title: Feeding Our Future Defendant Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Today, United States District Judge Nancy E. Brasel sentenced Abdimajid Mohamed Nur, age 24, to 120 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for his role in the $300 million Feeding Our Future case, the largest Covid-19 fraud scheme in the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. Nur was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $47,920,514. As demonstrated at trial, Nur and his co-defendants stole more than $47 million in program funds by claiming to serve 18 million meals to kids at more than 30 food distribution sites. The scheme originated out of Empire Cuisine & Market, a small storefront halal market in Shakopee. Empire Cuisine enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program in April 2020—during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic and within weeks of registering the company with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Nur and his co-conspirators immediately opened several federal child nutrition program sites and began claiming—falsely—to be serving meals to thousands of children per day. These claims were fraudulent. As the Court heard repeatedly at trial, no meals at all were served at many of the Empire Cuisine “sites.” Many of their purported food “sites” were nothing more than parking lots or vacant commercial spaces. Indeed, at some of the sites, it was instead the Shakopee Public Schools who were actually serving meals to kids on a daily basis. Nur played a key role in the fraud scheme. He created and submitted the bulk of the fraudulent meal counts and invoices that he and his co-conspirators used to support their fraudulent claims. Nur also created and submitted fraudulent rosters purporting to list the names of children receiving meals at their fraudulent meal sites. But, as the Court saw, the rosters were fraudulent, filled with the names of fake children. Nur and his co-conspirators engaged in a conspiracy to launder the proceeds of their fraud scheme using a series of shell companies both in the United States and Kenya. Nur helped distribute millions of dollars in fraudulent proceeds among their money laundering entities. Nur also set up his own shell company—Nur Consulting LLC—that he used to receive and launder his share of the fraud proceeds by disguising them as “consulting” and similar payments. In all, Nur used Nur Consulting to receive more than $900,000 in fraud proceeds. Nur spent his fraud proceeds freely. Using the taxpayer money meant for needy kids, he purchased a 2021 Dodge Ram pickup truck for $64,000. Six weeks later, he purchased a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe for $35,000. Nur used fraud proceeds to take a honeymoon to the Maldives, where he stayed in a private villa. He also spent $30,000 in fraud proceeds to purchase jewelry in Dubai. Finally, as the jury heard at trial, Nur used some of his fraud proceeds to fraudulently obtain a college degree. In 2021, Nur enrolled in Herzing University, an online college with campuses in St. Louis Park and other locations around the country. Nur paid $12,000 to a company called PayMeToDoYourHomework.com to take his courses for him and complete all homework assignments and exams. They guaranteed him an A or B in each course. Nur paid the company approximately $5,000 to take all his Fall 2021 courses for him. In January 2022, he paid another $6,000 to have the company take all his Spring 2022 semester courses. He made these payments via Nur Consulting, the shell company he created to receive and launder his fraud proceeds. Nur appears to have gotten his money’s worth. Nur received a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from Herzing University in August 2022. Despite having graduated from Shakopee High School in 2019 with only a 1.75 GPA, Herzing University records show that Nur “earned” his bachelor’s degree in less than 3 years with a 3.42 GPA. In June 2024, at the conclusion of his 7-week trial, Nur and others attempted to bribe a juror with $120,000 in cash in exchange for a not guilty verdict. Nur and four others were indicted in a separate federal case for the juror bribery scheme. Nur has pled guilty in the juror bribery case and is pending sentencing in that case before United States District Judge David S. Doty. Today’s sentence does not reflect Nur’s attempt to bribe a juror; he will face an additional sentence in that case at a later date. In imposing the 10-year sentence, Judge Brasel told Nur, “It is so disappointing and so disheartening that where others saw a crisis and rushed to help, you saw money and rushed to steal.” She called that choice “mindboggling.” Judge Brasel explained that “this fraud conspiracy was both and at once elaborate and blatant,” and that Nur made the choice to steal again and again. The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Harry M. Jacobs, and Daniel W. Bobier prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.


title: Convicted Felon Who Shot At Vehicles On Highway Pleads Guilty To Gun Offense

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Anil Dabydeen, 40, of Charlotte, appeared in federal court today and pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon for shooting at vehicles on I-485, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Estella Patterson of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in this announcement. According to court documents and today’s court hearing, on January 8, 2025, at 3:49 p.m., CMPD officers were dispatched to I-485 at the South Tryon Street exit for a reported shooting. Court documents show that CMPD received several 911 calls describing a male operating a white Honda sedan on the highway who was shooting at passing vehicles. Law enforcement arrived on the scene and located two victims who had been struck by gunfire. The victims told the officers that they were traveling south on I-485 when their vehicle was struck by gunfire. While on the scene, the officers reviewed a video shot by a witness. The video showed a white sedan stopped on the side of the highway, and an individual, later identified as Dabydeen, walking around the vehicle brandishing a firearm and pointing it at passing vehicles. Court records show that, while the officers were investigating the incident, they observed a white Honda sedan traveling south at a high rate of speed. The officers recognized the vehicle as the one observed during the shooting and began to pursue the vehicle. After a brief pursuit, Dabydeen stopped the vehicle, and he was taken into custody. Officers recovered from Dabydeen a live round of 9mm ammunition, and a Taurus, Model G3c, 9mm pistol that had been reported stolen. Dabydeen has a prior felony conviction for 1 st Degree Manslaughter in New York, and he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. “The violent shootings in Charlotte have gotten out of hand,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “Where we can, the federal government will step in and put the most violent offenders behind bars.” Dabydeen remains in federal custody. A sentencing date has not been set. The ATF and CMPD led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.


title: Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced November 20, 2025, to 15 years in federal prison. Loren Craig, age 52, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, received the prison term after a July 14, 2025, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. At the plea and sentencing hearings, Craig admitted that from August to September 2023, he and others came to an agreement to distribute over 14 pounds of methamphetamine in the Fort Dodge area. Following an investigation, law enforcement became aware Craig was a distributor of methamphetamine. On September 29, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and located methamphetamine, two firearms, and drug-distribution items. Craig was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Craig was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Craig is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Greenwood and was investigated by the Webster County Sheriff’s Office, the Fort Dodge Police Department and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-CR-03004. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Rochester man who lured minor to hotel for sex going to prison

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Jonathan Woody, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of coercion and enticement of a minor, was sentenced to 144 months in prison and 10 years supervised release by U.S. District Charles J. Siragusa. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that in January 2024, Woody engaged in sexually explicit online and text communications with a 13-year-old child that he met on social media. On January 2, 2024, Woody paid for an Uber to transport the child to a hotel in Greece, NY, where he rented a room. While at the hotel, Woody provided alcohol and marijuana and engaged in sexual acts with the child. After realizing that the child was missing from home, the child’s family called 911 to initiate a missing person investigation. The child returned home, at which time law enforcement learned of Woody’s interactions with the child. Subsequent investigation resulted in the identification and arrest of Woody. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera. # # # #


title: Wayne County registered sex offender arrested on new child pornography charges

body_text: BUFFALO, NY-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Geoffrey Hayes, 40, of Webster, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a fine up to $250,000. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that in November 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a child pornography CyberTip from Stelivo LLC, a company that runs several chatroom websites, including FreeChat. The tip reported that an individual, later identified as Hayes, uploaded approximately 11 image files of suspected child pornography to the website schat.freechatnow.com. Hayes is a registered sex offender who was convicted of Attempted Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child in 2021. In May 2024, the New York State Police executed search warrants at Hayes’ residence. During the search, investigators seized two cell phones. An analysis of one of the phones recovered approximately 83 image files of suspected child pornography, approximately 41 image files of suspected child exploitative and erotica images, and approximately 81 image files of age difficult explicit material. An analysis of the second phone recovered approximately 5,174 image files and approximately 1,901 video files of suspected child pornography, and approximately 6,714 image files and 205 videos of child exploitative and erotica material. Hayes made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland and was held pending a detention hearing. The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Buffalo man going to prison on child pornography charge

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Alexander J. Weidner, 35, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, was sentenced to serve five years in prison and 35 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A.C. Penrose, who handled the case, stated that on February 28, 2023, a federal search warrant was executed at Weidner’s residence as a result of child pornography uploaded to Snapchat and Instagram accounts, both associated with Weidner. Investigators seized two cellular telephones, which contained approximately 4,843 images and 371 videos of child pornography. Some of the images depicted minors under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, on two occasions, Weidner used the Session application to upload and share a video file containing child pornography with another Session user. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. # # # #


title: Alden man arrested, charged with receipt and possession of child pornography

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Tracy Przepiora, 58, of Alden, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with receipt and possession of child pornography, which carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in March and April 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received two child pornography CyberTips from MediaLab/Kik, a messaging app that that allows users to send messages, photos, videos and live stream. The tips reported that 21 files of suspected child pornography were uploaded by a user later identified as Przepiora. On June 12, 2025, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at his residence in Victor, NY, where he lived at the time, seizing three Apple iPhones and one Apple iPod touch. An analysis of the phones recovered 22 image files of suspected child pornography. Przepiora made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland and was released on conditions. The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Buffalo man going to prison for illegally possessing postal keys

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Fortino Pilier, 28, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession of a postal service key, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison and three years’ supervised release by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who handled the case, stated that on October 23, 2024, Pilier was a passenger in a vehicle that was pulled over by Erie County Sheriff’s deputies. During the traffic stop, Pilier fled from the vehicle and deputies pursued and arrested him. After he was arrested, Pilier was searched, and two United States Postal arrow keys were found in his pocket. An arrow key can be used to open authorized mail receptacles owned by the Postal Service. Pilier admitted that he planned to use the arrow keys to unlawfully access mail receptacles. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Ketty Larco-Ward. # # # #


title: Convicted Attempted Arsonist Sentenced to Federal Prison After Illegally Reentering the U.S.

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Jairo Eliu Aguilar-Lopez, 54, of El Salvador, to 15 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for illegally reentering the United States after he was deported on two separate occasions. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Acting Field Office Director Jeremy Bacon, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE-ERO) – Baltimore Field Office. Aguilar-Lopez is an El Salvadorian national who first entered the United States in February 2019. According to immigration records, law enforcement removed him from the United States on May 9, 2019. But then on March 12, 2020, Aguilar-Lopez reentered the United States near Eagle Pass, Texas. Authorities removed him again on April 3, 2020. Later, Aguilar-Lopez reentered the United States. Aguilar-Lopez had not obtained permission to reenter the U.S. Then, on August 16, 2024, Aguilar-Lopez pled guilty to first degree attempted arson in Baltimore, Maryland. Evidence presented during sentencing in the federal case included a video of Aguilar-Lopez dousing the victim’s home in gasoline. Additionally, the government presented records showing that he threatened to set the victim’s home on fire if she did not leave Baltimore. 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. U.S. Attorney Hayes praised ICE-ERO for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Reema Sood who prosecuted the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Philadelphia Man Sentenced to More than 22 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Commit Violent Armed Home Invasions Targeting Business Owners and Their Families

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

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Shaquan Brown, 31, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cynthia M. Rufe on Thursday to 272 months’ incarceration for conspiracy to commit armed home invasion robberies targeting the businesses and attached residences of their owners, as well as robbery affecting interstate commerce and attempted robbery affecting interstate commerce, using and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of robbery, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Brown was charged by indictment with these crimes in August 2020 and convicted at trial on April 16, 2024. From November 2019 through January 3, 2020, Brown and three co-conspirators conspired to carry out a series of robberies that targeted business owners and another individual that they believed would keep cash in their home. The offenders used zip ties, duct tape, and firearms to commit these crimes. Brown researched his victims and their businesses, using a GPS tracking device to learn where the victims lived. The defendant and his co-conspirators targeted victims they believed kept cash in their homes, including business owners who were Asian and other business owners who dealt in cash. On the night of December 31, 2019, Brown and two co-conspirators accosted the owner of a nail salon in Delaware County, Pa., as the owner returned to the business. The offenders forced the victim inside, and repeatedly demanded money, placing zip ties on the owner’s wrists, covering his mouth with duct tape, and striking his face with their fists and a gun. The men took cash from the business, then forced the owner to his residence, where they encountered his wife, their children, and their nanny. The men zip-tied the wife and all of their children, then continued to beat and injure the owner, and demand money. They ransacked the residence while making statements such as “we have been watching you for weeks.” On the morning of January 3, 2020, Brown and another individual attempted to break into a residence in Chester County, Pa. The defendant had planned to commit an armed home invasion robbery of the homeowner, who was a business owner, and his family, to steal the owner’s business proceeds. While attempting to enter the victim’s home, the home security alarm system went off, and the police responded within minutes. The defendant led the police on a foot chase through the woods and into a creek, where he was arrested. The police recovered duct tape, zip ties, and a firearm from the defendant’s backpack. “What Shaquan Brown and his crew put their victims through was utterly horrifying,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “No one should have to endure a violent ambush in their home or business, be brutally beaten, and see their family traumatized. Today’s sentence ensures that Brown’s home invasion days are over. We will not permit criminals who’d rather take money than make it to terrorize innocent people and whole communities.” “Shaquan Brown violently terrorized his victims in their business and in the sanctity of their home,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “He is now going to federal prison where he will no longer endanger his neighborhood. ATF Philadelphia Field Division has a long history of partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office, and we will continue to work tirelessly together to ensure justice for the victims and to make our communities safer.” This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony Carissimi and J. Jeanette Kang, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Doherty.


title: Philadelphia Felon Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun Crimes

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Norman Copper, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 540 months in prison and five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Mark A. Kearney for drug and gun crimes. In March of this year, the defendant was convicted at trial of one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and one count of possession of firearms by a felon. He was charged with those offenses by superseding indictment in June 2024. In December 2023, the Upper Merion Township Police Department had received information from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Parole Field Services that Copper, who was on state parole at the time for attempted murder, had been intercepted on recorded prison calls and video visits that suggested he might be involved in narcotics sales and/or the illegal possession of firearms. As a condition of his parole, Copper wore a GPS monitor. As proven at trial, GPS location data indicated that he spent many early morning hours at an unapproved area in King of Prussia, Pa., which investigators determined was the apartment of his then-girlfriend. Through physical and video surveillance, Upper Merion detectives saw Copper entering and exiting the apartment on many occasions, often heading in the direction of what was later learned to be a storage unit associated with his girlfriend’s apartment. In January of last year, law enforcement served search warrants on the apartment and storage unit, seizing more than a pound and a half of methamphetamine, three semiautomatic handguns, one of them equipped with a silencer, and one AK-style semiautomatic rifle, weapons that he was not permitted to possess due to his previous felony conviction. “Again and again, Norman Copper has flouted the law and chosen to engage in criminal activity that endangered the community,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “He was deeply involved in the distribution of large quantities of meth — and heavily armed to protect his profits, product, and drug dealer persona. Our office and our partners are working every day to put dangerous offenders like him behind bars, to make the public safer.” “This case is another example of our law enforcement cooperation to prevent violent crime,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “Copper, who was on parole for attempted murder, was heavily armed and loaded with drugs. Working with the Upper Merion Township Police Department, the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, and Assistant United States Attorneys, Copper will no longer threaten his neighborhood.” The case was investigated by the Upper Merion Township Police Department, the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lindsey Mills and Justin Ashenfelter.


title: CNMI Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Human Smuggling Operation between Saipan and Guam

component: USAO - Guam & Northern Mariana Islands

body_text: Saipan, M.P. – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that the following individuals were sentenced this week by Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona in the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens, in violation of 8 U.S.C. §1324(a)(1)(A)(v)(I): Steven Villagomez Pangelinan – age 58, sentenced on November 20, 2025, to 30 months incarceration, two years of supervised release, 100 hours community service, and a $100 mandatory assessment fee; William J. Cabrera, Jr. – age 44, sentenced on November 19, 2025, to 21 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, 100 hours community service, and a $100 mandatory assessment fee; Steven Chris Tomokane – age 55, Sentenced on November 19, 2025, to six months imprisonment, six months home detention, 3 years of supervised release, 100 hours community service, and a $100 mandatory assessment fee; and Kenneth Hocog Pangelinan – age 39, sentenced on November 19, 2025, to 37 days incarceration, three years of supervised release, 100 hours of community service, and $100 assessment fee. On June 22, 2023, Steven Pangelinan led two boats—a 25-foot Boston Whaler and an 18-foot McKee Craft—on a 120-mile, overnight trip from Saipan to Guam to smuggle 21 Chinese nationals, each of whom paid about $4,500 to avoid airport immigration checks by Customs and Border Protection. Guam authorities spotted the vessels dropping off the passengers and alerted CNMI law enforcement, which intercepted the boats and their four-person crew on their return. Pangelinan led an organized human-smuggling operation responsible for numerous prior trips. He owned the boats, captained one during the voyage, and earned at least $80,000 from this single run. A third vessel, a 31-foot Fountain, was also linked to his smuggling activities, and all three boats will be forfeited to the federal government. William Cabrera served as Pangelinan’s primary accomplice and captained the second boat in this and previous smuggling trips. Steven Tomokane and Kenneth Pangelinan were crew members on each boat. Tomokane, a mechanic, also stored Pangelinan’s vessels at his home. Steven Tomokane is a boat mechanic who allowed Steven Pangelinan to store vessels used for human smuggling at his residence. Steven Tomokane and Kenneth Pangelinan both served as crew members for Steven Pangelinan and William Cabrera on the June 22, 2023, voyage to transport 21 Chinese nationals to Guam. “The defendants facilitated illegal migration and risked the lives of many for their own financial gain,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “Their conduct was part of a concerning trend involving the abuse of the CNMI visa waiver program, among other provisions of our immigration laws. We will combat this activity at every opportunity. I applaud the work of Guam and CNMI law enforcement in support of federal immigration enforcement.” “This sentencing underscores Homeland Security Investigations’ unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks that exploit vulnerable individuals for profit while undermining the integrity of our immigration system,” said Lucia Cabral-DeArmas, HSI Honolulu. “The defendants in this case endangered lives and violated the law in their attempt to smuggle individuals into Guam. HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to protect our borders and hold those who engage in human smuggling accountable.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance from the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and the CNMI Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorney Albert S. Flores, Jr. prosecuted the case in the District of the Northern Mariana Islands.


title: FORMER PANAMA CITY RESIDENT SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF OBSCENE MATERIAL

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – John Robert Burchett, 31, formerly of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison for production and transportation of obscene material for distribution. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful federal prosecution is the result of close collaboration with our state law enforcement partners, and ensures this defendant will be held fully accountable for his criminal exploitation of vulnerable victims. I appreciate the outstanding work of the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the 14 th Circuit State Attorney’s Office, and our federal law enforcement partners in helping to bring this offender to justice.” Court documents reflect that in February 2024, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office received information that the defendant had used his cell phone to surreptitiously record women while they were changing their clothes in a private dressing room at a Panama City gym. Between September 2023 and January 2024, the defendant shared thirteen different videos to a public website where they were viewed thousands of times. Initially, the defendant was arrested by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and state charges followed. Following collaboration with the State Attorney’s Office for the 14th Judicial Circuit, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Attorney’s Office sought a federal indictment. “This was a deliberate and predatory invasion of the victims’ privacy, and it won’t be tolerated in Bay County,” said Sheriff Tommy Ford, Bay County Sheriff’s Office. “Investigators worked tirelessly to uncover the full scope of the defendant’s actions, and I’m grateful for the outstanding teamwork with our state and federal partners in holding the defendant accountable.” State Attorney Larry Basford stated, "The defendant violated the privacy of these innocent female victims and has been held accountable. By working with the U.S. Attorney, we were able to get a longer sentence for this defendant than was possible in state court for these crimes. I thank the Bay County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their role in pursuing justice for these victims." The defendant’s imprisonment will be followed by two years of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration. Additionally, the defendant was ordered to pay restitution. The case was investigated by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jordane New and Meredith L. Steer. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: GAINESVILLE MAN SENTENCED TO FEDERAL PRISON  FOR POSSESSION OF A MACHINEGUN

body_text: GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Jaquan Tyrell Calhoun, 21, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced in federal court to 5 years and 10 months imprisonment for possession of a machinegun. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “With yet another successful prosecution, my office continues to deliver on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the violent criminals who have threatened the safety of our communities for far too long. I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to identify and remove this offender from the streets, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these crimes with the full force of our federal laws.” Court records reflect that Calhoun, who is a member of a gang, would routinely post images and videos of himself with firearms on social media, including multiple videos of himself shooting machineguns. On April 21, 2024, Calhoun and codefendant Lagarius Johnson live-streamed a video of themselves posing with cash and firearms. Calhoun is seen on video flashing a Glock pistol that had been modified with a machinegun conversion device. Johnson was arrested later that night carrying that same illegally modified Glock pistol which was confirmed to be a machinegun. “Calhoun’s decision to flaunt a machine gun on social media highlighted the recklessness that endangers our communities,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “This sentencing demonstrates our commitment to working side by side with our federal and local partners to stop violent and organized criminal activity in our communities.” “The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in our commitment to combat gun violence in our community by working closely with our state and federal partners to locate and apprehend criminals like Jaquan Calhoun — individuals who have no business possessing a firearm, let alone one illegally modified into a deadly automatic weapon,” stated Sheriff Chad Scott, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case involved an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Eric W. Welch prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: FORMER LOCAL FIREFIGHTER PLEADS GUILTY TO FEDERAL CHARGES OF PRODUCTION AND POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Garey A. Buscaino, 48, of Pensacola, Florida, has pleaded guilty in federal court on charges related to a decade long pattern of producing and possessing child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges. U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “Protecting our children from exploitation and the predations of sick individuals like this offender remains one of my office’s highest priorities, and I deeply appreciate the outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners who helped bring him to justice. My office will continue to relentlessly pursue offenders who victimize our children and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.” Court documents reveal that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an online user in Northwest Florida possessed what appeared to be child pornography in a cloud account. Upon looking into the account and obtaining a search warrant for it, law enforcement determined that it not only contained child pornography from the internet but also what appeared to be hidden camera produced pornographic videos of unsuspecting minor females. Based upon the content of the cloud account, and further investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement linked the account to the defendant and obtained a search warrant for his local residence and firehouse. Located within, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task force seized dozens of electronic devices from the defendant. Contained within these devices were hidden camera-produced pornography videos of five minor females in various states of undressing in bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as thousands of graphic images and videos of sexual child abuse from the internet. Some of these images and videos captured victims as young as toddlers being sexually abused. Sentencing is scheduled for January 15, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell II. Buscaino faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment as to each minor victim for the Production of Child Pornography and up to 20 years’ imprisonment as to the Possession of Child Pornography Involving Minors Under the Age of 12 Years Old. The case is being jointly investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg. 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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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 . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: TALLAHASSEE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO POSSESSION OF FIREARM  BY A CONVICTED FELON AFTER ABSCONDING FROM PROBATION

body_text: TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Justin Grantsteadman, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding U.S. Marshals are second to none in their pursuit of criminal offenders and fugitives, and I applaud their excellent work with local and federal law enforcement in this case to find and detain this felon who fled from his prior sentence. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute dangerous felons, like this defendant, to keep our communities safe.” Court documents reflect that the United States Marshals Service Florida/Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force located the defendant at a motel in Midway, Florida due to an active warrant for absconding from state felony probation. Officers arrested the defendant and found a firearm in his front pocket, which had been reported stolen several days before in Tallahassee. The defendant faces imprisonment for up to 15 years. The case involved an investigation by the United States Marshals Service, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain. Sentencing is scheduled for December 30, 2025, at 10:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. 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. As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html


title: Online Seller of Infant Formula Pleads Guilty to Smuggling and Violating FDA Prior Notice Requirements

component: Civil Division

body_text: Able Groupe Inc., a company that sold infant formula on the website LittleBundle.com, pleaded guilty today to two felony charges for smuggling European infant formula and importing it into the United States in violation of FDA’s Prior Notice Requirements. According to court documents, Able Groupe, which also did business as Little Bundle and Huggable, Inc., sold European infant formula to consumers throughout the United States beginning in the spring of 2019. Several of the infant formulas Able Groupe sold were listed on FDA Import Alerts due to their failure to meet nutrient or labelling requirements for infant formula. In pleading guilty, Able Groupe admitted that it attempted to avoid detection and detention of its imported formula by failing to comply with FDA’s Prior Notice requirements for imported food and by using false commodity descriptions for the imported formula. Following an FDA inspection, the company ceased operations and recalled 76,000 units of formula in August 2021. Able Groupe pleaded guilty to two felony counts: (1) importing food without providing Prior Notice to FDA with the intent to defraud or mislead in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA); and (2) passing and attempting to pass false and fraudulent documents through customs to defraud the United States. Under the FDCA, importers are required to provide Prior Notice to FDA when they import food into the United States. This is the first time a defendant has pleaded guilty to a felony violation for failing to provide such notices to FDA. The company’s plea agreement includes a proposed forfeiture of $304,640, and the matter will result in a total recovery by the Government of approximately $2.3 million. U.S. Magistrate Judge Toliver presided over the company’s guilty plea. “FDA’s Prior Notice requirements help safeguard consumers as well as the nation’s food supply, and the Department is committed to enforcing the law and protecting our most vulnerable citizens,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Justice Department will continue to work with our agency partners to investigate and prosecute those who ignore this important legal obligation, attempt to defraud the government, and put the health and safety of infants at risk.” “U.S. consumers rely on the FDA to ensure that the food products they purchase for their families are safe,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Walker, FDA Ofﬁce of Criminal Investigations’ Kansas City Field Office. “The FDA will continue to work to bring to justice those who would defy its prior notice requirements, defraud the government, and attempt to deceive American consumers, particularly at the potential expense of infants’ health.” The Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations Special Agent Chad Medaris investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Director Patrick Runkle of the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch in partnership with the Northern District of Texas U.S. Attorney’s Office.


title: Polk County Felon Convicted At Trial For Assaulting Deputy U.S. Marshal With A Firearm

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Myles Andrew Strickland (36, Bartow) guilty of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Strickland faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Strickland was a convicted felon and fugitive wanted on a state arrest warrant out of Polk County. A U.S. Marshals Service task force located Strickland in Lee County. When confronted, Strickland led authorities on a foot chase. During the chase, Strickland turned to face a Deputy U.S. Marshal that had been pursuing him and racked the slide of a firearm he was carrying inside of a jacket, thus preparing the firearm to fire. Strickland was then struck by gunfire from pursuing law enforcement. A spent cartridge casing showed that Strickland had discharged his firearm. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin S. Winter. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).


title: Pharmacist and Brother Sentenced to Prison for $15M Health Care  and Wire Fraud Scheme

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A former Michigan pharmacist and his brother were sentenced yesterday to eight years in prison and five years in prison, respectively, for their roles in a conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from approximately 2010 to 2019, Raad Kouza, 59, of Wayne County, a pharmacist, and his brother, Ramis Kouza, 46, of Oakland County, a pharmacy manager, billed Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for prescription medications that they did not dispense at pharmacies they owned or operated in Michigan. The defendants executed this fraud by targeting the billing of expensive medications, such as antipsychotics and inhalers, and by concealing inventory shortages at their pharmacies from multiple auditors. As a result of their criminal conduct, the defendants caused a total of over $15 million loss to Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. In November 2024, Raad Kouza and Ramis Kouza were convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud by a federal jury in the Eastern District of Michigan. At sentencing, the Court ordered the brothers to pay approximately $15.5 million in restitution and the same amount in forfeiture. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan of the FBI Detroit Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Mario Pinto of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement. FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Claire Sobczak Pacelli, Jeffrey A. Crapko and Andres Q. Almendarez of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit .


title: Prior Felon Convicted for Kidnapping and Four Counts  Related to Domestic Violence

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A federal jury convicted a Collinsville man of kidnapping and four counts related to domestic abuse and violence. Jerry Charles Creek, Jr., 55, was convicted of two counts of Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country; two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country; and Kidnapping in Indian Country. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Creek began a relationship with the victim in the summer of 2023. After the victim moved in with Creek, he became jealous, possessive, and abusive. Creek isolated the victim from her family and friends. Evidence presented at trial showed that verbal abuse escalated into physical abuse. In November 2023, Creek accused the victim of cheating and assaulted her throughout the weekend. The victim testified about being strangled, dragged around the house, and kicked by Creek when he was wearing steel-toed boots. He kept the victim from leaving by taking her keys and making her stay naked. If the victim attempted to get dressed, Creek would get enraged. After two days of abuse, Creek left the trailer briefly, and the victim was able to get dressed and escape. When she sought medical treatment, the victim had fractured ribs, a concussion, and bruises all over her body. The victim testified that in March 2024, Creek began accusing the victim of cheating and strangled her until she lost consciousness and urinated. After regaining consciousness, Creek continued to abuse the victim. At some point she was able to escape, however once Creek noticed she was gone, he went after her, promising to take her home. Upon getting closer to the victim’s home, she testified that Creek stated he needed to go home to get gas. While at a stoplight, in fear, the victim jumped out of the truck and went to a fire station. There she waited for a family member to pick her up. During a third incident in April 2024, the victim testified that she was at a bar with a male friend. Creek walked into the bar and told her to get in his truck. Creek was enraged again and drove erratically to the victim’s house. They argued in front of the house and went inside. Creek left the house, and she went to bed. Later that evening, she woke up to smoke in her house because it was on fire. Her cellphone was gone, and she could not break her bedroom window. After being rescued by neighbors, and before being intubated, she told her neighbor, “Jerry did it.” She was intubated and hospitalized for eleven days. She was diagnosed with several injuries that were not present before the fire, including numerous lacerations and bruises, and a fractured L4 vertebra. While in the hospital, the victim wrote a note to a family member stating that Creek tried to kill her. Court records show that Creek was previously convicted of assault with a dangerous weapon, obstructing an officer, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and several other felonies. The Tulsa Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey Todd, George Jiang, and Thomas Buscemi prosecuted the case. If you are impacted by relationship abuse and need confidential help, you can text “START” to 88788.


title: JACKSON COUNTY PROBATION OFFICER SENTENCED FOR EXTORTING STATE PROBATIONERS AND WITNESS TAMPERING

component: Department of Justice


title: Minnesota Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison  For Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Mountain Lake, Minnesota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on November 10, 2025. William Soudap Somphanthabansouk, 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Somphanthabansouk was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 25, 2025. Somphanthabansouk obtained methamphetamine in California through the mail and then distributed it to others in Sioux Falls as well as in Western Minnesota. In early 2025, investigators discovered that Somphanthabansouk had traveled to California and mailed himself a package from there. They arranged to have him stopped on the interstate on his way to Sioux Falls and discovered approximately 228 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded pistol in his vehicle. They then obtained a search warrant for his residence in Mountain Lake, Minnesota, and discovered approximately 850 grams of methamphetamine and multiple firearms. Altogether, investigators believe that Somphanthabansouk was responsible for distributing approximately nine pounds of methamphetamine in this area. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Worthington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case. Somphanthabansouk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Rosebud Man Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on November 12, 2025. John Larvie, age 35, was sentenced to ten months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 7, 2025. Larvie was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court in 2019. Consequently, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. On May 6, 2025, Larvie began a period of supervised release residing in Rosebud, but he did not update his sex offender registration until June 4, 2025. This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case. Larvie was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Lawrence County meth dealer sentenced to 15+ years’ imprisonment

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: BENTON, Ill . – A district judge sentenced a Lawrenceville, Illinois, man to 188 months’ imprisonment for distributing meth in Lawrence County. Jeffrey S. Metz, 49, pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of meth. Following imprisonment, he will serve four years of supervised release. He was sentenced Nov. 6. “Trafficking drugs in any county of southern Illinois will earn dealers a federal prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. According to court documents, Metz admitted to distributing more than 25 grams of meth in Lawrence County in October and November 2024. "The Illinois State Police is committed to stopping illegal drug trafficking and keeping dangerous drugs from flooding and hurting our communities," said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. " ISP is targeting drug traffickers and will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney's Office to put them behind bars." The Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force of the Illinois State Police, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and DEA contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sanders prosecuted the case.


title: Recidivist Offenders Receive Combined 57 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery Spree

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Donta Allen, 28, and Lance McGee, 33, both of Indianapolis, have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a string of eleven armed robberies across Marion County. Allen pleaded guilty to 11 counts of interference with commerce by robbery and four counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. In June, he was sentenced to 38 years in federal prison, followed by three years of restitution, and ordered to pay $12,790.91 in restitution. McGee pleaded guilty to 11 counts of interference with commerce by robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. He was sentenced to 19.5 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $12,790.91 in restitution. According to court documents, from March 25 through April 8, 2022, Allen and McGee conspired to rob at least eleven different stores in Indianapolis and Speedway, Indiana. Wearing a ski mask and concealing his tattoos with makeup, Allen entered each store, pointed a firearm at the cashier, and demanded cash. McGee acted as the getaway driver in a Chevy Malibu and received a share of the stolen proceeds. The firearm used in the robberies—a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol—was stolen by McGee from a client while working for a moving company. The robberies occurred on the following dates and at these locations: Date Victim Business March 25, 2022 Disc Replay; 8210 Rockville Road, Indianapolis March 25, 2022 GameStop; 5816 Crawfordsville Road, Speedway March 27, 2022 GameStop; 3269 West 86 th Street, Indianapolis March 27, 2022 AutoZone; 4606 East County Line Road, Indianapolis April 2, 2022 GameStop; 4525 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis April 2, 2022 AutoZone; 7455 Michigan Road, Indianapolis April 3, 2022 Disc Replay; 9739 East Washington Street, Indianapolis April 5, 2022 Disc Replay; 7317 US 31 South, Indianapolis April 5, 2022 AutoZone; 8525 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis April 5, 2022 AutoZone; 6055 East 82 nd Street, Indianapolis April 8, 2022 GameStop; 6905 South Emerson Avenue, Indianapolis At the time of the offenses, both defendants had prior felony convictions that prohibited them from legally possessing firearms. McGee had previously been convicted of felony possession of a narcotic drug and aggravated possession of drugs. Allen had prior convictions for robbery, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. “This case sends a clear message that repeat violent offenders who terrorize our communities will face the full force of federal justice,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Donta Allen and Lance McGee are recidivist criminals who committed a spree of armed robberies, endangering lives across Marion County. Thanks to the exceptional work of the FBI, IMPD, and the Speedway Police Department, they have received lengthy prison sentences and can no longer threaten the safety of our neighborhoods.” “Our communities deserve to feel safe from violent criminals who think nothing of pointing a gun at innocent people,” said Timothy J. O’Malley, special agent in charge of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “These sentences reflect the strength of our partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement and send a clear message: if you use a firearm to terrorize others, you will face serious consequences.” The FBI, IMPD, and Speedway Police Department investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted this case. ###


title: U.S. Citizens And Chinese Nationals Arrested For Exporting Artificial Intelligence Technology To China

body_text: Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that two U.S. citizens and two nationals of the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—all residing in the United States—have been charged with a conspiracy to illegally export cutting-edge NVIDIA Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), which have artificial intelligence (AI) applications, to the PRC. Those arrested include Hon Ning Ho, aka “Mathew Ho,” a U.S. citizen born in Hong Kong, 34, residing in Tampa, Florida; Brian Curtis Raymond, U.S. citizen, 46, Huntsville, Alabama; Cham Li, aka “Tony Li,” PRC national, 38, San Leandro, California, and Jing Chen, aka “Harry Chen,” PRC national on F-1 nonimmigrant student visa, 45, Tampa, Florida. On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Ho and Chen were arrested and appeared in court in the Middle District of Florida, while Raymond was arrested and appeared in the Northern District of Alabama. Li was also arrested yesterday and is scheduled to appear today in the Northern District of California. “As demonstrated by this indictment, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida is firmly committed to safeguarding our country’s national security,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Thanks to the dedicated investigative work by our law enforcement partners, these defendants who wrongfully exported this sensitive technology are facing justice.” According to the indictment, the PRC seeks to become the world leader in AI by 2030 and seeks to use AI for its military modernization efforts and in connection with the design and testing of weapons of mass destruction and deployment of advanced AI surveillance tools. The PRC seeks cutting-edge U.S. technology in furtherance of that goal, including NVIDIA GPUs. To protect U.S. national security, beginning in October 2022, the Department of Commerce implemented new license requirements for the export of these technologies to the PRC. As alleged, from September 2023 to November 2025, Ho, Raymond, Li, and Chen conspired to violate these critical U.S. export controls, by illegally exporting advanced GPUs to the PRC through Malaysia and Thailand. In furtherance of the conspiracy, the conspirators used Janford Realtor, LLC—a Tampa, Florida-based company owned and controlled by Ho and Li—as a front to purchase and then illegally export controlled GPUs to the PRC. Despite its name, Janford Realtor, LLC, was never involved in any real estate transactions. Raymond, though his Alabama-based electronics company, supplied NVIDIA GPUs to Ho and others for illegal export to the PRC as part of the conspiracy. As further alleged in the indictment, the conspiracy encompassed four separate exports of NVIDIA GPUs to the PRC. The first and second exports resulted in 400 NVIDIA A100 GPUs being exported to the PRC between October 2024 and January 2025. The third and fourth exports to the PRC were disrupted by law enforcement and therefore not completed. These attempted exports related to ten Hewlett Packard Enterprises supercomputers containing NVIDIA H100 GPUs and 50 separate NVIDIA H200 GPUs. Despite knowing that licenses were required to export these items to the PRC, none of the conspirators ever sought or obtained a license for any of these exports. Instead, they lied about the intended destination of the GPUs to evade U.S. export controls. The indictment further alleges that the conspirators received over $3.89 million in wire transfers from the PRC to fund this unlawful scheme. As set forth in the indictment, the United States will also seek forfeiture of 50 NVIDIA H200 GPUs, which are property constituting an item or technology that was intended to be exported unlawfully. The chart below summarizes the charges against each defendant: Name and Nationality Age and Residence Charges Max. Term of Imprisonment Hon Ning Ho, aka “Mathew Ho,” U.S. citizen born in Hong Kong 34, Tampa, FL Conspiracy to violate Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), ECRA violations (4 counts), smuggling (3 counts), conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering (9 counts) 20 years per ECRA violation; 10 years per smuggling count; and 20 years per money laundering count Brian Curtis Raymond, U.S. citizen 46, Huntsville, AL Conspiracy to violate Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), ECRA violations (2 counts), smuggling (1 count), conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering (7 counts) 20 years per ECRA violation; 10 years per smuggling count; and 20 years per money laundering count Cham Li, aka “Tony Li,” PRC national 38, San Leandro, CA Conspiracy to violate Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), ECRA violations (1 count), smuggling (1 count), and conspiracy to commit money laundering 20 years per ECRA violation; 10 years per smuggling count; and 20 years per money laundering count Jing Chen, aka “Harry Chen,” PRC national on F-1 nonimmigrant student visa 45, Tampa, FL Conspiracy to violate Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), ECRA violations (1 count), smuggling (1 count), and conspiracy to commit money laundering 20 years per ECRA violation; 10 years per smuggling count; and 20 years per money laundering count An indictment is merely an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty in a court of law. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Department of Commerce - Bureau of Industry and Security. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph K. Ruddy and Lindsey N. Schmidt of the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Menno Goedman of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.


title: Federal Court Terminates Newark Police Department’s Consent Decree After Successful Reforms

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: Yesterday, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey terminated the consent decree in United States v. City of Newark , marking the completion of a nine-year reform effort of the Newark Police Department (NPD). Through the consent decree, NPD resolved prior Department of Justice findings by implementing constitutional policing requirements for stops, searches, arrests, and use of force. Based on completion of those and other requirements, Newark moved to dismiss the decree; the Justice Department supported the City’s motion. “We are proud to stand by the men and woman of NPD as federal oversight ends, and the court returns control of local law enforcement to the City of Newark,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We look forward to the continued, effective policing of the City — in a constitutional manner — to protect all Americans from crime.” “Over the last decade, the Newark Police Division has made tremendous improvements to ensure constitutional policing and to increase community trust,” said Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey. “NPD remains a valuable law enforcement partner, and we will continue to work with it to reduce gun crimes, drug trafficking, and gang violence. The men and women of NPD should be proud of what they accomplished, and we appreciate the hard work they do every day to keep the people of Newark safe.” In 2011, the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey jointly initiated an investigation into the NPD under the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, Title VI of the Civil Rights act of 1964, and the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. After concluding the investigation, in 2016 the United States and the City of Newark entered into a consent decree to address the investigation’s findings that NPD engaged in a pattern or practice of conducting stops and using unjustified and excessive force in violation of the Fourth Amendment; allegations of biased policing; retaliating against individuals who questioned police action in violation of the First Amendment; and subjecting individuals to theft by NPD officers in violation of the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments. NPD has been implementing the decree since its entry. In 2024, the Court granted the parties’ joint motion to terminate several of the consent decree’s requirements that NPD completed by that time. The Special Litigation Section of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the District of New Jersey U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division and jointly handled the investigation and litigation.


title: Carroll Iowa Man Pleads Guilty to Meth Conspiracy

body_text: Paul Diamond Sanchez, 52, from Carroll, Iowa pled guilty on November 20, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in federal court in Sioux City. At the plea hearing, Sanchez admitted that from July 2024 through May 2025 he and others distributed methamphetamine in the Carroll, Iowa area. On two occasions in the summer of 2024, defendant distributed a total of over 25 grams of pure methamphetamine to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. During a traffic stop in October 2024, Sanchez had over 9 grams of pure methamphetamine in his pants pocket which he admitted he planned to sell to another person. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Sanchez remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Sanchez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Manning Police Department, Iowa State Patrol, and Iowa DCI Laboratory. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-3022. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Waterloo Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking

body_text: A woman who possessed nearly a kilogram of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it was sentenced November 20, 2025, to two years in federal prison. Sylvia Rubio-Rincon, age 21, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a June 9, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute. Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed that undercover agents communicated with a suspected methamphetamine source of supply residing in Mexico. Agents arranged for the delivery of nearly a kilogram of methamphetamine. As Rubio-Rincon drove to meet with an undercover officer, officers stopped and searched her car. Officers found over 900 grams of methamphetamine. Rubio-Rincon said she was paid to deliver the methamphetamine by a family member who lived in Mexico. Rubio-Rincon was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Rubio-Rincon was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Rubio-Rincon is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison. 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 Iowa is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, with a satellite office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is comprised of agents and officers from Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the United States Marshals Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. This HSTF case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael S.A. Hudson and investigated by HSTF Iowa, with the assistance of the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force consisting of the Waterloo Police Department, Cedar Falls Police Department, Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Department, Evansdale Police Department, Waverly Police Department, Hudson Police Department, La Porte City Police Department, and the Bremer County Sheriff’s Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement;. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-CR-2046. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Vohra Wound Physicians and its Owner Agree to Pay $45M to Settle Fraud Allegations of Overbilling for Wound Care Services

body_text: Dr. Ameet Vohra and his companies, including Vohra Wound Physicians Management LLC (Vohra), have agreed to pay $45 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing the submission of claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary surgical procedures, for more lucrative surgical procedures when only routine non-surgical wound management had been done, and for evaluation and management services that were not billable under Medicare coverage and coding rules. Vohra is one of the nation’s largest providers of bedside specialty wound care for patients in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities. In April 2025, the United States filed a lawsuit alleging that Vohra engaged in a nationwide scheme to bill Medicare for surgical excisional debridement procedures that were either not medically necessary or had not been performed. In its complaint, the United States alleged that Vohra pressured, trained, and provided financial incentives for Vohra physicians to perform debridement procedures during as many patient visits as possible regardless of the patients’ needs. Furthermore, it did not matter which kind of debridement a Vohra physician performed because Vohra allegedly programmed its electronic health record and billing software to ensure that Medicare was always billed for the higher-reimbursed surgical excisional procedure and to create false medical record documentation to support the scheme. Finally, the United States alleged that this widespread scheme was orchestrated by Dr. Vohra and implemented by his senior management team. “Providers that manipulate electronic health records systems to drive inappropriate utilization or billing of Medicare services undermine the integrity of the Medicare program and waste taxpayer dollars,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Justice Department will hold accountable providers who prioritize their own enrichment over the medical needs of their patients.” “When corporations design systems to inflate profits at taxpayer expense, they are stealing from the American people,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “We will not tolerate fraud in our healthcare system and will hold those accountable who manipulate public programs for personal gain. Our Office will protect taxpayer dollars and defend the integrity of programs that serve America’s seniors.” “When medical providers submit inflated claims, they contribute to rising healthcare costs for all consumers,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret E. Heap for the Southern District of Georgia. “My office will continue to combat fraudulent billing by unravelling these schemes.” “Billing Medicare for medically unnecessary procedures and manipulating documentation to maximize profits not only defrauds taxpayers — it puts vulnerable patients at risk,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement sends a clear message: those who exploit federal healthcare programs for personal gain will face serious consequences. The Corporate Integrity Agreement ensures continued oversight and serves as a powerful deterrent against future misconduct.” Under the settlement, Vohra will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services. Under the CIA, Vohra must develop and maintain a compliance program, implement a risk assessment process and hire an independent review organization (IRO) to review its claims and health information technology systems. The CIA requires monitoring of Vohra’s operations and obligates company executives and owners to certify compliance annually with the terms of the CIA. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Florida and the Southern District of Georgia, and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Kirsten Mayer, David Finkelstein, Samuel Robins, Yifan Wang, and William Olson, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rosaline Chan and Matthew Feeley for the Southern District of Florida and Bradford Patrick for the Southern District of Georgia. The claims resolved by the United States in the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK - Today, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey terminated the consent decree in United States v. City of Newark , marking the completion of a nine-year reform effort of the Newark Police Department (NPD). Through the consent decree, NPD resolved prior Department of Justice findings by implementing constitutional policing requirements for stops, searches, arrests, and use of force. Based on completion of those and other requirements, Newark moved to dismiss the decree; the Justice Department supported the City’s motion. “Over the last decade, the Newark Police Division has made tremendous improvements to ensure constitutional policing and to increase community trust. NPD remains a valuable law enforcement partner, and we will continue to work with it to reduce gun crimes, drug trafficking, and gang violence. The men and women of NPD should be proud of what they accomplished, and we appreciate the hard work they do every day to keep the people of Newark safe.” - Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba “We are proud to stand by the men and woman of NPD as federal oversight ends, and the court returns control of local law enforcement to the City of Newark,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We look forward to the continued, effective policing of the City—in a constitutional manner—to protect all Americans from crime.” In 2011, the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey jointly initiated an investigation into the NPD under the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, Title VI of the Civil Rights act of 1964, and the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. After concluding the investigation, in 2016 the United States and the City of Newark entered into a consent decree to address the investigation’s findings that NPD engaged in a pattern or practice of conducting stops and using unjustified and excessive force in violation of the Fourth Amendment; allegations of biased policing; retaliating against individuals who questioned police action in violation of the First Amendment; and subjecting individuals to theft by NPD officers in violation of the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments. NPD has been implementing the decree since its entry. In 2024, the Court granted the parties’ joint motion to terminate several of the consent decree’s requirements that NPD completed by that time. The Special Litigation Section of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the District of New Jersey U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division and jointly handled the investigation and litigation. ###


component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Dr. Ameet Vohra and his companies, including Vohra Wound Physicians Management LLC (Vohra), have agreed to pay $45 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing the submission of claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary surgical procedures, for more lucrative surgical procedures when only routine non-surgical wound management had been done, and for evaluation and management services that were not billable under Medicare coverage and coding rules. Vohra is one of the nation’s largest providers of bedside specialty wound care for patients in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities. In April 2025, the United States filed a lawsuit alleging that Vohra engaged in a nationwide scheme to bill Medicare for surgical excisional debridement procedures that were either not medically necessary or had not been performed. In its complaint, the United States alleged that Vohra pressured, trained, and provided financial incentives for Vohra physicians to perform debridement procedures during as many patient visits as possible regardless of the patients’ needs. Furthermore, it did not matter which kind of debridement a Vohra physician performed because Vohra allegedly programmed its electronic health record and billing software to ensure that Medicare was always billed for the higher-reimbursed surgical excisional procedure and to create false medical record documentation to support the scheme. Finally, the United States alleged that this widespread scheme was orchestrated by Dr. Vohra and implemented by his senior management team. “Providers that manipulate electronic health records systems to drive inappropriate utilization or billing of Medicare services undermine the integrity of the Medicare program and waste taxpayer dollars,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Justice Department will hold accountable providers who prioritize their own enrichment over the medical needs of their patients.” “When corporations design systems to inflate profits at taxpayer expense, they are stealing from the American people,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “We will not tolerate fraud in our healthcare system and will hold those accountable who manipulate public programs for personal gain. Our Office will protect taxpayer dollars and defend the integrity of programs that serve America’s seniors.” “When medical providers submit inflated claims, they contribute to rising healthcare costs for all consumers,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret E. Heap for the Southern District of Georgia. “My office will continue to combat fraudulent billing by unravelling these schemes.” “Billing Medicare for medically unnecessary procedures and manipulating documentation to maximize profits not only defrauds taxpayers — it puts vulnerable patients at risk,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement sends a clear message: those who exploit federal healthcare programs for personal gain will face serious consequences. The Corporate Integrity Agreement ensures continued oversight and serves as a powerful deterrent against future misconduct.” Under the settlement, Vohra will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services. Under the CIA, Vohra must develop and maintain a compliance program, implement a risk assessment process and hire an independent review organization (IRO) to review its claims and health information technology systems. The CIA requires monitoring of Vohra’s operations and obligates company executives and owners to certify compliance annually with the terms of the CIA. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Florida and the Southern District of Georgia, and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Kirsten Mayer, David Finkelstein, Samuel Robins, Yifan Wang, and William Olson, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rosaline Chan and Matthew Feeley for the Southern District of Florida and Bradford Patrick for the Southern District of Georgia. The claims resolved by the United States in the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. ###