title: Federal Trial Jury Convicts Former New Orleans Police Officer for Insurance Fraud and Bribery Schemes

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that a federal jury has convicted CHRISTIAN CONRAD CLAUS (“CLAUS”) , age 57, after a two-week trial of one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349; one count of Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; one count of Conspiracy to Use a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1952(a); one count of Use of a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3); and one count of Making a False Statement to a Federal Agent, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2). The jury did not reach a verdict on one count of Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341. Speaking to today’s conviction, First Assistant United States Attorney, and Acting Criminal Chief, Michael M. Simpson stated: “Today’s verdict is a testament to the combined dedication and commitment of our office, in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to ceaselessly pursue justice. Mr. Claus’s actions constituted a blatant breach of public trust, that threatened to undermine the public’s confidence in law enforcement. We will not allow public corruption, such as that perpetrated by Mr. Claus, to escape prosecution.” “Mr. Claus flagrantly abused his trusted position as a sworn law enforcement officer to enrich himself. Actions like these erode public trust in law enforcement, and the FBI will continue its efforts to hold all who abuse that trust accountable.” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Charles Koger of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI thanks the jury and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance in finding justice in this case.” The indictment alleges that in 2019, CLAUS , who was then an NOPD police officer, conspired with a New Orleans homeowner, and a Nevada art appraiser, to submit a fraudulent insurance claim. The claim reported that valuable paintings had been stolen from the insured’s house, when in truth, the paintings were neither valuable, nor stolen. In this case, the homeowner agreed, in exchange for CLAUS using his police position to further the scheme, to share the insurance proceeds with CLAUS ,and to provide CLAUS with assistance in obtaining employment positions. The fraud and fraud conspiracy charges are each punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment. The bribery, bribery conspiracy, and false statement charges are each punishable by up to five years imprisonment. Sentencing for each count of conviction, also includes a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee. The homeowner, Fouad K. Zeton, and the appraiser, Michael Jon Schofield, previously pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Sentencing has been scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. before Chief United States District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter, as well as the valuable efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Victim-Witness Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright, were in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: Chicago Man Charged With Transporting Child Pornography on Flight to Mexico

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — A Chicago man has been charged with transporting child pornography on a flight from Chicago to Mexico. THOMAS NEAL, 42, possessed images and videos of child pornography on his cell phone when he flew from O’Hare International Airport in Chicago to Benito Juárez International Airport in Mexico City, Mexico, on June 17, 2026, according to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Upon arrival, Neal was selected for secondary screening by Mexican border authorities, at which time the authorities observed images on Neal’s phone that constituted child pornography, the complaint states. Mexican border authorities secured Neal’s phone and other luggage, which included two laptops and six electronic storage devices, and placed him and the luggage on a flight to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas, the complaint states. Upon arrival in Houston, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents reviewed Neal’s phone pursuant to their border search authority and observed hundreds of files that constitute child pornography, the complaint states. Neal is currently employed as a teacher at a high school in the Northern District of Illinois, the complaint states. The complaint charges Neal with one count of transportation of child pornography. The charge is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in a federal prison and a maximum of 20 years. Neal is currently detained in federal custody pending a detention hearing on June 29, 2026, at 12:30 p.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gabriel A. Fuentes in Chicago. The complaint was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of HSI. Substantial assistance was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin Walgamuth. The public is reminded that a complaint 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. If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by logging on to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1-800-843-5678. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. neal_complaint.pdf


title: St. Paul Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Stolen Federal Firearms

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Alexio Miranda, 32, has pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen firearm, an offense that could carry a maximum of 10 years in prison. According to court documents, on January 14, 2026, Miranda participated in a violent civil disturbance in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in which he and others broke into a vehicle belonging to the FBI. When Miranda and an accomplice arrived, the FBI vehicle was already badly damaged, covered in graffiti, and the rear hatch was open. Miranda then broke into a vault in the cargo area and took a rifle bag and a satchel of ammunition. The bag contained a semiautomatic rifle and a silencer. Two days later, police arrested Miranda and recovered the rifle and silencer. A grand jury indicted Miranda for one count each of possessing a stolen firearm, possessing an unregistered firearm, and theft of government property. On June 26, 2026, Miranda pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim to one count of possessing a stolen firearm. Miranda’s sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2026. “This case shows that actions which endanger the public and interfere with federal law enforcement operations carry serious consequences,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Our office remains committed to pursuing accountability for those who lack respect for the law.” “This defendant made a series of deliberate choices that put a stolen firearm into the hands of a prohibited person: Raul Gutierrez, an alleged Latin Kings gang member. Today Miranda is taking responsibility for those choices,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “ATF and our law enforcement partners stayed committed to seeing this case through, and we will continue to hold accountable anyone who chooses to endanger public safety. That accountability is how we keep our neighborhoods safe.” “Today’s guilty plea reflects ATF’s dedicated efforts in addressing this dangerous criminal conduct that threatens community safety and undermines the lawful exercise of First Amendment rights. The FBI is proud to have assisted ATF in this case, and together with the USAO, DEA, and our state and local law enforcement partners, we remain committed to ensuring individuals are held accountable through the federal justice system,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jeanne Semivan are prosecuting this case.


title: Chicago Man Arrested in Connection with Planned Violent Attack at Ultimate Fighting Championship Event at White House

component: National Security Division (NSD)

body_text: A Chicago man has been arrested in connection with the planned violent attack at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event at the White House earlier this month. Alexander Iniguez Mercado, 20, of Chicago, was allegedly an administrator and member of Signal messaging groups that included members who appeared to communicate with others regarding the planning of a violent attack targeting the UFC event at the White House on June 14, according to an indictment returned Thursday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Seven other individuals from multiple states have been charged in connection with the planning of the violent attack. More information about the other defendants charged as part of this investigation is here and here . According to the indictment against Mercado, the day before the UFC event, a special agent from the FBI spoke with Mercado by telephone. The agent informed Mercado that he was calling to discuss online threats regarding the UFC event, and he asked whether Mercado planned to travel to Washington, D.C., to help with the attack, the indictment states. Mercado allegedly denied those plans and advised the agent that he did not want to meet with the agent. Mercado then uninstalled the Signal application on his phone, which caused the data on his phone relating to those messages to become unavailable, the indictment states. Mercado is charged with obstruction of justice. If convicted, the maximum penalty is 20 years in prison. Mercado was arrested on Thursday. He is scheduled to make an initial appearance in federal court in Chicago today at 3:00 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gabriel A. Fuentes for the Northern District of Illinois. “Obstructing justice in a law enforcement investigation into a planned violent domestic attack is a profoundly serious offense,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros for the Northern District of Illinois. “The investigation in this case involved serious threats to public safety, including the safety of President Donald J. Trump, the 45th and 47th President of the United States of America, other members of government, as well as the many attendees and athletes who attended the event at the White House. Any obstructive conduct to interfere with this investigation undermines the integrity of the justice system as well as the rule of law. The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office will pursue all appropriate charges against those who act to obstruct law enforcement investigations because safeguarding the public depends on the full, unhindered pursuit of the evidence.” “The FBI’s most important responsibility of protecting the American people means that our personnel work 24/7/365 to evaluate the ever-changing threat landscape and disrupt acts of violence before they occur,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the FBI’s Chicago Field Office. “Thanks to the partnerships on the FBI Chicago’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, to include the relentless work by the U.S. Secret Service, this attack was successfully foiled before any innocent people were gravely injured or killed. While the FBI will continue to use every available resource to hold accountable those who seek to terrorize our community, we urge the public to join us in this effort by immediately calling 9-1-1, 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submitting to tips.fbi.gov if they encounter any suspicious or threatening behavior, in-person or online.” “The safety and security of the President of the United States and all those under our protection is the U.S. Secret Service’s highest priority,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge James Morley of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) Chicago Field Office. “We approach this mission with dedication and vigilance in the current heightened threat environment. Successfully carrying out our protective mission is strengthened by strong partnerships. I want to thank the FBI for its steadfast collaboration and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of Illinois for its relentless pursuit of justice.” The FBI and USSS are investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois is prosecuting the case with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s National Security Division. An indictment merely contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Lincoln Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Exploitation Crime

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Cody Bullman, 35, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced June 25, 2026, in federal court in Lincoln for attempted receipt of child pornography. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Bullman to 60 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Bullman’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release. In March of 2024, a Facebook profile of an undercover officer, presenting themselves as a 13-year-old female, was sent a “friend request” from a Facebook profile determined to belong to Bullman. The undercover officer and Bullman communicated briefly. Then in May of 2024, Bullman asked the undercover officer, “you down to hook up?” The undercover officer responded, indicating to Bullman they were only 13 years old. Bullman said he was okay with that and told the undercover officer, “I just wanna [sic] say your [sic] attractive.” Later in the conversation Bullman sent a sexually explicit photo. Bullman then asked the undercover officer for sexually explicit images or videos of the minor, indicating he would not “do anything with your nudes. It’s for my viewing only.” This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations.


title: Former Church Employee Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling Funds

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: TOLEDO, Ohio – A 43-year-old woman has been sentenced to prison for embezzling money from a church where she was previously employed. Shenia Watson, aka Shenia Brown, of Toledo, Ohio, was sentenced to 40 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary, after she pleaded guilty in February to Wire Fraud, Access Device Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft. Judge Zouhary also ordered Watson to serve three years of supervised release and pay $410,574.39 in restitution. According to court documents, Watson was an employee of Perfecting Church in Toledo, Ohio. As a church employee, Watson was responsible for managing parishioner donations. Investigators discovered that from about June 2019, to June of 2023, Watson used her position at the church to embezzle church funds from an app that was used to receive donations from parishioners. To conceal her embezzlement activities, Watson knowingly provided the board of directors with fraudulent monthly financial summary reports. Additionally, Watson secured a credit card in the name of the church’s pastor and used it to pay church expenses to conceal its true financial condition and to conceal her embezzlement activities. This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Dexter Phillips led the prosecution.


title: Two Illegal Aliens Sentenced in International ATM “Jackpotting” Conspiracy with Ties to Tren de Aragua

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Carlos Javier Padron, 36, an illegal alien from Venezuela, was sentenced yesterday to 78 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to deploy malware and steal millions of dollars from ATMs in the United States, a crime commonly referred to as “ATM jackpotting.” His co-defendant, Oddry Arnoldo Cabrera Torrealba, also known as “Luis Alejandro Berdugo Barraza,” 37, an illegal alien from Venezuela, was sentenced on June 11, to 78 months in prison for similar conduct. “Carlos Javier Padron and Oddry Arnoldo Cabrera Torrealba helped deploy sophisticated malware as part of a transnational criminal network that hacked ATMs across the United States and stole millions of dollars through a technique known as ATM jackpotting – which caused bank ATMs to dispense the cash inside of them,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Crimes like this undermine the security of our financial institutions and fuel the operations of violent transnational criminal organizations such as Tren de Aragua (TdA). This sweeping investigation with the District of Nebraska and our law enforcement partners has disrupted this network at all levels. We will protect our financial institutions from technology enabled fraud.” “ATM jackpotting is TdA’s business plan and their assessed primary source of revenue to fund their terrorist activities that range from reprehensible forms of human trafficking to armed robbery, murder, and the general undermining of America’s national security by flooding our communities with controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods for the District of Nebraska. “We will use these prosecutions to put a chokehold on their funding pipeline.” “TdA is a violent terrorist organization relying on a range of criminal activities to generate revenue supporting their campaigns of violence and terror,” said Special Agent in Charge Euguene Cowel of the FBI Omaha Field Office. “As criminal enterprises change tactics, we surge resources and adapt accordingly to protect the American people. FBI Omaha will continue standing shoulder to shoulder with our local, state, and federal partners in the fight to dismantle and disrupt the activities of TdA locally and globally.” “These individuals participated in a crime that was both an attack on the American financial system, and an effort by Tren De Aragua to fund even more terror in our country,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Rick Sabatini of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Kansas City. “I’m proud of our agents and partners for working tirelessly to pursue justice and put consumers at ease, knowing their bank’s health is sound and not at risk of being damaged by violent, dangerous criminals.” According to court documents, Padron and Torrealba were part of a sophisticated criminal network responsible for ATM jackpottings throughout the United States. The members of the network conspired to develop and deploy a variant of malware known as Ploutus, which was deployed on ATMs and used to permit the unauthorized withdrawal of currency. The conspiracy relied on individuals including Padron and Torrealba to deploy the Ploutus malware onto ATMs in person. Once installed and activated, the malware permitted the co-conspirators to issue commands to the cash dispensing module of the ATM in order to force unauthorized withdrawals of currency. The Ploutus malware also was designed to delete evidence of its existence to prevent financial institutions from detecting its use on ATMs. Padron and Torrealba were arrested by the Lincoln, Nebraska Police Department at the site of a jackpotting in October 2024. Padron and Torrealba both pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank burglary and one count of computer fraud and intentional damage to a protected computer. At their respective sentencings, the Court also ordered both Padron and Torrealba to jointly pay $1,537,696 in restitution to the multiple victim banks. Following the arrest of Padron and Torrealba, a comprehensive federal investigation identified a network of co-conspirators throughout the United States and abroad. Since the arrests of Padron and Torrealba, 96 other defendants have been indicted for their roles in this conspiracy for related offenses including material support to a designated foreign terror organization, bank burglary, money laundering, damage and unauthorized access to protected computers, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit the same offenses. The investigation has established extensive direct and indirect links between the indicted co-conspirators and TdA. According to court documents, TdA is a violent transnational criminal organization that originated as a prison gang in Venezuela in the mid-2000s. TdA has expanded its criminal network throughout the Western Hemisphere and established a presence in the United States. TdA’s criminal activities range from drug trafficking and firearms trafficking to commercial sex trafficking, kidnapping, robbery, theft, fraud, and extortion. TdA members also commit murder, assault, and other violent acts to advance the organization’s criminal activities. TdA has also developed an additional source of revenue stream through financial crimes that target financial institutions throughout the United States, including using ATM jackpotting to steal millions of dollars in cash. FBI’s Omaha Field Office and HSI Omaha are investigating the case, with assistance from FBI’s Denver, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Oklahoma, Sacramento, Seattle, and Springfield Field Offices, and the United States Secret Service, U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of the Inspector General, Financial Deposit Insurance Corporation, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Appanoose County Sheriff’s Office, Bates County Sheriff’s Office, Sheridan Police Department, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Leesburg Police Department, Sterling Heights Police Department, Kearney Police Department, Warrant Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Colombus Police Department, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Bluff City Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Lincoln Police Department, Gothenburg Police Department, Loudon Police Department, Alcoa Police Department, Milford Police Department, Grand Island Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Papillion Police Department, Central City Police Department, Holdrege Police Department, New York State Police, Berkeley Police Department, Cook County Electronic Monitoring Unit, Aurora Police Department, Austin Police Department, U.S. Capitol Police, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, City of Rome Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, McCook Police Department, Nebraska DMV Crime Analysts, Rantoul Police Department, Olathe Police Department, North Platte Police Department, Walla Walla Police Department, Milton-Freewater Police Department, Missoula Police Department, Omaha Police Department, Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, Sidney Police Department, Denver Police, Howard County Sheriff’s Office, St. Paul Police Department, Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office, Glendale Police Department, Columbia Police Department, Brookfield Police Department, Wauwatosa Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Grafton Police Department, South Milwaukee Police Department, Dubuque Police Department, Fargo Police Department, and Paducah Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, and Joint Task Force Vulcan. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Washington, Eastern District of California, Southern District of New York, Northern District of Illinois, Central District of Illinois, Eastern District of Oklahoma and Eastern District of Wisconsin, as well as the Larimer County Attorney’s Office, Colorado Attorney General’s Office, Tennessee 9th District Attorney General’s Office, Tennessee 5th District Attorney General’s Office, the Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police have provided significant assistance. This Operation 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 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 Omaha comprises agents and officers from the FBI and HSI with the prosecution being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska. Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV) was created in 2019 to eradicate MS-13 and now expanded at the direction of the Attorney General to target TdA. JTFV is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; Eastern and Western Districts of North Carolina; Western District of Virginia; Southern District of Florida; Eastern District of Texas; Western District of Oklahoma; Northern District of Indiana; District of Nevada; and District of Arizona; as well as the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, and the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, Criminal Division, and the Office of Judicial Attaché and DEA partners in Bogotá, Colombia. Additionally, the FBI, HSI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), USMS, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons are essential law enforcement partners with JTFV. CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime and intellectual property (IP) crime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cyber and IP criminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.


title: Centre County Man Charged With Conspiracy To Produce Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Morris W. Reese, age 65, of Centre County, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on one charge of conspiracy to produce child pornography. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Reese conspired with others to produce child pornography from November 2024 to November of 2025. The FBI, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Centre County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. The maximum penalty under federal law is up to thirty years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – An illegal alien from Mexico, living locally in Keswick, Virginia, was sentenced today to eight months in federal prison for illegally possessing a gun while being in the United States unlawfully. Javier Bernal-Lopez, 38, pled guilty to illegal possession of a firearm while being unlawfully in the United States. According to court documents, on November 18, 2025, Victim 1 and another person came to the Albemarle County Police Department (ACPD) to report a domestic dispute which had occurred the previous day near Keswick, Virginia. Victim 1 described a violent encounter with her ex-boyfriend, Javier Bernal-Lopez, involving a firearm being shot through their entrance door. Victim 1 advised detectives with ACPD that Bernal-Lopez always carries a firearm on his person. In addition, Victim 1 advised detectives that she had been dating Bernal-Lopez for several years and she knew him to be a Mexican National illegally present in the United States. Authorities confirmed that Bernal-Lopez had twice been arrested by U.S. Border Patrol at Nogales, Arizona, in June 2004. Following both arrests he was allowed to voluntarily return to Mexico. On November 25, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the defendant’s home. During the search, law enforcement located a SCCY CPX-2 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The firearm was located in a bag along with Bernal-Lopez’s Mexican passport. A box of ammunition, as well as an extended magazine, were located within the home as well. First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf for Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. made the announcement. Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. and the Albemarle County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sally J. Sullivan is prosecuting the case.


title: North Little Rock Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Theft of More Than $330,000 in Illegally Obtained Unemployment Benefits from Multiple States

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Kembreia Deija Mystic Greer, who filed and received unemployment benefits from multiple states that she was not entitled to receive, will spend 18 months in federal prison for wire fraud. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. On June 3, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Greer, 30, of North Little Rock, in an Indictment charging her with 22 counts of wire fraud. On January 21, 2026, Greer pleaded guilty to Count 22 of the Indictment. Judge Moody also sentenced Greer to one year of supervised release and ordered Greer to pay $334,441.62 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system. On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The CARES Act provided additional federal assistance to states to help workers impacted by COVID-19. This also enabled workers who would not ordinarily be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits to receive assistance. The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program was one of three new temporary unemployment insurance programs created under the CARES Act. This specific program enabled certain qualified claimants to receive up to 39 weeks of benefits. At the time Greer began her employment at a medical facility in December 2019, she resided in Little Rock. On October 29, 2020, Greer was terminated from her position at the medical facility. An investigation revealed that on July 13, 2020, Greer electronically filed an application for benefits under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program through the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. During the investigation it was determined that the IP address used to submit the application electronically was associated with a phone number belonging to an account established by Greer. She received from the State of Massachusetts a total of approximately $15,795 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits. Further investigation revealed that between June 30, 2020, and September 14, 2020, Greer submitted applications for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits in her name and other people’s names to multiple state work force agencies, including California, Texas, Alabama, Illinois, and others. Except Arkansas, Greer never worked or resided in the states where she applied for unemployment benefits. As a result of Greer’s conduct, in total more than $330,000 in fraudulent unemployment benefits were issued. “Greer exploited federal assistance programs that were established to support individuals and businesses facing unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and used those resources for personal gain. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains committed to protecting public funds and preserving the integrity of the nation’s mail system from criminal misuse. I would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General for their partnership and dedication throughout this investigation,” said Inspector in Charge Kai Pickens, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Fort Worth Division. “Greer brazenly stole funds meant to support vulnerable Americans through difficult times. Her guilty plea and sentencing underscore our unwavering determination to pursue fraud wherever it hides,” said Inspector General Anthony P. D'Esposito, U.S. Department of Labor. “If you attempt to defraud the system, know this: we will hunt you down, investigate you and ensure you face full consequences. Accountability is not an option.” The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Labor and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Missouri Woman Sentenced to 3 Years of Probation; Ordered to Repay Lottery Scam Victims

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Joshua M. Divine on Thursday sentenced a Missouri woman who aided scammers by acting as a money mule to three years of probation and ordered her to repay $1.97 million to victims. Victims of the scam were contacted by phone or text and told that they had won a lottery but needed to prepay “taxes” and “fees” to “intermediates” and “merchant bankers.” If victims didn’t have enough liquid assets to pay the taxes and fees, conspirators told them to obtain reverse mortgages and home equity loans. Sharon Dolisi, 79, moved more than $1.9 million in proceeds of the fraud through her accounts. She deposited cashier’s checks and personal checks from 28 victims into her personal bank accounts from about April 21, 2023, to June 11, 2025. Less than a week after her first deposit, one bank closed her account. On Oct. 28, 2024, Dolisi lied when she told law enforcement officials that she was not receiving money from or sending money to other people. Four days later, in response to an inquiry by bank representatives about three large cash withdrawals totaling $64,500, Dolisi falsely claimed that she buys and sells gold. On June 27, 2025, Dolisi told a bank representative that she immediately needed $54,000 in cash to buy gold and collectibles. Dolisi supplied debit cards to co-conspirators in Jamaica, who used those debit cards to withdraw victims’ money. Dolisi, of Phelps County near St. James, pleaded guilty in March in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. “Sharon Dolisi engaged in a scheme where she accepted and transmitted money that was provided by vulnerable elderly victims under false pretenses,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron McCullough with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General (OIG). “As a result of this scheme, many elderly victims lost their entire life savings. HUD OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office to diligently pursue and hold accountable those who take advantage of vulnerable members of our communities.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use. With the collaborative efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners, Postal Inspectors investigate fraudsters who utilize the U.S. Mail to perpetuate financial schemes to defraud others in order to enrich themselves. Postal Inspectors seek justice for victims, including those most vulnerable,” said Inspector in Charge, Nicholas Bucciarelli, who leads the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which includes the St. Louis Domicile Office. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwen Carroll is prosecuting the case.


title: Former Executive Extradited from Israel to Face Bank, Wire Fraud Charges in St. Louis

component: Criminal - Office of International Affairs

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man who was indicted nearly six years ago and accused of a $28 million fraud scheme involving apartment complexes in Missouri and Oklahoma was extradited from Israel Thursday. Michael Fein, now 47, was indicted Aug. 20, 2020, on one count of bank fraud and one count of wire fraud. The indictment accuses Fein of routinely providing false information on loan applications to obtain financing and refinance loans on projects for the company he co-owned, T.E.H. Management and its affiliates. U.S. authorities were able to locate Fein in Israel and submitted a request for his extradition. On May 14, Minister of Heritage Amichar Eliyahu – acting by designation in place of the Minister of Justice – approved the extradition of Fein to the United States to stand trial. He arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport Thursday morning and was then flown to St. Louis Lambert International Airport. He is expected to make his first appearance in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Friday. “I’m very pleased that Michael Fein will be returned to St. Louis to face trial on the accusations that he fraudulently obtained millions of dollars,” U.S. Attorney Thomas C. Albus said. “This case reflects the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General’s (FHFA-OIG) steadfast commitment to investigating and bringing to justice those who defraud Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or the financial institutions engaged in the housing mortgage market. We are thankful to HUD OIG and the FBI for their partnership in this investigation, and to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service for their extraordinary efforts in securing the extradition of the defendant,” said Special Agent in Charge Korey Brinkman, Central Region, FHFA-OIG. “No one is above the law,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Machelle Jindra with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “Our office will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to investigate those who threaten the integrity of FHA mortgage programs and hold them accountable for their actions.” “Michael Fein may have believed that leaving the United States would place him beyond the reach of law enforcement after allegedly swindling millions of dollars from multiple banks," said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. "Bringing Fein back to face justice required years of coordinated effort. This case sends a clear message: no matter where a fugitive runs, the FBI and its partners will relentlessly pursue those who commit serious crimes and attempt to evade accountability." The indictment says Fein was an owner and vice president of T.E.H. Management, and an owner and manager of T.E.H.-affiliated companies, all of which owned and operated multi-family apartment complexes throughout the United States. Fein was responsible for the day-to-day operations of T.E.H. and the affiliates. T.E.H. and its affiliates owned and operated the 168-unit Pinnacle Ridge apartment complex in St. Louis County, the 304-unit Green Village Townhomes apartment complex in Kansas City, Missouri and the 260-unit Ivy Place Apartments complex in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The indictment alleges that from 2016-2019, Fein falsely inflated the number of tenants at Pinnacle Ridge and other complexes and submitted false budget and income information for Pinnacle Ridge to obtain a $2.8 million loan to purchase the complex. In 2016 and 2017, Fein submitted false information to refinance Green Village, inflating rental income as well as the occupancy of the complex from 50% to 88.49%, the indictment says. After the $12.5 million loan closed and the outstanding loan balance was paid off, a T.E.H. affiliate received $6 million, the indictment says. In 2017, Fein submitted a false application to refinance a loan for Ivy Place, inflating the occupancy of the complex from 66.5% to 96.54% and inflating the income statement, the indictment says. After the $7.7 million loan closed, a T.E.H. affiliate received $977,754, it says. In 2019, Fein attempted to purchase the 208-unit Hanley Crossings apartment complex in St. Louis County by submitting fraudulent loan documents, including a falsely inflated summary of real estate purportedly owned by T.E.H. and affiliates, the indictment says. The $5.2 million application falsely inflated the occupancy rates of twenty-six of the listed multi-family apartment complexes by approximately 18% each, the indictment says. The loan was not approved. The indictment seeks the forfeiture of at least $23 million in proceeds linked to the alleged scheme. Charges set forth in the indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. During March 2020, as a result of substantial tenant complaints concerning substandard living conditions in T.E.H. apartment complexes, the federal government suspended taxpayer-subsidized housing contracts and funding to T.E.H. affiliates in the St. Louis and Kansas City, Missouri areas. As many of the residents living in T.E.H. apartment complexes were members of low-income households that were receiving federal housing assistance, the federal government provided transfer vouchers to those residents to assist them in moving to appropriate housing. This case was investigated by the FHFA – OIG, HUD OIG and the FBI. With the cooperation of Israeli authorities, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Marshals Service provided significant assistance in securing Fein’s extradition. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith is prosecuting the case.


title: Illinois Investment Advisor Indicted on 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 clients in a Ponzi scheme. PAARIS KOPSAFTIS operated Illinois-based Blackwater Assets, Inc. From 2020 to 2025, Kopsaftis fraudulently solicited and obtained money from victims based on false representations about the intended use of the investments and the performance and value of the investments, according to an indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Kopsaftis falsely told the victims that he would invest the money for their benefit, when, in reality, Kopsaftis knew he intended to use some of their funds for personal use, including paying his own bills, the indictment states. Kopsaftis allegedly engaged in a Ponzi scheme by using some investor funds to repay prior investors. The indictment alleges that Kopsaftis concealed his fraud by creating and providing false documentation to his victims reflecting that their investments were worth more than they actually were. Kopsaftis, 42, of Charlotte, N.C., and formerly of Illinois, is charged with four counts of wire fraud. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Tuesday in federal court in Chicago. A status hearing has been set for July 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., before U.S. District Judge Jorge L. Alonso. 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 Securities Department of the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office. 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 and must also order restitution to the victims. kopsaftis_indictment.pdf


title: Billings man sentenced to 16 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm

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

body_text: BILLINGS – A Billings man who was prohibited from possessing a firearm following a felony strangulation conviction was sentenced today to 16 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Patrick Hunter Shaver, 34, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided. The government alleged in court documents that Shaver, a convicted felon prohibited from owning a firearm, was found at work with a handgun in his vehicle. Shaver was convicted in March 2025 in Yellowstone County of felony strangulation of a partner or family member. As part of his conviction, he’s prohibited from possessing a firearm. On July 31, 2025, Billings police received a tip that a man named Pat Shaver had a gun. Police followed up the next day, contacting Shaver at work and asking him about the firearm. He acknowledged to the officers that he had a .32 caliber Beretta Tomcat in his vehicle along with seven rounds of ammunition. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Billings Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.


title: Former CEO Pleads Guilty to $24,000,000 Embezzlement Scheme

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington – First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on June 24, 2026, Patrick Alan Bucknum, age 55, formerly of Wenatchee, Washington, pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Washington to one count of wire fraud. As set out in court documents, Bucknum was the Chief Executive Office of Community Clinic Network (CCN), a company located in Wenatchee, Washington. CCN managed health care payment contracts for a conglomerate of health care clinics across Washington. Beginning in April 2017, Bucknum devised a scheme to obtain funds from CCN’s business bank accounts, which he attempted to invest in stocks, options, and exchange-traded funds. Bucknum initially intended to keep profits from the investments for himself and return the embezzled funds to CCN. Bucknum was influenced by social media showing aggressive trading strategies. However, due to Bucknum’s poor trades, he lost the majority of the funds invested. As a result, Bucknum embezzled additional funds in an attempt to recover his losses. Between 2017 and 2023, Bucknum embezzled approximately $30,000,000 from CCN to invest, returning approximately $7,000,000 to CCN over that same time frame. Bucknum also embezzled funds from CCN for personal purchases, including $100,000 to purchase a pickup truck, $77,000 to purchase a Tesla, and $33,000 to purchase a boat. In August 2024, Bucknum embezzled $1,199,000 to purchase precious metal coins. In total, Bucknum caused a loss to CCN of approximately $24,368,427.37. As part of his plea agreement, Bucknum has agreed to forfeit to the United States the pickup truck, Tesla, boat, and precious metal coins, including coins in gold, silver, and platinum all obtained with embezzled funds. Bucknum is scheduled for a sentencing hearing on September 23, 2026. The Plea Agreement can be found here . The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy J. Kelley and Frieda K. Zimmerman. 2:26-cr-0062-TOR


title: North Carolina Man Sentenced to More than Two Years in Prison for Conspiracy Related to Videos Depicting Monkey Torture and Mutilation

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: A North Carolina man was sentenced today to 28 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release in connection with his involvement with online groups dedicated to creating and distributing videos depicting acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys. Robert Craig, of Charlotte, pleaded guilty on June 25, 2025, to conspiring to create and distribute so-called “animal crush videos.” According to court documents, Craig used encrypted chat applications to share and discuss obscene videos of monkeys being tortured and sexually abused. According to a statement of facts signed by Craig, the videos in question included numerous depictions of extreme violence and torture against monkeys that had been specifically requested by the defendant and his co-conspirators. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD), U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II for the Southern District of Ohio, Special Agent in Charge Jason Cromartie of the FBI Cincinnati Field Office, and Assistant Director Doug Ault, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, made the announcement. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Mark Romley and Senior Trial Attorney Adam Cullman of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Pakiz for the Southern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.


title: Two Mexican Nationals Charged in Drone-Based Methamphetamine Smuggling Scheme at Federal Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Alexandria – On June 23, 2026, two criminal complaints were filed charging Gustavo Mendoza-Alvarez , 25, and Osvaldo Lopez-Sanchez , 28, both of Mexico, with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Both defendants face up to life in federal prison on the charged offenses. “These charges reflect the serious danger posed by smugglers who attempt to deliver narcotics into our federal prison system and who endanger innocent motorists and law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to stop the flow of drugs into correctional facilities and ensure accountability for those who carry out these dangerous schemes.” According to court documents, the investigation began on June 14, 2026, when the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office received reports of a drone flying near the Federal Correctional Complex in Pollock, Louisiana (FCC-Pollock). Detectives responding to the area found recent footprints and observed a vehicle with Texas license plates attempting to avoid law enforcement. During the pursuit, the fleeing vehicle—driven by Lopez-Sanchez with Mendoza-Alvarez as the passenger—struck a marked Grant Parish patrol vehicle and later collided head-on with a Ford F-350. Both men were taken into custody, and a search of their phones revealed images of a drone, THC wax, and what appeared to be methamphetamine. Investigators later executed a search warrant at a nearby hotel where they located approximately 446 grams of methamphetamine, 114 grams of marijuana, THC vapes, 21 cell phones, a wallet containing Mendoza-Alvarez’s Mexican voter ID, assorted ammunition, spare drone propellers, and a drone operator harness, as depicted below: U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Alexandria Resident Agency, the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment. ## CONTACT: Public Affairs USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: U.S. Attorney Announces $2.2 Million Settlement With Urologists For Submitting False Claims To Medicare

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”), Naomi Gruchacz, announced that the United States has settled a civil healthcare fraud lawsuit against DR. ROBERT SIMON, a New Jersey-based urologist, and DR. NICOLE FLEISCHMANN, a New York-based urologist. The settlement resolves claims that SIMON and FLEISCHMANN violated the False Claims Act by repeatedly subjecting their patients to medically unnecessary surgical procedures in connection with an implantable neurostimulation medical device and then improperly obtaining payments from Medicare for these same unnecessary procedures. Under the settlement, which was approved yesterday by U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe, SIMON will pay a total sum of $1,112,695.88 plus interest, and FLEISCHMANN will pay a total sum of $1,101,044.80 plus interest. As a part of the settlement, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN also made extensive factual admissions regarding their conduct. Among other things, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN admitted that they each caused Medicare to pay claims for implantations of a neurostimulation medical device that were not medically reasonable and necessary and did not comply with Medicare’s billing rules and guidance. “Dr. Simon and Dr. Fleischmann performed unnecessary surgical procedures on their patients who suffered from urinary incontinence and then billed a taxpayer-funded program for these procedures,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “This illegal scheme violated the trust at the heart of doctor-patient relationships and our healthcare system. This Office is committed to holding medical providers accountable, protecting patient care, and safeguarding the integrity of taxpayer-funded programs.” “Health care providers who perform medically unnecessary services can pose a significant risk to patients, especially when pre-operative tests are not completed appropriately and follow-up procedures are performed without sufficient justification,” said HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz. “HHS-OIG continuously works with key law enforcement partners to seek resolutions that hold accountable individuals who exploit federal health care programs.” As alleged in the Complaint: The InterStim device is designed to treat urinary incontinence by sending electrical stimulation to a patient’s sacral nerve. InterStim’s implantable components include a neurostimulator, a battery, and a thin wire—known as a lead—that connects to the sacral nerve, as well as other components that facilitate transmission of electrical impulses to the sacral nerve. Relevant Medicare rules require that before a doctor may permanently implant an InterStim device, the patient must have had a successful test stimulation that met specific defined criteria. The test stimulation is designed to determine whether the InterStim device is likely to be successful in improving the patient’s urinary incontinence. From January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2022, FLEISCHMANN violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims to Medicare for medically unreasonable and unnecessary InterStim surgical procedures by failing to perform the required preoperative testing before implanting the InterStim device into patients and unnecessarily implanting two InterStim devices into a patient during the same surgical procedure. Similarly, from January 1, 2011, through October 18, 2021 (the “Simon Covered Period”), SIMON violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims to Medicare for medically unreasonable and unnecessary InterStim surgical procedures by: failing to perform the required preoperative testing before implanting the InterStim device into a patient; unnecessarily implanting two InterStim devices into a patient during the same surgical procedure; performing medically unreasonable and unnecessary battery and InterStim device replacement and revision surgeries; and improperly billing Medicare twice for removing the lead used to stimulate a patient’s sacral nerve during preoperative testing. SIMON frequently performed unnecessary procedures on patients to replace the InterStim batteries after the InterStim device had been implanted into his patients, despite the fact that there was often no indication that these batteries needed to be replaced. SIMON and FLEISCHMANN also frequently implanted two InterStim devices into a patient during the same surgical procedure, in a procedure known as bilateral implantation. They did this without conducting the required preoperative test to determine that one InterStim device would effectively treat the patient’s urinary incontinence, much less that two InterStim devices would be more effective than one. As part of the settlement, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN admitted and accepted responsibility for certain of their own respective conduct alleged by the United States, including the following: SIMON and FLEISCHMANN were aware that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) had issued a National Coverage Determination (“NCD”)—which is a binding statement by CMS setting a national policy granting, limiting, or excluding Medicare coverage for a specific medical item or service—concerning the implantation of sacral nerve stimulators, such as InterStim, to treat urinary incontinence. Specifically, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN were aware that in 2002 CMS issued NCD 230.18, which stated that in order to establish that a permanent InterStim implantation is medical necessary, a patient must first undergo a successful test stimulation during which the patient demonstrates a 50% or greater improvement. This improvement is measured through voiding diaries, which are used by the patient to record their symptoms of urinary incontinence. SIMON and FLEISCHMANN primarily performed a percutaneous nerve evaluation test (“PNE”) before permanently implanting the InterStim device into patients. The PNE is supposed to take place over at least three, and up to seven, days. SIMON and FLEISCHMANN repeatedly billed Medicare for permanent InterStim implantations despite failing to first complete a successful PNE. Instead of completing a full PNE, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN frequently conducted an abbreviated test. Further, SIMON and FLEISCHMANN also failed to collect and keep the voiding diaries required by NCD 230.18. SIMON also admitted and accepted responsibility for additional conduct alleged by the United States, including the following: During the Simon Covered Period, SIMON rarely concluded that a PNE did not support a permanent implantation—doing so for approximately 3% of his patients who received a PNE. In these instances, SIMON contemporaneously recorded in his office notes that the PNE did not support a permanent InterStim implantation. Nevertheless, in each of these cases, SIMON still performed a permanent implantation of the InterStim device and falsely documented in his surgical notes that the PNE had been successful. During the Simon Covered Period, SIMON frequently performed medically unreasonable and unnecessary InterStim device revision and replacement surgeries on his patients and then billed Medicare for these procedures. Specifically, SIMON often surgically removed and replaced InterStim batteries within three years or less of the implantation, despite the fact that InterStim batteries were supposed to last for approximately five years. SIMON also frequently replaced InterStim neurostimulators and added a second InterStim device for patients who started with one InterStim device, without any objective evidence that the neurostimulator needed to be replaced or that the patient would benefit from the implantation of a second InterStim device. In connection with the filing of the lawsuit and settlement, the Government joined a private whistleblower lawsuit that had been filed under seal pursuant to the False Claims Act. * * * Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of HHS-OIG. The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Frauds Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison M. Rovner is in charge of the case.


title: Gary Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison For Firearms Offense

body_text: HAMMOND- Chester Maclin, Jr., 29 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Maclin was sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. “On September 30, 2023, the Defendant was the driver of a vehicle pulled over in Munster, Indiana. Evidence led law enforcement to conduct a search of the vehicle, and they found a loaded Glock pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device that allows for the handgun to fire rounds rapidly. Maclin has a prior felony conviction which prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and AUSA Kristian R. Mukoski brought the case as part of Operation Take Back America, and we are safer for their efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Buckeye Man Sentenced to Ten Months in Prison for Laser Strikes on United States Air Force F-35 Fighter Jets

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz – William Wilson, 56, of Buckeye, Arizona, was sentenced on June 15, by United States District Judge Steven P. Logan to ten months in prison for aiming a laser pointer at U.S. Air Force F-35 Fighter Jets. “Military pilots risk their lives to protect Americans. They should not have to worry about threats from people on the ground when they are training here at home,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “Interfering with any aircraft is dangerous and the United States Attorney’s Office can and will protect our pilots by bringing bad actors to justice.” “Directing a laser pointer at aircraft of any kind, much less an F-35 Air Force fighter jet, is extremely dangerous and a federal felony,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day. “The FBI advises people to think twice before committing this crime because we’re focused on identifying and investigating people who do, and a federal prosecution could lead you straight to prison.” “Interfering with aircraft by pointing lasers or any other means is dangerous and illegal. It puts the safety of the aircrew, passengers, and everyone on the ground in jeopardy,” said Special Agent Keith M. Daniels, Senior Enlisted Leader, AFOSI Detachment 421. “The Air Force Office of Special Investigations will continue to partner with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to hold offenders accountable for their actions.” Wilson struck multiple United States Air Force F-35 jets training in the airspace around Luke Air Force Base with lasers between September 2024 and January 2025. On the night of January 8, 2025, an FBI surveillance plane captured video of the laser strikes coming from Wilson’s residence in Buckeye. Pilots of the FBI plane and of two F-35 jets were all struck by lasers that night. Wilson’s home was later searched, and two lasers, one red and one green, were found in his possession. Wilson admitted to agents that he had pointed the lasers at planes on several occasions. On July 29, 2025, Wilson was indicted on four counts of Aiming a Laser Pointer at an Aircraft. Wilson later pleaded guilty to two of the counts. The FBI’s Phoenix Division and Air Force Office of Special Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abbie Broughton, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-25-00391-PHX-SPL RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-110_Wilson # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Stafford man sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexually abusing two women at an intelligence conference

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Stafford man was sentenced today to 25 years in prison following his conviction for sexual abuse, aggravated sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact, and making false statements. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, in July 2022, Michael A. Dillard, 63, who at that time was Deputy Director of Facilities for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and a retired U.S. Army Colonel, attended an intelligence conference at a U.S. government facility in Williamsburg in July 2022. On July 27, 2022, Dillard sexually abused a victim who worked for him after he instructed her to follow him to his hotel room and assaulted her while impeding her from leaving his room. After she was able to leave, she reported Dillard’s abuse to a work colleague. Base police encountered another victim in Dillard’s hotel room early the next morning during a welfare check after colleagues reported that she did not appear at the conference. The victim was taken to the base clinic for care. In 2023, the victims each filed EEOC complaints based upon Dillard’s actions. Dillard denied the complaints against him and provided a written statement in which he falsely stated that he had no sexual contact at all with the victims and that there was no physical activity of a sexual nature. The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric M. Hurt prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-47.


title: Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAIME SANTIAGO, 44, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl. According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department investigated an open-air drug market that was operating in the area of Noble Avenue and Shelton Street in Bridgeport. Between March and September 2024, investigators made 11 controlled purchases of narcotics from various sellers. The investigation, which also included court-authorized wiretaps and physical surveillance, revealed that Santiago and others supplied fentanyl to the drug sellers. Santiago was arrested on February 12, 2025. On January 22, 2026, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Santiago, who is released on a $25,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 24. This investigation has been conducted by the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Stratford Police Department. The Task Force is composed of personnel from the FBI, Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.


title: DENHAM SPRINGS MAN SENTENCED TO 30 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR ASSAULTING A POSTAL EMPLOYEE

component: USAO - Louisiana, Middle

body_text: United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that Cody Gaspard, age 27, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison following his conviction for assaulting a postal employee. U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson further sentenced Gaspard to serve two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment. “Postal employees perform an essential public service in every community,” said U.S. Attorney Wall. “They deserve to carry out their duties free from threats, intimidation, and violence. While we are pleased with this conviction, the defendant’s actions are inexcusable and warranted an even harsher sentence. When a federal employee is assaulted while serving the public, this office will aggressively prosecute those responsible and seek sentences that reflect the seriousness of those crimes.” On April 15, 2025, a United States Postal Service rural letter carrier was delivering mail and packages at an apartment complex in Livingston Parish when Gaspard confronted her over packages that had not yet been delivered. The evidence at trial established that what began as a verbal dispute quickly escalated into a violent assault. Witnesses testified that Gaspard repeatedly confronted the mail carrier as she attempted to continue performing her delivery duties. During the encounter, Gaspard directed racially charged insults at the mail carrier, followed her through the apartment complex, physically grabbed her by the neck, and assaulted her for more than a minute, eventually lifting her and slamming her to the ground. The assault ended only after another resident intervened to help the mail carrier escape. Gaspard was found guilty of this crime after a three-day jury trial in March 2026. During sentencing, the Court also considered a victim impact statement submitted by the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association on behalf of approximately 130,000 rural letter carriers nationwide. The Association explained that violence against postal employees extends beyond the individual victim, undermining the safety of postal workers across the country and threatening the public’s ability to receive reliable mail service. The Association urged the Court to impose a sentence that reflected the seriousness of the offense, recognized the physical and emotional harm inflicted on the mail carrier, and deterred future acts of violence against postal employees performing their official duties. U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamie A. Flowers, Jr. and Ellison C. Travis led the prosecution.


title: California State Prison Inmate and Las Vegas Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Extort and Stalking a Victim in Washington

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today charging D’Andre Davis, 39, formerly of Stockton, and Nicole Nowak, 31, of Las Vegas, Nevada, with conspiracy to extort money by means of threatening communications and stalking. The indictment also charges Davis with a separate count of stalking the same victim, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, in July 2021, Davis contacted a victim in Washington state through Instagram and Facebook messages. Although the victim initially engaged in a consensual online relationship with Davis, the victim attempted to end the relationship when Davis began to repeatedly and aggressively demand money. Davis was serving a sentence in a California state prison at the time and used a combination of contraband cellphones and an inmate telephone and messaging service to contact the victim. In May 2024, Nowak assisted Davis, and they threatened to send to the victim’s business associates, clients, family members, and friends compromising images that the victim had shared with Davis unless the victim continued to send money. The victim sent more than $35,000 to Davis and Nowak before contacting the FBI. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Office of Internal Affairs conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa is prosecuting the case. A federal magistrate judge ordered Nowak detained as a danger to the community on June 16, 2026. Davis is currently serving a prison sentence at Kern Valley State Prison. Both defendants will appear before a federal magistrate judge in Fresno on a date to be determined. If convicted of the conspiracy charge, Davis and Nowak face a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of the stalking charge, Davis faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Homeland Security Task Force investigation leads to prison sentence for member of Kansas City drug trafficking ring tied to Mexico

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 167 months in prison for his role in a transnational drug trafficking organization with ties to a Mexican cartel. The sentence follows a Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) investigation which has so far led to convictions of approximately a dozen defendants. According to court documents, Joel Rodriguez, 30, of Kansas City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In February 2023, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating a drug trafficking ring in the Kansas City metro area headed by Jose Antonio Heredia-Chang. Heredia-Chang, 34, is an illegal alien from Sinaloa, Mexico, who had been living in Phoenix, Arizona. The trafficking ring distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and other narcotics. ATF and DEA investigators determined that buyers/distributors in Kansas City placed orders with Heredia-Chang then he dispatched drivers to deliver the narcotics. Investigators observed Heredia-Chang’s drivers visiting the home of Joel Rodriguez in Kansas City, Kansas. Agents intercepted calls between Rodriguez and Heredia-Chang discussing drug and firearms trafficking in which Rodriguez provided Heredia-Chang his home address for delivery. Agents observed subsequent deliveries to Rodriguez’s house. After Heredia-Chang's arrest in September 2023, evidence extracted from his phones showed photographs of firearms and messages about firearm purchases. Further evidence proved Heredia-Chang was collaborating with individuals in Sinaloa, Mexico, to acquire and transport methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin, and that Heredia-Chang operated other distribution bases in Seattle, Washington, and Denver, Colorado. In November 2025, Heredia-Chang pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He is awaiting sentencing. “The Heredia-Chang drug trafficking ring was a complex and highly structured operation based on a model that in essence worked the same as if you ordered a pizza. Instead of food, these delivery drivers showed up at your doorstep with meth and cocaine,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We are fortunate our federal agencies have the investigative skills and tools to root out these networks. Our skilled prosecutors are committed to convincing judges that these perpetrators should serve time behind bars.” "This defendant helped move meth for the Heredia-Chang trafficking network and discussed firearms trafficking with the man who ran it," said Special Agent in Charge Bernard "Butch" Hansen of the ATF Kansas City Field Division. "Firearms are the currency that keeps these drug networks running, and ATF will follow that trade wherever it leads. Now he will spend nearly 14 years in federal prison. The investigation is not over. ATF will continue to stand with our partners to hold violent offenders accountable." “One-by-one, our agents and those of ATF are dismantling Mexican-sourced drug trafficking organizations responsible for pushing poisons into our midwestern communities,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin Dickey said. “This investigation is a tremendous example of federal agencies working together to bring the full force of the law against violent poly-drug traffickers who use threats and intimidation to maintain control. Fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine have no place on our streets, and the DEA will continue to take down the organizations threading their way into the heartland.” So far, 10 other co-defendants have pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with the Heredia-Chang drug trafficking network. They include Noel Rios-Salazar, Jesus Villaverde, Jose Cervantes-Valenzuela, Jessica Solano, Gennelle Glackin, Kelly Gray, Marnie Lynn, Christopher Martens, Robert Hicks, and Chad Haviland. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Faiza Alhambra prosecuted 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 Kansas City comprises agents and officers from FBI; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas. ###


title: Illegal Alien With Violent Criminal Record Sentenced to Prison for Unlawfully Re-Entering United States After Seven Deportations

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — An illegal alien with a violent criminal record has been sentenced to ten months in federal prison for unlawfully re-entering the United States after previously being deported seven times. JEFRY ESTRADA-PASTRANA, a native of Honduras, was unlawfully present in the United States on Jan. 20, 2026, when he was arrested in Chicago. Chicago Police officers arrested Estrada-Pastrana after he failed to appear in court related to a Cook County criminal case involving theft and forgery. Estrada-Pastrana was previously deported from the United States on seven occasions. During the times in which he was illegally present in the United States, Estrada-Pastrana was convicted of criminal offenses including robbery and aggravated fleeing. Estrada-Pastrana, 37, pleaded guilty in April 2026 to one count of unlawful re-entry after removal. On June 16, 2026, U.S. District Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall imposed the ten-month prison sentence and ordered that it be followed by three years of court-supervised release. The conviction subjects Estrada-Pastrana to removal from the United States. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Frank Padula, Acting Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Chicago. Substantial assistance was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations. The government was represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Diya Rattan.


title: Defendant Sentenced to 78 Months for sourcing Spokane-Area  IPO Blood Criminal Street Gang

body_text: Spokane, Washington — First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on June 23, 2026, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Pennell sentenced Jessica Demaine, age 39, to 78 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release for her role in a trafficking methamphetamine to the IPO Blood criminal street gang operating in the Spokane area. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives initiated an investigation in 2025 into members of a Spokane based “IPO Blood” violent criminal street gang. An undercover ATF agent purchased multiple firearms as well as a large quantity of methamphetamine from members of this group. During one of the buys, ATF learned the source of supply for the methamphetamine being sold was a woman whose 3-year-old child had gotten into the source’s “pow” (street slang for fentanyl) and overdosed. Review of local news articles and police reports revealed the source likely to be Jessica Demaine. Demaine is currently pending state charges stemming from this incident and is presumed innocent (Spokane County Superior Court case 25-1-00660-32). Demaine has claimed her boyfriend, Cameron Franklin, was responsible for the minor child’s overdose. Follow-up investigation by both the ATF and Drug Enforcement Administration confirmed that Demaine was acting as a source of supply to the IPO street gang. Evidence as to Demaine’s role as a drug source of supply was in part confirmed by several sources of information, phone records, text messages, and CashApp records. Demaine was federally indicted for her role as a source of supply to the gang and arrested in May of 2025. Demaine was released, over the United States’ objection, to attend inpatient treatment in June 2025. The Court then allowed her to live at an Oxford House (clean and sober house) and ultimately with her sister in the Cheney, Washington area. In December 2025, Demaine tested positive for methamphetamine, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. The next day, Demaine was located at Franklin’s Spokane-area residence when a federal search warrant was executed by DEA stemming from their continued investigation into the Mexico-based source of supply. Demaine was arrested and detained pending sentencing. At her detention hearing, it was learned that despite claims she was caring for an elderly gentlemen, Adult Protective Services (“APS”) was called out to assist and advised the residence was “in complete filth.” In revoking her pre-trial release and ordering her detained, Magistrate Judge Ekstrom found Demaine was not taking her federal charges seriously, despite the gravity of the situation. In March 2026, Demaine pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Pennel on June 23, 2026, to 78 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. In imposing sentence, Judge Pennell found that Demaine was a risk to the community, noting that even after almost losing her child to a drug overdose, she did not change her behavior. Instead, she remained involved with the very man Demaine claimed was at fault and continued to traffic drugs into the community. Judge Pennell also commented on Demaine’s lack of acceptance of responsibility for her criminal conduct emphasizing that she was not the victim in this case. First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano said, “This sentence was well deserved in this case given Demaine’s wanton disregard for the safety of the community, including her own child and a vulnerable, elderly gentleman whom she claimed was in her care. I commend ATF, DEA and our local partners for diligently pursuing Demaine, who is connected with an international criminal organization.” “Jessica Demaine’s sentence underscores the devastating impact that drug traffickers have on our communities when they choose profit over human life,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “By supplying methamphetamine to a violent criminal street gang, Demaine helped fuel the cycle of addiction, violence, and exploitation that threatens public safety in Spokane.” “Rather than accepting responsibility for her profound betrayal of both the law and the most basic responsibilities of parenthood, Ms. Demaine continues to play the victim,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “But no amount of excuses, deflection, or self-pity can erase the harm caused by her trafficking poison into our community. ATF will remain relentless in its pursuit of drug traffickers, and we will work tirelessly to ensure they are held accountable for the destruction left in their wake.” For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington. 2:25-CR-0075-RLP-1


title: Highlands County Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida – Quincy Owens (51, Sebring) has been sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Owens pleaded guilty on March 30, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the plea agreement, on December 15, 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration was conducting surveillance on Owens, who had been identified as a fentanyl and methamphetamine dealer. Agents observed Owens obtaining a large black bag from an unidentified male and placing it in the trunk of his vehicle. The Florida Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle Owens was driving and a narcotics-detecting canine alerted positively to the presence of drugs inside the vehicle. A subsequent search of Owens’s vehicle resulted in the seizure of the black bag, which contained over 4,500 grams of pure methamphetamine. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.


title: San Diego Man Pleads Guilty to Mailing a Threatening Letter

body_text: Tampa, Florida – George Russell Isbell, Jr. (69, San Diego, California) has pleaded guilty to mailing a threatening communication. Isbell faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. No sentencing date has been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on or about September 18, 2025, Isbell mailed an angry, offensive, and threatening letter from San Diego, California to his victim, a media personality located in Tampa, Florida. In the letter, he referenced one of the victim’s friends, Mr. Charlie Kirk, a conservative political activist who, tragically, had recently been murdered during a public engagement on a college campus. The letter went on to state: “Maybe someone will blow your head off!!! We can hope! Planning any public engagements? Love to see your head explode and your blood stain the concrete red. What a sight!”. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.


title: Richland County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — David Omar Echevarria, 41, of Richland County has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for drug conspiracy. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the FBI learned that Echevarria was receiving cocaine shipments from Puerto Rico to North and South Carolina. Once the packages were received, Echevarria would distribute both small and large amounts of cocaine to local dealers. During their investigation, the FBI made several purchases of cocaine from Echevarria. In total, the FBI estimates that Echevarria distributed more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. United States District Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced Echevarria to 120 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon prosecuted the case. ###


title: Bronx Man Sentenced To 27.5 Years In Prison For Enticing Two Minors, Committing A Felony Offense While Being A Registered Sex Offender, And Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that JOSE MEDINA was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan to 27 and a half years in prison for coercing and enticing two minors, committing a felony offense while being a registered sex offender, and possessing child pornography. MEDINA previously pled guilty on March 11, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary Stein. “Jose Medina coerced two minors, boys just seven and nine years old, to engage in sexual acts with their mother,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “He then created child pornography videos depicting his crimes. Participating in this depraved act of sexual abuse was not the end. The defendant also physically assaulted the boys, including beating and tasing them. Today, I hope that some measure of justice has come for the victims.” According to the Information, public filings, and statements made in public court proceedings: In February 2024, while MEDINA was living in a truck with his then-girlfriend (“Female-1”) and Female-1’s two minor children (the “Victims”), he coerced and encouraged the Victims to engage in sexual acts with their mother, Female-1, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. MEDINA recorded child pornography videos depicting these crimes. After MEDINA and Female-1 ended their relationship in September 2024, MEDINA returned home to the Bronx, New York, where he distributed the child pornography videos to at least three individuals, including a family friend who promptly reported MEDINA to child protective services. Further investigation revealed that MEDINA had been physically, emotionally, and sexually abusing the Victims, while they were in his and Female-1’s care. At the time MEDINA coerced the Victims to engage in sexual acts with Female-1, he was already a registered sex offender, based on a prior conviction for raping a 14-year-old girl. * * * In addition to the prison term, MEDINA, 57, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced to five years of supervised release. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Remy Grosbard is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Elizabeth Resident Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to the charge of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. On June 23rd, Dontae Gilbert pleaded guilty to one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Gilbert was one of two men who, on May 23, 2024, fired a gun at a residence located in the 300 block of E. 18th Avenue in Homestead. Gilbert used a stolen Smith & Wesson pistol to shoot at the home, then attempted to flee the scene with his co-defendant in a black Kia. Law enforcement was able to stop the vehicle and found Gilbert in the driver’s seat of the car with the pistol under his seat. Ballistic testing matched the firearm to spent shell casings found on E. 18th Avenue and gunshot residue was found on Gilbert’s hand. As laid forth in the Indictment that charged him, Gilbert was previously convicted in federal court for possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin, and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. In his prior matter, Gilbert was sentenced to 68 months of incarceration followed by three years of supervised release. Gilbert was only 9 or so weeks into that term of supervision when he possessed and fired the Smith & Wesson on May 23rd. Gilbert therefore also violated the terms and conditions of his supervision by committing these acts. Judge Bissoon agreed to allow Gilbert to proceed to sentencing on the same date as his guilty plea. In the combined hearing, Gilbert also admitted to violating the terms of his supervised release and the Court revoked his supervision. Gilbert was sentenced to a total of 90 months of incarceration followed by another three years of supervised release. Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Munhall and Homestead Police Departments, and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dontae Gilbert. 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.