title: Waukesha Medical Equipment Company Agrees to Pay Nearly $7 Million to Resolve Allegations of False Billings to Federal Healthcare Programs

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that Kinex Medical Company, LLC, agreed to pay $6,925,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to Medicare, TRICARE, and other federal programs. Based in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Kinex sells and distributes durable medical equipment, including knee, shoulder, and hip braces, to patients across the United States. After receiving information from a whistleblower, the United States investigated and alleged that the company submitted false claims to Medicare, TRICARE, the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), and the Office of Workers Compensation Programs of the Department of Labor (OWCP). Specifically, the United States alleged that from 2019 through 2024, Kinex provided patients covered by these programs with medical braces that the patients did not need and then billed Medicare, TRICARE, FEHBP, and OWCP as if the braces had been necessary. The United States also alleged that Kinex convinced the patients to accept the braces by waiving costs like patient co-pays and by giving the patients other equipment for free. In addition to paying nearly $7 million to resolve the allegations concerning these false claims, Kinex also entered into a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), to ensure compliance with applicable regulations going forward. “Medicare, TRICARE, and other federal programs only pay for medical equipment that patients actually need,” said United States Attorney Schimel. “Kinex, however, induced patients to receive braces that neither the patients nor their doctors thought they needed, all in an effort to receive taxpayer money. This settlement imposes a significant penalty on Kinex and will make taxpayers whole for the company’s wrongdoing.” “Billing taxpayers for medically unnecessary equipment and undermining program safeguards through improper waivers of patient cost sharing can distort medical decision making and erode trust in our healthcare system. Today’s settlement underscores our commitment to protecting federal healthcare programs and the patients they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the HHS-OIG. “Our agency will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold suppliers accountable when they place profits ahead of patient need.” “Kinex engaged in a scheme to defraud the American taxpayers. The agreement by Kinex to settle this matter and repay over $6.9 million demonstrates the breadth of their fraudulent activity,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI along with our partners will continue to aggressively pursue those who steal from the American people and those engaged in healthcare fraud schemes.” “This investigation underscores our commitment to preserving the integrity of the TRICARE program and protecting taxpayer-funded health benefits essential to military readiness,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Jason J. Sargenski of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “Fraud that diverts resources from TRICARE undermines the care promised to service members, retirees, and their families. DCIS remains focused on advancing accountability and deterrence in support of the Department’s mission.” “Patients expect that the medical equipment received during their treatment is necessary for their care and recovery, not a means for medical companies to profit,” said Derek M. Holt, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of the Inspector General (OPM-OIG). “We thank our agents and law enforcement partners for their work to hold these companies accountable.” Because the government’s investigation resulted from a whistleblower complaint filed under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, the whistleblower will receive a share of the settlement. The lawsuit is captioned United States ex rel. Geboy v. Kinex Medical Company, LLC , Case No. 24-cv-1461, and is pending in the District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. Assistant United States Attorneys Nia Schmaltz and Michael Carter represented the government in this matter. The HHS-OIG, FBI, OPM-OIG, DCIS, and the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General, assisted in the investigation. The settlement agreement states allegations only; Kinex does not admit liability for the allegations. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: New York Woman Indicted for Allegedly Smuggling Eight Kilograms of Cocaine from the Dominican Republic Hidden in Duty-Free Alcohol Boxes

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A New York woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly smuggling more than eight kilograms of cocaine in duty-free alcohol boxes via a commercial flight from the Dominican Republic to Boston Logan International Airport. Stacey Medina Guzman, 24, of Corona, N.Y., was charged with one count of importation of five kilograms or more of cocaine, one count of possession with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Medina Guzman appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. According to court filings, on the evening of Feb. 4, 2026, Medina Guzman arrived at Boston Logan International Airport aboard a Jet Blue flight from Punta Cana. When encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the airport’s Port of Entry for international flights, Medina Guzman was allegedly carrying a duty-free bag containing two boxes of Chivas Regal alcohol. A CBP K-9 screening the duty-free bag alerted agents of the presence of narcotics. A search of the bag allegedly revealed that the two boxes packaged as Chivas Regal alcohol had been resealed with glue. When cut open, the boxes allegedly contained 12 bricks of cocaine weighing approximately eight kilograms. The charge of importation of five kilograms or more of cocaine provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin T. Missett and Lauren A. Graber of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Cares Act Fraud and Money Laundering

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – IRVIN C. FRANCOIS, III (“FRANCOIS”) , age 54, of New Orleans, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey, after previously pleading guilty to making false statements, and money laundering related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. One of the primary sources of funding for small businesses was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). According to court records, on or about March 24, 2021, FRANCOIS , on behalf of a business that he owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain approximately $144,790 for a PPP loan. FRANCOIS then committed money laundering by using these ill-gotten funds to buy an automobile from a dealership in Kenner, Louisiana. In addition to three years of probation, FRANCOIS was sentenced to 50 hours of community service and ordered to pay $153,171.95 in restitution to the Small Business Administration and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count. For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 21 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending. The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program. Task force agents who are detailed to the PRAC receive expanded authority to investigate pandemic fraud as well as tools and training to support their investigations. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General (a member of the PRAC) and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.


title: Mescalero man sentenced for sexual abuse of a minor

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 11 years in prison for sexual abuse of a minor. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court records, on February 15, 2025, John Albert Carrillo, Jr. , 36, a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, used force to commit a sexual act with a minor victim. Carrillo pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. Upon his release from prison, Carrillo will be subject to 10 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Silvia Delgado is prosecuting the case.


title: First Defendant Sentenced for Scheme to Bribe Feeding Our Future Juror

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Abdulkarim Farah, a Minneapolis man, was sentenced in United States District Court to 57-months imprisonment followed by one year of supervised release for his role in providing a cash bribe to a juror in the first Feeding Our Future trial, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. On April 22, 2024, seven defendants went to trial before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel for their roles in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. Two of the defendants on trial were brothers of Abdulkarim Shafii Farah, 25. During the trial, Abdulkarim Farah conspired with his brothers and others to provide a cash bribe to one of the jurors—Juror 52—in exchange for returning a not guilty verdict in the trial. According to Mr. Farah’s plea agreement, after his co-defendants identified and decided to target Juror 52, Mr. Farah conducted surveillance of Juror 52 and Juror 52’s house. Mr. Farah also sent a map of where Juror 52 parked during jury service. Co-defendant Ladan Ali was recruited to deliver the bribe money to Juror 52, and Mr. Farah was instructed to drive Ali to Juror 52’s house and record a video of Ali delivering the bribe. After meeting Ali in the vicinity of Juror 52’s house, Mr. Farah drove to a Target store to purchase a screwdriver. Mr. Farah used the screwdriver to remove the license plate from Ali’s rental car in order to avoid detection by law enforcement. On June 2, 2024, at approximately 8:50 p.m., Mr. Farah drove Ali to Juror 52’s house and recorded her delivering a gift bag containing the bribe money. As Ali handed the money to a relative of Juror 52, she explained that there would be more money if Juror 52 voted to acquit the defendants. After the bribe money was delivered, Mr. Farah sent the video he had taken to his brother, Abdiaziz Farah. After the bribe had been disclosed in court, on June 3, 2024, Mr. Farah uninstalled and deleted the encrypted messaging app Signal from his iPhone in order to destroy the messages he and his co-defendants exchange concerning the bribery attempt. Abdulkarim Farah was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Eric C. Tostrud to 57 months imprisonment—the high end of Mr. Farah’s federal sentencing guidelines range and the sentence advocated for by the government. While handing down the sentence, Judge Tostrud said that “properly functioning juries are the core of our criminal justice system” and that it is the role of the federal judiciary to safeguard citizens’ rights to fair and impartial juries. Judge Tostrud also expressed gratitude to Juror 52 for resisting the temptation to accept the very substantial bribe. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI with assistance from IRS – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Rebecca E. Kline and Matthew C. Murphy prosecuted the case.


title: SDNY U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Settlement Agreement With Spring Valley To Increase Supply Of Affordable Housing

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced the settlement of a lawsuit against the VILLAGE OF SPRING VALLEY (“SPRING VALLEY”), which will result in the completion of 22 units of affordable rental housing within the Village over the next five years. The settlement under the Fair Housing Act (“FHA”) resolves a claim that SPRING VALLEY breached a Voluntary Compliance Agreement and Conciliation Agreement (“VCA”), which it entered into in 2018 with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”). The lawsuit remains pending as to ROCKLAND COUNTY, the other defendant in the action, which was also a party to the VCA. “I applaud the commitment of the Village of Spring Valley to build more affordable housing as part of this resolution,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Local regulations, including restrictions on new construction and unduly burdensome permitting processes, are driving housing construction costs out of sight. It’s basic economics: if it costs too much to build new homes, the cost of existing homes is only going to go up. This agreement shows there is a way forward, and we appreciate the commitment of Spring Valley to lower the costs of, and time it takes, to build affordable housing.” According to the Complaint filed in White Plains federal court and the Agreement entered by the court: The VCA between HUD, SPRING VALLEY, and ROCKLAND COUNTY resolved a prior HUD investigation into allegations regarding a private developer who used HUD funds overseen by SPRING VALLEY and ROCKLAND COUNTY to build affordable housing, but unlawfully designed and marketed the resulting units almost exclusively for sale to White Hasidic Jewish prospective homebuyers, in violation of federal law. Administrative complaints made to HUD alleged that SPRING VALLEY and ROCKLAND COUNTY became aware of allegations that the developer was excluding interested homebuyers based on protected characteristics, but failed to ensure that appropriate remedial steps were taken before the project was completed and the units were sold. In 2018, SPRING VALLEY and ROCKLAND COUNTY entered into the VCA with HUD to resolve those administrative complaints. The VCA required SPRING VALLEY and ROCKLAND COUNTY to build 62 units of affordable housing, meeting specified criteria for affordability by specified deadlines. However, only four affordable units qualifying under the VCA were built by the time this lawsuit was filed in 2025, despite an amendment of the VCA in 2021 that provided SPRING VALLEY and ROCKLAND COUNTY additional time to complete the required units. The resolution between the United States and SPRING VALLEY, in the form of a court-approved settlement agreement (the “Agreement”), was entered yesterday by U.S. District Judge Cathy Seibel. The Agreement requires SPRING VALLEY to ensure the completion of 22 affordable rental units by December 1, 2030. These units are required to be occupied by households with incomes at or below 75% of the Area Median Income for Rockland County, with deed restrictions or other legal measures to ensure continued affordability for at least 50 years. The Agreement also requires SPRING VALLEY to ensure appropriate monitoring of HUD grantees and institute training for the Village’s employees regarding the FHA and related federal requirements. SPRING VALLEY also agreed to pay a $15,000 civil penalty. As stated previously, the lawsuit against ROCKLAND COUNTY remains pending. Mr. Clayton thanked the staff of HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity for their assistance in this matter. The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Civil Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Dolinger is in charge of the case.


title: Daytona Beach Man Sentenced to Over Four Years for Conspiracy and Aggravated Identity Theft

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida – Craig Stevens (34, Daytona Beach) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. to four years and six months in federal prison for conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $19,762.38, the proceeds Stevens obtained from the scheme. Stevens pleaded guilty on October 23, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, Stevens was employed as a personal care assistant for an elderly victim at an assisted living facility in Palm Coast. Stevens obtained and shared the victim’s personal identifiable information with his co-defendants, Jataiya Johnson and Aaron Harden. Between December 2019 and February 2020, the group used the victim’s personal information to access the victim’s bank accounts and apply for credit cards and loans under the victim’s name. They then used the bank accounts and credit cards to make fraudulent personal purchases and transactions. Jataiya Johnson and Aaron Harden have pleaded guilty to their roles in this case. They are awaiting sentencing. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane S. Hu. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko.


title: Gretna Woman Indicted For Bank Theft

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – On February 27, 2026, ALEXA MARIE BRAUD , (“BRAUD”), age 34, of Gretna, was indicted for bank theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(b), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, on February 4, 2026, BRAUD , entered a Federal Credit Union, located in Gretna, Louisiana, where she was a bank manager, and took $181,000 in United States currency. The deposits of Riverland Federal Credit Union are insured by the National Credit Union Administration. BRAUD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Gretna Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Anne Flippo of the Financial Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: Over $12 Million Medicaid Fraud Scheme Leads to 14 Years of Prison for Substance Abuse Facility, Owner, Compliance Officer, and Office Manager

component: Asset Forfeiture Program

body_text: NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal judge has handed down more than 14 years in federal prison to participants in a $12.7 Million Medicaid fraud scheme that paid more than $1 Million in kickbacks to drug addict patients. The case also resulted in the permanent closure of the fake substance abuse facility that carried out the crime, a $15 Million dollar fine, and the seizure of more than $6 Million in criminal proceeds, including cash, cars, and homes. “This is shocking Minnesota-Somali-style fraud right here in North Carolina. For too long, government has allowed grifters to steal taxpayer dollars with impunity. Here, these vultures exploited particularly susceptible drug abusers trying to recover their lives and dignity. Shameful abuse, no remorse. They better learn, and everyone should get the message. Cheaters. Never. Win.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. According to court documents, Keke Komeko Johnson, 53, of Goldsboro; Francine Sims Super, 64, of Kinston; Brandon Eugene Sims, 40, of Manvel, Texas; and Kimberly Mable Sims, 39, of Snow Hill; operated Life Touch, LLC, a purported substance abuse facility operating in Kinston and Goldsboro, and 1 st Choice Healthcare Services, a urine drug screening company. Between 2018 and 2023, Inmates Johnson and Super oversaw payments of more than $1 Million in illegal kickbacks to Life Touch’s Medicaid patients, who were drug users. They paid these kickbacks to lure patients to show up for costly substance abuse and lab services that Inmate Johnson billed to Medicaid on behalf of Life Touch and 1 st Choice. Inmate Sims, Inmate Super’s daughter, owned 1 st Choice Healthcare, and paid Medicaid kickbacks to Inmates Super and Johnson for fake lab services ordered by Life Touch, LLC. Meanwhile, Inmate Brandon Sims, who owned Life Touch and resided in Texas, received Millions in illegal proceeds from the Life Touch operation, but failed to file or pay taxes on that money. The gift card kickback scheme resulted in more than $12.7 Million fake billings to the Medicaid program. Inmates Johnson and Super deceived the North Carolina Medicaid in multiple audits. They repeatedly lied and falsified documents to make it appear to Eastpointe, a Managed Care Organization, that Life Touch never paid illegal kickbacks to patients when, in fact, they did. Inmate Johnson later lied again regarding the gift cards during a civil investigation conducted by the Medicaid Investigations Division. At the time of these lies, Inmate Johnson served as the compliance officer for Life Touch, and Inmate Super served as the office manager in Kinston. During the investigation, federal agents seized and forfeited more than $6 Million in assets in the form of cash, real estate, and other assets. In November 2023, after becoming aware of the criminal investigation, Inmate Brandon Sims withdrew more than $1 Million in cash from a bank account, hiding it in a safe at his Texas home. Agents executed a search warrant and seized $1.3 million in cash, a 2021 Rolls Royce Cullinan, a 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, and a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. Agents seized Millions more in other real property. The Judge sentenced Inmate Johnson, the company’s “Compliance Director,” to six years in federal prison and to pay $15,286,912.91 in restitution to North Carolina Medicaid and $331,851.00 to the IRS. On August 14, 2025, Inmate Johnson pleaded guilty to a health care fraud conspiracy, including making and receiving illegal payments, making and using materially false documents, and failing to file a tax return. The Judge sentenced Inmate Super, the “Kinston office manager,” to six years in federal prison, and to pay $15,286,912.91 in restitution to North Carolina Medicaid and $373,810.00 to the IRS. She previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to pay illegal kickbacks, healthcare fraud, and making and using materially false documents. She also pleaded guilty to failure to file a tax return. The Judge sentenced Inmate Kimberly Sims to two years in federal prison and to pay $1,845,276.95 in restitution to North Carolina Medicaid and $207,383.00 to the IRS. She previously pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to paying illegal kickbacks, healthcare fraud, making and using materially false documents, and filing a false tax return. The Judge sentenced Life Touch, LLC, to pay a $15 Million fine, to dissolve, and serve five years of probation and repay $12,762,511.30 in restitution to the North Carolina Medicaid program. Life Touch, LLC, previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud, and the owner, Inmate Brandon Sims pleaded guilty to failing to file federal tax returns. The Judge sentenced Inmate Brandon Sims to two and a half years and six months in federal prison, and to pay $1,892,919.40 in restitution to the IRS. Inmate Brandon Sims also forfeit all traceable proceeds of the Life Touch scheme to the United States. "Healthcare Fraud robs American taxpayers and betrays the very programs meant to protect our most vulnerable citizens. In this case, more than $12 million was stolen by these defendants directly from those who need it most," said Reid Davis, the FBI Special Agent in Charge North Carolina. "These defendants now face more than 170 months in federal prison, over $30 million in restitution to North Carolina Medicaid, and a $15 million fine. This outcome sends a clear message: those who defraud public healthcare programs will be held accountable." “Fraud against our healthcare and tax systems is a crime and betrays public trust,” said Donald "Trey" Eakins, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation's Charlotte Field Office. “Tax evasion depletes resources intended for those in need and compromises our communities. IRS-CI special agents, in collaboration with the U.S. Attorney's Office and other partners, will continue to target those who exploit federal programs for personal gain, ensuring taxpayer funds are protected." “These defendants orchestrated an egregious scheme involving illegal kickbacks, placing greed above patient care. Fraudulent operations like this undermine the availability of federal health care program funds intended to support millions of beneficiaries,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly Blackmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS‑OIG). “Together with our law enforcement partners, HHS‑OIG will continue to safeguard the integrity of Medicaid and other federally funded health care programs.” Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The FBI, IRS, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-OIG, and the North Carolina AG’s Office – Medicaid Investigations Division investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. Gilmore and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tasha Gardner prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-CR-00025-FL-1, 4:25-CR-00025-FL-2 and Case No. 4:25-CR-00027-FL-1.


title: Miami Man Sentenced for Installing Card Skimmers on Grocery Store Payment Terminals in Central Alabama

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that a Miami, Florida, man has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a scheme to install card skimming devices on grocery store terminals in Alabama’s River Region. On February 25, 2026, a federal judge sentenced 40-year-old Yosniel Sotomayor Rodriguez to 18 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully use a counterfeit access device. Following his term of imprisonment, Rodriguez will serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. “Card skimming devices are designed to blend in, but consumers can protect themselves by staying alert,” said Acting United States Attorney Davidson. “Before inserting or swiping your card, take a moment to inspect the card reader. If the keypad feels loose, the card slot appears bulky or misaligned, or any part of the machine appears tampered with, do not use it. Consumers should also monitor their bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions. I am grateful for the swift work of law enforcement and store personnel whose quick actions led to the removal of the devices before any stolen financial information could be used to harm unsuspecting victims.” “The Secret Service is dedicated to going after those who aim to exploit our financial systems and target innocent victims, especially here in Alabama where folks work hard for every dollar,” said Resident Agent in Charge Todd Haralson with the U.S. Secret Service Montgomery Resident Office. “We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners, including the pivotal role played by the ALEA Trooper whose traffic stop set this case in motion. With support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will continue to investigate, arrest, and support prosecution of criminals who choose to commit fraud in Alabama and across the nation.” According to Rodriguez’s plea agreement and other court records, in May 2024, a regional grocery store chain discovered that four counterfeit access devices, commonly known as card skimming devices, had been installed on point-of-sale terminals at locations in Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. Approximately 221 unique card numbers were stolen. The investigation revealed that Rodriguez entered the stores and used distractions to conceal his installation of the devices over the payment terminals without detection. The devices were discovered and removed before any stolen account information could be used. On October 20, 2025, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge. The United States Secret Service investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted this case.


title: Brockton Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Selling Fentanyl; Multiple Machineguns and Kilograms of Fentanyl Recovered During Searches

body_text: BOSTON – A Brockton man associated with Brockton-based Harvard Street Gang (HSG) was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for selling fentanyl to a cooperating witness during multiple controlled purchases. At the time of the controlled purchases, the defendant was on probation for a 2019 fentanyl conviction and on pretrial release for a separate March 2024 drug arrest. Joshua Tavares, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In May 2025 , Tavares pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogue. In December 2024, Tavares was indicted by a federal grand jury. As discussed during the sentencing hearing today, in 2023, Tavares was identified as a member of HSG. Tavares conducted six sales of fentanyl and fentanyl analogue to a cooperating witness from September to November of 2024. Over the course of the six transactions, Tavares sold approximately 549 grams of fentanyl analogue to a cooperating witness. All of the transactions were captured on video recording. After the controlled purchases, an arrest warrant and search warrants were executed on Dec. 3, 2024 at multiple residences and stash houses in Brockton. During the searches, approximately four kilograms of suspected fentanyl, cocaine, packaging materials for distribution of controlled substances and over $89,000 in cash were recovered. A .40 caliber Glock firearm and a 9mm Glock firearm with a machinegun conversion device were also located in the residence where Tavares was located. A 9mm Glock firearm with a machinegun conversion device and a tactical laser sight was recovered from a stash location along with numerous rounds of ammunition and multiple loaded magazines, including a 50 round “drum” style magazine. Machinegun conversion devices, commonly referred to as “switches,” are designed to convert firearms into fully automatic weapons. In February 2026 , eight members and associates of HSG were charged with drug and firearm offenses. The court papers related to those arrests, refer to Tavares and his membership in HSG. According to court documents, the Harvard Street Gang (HSG) has been subject to federal investigation since 2019. During this time, more than 20 leaders, members and associates of HSG have been charged with state and federal drug trafficking and firearm crimes. Over 100 kilograms of drugs, including cocaine and fentanyl, and over 45 firearms, including multiple machine guns, have been seized. According to court documents, HSG has been involved in gang violence, including shootings, murders and witness intimidation. Numerous HSG leaders, members, and associates have been convicted of drug trafficking and firearm crimes in federal court because of this investigation. At least six defendants have been sentenced to 10 years or more in federal prison, and one member who was convicted after trial was sentenced to 32 years in prison. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Brockton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.


title: New Orleans Tax Preparer Indicted For $2 Million Covid Fraud Conspiracy and Making False Statements to Agents

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 27, 2026, DENISE DIXON , age 52, was indicted on multiple counts for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and false statements to federal agents, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Count One of the Indictment charged DIXON with conspiring to commit wire fraud between 2020 and 2022, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1349 and 1343. In Counts Two through Seven, DIXON was charged with wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. Count Eight charged DIXON with making false statements to federal agents in April 2023, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. According to the Indictment, DIXON owned a tax preparation business in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Indictment alleges that DIXON caused the submission of numerous applications seeking over two million dollars in loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program on behalf of herself, her family members, and clients. DIXON and her co-conspirators made false representations on the applications and attached falsified tax documentation. If convicted of Counts One through Seven, DIXON faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000, per count. As to Count Eight, DIXON faces a maximum penalty of up to five (5) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. A mandatory $100 special assessment fee for each count is also applicable. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit and Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution. For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . * * *


title: Pittsburgh Woman Sentenced and Ordered to Pay Over $54,000 in Restitution for SNAP Trafficking at Her African Food Store

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on March 4, 2026, to two years of probation, including 90 days of home confinement, and ordered to pay over $54,000 in restitution on her conviction of food stamp fraud, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Bolaji Michael, 46, who pleaded guilty on October 7, 2025, to one count of food stamp fraud. According to information presented to the Court, Michael owned and operated an African food market where she knowingly allowed individuals to exchange their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamp, benefits for cash. SNAP benefits may only be used to purchase eligible food items and cannot be exchanged for cash. In addition to exchanging SNAP benefits for cash herself, Michael also authorized others at her store to make such exchanges, despite knowing that doing so was a violation of the SNAP program’s rules and regulations. The monetary loss associated with Michael’s conduct for the charged timeframe totaled $54,996.05. Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, and Pennsylvania State Police Organized Crime Unit West for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Michael.


title: Bangladeshi national to make initial appearance following arrest by the FBI in international sextortion case

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Bangladeshi national is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in the District of Alaska after he was charged by the United States in 2022 with operating an international child sexual exploitation enterprise. According to court documents, in July 2022, Zobaidul Amin, 28, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Alaska with charges related to his alleged abuse and exploitation of hundreds of minor victims in Alaska, and elsewhere in the United States and abroad. According to court documents, Amin used social media applications including Instagram and Snapchat to identify and coerce minor victims to produce images and videos of sexually explicit and sadistic conduct. The FBI and the Justice Department have been working in coordination with Malaysian authorities since September 2022, when Amin was charged by the Attorney General’s Chambers of Malaysia with 13 counts related to the possession and production of child pornography. Amin was living in and attending medical school in Malaysia prior to the charges . Amin was transferred from Malaysia to Alaska by the FBI on March 4, 2026. “Yesterday’s return from Malaysia of a Bangladeshi national who allegedly abused and sexually exploited hundreds of minor victims worldwide is another successful example of the Administration’s increased efforts to find criminals hiding abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Together with our international partners and the U.S. Department of State, we are countering online child sexual exploitation, protecting our most vulnerable, and bringing these sick abusers to face justice on American soil.” “The FBI’s commitment to protecting our children from exploitation doesn’t change whether an offender is here in the U.S. or overseas,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “In collaboration with our partners, we will continue to ensure perpetrators like Amin are held accountable and brought to justice.” “The impact of this case is that of international magnitude. It stands as one of the most prolific cases of alleged online child exploitation the United States has ever seen,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “We are grateful for the steady, strong collaboration among the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, law enforcement agencies and Malaysian partners that made this transfer possible, enabling us to move forward and seek justice for victims.” “Demonstrated by this significant step taken by the FBI, those who target children online cannot hide behind anonymity or borders,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “FBI Anchorage’s successful transport and arrest operation is a testament to the strength of our international law enforcement partnerships, and the FBI’s relentless pursuit of justice for victims.” Amin is charged with one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography, one count of conspiracy to receive and distribute child pornography, one count of child exploitation enterprise, one count of production of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, one count of cyberstalking, two counts of aggravated identity theft and five counts of wire fraud. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial court appearance today at 1:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kyle F. Reardon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces between 20 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Anchorage Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case, with support from the following agencies: Alaska State Troopers; Anchorage Police Department; Royal Malaysia Police; Laramie Police Department (Wyoming); Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation; Wyoming Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force; Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office (Oregon); Mercer County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Raleigh County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Kanawha County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Guernsey County Sheriff's Department (Oregon); Clay County Sheriff's Office (Florida); Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (Oregon); Homeland Security Investigations Wenatchee, Washington/Bend, Oregon; and the FBI Field Offices in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Newark, Oklahoma City, Pittsburgh, Portland, Sacramento, Salt Lake City and Seattle. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Alaska thanks the Government of Malaysia, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the FBI’s Law Enforcement Attaché in Kuala Lumpur for working collaboratively to secure Amin’s appearance in the District of Alaska. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Alexander and Jennifer Ivers are prosecuting the case. 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 U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Sues The Town Of Beekman For Preventing The Operation Of A Sober Home

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced today the filing of a civil rights lawsuit against the TOWN OF BEEKMAN (“BEEKMAN”) in Dutchess County. The lawsuit alleges that BEEKMAN refused to allow Bunkhouse Recovery Ranch (“Bunkhouse”) to operate an existing residential property as a sober living home that assists people with disabilities, specifically persons in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse, in violation of the Fair Housing Act. Bunkhouse seeks to assist men who are in recovery from alcoholism or drug addiction to achieve and maintain sobriety, with a focus on veterans, first responders, and family members of veterans or first responders. “Those who are struggling to defeat their dependence on drugs or alcohol deserve support, not obstruction, especially when they are among our veterans, first responders, and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “The Fair Housing Act makes clear that individuals in recovery are protected from discrimination, and municipalities cannot use zoning classifications or procedural delays to block lawful housing. When a community refuses to treat a sober living home like any other residence, it denies individuals in recovery a fair chance to rebuild their lives. The women and men of this Office are committed to ensuring that federal civil rights protections are fully and fairly enforced.” According to the Complaint filed in federal court in White Plains: In June 2023, Bunkhouse founder Patrick Potter (“Potter”) sought to develop a sober living home in New York State for the benefit of male veterans, first responders, and family members of veterans or first responders. He initially received a positive reception from local officials and purchased an existing 4,650 square foot residential property in BEEKMAN. Once Potter purchased the property, however, BEEKMAN, through its Zoning Administrator and counsel, began to erect hurdles to prevent Bunkhouse from operating. In particular, BEEKMAN misclassified the property as an “alternate care facility or nursing home,” required Potter to submit costly and unnecessary site plans and permits, and failed to respond to Potter’s efforts to meet BEEKMAN’s shifting requirements. The United States Attorney’s Office initially contacted BEEKMAN in October 2024, in an effort to avoid litigation, but BEEKMAN continued to refuse to engage with Potter’s efforts to operate a sober living home on his property. Although Potter submitted applications for a special use permit and site plan approval in April 2025 to meet BEEKMAN’s supposed requirements, BEEKMAN has ignored these good-faith efforts for ten months and counting. The Fair Housing Act prohibits, among other things, discrimination on the basis of disability, and defines disability to include drug or alcohol addiction where the person is not currently using illegal drugs and is in recovery from addiction. Prospective residents seeking admission to Bunkhouse must be sober and free of illegal drugs and must commit to remaining sober and free of illegal drugs throughout their residency. To file a complaint alleging discrimination in housing, use the Civil Rights Complaint Form available on the United States Attorney’s Office website: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/civil-rights . Complaints should be emailed or sent by mail to: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York 86 Chambers Street, 3rd Floor New York, New York 10007 Attention: Chief, Civil Rights Unit USANYS-CivilRights@usdoj.gov The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Civil Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Kennedy and Tomoko Onozawa are in charge of the case.


title: Vance Woman Charged with Embezzling More Than $10 Million From Former Employer

component: USAO - Alabama, Northern

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Vance woman has been charged in connection with her embezzlement of more than $10 million from her former employer, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby. A seven-count information filed in U.S. District Court charges Laura Lynn Tucker, 56, with six counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. A plea agreement was filed with the information, indicating that Tucker has agreed to plead guilty to all charges. According to the information and plea agreement, Tucker was employed by a pond management company headquartered in Calera, Alabama, from 2000 through 2024 as the Office Manager/Bookkeeper. In her role as Office Manager/Bookkeeper, Tucker was assigned multiple company credit cards, which she was authorized to use to pay for certain business expenses. However, from approximately February 2020 through December 2024, Tucker used the credit cards assigned to her, credit cards assigned to other employees of the Company, and other credit cards belonging to the Company to pay for personal expenses totaling more than $10 million. The Court will set a date for Tucker to enter her guilty plea. FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brett A. Janich and Daniel S. McBrayer are prosecuting the case. An information contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Portsmouth man sentenced to over two years in prison for auto loan fraud scheme

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A Portsmouth man was sentenced today to two years and six months in prison for bank fraud. According to court documents, on July 23, 2021, Deviyon Nichols, 33, submitted an application to obtain an auto loan from a credit union to purchase a 2014 BMW X-5. Nichols used a fraudulent South Carolina driver's license under the name “Davyion Martin” as well as a false social security number to obtain the loan, as his felony criminal history and poor credit score would have made a loan unlikely. Based on his use of the false name and social security number, the credit union approved the loan and provided Nichols $31,718.24 to complete the purchase. Nichols lost the vehicle when it was impounded after a traffic stop and the credit union lost money on the transaction. When Nichols was stopped, he attempted to flee. Inside the vehicle, police found narcotics and a firearm. In April 2021, Nichols used the false name, ID, and social security number to obtain an auto loan from another bank to purchase a 2014 Honda Accord. Based on this false information, the bank approved the loan and provided Nichols $15,684.60 to complete the purchase. Nichols lost the vehicle when it was wrecked in a traffic accident and the bank lost money on the transaction. The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Kosky prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-88.


title: Tulsa Man Sentenced for Admittedly Strangling Girlfriend

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced today after admitting to strangling his girlfriend, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. Donny Ray Spencer, 36, was sentenced for Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell ordered Spencer to serve 56 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. In July 2025, Spencer was heavily intoxicated and fell, reopening stitches on his head. A relative called 911 to request medical assistance. Court records show that Spencer became belligerent with medical personnel, and they had to leave until police arrived to assist. When officers arrived, Spencer’s girlfriend met officers on the front porch with their three-year-old. While officers spoke with the girlfriend, Spencer approached officers while yelling and making threats. Officers de-escalated Spencer and continued speaking with the girlfriend. When officers questioned her about the visible bruising on her body, she disclosed that Spencer was very intoxicated, and they argued earlier in the day. During that argument, Spencer strangled her and struck her with a broom in the presence of their child. Tribal court dockets show that Spencer had a pending arrest warrant after failing to appear for a hearing. He was on bond after being charged in April with Domestic Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon and Felony Resisting Arrest. Officers arrested Spencer on his outstanding tribal warrants. While being transported to booking, Spencer admitted to strangling his girlfriend. Spencer is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn prosecuted the case.


title: Manager Of Investment Firm Pleads Guilty To Defrauding Investors In “Pre-IPO” Scheme

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that GIOVANNI PENNETTA pled guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary Stein to wire fraud for running a scheme to fraudulently induce multiple investment clients to part with millions of dollars in exchange for economic exposure to shares of non-public companies. “Giovanni Pennetta, manager of a New York-based financial firm, raised millions of dollars by claiming he could give investors access to shares of private companies before they went public,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “That access did not exist. Instead, Pennetta diverted more than $10 million for his own benefit. Protecting the integrity of New York’s public and private financial markets is a central part of our Office’s mission, and for the safety of investors, we will continue to hold fraudsters like Pennetta criminally accountable.” According to the Indictment, plea agreement, and statements made in court: Over a period of roughly six years, PENNETTA, the manager of a Manhattan-based investment adviser and private equity firm, engaged in a scheme to defraud investors who had entrusted him with millions of dollars to access shares of private companies. PENNETTA induced investors to contribute capital to his private equity fund by promising them economic exposure to shares of pre-IPO companies. Instead, PENNETTA misappropriated more than $10 million in investor money, moving much of it to his personal bank account. * * * PENNETTA, 50, of New York, New York, and Italy, pled guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. PENNETTA is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2026. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra N. Rothman and Samuel P. Rothschild are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Ghanaian National Pleads Guilty To Stealing More Than $10 Million Via Romance Scams

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced the guilty plea of DERRICK VAN YEBOAH, a/k/a “Van,” for his role in an international criminal organization that stole more than $100 million from victims via romance scams and business email compromises. VAN YEBOAH pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit wire fraud before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian. “Derrick Van Yeboah pled guilty today to a massive criminal scheme targeting elderly men and women in online romance scams,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Many New Yorkers search for companionship online, and no one deserves to have their vulnerability met with fraud and theft. Van Yeboah cruelly exploited those vulnerabilities for over $10 million in illicit profit. Today’s plea is a reminder to be vigilant online—especially on dating websites, never give money to someone you just met—and if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” According to the charging documents and statements made in public filings and public court proceedings: VAN YEBOAH was a member of a criminal organization primarily based in Ghana that committed romance scams and business email compromises against individuals and businesses located across the United States. Many of the conspiracy’s victims were vulnerable older men and women who were tricked into believing that they were in online romantic relationships with persons who were, in fact, fake identities assumed by members of the conspiracy. Once members of the conspiracy had gained the trust of their victims, they deceived those victims into sending their money to the enterprise or into helping them launder funds from other victims. The conspirators also committed business email compromises to trick and deceive businesses into wiring funds to the enterprise. In total, the conspiracy stole and laundered more than $100 million from dozens of victims. After stealing the money, the fraud proceeds were then laundered to West Africa. VAN YEBOAH personally perpetrated many of the romance scams by impersonating fake romantic partners in communications with victims. He is being held responsible for more than $10 million he stole from victims via his romance scams. * * * VAN YEBOAH, 40, of Ghana, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. VAN YEBOAH also agreed to make restitution and pay forfeiture, both in the amount of $10,149,429.17. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. VAN YEBOAH is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Subramanian on June 3, 2026. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He also thanked Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their assistance. The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead and Mitzi Steiner are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Bangladeshi National Returned to the United States in International Sextortion Case

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Amin surrendered in Malaysia. A Bangladeshi national is scheduled to make his initial court appearance today in the District of Alaska to face charges that he operated an international child sexual exploitation enterprise. According to court documents, in July 2022, Zobaidul Amin, 28, was indicted by a federal grand jury with charges related to his alleged abuse and exploitation of hundreds of minor victims in Alaska, and elsewhere in the United States and abroad. As alleged in the indictment, Amin used social media applications including Instagram and Snapchat to identify and coerce minor victims to produce images and videos of sexually explicit and sadistic conduct. Prior to the U.S. charges, Amin was living in and attending medical school in Malaysia. In September 2022, Amin was charged by the Attorney General’s Chambers of Malaysia with 13 counts related to the possession and production of child pornography. The FBI and the Justice Department has been working in coordination with Malaysian authorities, and Amin was transferred from Malaysia to Alaska on March 4. “Yesterday’s return from Malaysia of a Bangladeshi national who allegedly abused and sexually exploited hundreds of minor victims worldwide is another successful example of the Administration’s increased efforts to find criminals hiding abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Together with our international partners and the U.S. Department of State, we are countering online child sexual exploitation, protecting our most vulnerable, and bringing these sick abusers to face justice on American soil.” “The FBI’s commitment to protecting our children from exploitation doesn’t change whether an offender is here in the United States or overseas,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “In collaboration with our partners, we will continue to ensure perpetrators like Amin are held accountable and brought to justice.” “The impact of this case is that of international magnitude. It stands as one of the most prolific cases of alleged online child exploitation the United States has ever seen,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “We are grateful for the steady, strong collaboration among the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, law enforcement agencies and Malaysian partners that made this transfer possible, enabling us to move forward and seek justice for victims.” “Demonstrated by this significant step taken by the FBI, those who target children online cannot hide behind anonymity or borders,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “FBI Anchorage’s successful transport and arrest operation is a testament to the strength of our international law enforcement partnerships, and the FBI’s relentless pursuit of justice for victims.” FBI Special Agents awaiting Amin's arrival in Alaska. Amin is charged with conspiracy to produce child pornography, conspiracy to receive and distribute child pornography, child exploitation enterprise, production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, cyberstalking, aggravated identity theft and wire fraud. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial court appearance today at 1:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kyle F. Reardon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Anchorage Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case, with support from the following agencies: Alaska State Troopers; Anchorage Police Department; Royal Malaysia Police; Laramie Police Department (Wyoming); Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation; Wyoming Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force; Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office (Oregon); Mercer County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Raleigh County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Kanawha County Sheriff's Office (West Virginia); Guernsey County Sheriff's Department (Oregon); Clay County Sheriff's Office (Florida); Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (Oregon); Homeland Security Investigations Wenatchee, Washington/Bend, Oregon; and the FBI Field Offices in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Newark, Oklahoma City, Pittsburgh, Portland, Sacramento, Salt Lake City and Seattle. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska thanks the Government of Malaysia, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the FBI’s Law Enforcement Attaché in Kuala Lumpur for working collaboratively to secure Amin’s appearance in the District of Alaska. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Alexander and Jennifer Ivers for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case. 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 U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Richmond felon returning to prison for federal firearms conviction

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

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to five years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on July 10, 2024, a Richmond Police officer responded to a call reporting a subject who matched the description of a robbery suspect from earlier in the day. The officer arrived on the scene and called out to Waheed Richardson, 23, who fled on foot. During the pursuit, Richardson discarded a handgun and loaded firearm magazine, then laid down on the ground. The officer detained Richardson, who was still in possession of another loaded magazine and a baggie with counterfeit oxycodone "M-30" pills containing fentanyl. The officer then recovered the handgun and magazine Richardson had possessed. The handgun was equipped with a machinegun conversion device, rendering it capable of automatic fire and considered a machinegun. In 2021, Richardson was convicted of malicious wounding and discharging a firearm from a vehicle. Richardson was released from prison on Feb. 12, 2024, five months before being arrested for the offense for which he was sentenced today. As a previously convicted felon, Richardson cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division and the Richmond Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. McGorman 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 protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-146.


title: Staten Island Man Convicted of Firearms Trafficking Conspiracy and Obstruction of Justice

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, a federal jury in Brooklyn convicted Brandon Nudelman on all three counts of a second superseding indictment charging him with firearms trafficking conspiracy, firearms trafficking, and conspiracy to obstruct justice. The charges relate to the defendant’s participation in a scheme to manufacture and sell untraceable ghost guns in Staten Island and Pennsylvania. The verdict followed a six-day trial before United States District Judge Ann M. Donnelly. When sentenced, the defendant faces up to 30 years in prison. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Bryan DiGirolamo, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Division (ATF), and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD) announced the verdict. “Brandon Nudelman was the money man behind a ghost gun factory printing lethal weapons in Staten Island,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “The defendant and his co-conspirators manufactured and sold guns and converted machineguns at marked up prices to people who should not have them. Law enforcement then thwarted the defendant’s effort to cover up his crimes. Today’s verdict is an important victory in our Office’s work to hold accountable those who seek to profit from the scourge of 3D-printed guns and underscores the Department of Justice’s commitment to reducing gun violence.” Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the United States Secret Service and the NYPD Intelligence Division’s Major Case Team and Intelligence Analytical Team for their work on the case. “This conviction shows that individuals who finance and support illegal firearms trafficking will be held accountable. The defendant helped facilitate a dangerous scheme involving privately made firearms and machine gun conversion devices, distributing weapons outside lawful channels,” stated ATF New York Special Agent in Charge DiGirolamo. “ATF NY remains committed to disrupting illegal firearms trafficking and reducing violent gun crime. Thanks to the collaboration of ATF’s Crime Gun Enforcement Team (C-GET), NYPD Intelligence Division’s Major Case Intelligence Team, the United States Secret Service New York Field Division’s Digital Forensic Laboratory, ATF Firearms and Ammunition Technology Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. Together, we will continue working to protect the public and keep our communities safe.” “Today’s guilty verdict is yet another example of how the NYPD is working to remove dangerous weapons from the hands of criminals and keep communities across New York City safe,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “The defendant illegally manufactured and trafficked ghost guns – weapons that are just as dangerous as traditional firearms and only exist to evade law enforcement. NYPD detectives worked tirelessly to investigate and shut this dangerous operation down, and I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s office and our other partners for their work on this case.” As proven at trial, between approximately January 2023 and September 2023, Brandon Nudelman conspired with others to illegally manufacture and traffic firearms. Co-conspirators Ronnie Mershon, Michael Daddea, and Justin Nudelman, who is the defendant’s brother, used so called “Polymer 80” kits and 3D printers and parts sourced from online retailers to assemble privately made and untraceable firearms, commonly called “ghost guns.” These 3D-printed firearms included at least nine devices called “auto sears” or “switches” which convert semi-automatic guns into fully automatic weapons and are considered machine guns under federal law. The defendants made the untraceable ghost guns that they assembled available for sale without obtaining a license or otherwise notifying government authorities. On September 7, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Justin Nudelman’s residence and recovered multiple homemade firearms, nine switches, 3D printers, and over 100 rounds of ammunition. The evidence at trial included videos showing the defendant and co-conspirators firing weapons equipped with these machinegun conversion devices. On September 7, 2023, following the search at Justin Nudelman’s residence, law enforcement officers sought to seize Justin Nudelman’s phone pursuant to a judicially authorized search warrant. The defendant conspired with Justin Nudelman to conceal the phone and render its contents inaccessible to law enforcement by deleting messages and cracking the phone in multiple places. All three of Brandon Nudelman’s co-defendants have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Justin Nudelman pleaded guilty to gun trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to obstruct justice in January 2026. Ronnie Mershon pleaded guilty to gun trafficking conspiracy and unlawfully possessing a machinegun in December 2025. In December 2025, Michael Daddea pleaded guilty to gun trafficking conspiracy. 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. As part of the program, U.S. Attorney’s Offices work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and their local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is currently partnering with the SCPD, the NYPD, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, ATF, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration in its PSN mission. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section. Trial Attorney Arun Bodapati and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Rackear are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist David Harrison. The Defendant: BRANDON NUDELMAN Age: 33 Staten Island, New York The Defendants Previously Convicted : JUSTIN NUDELMAN Age: 31 Staten Island, New York RONNIE MERSHON Age: 28 Staten Island, New York MICHAEL DADDEA Age: 30 Tampa, Florida E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-437(S-2) (AMD)


title: Four Men Indicted and Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges

component: USAO - Puerto Rico

body_text: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Today, four individuals were arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) on criminal charges related to child exploitation. On February 26, 2026, a federal grand jury returned four separate indictments charging four individuals for child exploitation, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. The defendants arrested today are: Héctor Rafael Cuadrado-Abadía, 44, of Caguas, PR Héctor Luis Olmedo-Burgos, 27, of Naguabo, PR Frederick Jesús Pinto-Rodríguez, 23, of Yabucoa, PR Daniel Delgado-Delgado, 31, of Yabucoa, PR According to court documents, all the defendants knowingly possessed, received and distributed child pornography using their cellular devices. The four defendants are facing two counts each: (1) receipt/distribution of child exploitation material, and (2) possession of child exploitation material. “There’s no greater priority than safeguarding our children from those who seek to exploit or harm them,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continuing our joint efforts with our state, local and federal partners to locate these offenders and ensure that they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “This investigation exposed the disturbing reality behind the exchange of child sexual abuse material - individuals sharing explicit images of minors without remorse and revictimizing those children every time those images are circulated,” said Yariel Ramos, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI. “Today we shut down that chat with a clear message: if you exploit our children, you will go to jail.” If convicted, the defendants face the following sentences: (1) receipt and distribution of child exploitation material - a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; (2) possession of child exploitation material - a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant US Attorney (AUSA) Elba Gorbea, of the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit, is prosecuting the cases. For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit iGuardians™: Combating Child Predators and to denounce suspicious activities call 787-729-6969. For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from online sexual abuse, visit https://www.ice.gov/topics/iGuardians . This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.justice.gov/psc. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Boonville Man Charged with Drugs, Firearm

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Boonville, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury with cocaine, methamphetamine, and gun charges. Johntelle Bona Millens, 40, is charged with possessing a Heckler and Koch, model VP9, 9 mm semi-automatic handgun between June 17 and July 24, 2025, in Cooper and Howard Counties. Millens is prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law due to prior felony convictions. The indictment also alleges that Millens possessed, with the intent to distribute, methamphetamine and cocaine in Cooper County on July 24, 2025. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the Boonville Police Department, the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Slidell Man Charged with Cares Act Fraud

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 27, 2026, MARCEL GROSS , age 51, of Slidell, was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. A bill of information alleges that GROSS fraudulently obtained a $350,272 Paycheck Protection Program loan, which was a form of assistance authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Such loans were forgivable and designed to enable businesses to meet payroll expenses. It is alleged that GROSS complied with a coconspirator’s instructions to pay the coconspirator 40 percent of the loan amount in the form of numerous checks that would be negotiated over multiple weeks so as not to “flag.” If convicted, GROSS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, which may be followed by up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution. For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form * * *


title: Woodbridge drug trafficker sentenced to over 21 years in prison for his role in fentanyl and cocaine conspiracy

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Woodbridge man was sentenced today to 21 years and five months in prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. According to court documents, beginning in at least December 2020, Jorge Ariel Pereira, aka Jae Luca or Kevin Aguirre, 30, was a redistributor of narcotics including marijuana, fentanyl pills, and cocaine. The fentanyl pills were often blue and imprinted “30” to resemble legitimate 30 milligram oxycodone pills. Beginning in at least November 2021, Pereira conspired to sell fentanyl pills and other narcotics with Justice Ansah, 30, of Manassas, and Salvador Paredes Vasquez. Ansah operated a stash house in Woodbridge. Ansah would often purchase narcotics, including fentanyl pills, from suppliers outside the local area and receive them by mail at addresses provided by Pereira. In December 2021, Pereira received approximately 20,000 fentanyl pills from Ansah to hold while Ansah moved narcotics to other locations. On Dec. 14, 2021, Ansah and Paredes were arrested, and law enforcement found approximately 70,000 fentanyl pills in the stash house and Ansah’s residence as well as 30,000 fentanyl pills en route to Paredes’ address. After the arrests of Ansah and Paredes, Pereira continued to sell marijuana, fentanyl pills, and cocaine with new co-conspirators. Pereira distributed fentanyl pills and cocaine to Fernando Alexis Orellana Banegas, 25, of Woodbridge, and Dan Benedict Galvez, 25, of Manassas. Pereira used fraudulent identification cards to purchase or rent property, including residences and vehicles, used in his criminal activities. On Jan. 2, 2025, law enforcement arrested Pereira and searched his residence, recovering 608.03 grams of cocaine, a loaded handgun, and fraudulent identification cards used by Pereira. Pereira has previous convictions for, among other crimes, grand larceny, brandishing a firearm, and obtaining money by false pretenses. As a convicted felon, Pereira cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. On June 7, 2022, Ansah pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On Sept. 14, 2022, he was sentenced to 21 years in prison. On July 6, 2022, Vasquez was charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He is currently a fugitive. On May 8, 2024, Orellana Banegas pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking. On Oct. 31, 2024, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison. On Aug. 20, 2025, Galvez pled guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On Dec. 11, 2025, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison. The FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal Division investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, Virginia State Police, and Prince William County Police Department. Additional assistance was provided by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher M. Carter and Edgardo J. Rodriguez 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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-208. This release was revised on March 9, 2026, to properly credit the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA Task Force.


title: 18th Street Gangsters, Associates Arrested on Indictments Alleging Murder, Extortion, Drug Trafficking in L.A.’s MacArthur Park Area

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – Twelve members and associates of 18th Street – Los Angeles’s largest street gang – were arrested today on criminal charges, including the murder of a drug trafficker who failed to pay the gang’s extortionate “taxes,” and further alleging that the gang controlled the city’s MacArthur Park as an open-air drug marketplace, using tents to blend in with the homeless population and avoid detection by law enforcement. Five of the defendants arrested today are expected to make their initial appearances and be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. During this investigation, federal and local law enforcement have seized more than 175 pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Today, law enforcement seized approximately $80,000 in cash, 10 pounds of fentanyl, five pounds of methamphetamine, and six firearms. A total of seven federal grand jury indictments have been returned against members and associates of 18th Street. The main federal indictment, which contains seven counts, charges the following seven Los Angeles-based members and associates of 18th Street, with one count of racketeering conspiracy: Keiko Marie Gonzalez, 59, a.k.a. “Moms,” “La Señora,” and “La Reina,” Edward Escalante, 49, a.k.a. “Toro,” Edward Alvarenga, 27, a.k.a. “Tito,” George Carillo, 60, a.k.a. “Chuco,” Carlos Beltran, 48, a.k.a. “Negro,” Felipe De Los Angeles, 51, a.k.a. “Indio,” and Edwin Martinez, 32, a.k.a. “Dreamer.” Law enforcement is looking for six fugitives in this matter. One fugitive is believed to be in Mexico and another is believed to be in Guatemala. “For far too long, 18th Street and other criminals have been allowed to turn one of the city’s most beautiful public spaces into a crime-infested pit. That ends today,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “We are committed to eliminating violent organized crime and open-air drug markets from Los Angeles.” “The distribution of illegal narcotics in our communities is unacceptable, as is the associated violent crime that many times affects innocent residents,” said Robert Molvar, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. “This investigation should send a message to 18th Street Gang members and their Mexican Mafia overlords that we’re going to continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target those responsible for the distribution of illegal narcotics which enrich the gang while they prey on and poison members of our community.” According to the indictment, 18th Street is historically a Mexican-American street gang that has grown into a transnational gang with more than 100,000 members within the United States, and operates across Mexico, Central and South America, and elsewhere. 18th Street controls numerous neighborhoods in and around Los Angeles, including MacArthur Park and its surrounding blocks. “MacArthur Park served as an open-air marketplace for drug trafficking by 18th Streeters, many of whom operated within tents to conceal the nature of their drug trafficking and to avoid law enforcement detection,” the indictment alleges. “18th Street also controlled a substantial portion of the drug trafficking activities in the Skid Row area of Downtown Los Angeles.” The gang controls its “territory” through violence and threats of violence against rivals and others, controls and participates in drug trafficking including that of fentanyl and methamphetamine, operates illegal gambling establishments ( casitas ) and collects extortionate “taxes.” 18th Street is affiliated with the Mexican Mafia prison gang and the Mexican Mafia member who maintained ultimate control over 18th Street is an unindicted co-conspirator – identified in the indictment as “Co-Conspirator 1” – who is an inmate at a California state prison. From at least July 2020 to March 2026, Gonzalez – the second in command and street boss of 18th Street – directly communicated with Co-Conspirator 1. In this role, Gonzalez had decision-making authority, oversaw the gang’s criminal activity, disciplined members, collected rent, “taxes,” and fines from the gang’s members and associates, and ordered murders of individuals in the gang, the gang’s rivals, or drug traffickers. Gonzalez and others also directed drug trafficking, violent acts, and other criminal activities. For example, on July 27, 2022, Gonzalez ordered the murder of a victim who failed to pay 18th Street’s extortionate taxes on her drug trafficking activities in the gang’s territory. The victim – identified in the indictment as “M.Z.” – was shot to death. Carillo and Beltran are charged with one count of murder in aid of racketeering for their roles in that murder. Gonzalez, Escalante, Alvarenga, and De Los Angeles also are charged with one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by extortion (Hobbs Act). Escalante additionally is charged with three counts of attempted Hobbs Act extortion, and one count of knowingly and intentionally distributing nearly two pounds of methamphetamine. “Gang criminals and drug peddlers have been exploiting the MacArthur Park community for far too long,” said Anthony Chrysanthis, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Los Angeles Field Division. “18th Street has been moving product in MacArthur Park at will. The collaborative work poured into this multi-agency operation is a testament to our resolve to turn the tide. We want to return MacArthur Park back to the community.” “This indictment exposes a criminal enterprise that relied on illegal activities that generated steady illicit income,” said Tyler Hatcher, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office. “By uncovering the financial structure that supported this organization, we are helping dismantle the network that allowed it to operate and profit at the expense of our communities. IRS CI will continue to use our financial expertise to ensure that violent gangs cannot hide their proceeds and cannot use those profits to fuel further harm.” An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. If convicted, Carillo and Beltran would face a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, Gonzalez would face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, Alvarenga would face up to 40 years in federal prison, De Los Angeles and Martinez would face up to 20 years in federal prison, and Escalante would face a 10-year mandatory minimum prison sentence and a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison. The FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Los Angeles Police Department are investigating this matter with assistance from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Jena A. MacCabe of the Major Crimes Section and Daniel H. Weiner of the Transnational Organized Crime Section are prosecuting these cases.


title: Plains man sentenced to 7 years in prison for illegal firearm possession

body_text: MISSOULA – A Plains man who was prohibited from owning firearms was sentenced today to 84 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot said. Graham Anthony Bowden, 49, pleaded guilty in November 2025 to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and two counts of possession of an unregistered silencer. U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. The government alleged in court documents that in the fall of 2024, law enforcement officers encountered Bowden in several instances in which they either observed him to be armed with a firearm or with firearms accessories. Based in part on those incidents, a federal search warrant was obtained to search Bowden’s residence, which was a camper parked on the property of Bowden’s friend. Also on the property was a freestanding home belonging to Bowden’s friend. Agents located eight firearms belonging to Bowden, along with two silencers and assorted ammunition. Law enforcement interviewed Bowden and he admitted he owned the firearms had been meaning to register them. Bowden acknowledged he had signed paperwork related to his California convictions that prohibited him from possessing firearms but said he thought his rights had been automatically restored at some point. Bowden produced no paperwork to support that assertion. Bowden also admitted to possessing the two silencers, saying one came with a firearm he purchased and that the other was a blank. Bowden said he didn’t know suppressors were federally controlled and needed to be registered. The silencers were not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. On January 6, 2012, Bowden was convicted of six counts of robbery in the second degree with a firearms enhancement in Orange County Superior Court of California and sentenced to 12 years in prison. He was paroled from custody in 2020. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The ATF, Plains Police Department, and Sanders County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Sex offender sentenced to prison for distributing child sexual abuse material while on supervision for previous conviction

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, on March 31, 2015, David Christopher Schaefer, 38, was convicted of possession of CSAM and was sentenced to over eight years in prison and a life term of supervised release. Among the conditions of supervision were a restriction to use only computers or cellular devices approved by the Probation Office. Schaefer was allowed to have a flip phone without access to the Internet and a laptop computer with installed monitoring. Law enforcement notified Schaefer’s probation officer that Schaefer was issued a summons on March 21, 2025, in the City of Newport News for texting and driving. Probation officers searched Schaefer’s residence and located six unauthorized Internet-capable devices and three unreported storage drives. Among these were three smartphones, which Schaefer admitted to using to access, view, download, and exchange CSAM. On one of the phones, investigators found hundreds of images and videos of CSAM. Schaefer was attributed with over 25,000 CSAM images. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa R. McKeel prosecuted 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 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the 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.justice.gov/psc . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-51.