall. The defendant went upstairs where Johnson and a minor family member had been sleeping in different bedrooms. There was a brief exchange of words, and then Thurston shot Johnson once through her left wrist and neck, causing her to fall to the ground. The defendant then shot Johnson a second time, in the chest, while she was on the ground. Thurston went through Johnson’s devices and left the home. Thurston was arrested on October 1, 2023, and has remained in custody since. Joining in the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch. They acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zach Horton and Wes Faulkner Jr., who prosecuted the case. 2023 CF1 007099


title: Shooter Found Guilty of Killing One Man and Injuring Two Others in January 2019

body_text: WASHINGTON – Alonzo Brown, 29, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty yesterday in D.C. Superior Court, on charges related to the shooting death of 22-year-old Michael Taylor and injuring two others, on January 12, 2019, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Brown was found guilty of one count of first-degree murder while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of assault with intent to kill and one count of conspiracy on June 5, 2026. This case went to trial in May of 2025 but resulted in a hung jury. Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson scheduled sentencing for October 16, 2026. “By firing 72 rounds into an apartment complex, Alonzo Brown and his co‑conspirators carried out an act of extraordinary violence that claimed a young man’s life and injured two others,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “This verdict brings long‑awaited justice to the victims and sends a clear message that such reckless disregard for human life will not be tolerated.” According to the government’s evidence, on January 12, 2019, Brown, and four other co-conspirators, who associated themselves with the Pentacles Apartment Complex or “Walkdown” wanted to exact revenge for the murder of their friend, Shamar Marbury, which had occurred 11 days earlier. It was believed that Shamar was murdered by a rival, the Benning Court Complex or “BC Da Army” with whom the Pentacles group had been “beefing” for close to two years. A “beef” that culminated in a series of shootings, including the murder of Shamar Marbury. Marbury was laid to rest on January 11, 2019. The day after Marbury’s funeral, the defendants executed their plan to retaliate in a brazen daylight shooting that targeted five other young men from Benning Court. Together, the defendant and his co-defendants, drove to the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE, drove past the complex looking for targets against whom to retaliate. As they passed the Benning Court Apartments, they looked through the glass front of 1707 and saw a group of young men inside. They continued driving past and parked their car out of sight. They left a get-away driver in the car, and the defendant and three others walked into the Benning Court complex. They entered 1707 and fired 72 rounds, killing the victim, Michael Taylor, and injuring two of his friends. Unbeknownst to the shooters, however, they were captured on video before, during, and as they fled to their awaiting gateway car. The shooting lasted only 8 seconds. One of the shooters, Carlos Turner, pleaded guilty to second degree murder while armed and conspiracy to commit a violent crime. Another shooter, Stephon Evans, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed. Brown was arrested on January 23, 2019. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nebiyu Feleke and Marybeth Manfreda. 2019 CF1 001059


title: Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Prison for Drug Distribution Resulting in Death of a Minor and the Sale of Drugs and Machineguns on Telegram App

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Fall River, Mass. man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for drug distribution resulting in the death of a minor, as well as multiple other charges associated with his sale of drugs, machineguns and firearm parts on the Telegram app. Benjamin Hunt, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 23 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In December 2025 , Hunt pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl, MDMA, MDA, Ketamine and LSD resulting in death; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; two counts of unlawful transfer and possession of a machinegun; and one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and cocaine. Hunt was arrested and charged in August 2024 on drug and firearm charges and was later charged with additional crimes, including drug distribution resulting in the death of a minor. From at least 2022 through 2024, Benjamin Hunt operated an online marketplace on the Telegram application through which he advertised and sold large quantities of controlled substances and firearms to customers across the United States. Hunt controlled multiple Telegram accounts and used the platform to conduct drug and weapons transactions while concealing his identity and seeking payment primarily in cryptocurrency. Through his Telegram marketplace, Hunt offered for sale numerous dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, LSD, MDMA, ketamine and counterfeit pharmaceutical pills made to resemble oxycodone but containing fentanyl. Hunt also advertised firearms and firearm components, including privately made firearms (“ghost guns”) and machinegun conversion devices (“switches”), some of which he manufactured himself using 3-D printing technology. Hunt typically required payment via Bitcoin, though in some instances accepted CashApp, and then shipped the contraband through the U.S. Postal Service, either directly or through suppliers. In February, May and June 2024, Hunt sold counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to an undercover law enforcement officer, including quantities exceeding 40 grams of fentanyl. During one of these transactions, Hunt simultaneously sold a privately made Glock-style firearm and multiple machinegun conversion devices along with an extended magazine and 3D printed brass knuckles. In August 2024, Hunt mailed an additional package containing approximately 1,600 fentanyl pills to undercover law enforcement in exchange for cryptocurrency. Law enforcement intercepted multiple packages being sent to or from Hunt, including one package sent by him that contained a smoke grenade and one package sent to an address associated with him that contained 13 switches or machinegun conversion devices. A search at Hunt’s residence resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA and ketamine, as well as an arsenal of firearms and firearm components, including dozens of privately made firearms, machinegun conversion devices, silencers, extended magazines, large quantities of ammunition and 3-D printers used to manufacture firearm parts. In total, approximately 95 firearms and related items were seized. Law enforcement in Massachusetts learned about an overdose death of an out of state 17-year-old minor in May 2023. Investigators uncovered evidence of Hunt having communicated with the victim through the Telegram app and offering various drugs for sale. The minor purchased multiple drugs from Hunt. Hunt sought payment in Bitcoin, but when the minor did not have access to Bitcoin, Hunt agreed to receive payment via Cashapp. Hunt then mailed drugs to the minor out of state through the U.S. mail. Messages between Hunt and the minor in the hours leading to the minor’s death were uncovered, including messages discussing the minor’s consumption of drugs that had been supplied by Hunt. The drugs distributed by Hunt—including fentanyl, MDMA, MDA, ketamine and LSD—were determined to be the but-for cause of the minor’s death, which was ruled an acute mixed drug intoxication. As part of his plea, Hunt admitted that his distribution of these drugs resulted in the minor victim’s death. “Benjamin Hunt’s decision to sell lethal drugs and guns online is the reason a family lost their child,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “This case is a stark reminder that drug dealers are no longer just on street corners. They are online preying on our children via phones and computers and pushing highly addictive and deadly drugs. We will continue track them down wherever they are and hold them accountable. Today’s sentence is warranted and a step in the right direction to ending the opioid epidemic.” “Today’s sentence holds Benjamin Hunt accountable for a crime that ended a young life and forever changed a family,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “Drug traffickers who distribute dangerous substances without regard for human life are fueling a public safety crisis in communities across Massachusetts and the nation. DEA and our law enforcement partners remain committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those who profit from the distribution of deadly drugs. We hope this substantial sentence provides a measure of justice for the victim’s loved ones and serves as a reminder that those responsible for overdose deaths will be aggressively pursued and held accountable.” “The severity of this sentence highlights the dangers of distributing both drugs and machinegun conversion devices. Independently, each has the potential to ruin lives and endanger the public. Taken together, Benjamin Hunt’s conduct could only lead to harm, and in this case a seventeen-year-old was killed as a result. Today’s sentence not only imposes a measure of justice but should serve to remind anyone considering selling fentanyl or machinegun conversion devices: you are responsible for the consequences of those actions,” said Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message: those who profit from poisoning and endangering our communities with drugs and guns cannot remain anonymous through the Internet. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is relentlessly targeting the individuals and networks responsible for distributing deadly narcotics and firearms through the U.S, Mail. With strong enforcement, intelligence-driven investigations, and strategic partnerships, we are working every day to disrupt these groups and save American lives,” said Jason Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division U.S. Attorney Foley, DEA SAC Forget, ATF SAC Greco, USPIS Acting INC Buckley, New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody and Fairhaven Police Chief Daniel Dorgan made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in New England; the Massachusetts State Police; and the Attleboro, Fall River, Norton, Scituate and Taunton Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kunal Pasricha and J. Mackenzie Duane of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.


title: Three New Mexico Men Charged with Conspiracy to Transport Aliens and Conspiracy to Kill a Witness As a Result of Joint Task Force Alpha and Homeland Security Task Force Investigation

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A federal grand jury in the District of New Mexico returned a superseding indictment charging Wilfrido Saenz, 29; Ignacio Jaramillo, 22; and his brother, Ismael Jaramillo, 35, all of New Mexico, for their roles in a scheme to transport aliens and later murder a witness to that crime. According to court documents, between June 2021 and April 2024, Saenz, Ignacio Jaramillo, and Ismael Jaramillo conspired to transport illegal aliens. Saenz and Ignacio Jaramillo are also charged with conspiracy to kill a witness in April 2024 in retaliation for providing law enforcement information about the scheme to transport illegal aliens. “The superseding indictment in this case highlights the dangers associated with human smuggling,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The criminal networks engaging in this do not care about the people they are smuggling. They only care about money and themselves. They endanger lives and will commit heinous crimes if they believe their network has been exposed and their livelihood is on the line. Through Joint Task Force Alpha working with the District of New Mexico, DOJ will prosecute this case to the end with the victims at the forefront of seeking justice.” “Human smuggling operations fuel violence, exploit vulnerable people, and threaten the safety of communities on both sides of the border,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “The allegations in this case reflect the ruthless nature of these criminal organizations and the lengths they are willing to go to protect their operations. Alongside our dedicated law enforcement partners, our office remains unwavering in our commitment to disrupt these networks and hold those who orchestrate them fully accountable.” “Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) efforts to dismantle human smuggling organizations directly enhance public safety by disrupting criminal networks that endanger lives and exploit vulnerable individuals,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan McRae of the HSI El Paso Field Office. “By targeting those who profit from illegal smuggling, HSI protects communities from associated violence and criminal activity, ensuring safer neighborhoods. HSI will not tolerate individuals who attempt to obstruct justice or intimidate those who cooperate with law enforcement.” “The charges announced today send a clear message: individuals who engage in organized criminal activity, exploit vulnerable people, or resort to violence to obstruct justice will face the full weight of the law,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “The FBI and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to community safety, combating violent crime, and bringing justice to victim's families.” Saenz, Ignacio Jaramillo, and Ismael Jaramillo are charged with conspiracy to transport illegal aliens while Saenz and Ignacio Jaramillo are charged with conspiracy to retaliate against a witness resulting in her death. If convicted of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, Saenz and Ignacio and Ismael Jaramillo each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. If convicted of conspiracy to retaliate against a witness, Saenz and Ignacio Jaramillo face a maximum penalty of life in prison. Saenz and Ignacio Jaramillo are also charged with two counts each of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Saenz had previously been convicted of alien smuggling, fraudulently obtaining a motor vehicle, and possession of drug paraphernalia, among other offenses. Ignacio Jaramillo was previously convicted in New Mexico of aggravated assault on a peace officer with a deadly weapon, a third-degree felony and aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer, a fourth-degree felony. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Randy Castellano and Maria Armijo for the District of New Mexico are prosecuting the case. These charges and prosecution are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), IRS Criminal Investigation, Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), with assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force. The investigation and indictment were supported by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 458 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 408 U.S. convictions; and more than 357 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Columbia Man Sentenced to Over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Guns and Drugs

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Christopher Kentrell Jones, 33, of Columbia, has been sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison for distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted four controlled purchases of cocaine and two controlled purchases of firearms from Jones at a residence on Colleton St. in Columbia. During one of the purchases, Jones sold both a firearm and approximately one ounce of cocaine in a single transaction. A grand jury indicted Jones for charges related to the controlled purchase, and when members of the ATF and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department arrested Jones on that indictment, he was found in possession of 125 oxycodone pills and approximately 1 ounce of crack cocaine. While Jones was in custody on his federal charges, he used phone calls and messages to recruit a coconspirator to continue to traffic cocaine, crack cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana on his behalf from his residence in Columbia. ATF executed a search warrant on Jones’ residence and found approximately 1 ounce of crack cocaine, 5 ounces of cocaine, 22 ounces of marijuana, and five firearms. Jones has prior convictions for possession of crack cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced Christopher Jones to 148 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Federal Jury Convicts Pennsylvania Man for Making Death Threats Against Chief Executive Officer of Tampa General Hospital

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Lawrence Brunn (63, Pennsylvania) guilty of cyber harassment. The defendant faces a maximum of five years in federal prison. His sentencing will be set at a later date. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Brunn began harassing J.C., the CEO of Tampa General Hospital, at least as far back as 2022. Brunn’s online harassment increased in frequency and intensity over the last two years. Brunn’s threats called for the execution of J.C. and frequently referred to J.C.’s beheading utilizing a guillotine. In one post from April 9, 2025, Brunn stated that J.C. “should have his head chopped off” and further stated that J.C. “should be scared…of we the people.” In addition to online postings, Brunn also sent mailings to J.C.’s private residence, as well as J.C.’s neighbors’ residences, and members of the Board of Trustees for Tampa General Hospital. This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Candace Garcia Rich.


title: New Jersey Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Launder Over $500,000 Obtained from Internet-Related Frauds

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: TRENTON, N.J. – An Edison, New Jersey man was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment for laundering money obtained from a variety of internet-based scams, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner sentenced Kenny Osas Okuonghae, 38, of Edison, NJ to 51 months of incarceration yesterday. Judge Castner also ordered 3 years of supervised release and $1,275,190 in restitution. Okuonghae previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner on April 29, 2025, to Count One of an Indictment charging him with conspiring to commit money laundering. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: From approximately 2019 through approximately December 2023, Okuonghae laundered money that was obtained from a variety of internet-related scams, including property rental scams, romance scams, and a “pig butchering” scam. “Pig butchering” refers to an internet scheme where a romance scam victim develops what the victim perceives to be a romantic relationship online with the perpetrator. The perpetrator emotionally “fattens” the victim up before enticing the victim to invest in a fake scheme and then, metaphorically, “slaughters” the victim by taking the victim’s money. Okuonghae opened up several different bank accounts across at least seven different banks and permitted the proceeds of criminal activity to be deposited into and transferred out of these accounts. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, with the investigation leading to the sentence. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the Cybercrime Unit in Newark. ### Defense counsel: Loraine Gauli-Rufo, Cedar Grove, New Jersey.


body_text: Manchester Man Indicted for Bank Robbery CONCORD – Michael Cote of Manchester, age 44, was indicted by a federal Grand Jury for unarmed bank robbery, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. He will appear in federal court in Concord on a later date. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, Cote robbed a TD Bank located at 300 Franklin Street in Manchester, New Hampshire, on December 11, 2025. The charging statutes provides a sentence of up to twenty years for unarmed bank robbery. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation with valuable assistance provided by the Manchester Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Anderson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Rombeau.


title: Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty after Knife Attack Leaves One Person Dead, Another Seriously Injured

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – CHARLES ALLEN REDNOSE , 21, of Oklahoma City, has pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country and voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, on November 6, 2025, Rednose and several others visited a casino outside of Anadarko, Oklahoma. Eventually, several members of the group left the casino to pick up another individual, planning to return to the casino afterward. Rednose remained at the casino to continue gambling. After picking up the individual and returning, the group discovered that Rednose was no longer at the casino. They drove back toward Anadarko and spotted Rednose walking along Highway 281. They stopped their vehicle, and two members of the group attempted to persuade Rednose to get into the car. Rednose, upset at being left behind at the casino, refused, and a struggle ensued. During the altercation, Rednose stabbed both individuals. They were taken to a nearby hospital, where one victim died from their injuries, and the other was flown to Oklahoma City for life-saving treatment. After speaking with witnesses, law enforcement located Rednose on the side of Highway 281, and he was arrested. On May 5, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Rednose with assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country and voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country. On June 3, 2026, Rednose pleaded guilty to the charges listed above and admitted that he knowingly assaulted one individual, causing serious bodily injury, and killed another individual. This case is in federal court because Rednose is a member of the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma and the crimes occurred within the boundaries of Indian Country lands of the Wichita, Caddo, and Delaware Tribes north of Anadarko. At sentencing, Rednose faces up to 25 years in federal prison and fines of up to $500,000. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Anadarko Police Department, and the Caddo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Arvo Q. Mikkanen and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Ganote are prosecuting the case. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Five Massachusetts and Rhode Island Men Indicted for Operating Cross-State Drug Dispatch Network That Flooded New Hampshire with Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, in New Hampshire Homeland Security Task Force Investigation CONCORD – Five men have been indicted in Homeland Security Task Force Investigation for their roles in a 30-month cross-state drug trafficking conspiracy that targeted Manchester and Seabrook communities with more than three pounds of methamphetamine and more than a half kilogram of fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Reimon Pena Rodriguez, 34, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Hansel Rodriguez Arias, 41, of Lawrence, Massachusetts; Johan Peguero Santana, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts; Arismendy Paulino Paulino, 37, of Lawrence, Massachusetts; and Yomar Mercedes Medina, 36, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Pena Rodriguez was originally charged by complaint and has been in federal custody since his arrest on April 2, 2026. Rodriguez Arias and Peguero Santana are in New Hampshire state custody on related charges. Paulino Paulino and Mercedes Medina have not yet been arrested. According to the charging document and statements made in court during prior related proceedings, from September 2023 through April 2026, Pena Rodriguez ran a drug dispatch network using six dedicated phone lines to accept narcotics orders and direct co-conspirators Rodriguez Arias, Peguero Santana, Paulino Paulino, and Mercedes Medina to complete street-level drug sales at prearranged locations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Law enforcement conducted numerous undercover purchases from the organization during the course of the investigation, seizing more than three pounds of methamphetamine and more than a half kilogram of fentanyl. The charge against the defendants carries a penalty of not less than 10 years and up to life in federal prison, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $10,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. DEA and the Manchester Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar A. Vega is prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.