title: Activity in the U.S. Attorney's Office

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

body_text: Child Sexual Abuse Material and Sex Offenders James Arthur Ostermeier, 61, with no permanent address, was sentenced to time served, approximately seven months and ten days, with five years of supervised release for failing to register as a sex offender. According to court documents, the defendant is a sex offender who was living in Laramie and then Uinta Counties. As a sex offender, he is required to check in the with the Offender Registrar and he stopped showing up for his registration checks in November 2024. The defendant left Wyoming and had been living in several states, none of which he registered in as a sex offender as required by law. The U.S. Marshals Service and the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Ostermeier was indicted on March 20 and pleaded guilty on April 18. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on Oct. 2 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-00058. Adrean Ray McClendon, 25, of Laramie, Wyoming, was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for possession of child pornography. The court ordered the defendant to pay $21,000 in restitution to the victims. According to court documents, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a report from MediaLab/Kik about a user suspected of possessing child pornography. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force initiated the investigation which led to McClendon, residing in a Laramie hotel. A search of his room uncovered multiple electronic devices. Forensic analysis confirmed the devices belonged to McClendon and contained over 600 images of child sexual abuse material including infants, toddlers, and prepubescent children, some of which he distributed to other users on Kik. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie M. Morrison prosecuted the case. McClendon was indicted on Jan. 15 and pleaded guilty on July 1. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 7 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00018 Violent Crime Brooke Ellen Friday-Goggles , 27, of Fort Washakie, was sentenced to 23 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release on a charge of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. According to court documents, on Jan. 26, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Wind River Police Department (WRPD) was dispatched to a report of an assault. When officers arrived, the defendant was intoxicated and claimed to be the victim, but she had no physical injuries. Officers discovered the victim inside the residence with lacerations, scrapes and bruises, with her knee appearing dislocated. Witnesses confirmed the defendant had attacked the victim. The victim was flown out of state for surgical treatment of fractures to her knee and leg and an injury to her ankle. The BIA-WRPD and the FBI investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kerry J. Jacobson prosecuted the case. Friday-Goggles was indicted on March 20 and pleaded guilty on May 28. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on Oct. 3 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00047. Firearm Offenses Alexander Christopher Schwab , 32, of Evergreen, Alabama, was sentenced to 41 months with three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court records, on Jan. 26, Wyoming Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop on the defendant’s vehicle. The Trooper smelled marijuana and a K9 alerted to the presence of a controlled substance. During a search of the vehicle, Troopers located multiple firearms and large capacity magazines. The defendant is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and the Wyoming Highway Patrol investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case. Schwab was indicted on March 20 and pleaded guilty on July 1. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 1 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00048. Christopher Dakota Daniel Pierce , 39, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Jan. 9, 2025, Campbell County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Pierce’s residence for a domestic disturbance. On scene, deputies received consent to search the home and ultimately located six firearms to which Mr. Pierce had access. Mr. Pierce is a previously convicted felon and cannot legally possess firearms. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer prosecuted the case. Pierce was indicted on May 21 and pleaded guilty on July 18. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin imposed the sentence on Oct. 15 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00090 Steven Michael Harvey , 61, of Sherdan, Wyoming, was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for being in possession of an unregistered firearm. According to court documents, in March 2024, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) executed a search warrant of Harvey’s storage unit. Inside, law enforcement found six rifles, one pistol, and one suspected silencer. Two of the rifles had barrels of less than sixteen inches in length. In addition, Mr. Harvey did not properly register the firearms after inheriting them from a friend. DCI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer prosecuted the case. Harvey was indicted on Nov. 20, 2024, and pleaded guilty on July 21. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 16 in Casper. Case No. 24-CR-00172 Dietz Dunnie Pongah , III, 27, with no fixed address, was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release to follow for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Oct. 9, 2024, the defendant, while intoxicated, took a vehicle without permission from a residence on the Wind River Indian Reservation and drove it through fields and fences before being apprehended by law enforcement. Inside the vehicle, officers discovered a sawed-off .22 caliber rifle with ammunition, which DCI determined contained the defendant's DNA. Pongah is a previously convicted felon and unable to possess a firearm. DCI and the Wind River Police Department investigated the crime. Michael J. Elmore Prosecuted the case. Pongah was indicted on May 21 and pleaded guilty on Aug. 5. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 27 in Casper. Robert Alexander , 43, from Lyman, Wyoming, was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment with four years of supervised release to follow for aiding and abetting in the distribution of methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, between August and December 2024, Wyoming agents conducted six controlled buys of methamphetamine from Alexander’s co-conspirator totaling 614.6 grams. A search of the defendant’s home he shared with his co-conspirator uncovered large quantities of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, firearms, and ammunition. The defendant admitted to possessing the drugs and firearms, aiding in methamphetamine distribution, and being prohibited from possessing firearms. DCI investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Alexander was indicted on May 21 and pleaded guilty on Aug. 25. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 2 in Casper. Case No. 24-CR-00083 Drug Trafficking Jade Mikel Shane , 46, of Evans, Colorado, was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, in February 2024, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) began an investigation into drug trafficking in Sheridan and Campbell Counties. Through the investigation, agents learned the defendant used his residence as a storage and distribution hub for large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. A search warrant executed on September 5, 2024, led to the seizure of significant amounts of controlled substances and numerous firearms. DCI and Weld County, Colorado, Drug Task Force investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. Shane was indicted on Jan. 15 and pleaded guilty on June 5. U.S. District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 8 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00016 Kolter Kekich, 30, from Sheridan, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment with four years of supervised release to follow for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) agents learned the defendant was involved in the distribution of drugs in Sheridan County. On February 11, the defendant and his dating partner rented a room at a motel in Sheridan and left 320 grams of methamphetamine under the bed sheets where hotel staff located it and alerted law enforcement. Later that day, agents attempted to arrest the defendant, but he fled resulting in a high-speed pursuit that ended in a wreck. While refusing to exit his vehicle after the wreck, the defendant began to consume large amounts of drugs resulting in an overdose. Law enforcement located additional drugs, drug paraphernalia and $1,360 inside the vehicle. DCI and the Sheridan Police Department investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Elmore and Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Kekich was indicted on May 21 and pleaded guilty on Aug. 8. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Oct. 28 in Cheyenne. Case No. 24-CR-00084 Drug and Firearm Offenses Scott VanGoethen , 54, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, in December 2024, detectives with the Cheyenne Police Department received information that the defendant was distributing methamphetamine in the community. Through surveillance, sources of information, and eventually evidence, detectives discovered that the defendant was driving to Colorado to obtain large amounts of methamphetamine, then selling it to his neighbors, who were in turn distributing it. Detectives seized 15 firearms along with ammunition during a search of his property. The defendant is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and Cheyenne Police Department investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer prosecuted the case. VanGoethen was arrested on complaint March 21 and pleaded guilty to an Information on July 14. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Sept. 30 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00101 Jonathan Dennis Roberts , 41, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 138 months’ imprisonment with four years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, in September 2023, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) launched an investigation into drug trafficking in Campbell County. Over the course of the investigation, which extended into 2024, agents conducted controlled drug purchases and tracked Roberts traveling to Colorado to restock his supply. Roberts was known to possess numerous firearms, some of which he traded for drugs. On December 5, 2024, he was arrested during a traffic stop in Converse County, where deputies seized a loaded handgun and 377 grams of methamphetamine. A later search of his residence by agents uncovered nine firearms. DCI investigated the crime with the assistance of ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case. Roberts was arrested on complaint Feb. 6 and pleaded guilty to an Information on May 9. U.S. District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 9 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00079 Pedro Jose Rosales-Trujillo , 56, of Chihuahua, Mexico, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment and will be deported for illegal reentry into the United States upon completion of his sentence. According to court documents, on June 23 the defendant, going by the name Rafael Quintero-Trujillo, was arrested by the Cheyenne Police Department for a failure to pay warrant stemming from a criminal trespass in Albany County. Fingerprints taken at the time of detention indicated Quintero-Trujillo was actually Rosales-Trujillo, a citizen of Mexico. Agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were contacted. They determined that Rosales-Trujillo had previously been removed from the U.S. and had not applied for permission to reenter after being formally removed at least 11 times beginning in 1989. The records also indicated a lengthy criminal record accompanying each deportation. ICE investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 22 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00103 Roberto Lezama-Amayo , 35, of Puebla, Mexico, was sentenced to time served and will be deported for illegal reentry into the United States. According to court documents, on Aug. 15, the defendant was encountered at the Sweetwater County jail after being arrested on state charges. Agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) determined that Lezama-Amayo had not applied for permission to reenter the U.S. after being formally removed in August 2019. ICE investigated the crime, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Oct. 27 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00140 Public Lands Violations Jessica Wells , 37 of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve a 21-day term of incarceration with credit for 2 days served and ordered to pay $2,040 in fines and court costs for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. According to documents, on July 27, Wells was driving a motor vehicle in Yellowstone National Park with a breath alcohol concentration of 0.133%. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariel Calmes prosecuted the case. Wells pleaded guilty and was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie A. Hambrick on Oct 14 in Mammoth. Illegal Re-Entry of a Previously Deported Alien Marvin Olina-Zuniga , 42, of Choluteca, Honduras, was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment and will be deported for illegal reentry into the United States upon completion of his sentence. According to court documents, on July 6, the defendant was arrested in Sweetwater County for possession of a controlled substance. Fingerprints taken at the time of detention indicated Olina-Zuniga is a citizen of Honduras and agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were contacted. They determined that Olina-Zuniga had previously been removed from the U.S. in November 2018 and had not applied for permission to reenter. ICE investigated the crime, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Sept. 10 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00105 Pedro Jose Rosales-Trujillo , 56, of Chihuahua, Mexico, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment and will be deported for illegal reentry into the United States upon completion of his sentence. According to court documents, on June 23 the defendant, going by the name Rafael Quintero-Trujillo, was arrested by the Cheyenne Police Department for a failure to pay warrant stemming from a criminal trespass in Albany County. Fingerprints taken at the time of detention indicated Quintero-Trujillo was actually Rosales-Trujillo, a citizen of Mexico. Agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were contacted. They determined that Rosales-Trujillo had previously been removed from the U.S. and had not applied for permission to reenter after being formally removed at least 11 times beginning in 1989. The records also indicated a lengthy criminal record accompanying each deportation. ICE investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 22 in Casper. Case No. 25-CR-00103 Roberto Lezama-Amayo, 35, of Puebla, Mexico, was sentenced to time served and will be deported for illegal reentry into the United States. According to court documents, on Aug. 15, the defendant was encountered at the Sweetwater County jail after being arrested on state charges. Agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) determined that Lezama-Amayo had not applied for permission to reenter the U.S. after being formally removed in August 2019. ICE investigated the crime, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Oct. 27 in Cheyenne. Case No. 25-CR-00140 About the United States Attorney’s Office The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include: Project Safe Childhood Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious. Operation Take Back America Operation Take Back America is 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. It also streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Victim Witness Program The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to ensuring victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect. To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime


title: Armed career criminal sentenced to 15 years in prison for federal drug and firearms offenses

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Farmville man was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, Oxycodone, and marijuana. According to court documents, on Feb. 7, 2024, law enforcement observed Tyrone Lamont Fowlkes, 42, in an idling pickup truck in a parking lot in Nottoway County. When a deputy approached the vehicle and tapped on the window, Fowlkes fled at high speed and the deputy pursued. Fowlkes eventually crashed into a tree, totaling the vehicle and causing serious injuries to himself. From the truck, law enforcement recovered three firearms, three digital scales, $948.84, 198 grams of cocaine, four methamphetamine pills, 60 Oxycodone pills, and 455 grams of marijuana. One of the firearms had been stolen. On Aug. 9, 2024, with several arrest warrants arising from the Feb. 7, 2024, incident still outstanding, law enforcement observed Fowlkes driving an SUV in Nottoway County. During a traffic stop, a police K9 alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement found three firearms, a large-capacity magazine, two digital scales, $1,260, 117 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of methamphetamine, 24 Oxycodone pills, and 321 grams of marijuana. Fowlkes was found guilty in 2008 and again in 2011 of distributing cocaine and in 2021 of possessing with intent to distribute marijuana for a 2019 incident during which he possessed a firearm. As a convicted felon, Fowlkes cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney Jr. The Nottoway County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation of 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. 3:25-cr-25.


title: Tennessee Woman Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to Creation and Distribution of Videos Depicting Monkey Torture and Mutilation

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: A Tennessee woman pleaded guilty last week to crimes based on her involvement with online groups dedicated to creating and distributing videos depicting acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys. Katrina Favret, of Greenville, Tennessee, pleaded guilty to conspiring to create and distribute so-called “animal crush videos,” and to a second count addressing a specific video she solicited. According to court documents, Favret conspired with others to create and distribute videos depicting acts of sadistic violence against baby and adult monkeys. The conspirators used encrypted chat applications to direct money to individuals in Indonesia willing to commit the requested acts of torture on camera. According to a statement of facts signed by Favret, the videos included depictions of monkeys having their digits and limbs severed and monkeys being forcibly sodomized with a heated screwdriver. Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) and U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II for the Southern District of Ohio made the announcement. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Mark Romley and Senior Trial Attorney Adam Cullman of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Pakiz for the Southern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.


title: Independence Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm. Hunter A. Fanara, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 96 months in federal prison without parole for being a felon in possession of a firearms. On July 8, 2025, Fanara pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly being a felon in possession of a firearm on Mar. 19, 2024. On that date, Fanara was driving near the intersection of South Crysler and West Haward Avenue in Independence, Mo. An Independence, Mo., Police Department Officer pulled Fanara over for a stop sign violation. During the traffic stop, Fanara abruptly exited the vehicle and shut and locked the car door. Fanara then walked towards the patrol car with his hands in his pockets. The officer questioned Fanara and learned that Fanara had a revoked license. Fanara reported that the vehicle he was driving belonged to another person and he could not provide consent to search the vehicle, but the officer had not requested to search the vehicle. Due to Fanara having a revoked license and an outstanding warrant, officers arrested Fanara. Officers later learned that the vehicle had been reported as stolen. Officers conducted an inventory search of the vehicle prior to having it towed and they discovered a loaded Taurus, Model G3, 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol, in the driver’s door cubby. Officers also found multiple baggies containing methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin and a couple of pills. Pursuant to the plea agreement, the defendant admitted that he knowingly possessed the recovered firearm and that he knew he had previously been convicted of a felony offense. In the plea agreement, Fanara also admitted that on Mar. 20, 2025, he knowingly possessed another firearm, specifically an Erma/Excam, Model RX22, .22 LR caliber, semi-automatic pistol, that Independence, Mo. Police Officers recovered during an investigation of another traffic violation involving Fanara. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Independence, Mo. Police Department. 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Education for Just Peace in the Middle East d/b/a US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Settles PPP Loan Case for $353,000

component: USAO - North Dakota

body_text: FARGO : United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase announced the United States entered into a settlement agreement with Education for Just Peace in the Middle East doing business as US Campaign for Palestinian Rights (“EfJP”), a Washington, DC non-profit participating in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (“SBA”) Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). EfJP paid the United States $353,000 to settle the case. In March 2020, Congress created the CARES Act to provide emergency financial support to Americans suffering economic hardship due to the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized billions of dollars in forgivable PPP loans—known as First Draw and Second Draw loans—to small businesses, including certain non-profit organizations, struggling to pay employees and other business expenses. EfJP applied for, received, and obtained forgiveness for First Draw and Second Draw loans with a value of $308,905.28. To receive a First Draw loan, an applicant had to certify eligibility for a loan under the rules in effect at the time. Among the rules in effect at the time of EfJP’s First Draw application was 13 CFR § 120.110(r) which provides that, “Businesses primarily engaged in political or lobbying activities” are ineligible for SBA loans. To apply for a Second Draw loan, an applicant had to certify eligibility, including that it was not “primarily engaged in political or lobbying activities, including any entity that is organized for research or for engaging in advocacy in areas such as public policy or political strategy or otherwise describes itself as a think tank in any public documents.” 15 U.S.C. § 636(a)(37)(A)(iv)(III)(bb). Under the settlement agreement, EfJP paid $353,000 to the United States to resolve a whistleblower lawsuit brought against EfJP by TZAC, Inc., a New York non-profit, pursuant to the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. TZAC’s allegations included the claim that EfJP was ineligible to participate in the Second Draw loan. As a result of the investigation conducted by the United States, the parties reached a settlement whereby EfJP paid the United States an amount sufficient to (1) fully reimburse SBA for the principal, interest, and lender processing fees associated with the First Draw and Second Draw loans; (2) pay TZAC, Inc. its share of the recovery consistent with the False Claims Act; and, (3) cover certain expenses associated with the resolution of the case. The claims resolved by the civil settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability in the civil case and EfJP denies any wrongdoing. The case is United States of America ex rel. TZAC, Inc. v. Education for Just Peace in [the] Middle East a/k/a United States Campaign for Palestinian Rights , U.S. District Court, District of North Dakota Case No. 1:22-cv-00137-DLH-CRH. The United States is represented by Assistant United States Attorneys James Patrick Thomas and Michael D. Schoepf of the District of North Dakota. US Attorney Chase commended SBA Office of Inspector General Special Agent Sandra E. Mazzoni and SBA Office of General Counsel Trial Attorney Kandace Zelaya for their assistance in the investigation and settlement of the matter. “Investigations like this one reflect collaboration of the Small Business Administration, including SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. When whistleblowers uncover potentially fraudulent conduct, we work to recover SBA funds improperly obtained,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis. For more information about the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of 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: Folsom Man Indicted for Possessing a Firearm in a School Zone and Possessing a Firearm While Subject to a Restraining Order

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment today against Curt Michael Taras, 53, of Folsom, charging him with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person and possessing a firearm within a school zone, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, on Sept. 24, 2025, Taras was found to be in possession of a firearm within 1,000 feet of the Folsom High School campus. Further investigation revealed that he possessed several firearms and ammunition in his vehicle and in his residence. Taras is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he is subject to a court order in Sacramento County Superior Court that restrains him from harassing, stalking, and threatening an intimate partner. This case is the product of an investigation by the Folsom Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Abendroth and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Ng are prosecuting the case. If convicted, Taras faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possessing a firearm within a school zone, and 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possessing a firearm while subject to a court order retraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Sacramento Man Charged with Being Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Cornelius Houston, 34, of Elk Grove, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2025, Houston was found in possession of a loaded Glock handgun. On Oct. 7, he was found in possession of another Glock handgun. Houston is prohibited from possessing ammunition or firearms based on his prior felony convictions for robbery and transportation, sale, or distribution of a controlled substance. This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Ng is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Houston faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. This case is also part of the Special Assistant United States Attorney program, a partnership between the United States Attorney’s Office and local District Attorney’s Offices. Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys remain employed by local District Attorney’s Offices, but they work on federal investigations and can prosecute cases in both state and federal court. This partnership allows the United States Attorney’s Office and local District Attorney’s Offices to partner to fight transnational organized crime and violent crime that impacts the region. The U.S. Attorney’s Office currently has Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the District Attorney’s Offices of Yolo, Placer, Fresno, and Sacramento Counties.


title: Warwick, ND, Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Sexual Abuse

body_text: FARGO – On October 7, 2025, Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, United States District Court for the District of North Dakota, sentenced Jordain Jaden Smith, age 26 of Warwick, ND, to 20 years in prison for Sexual Abuse of an Incapacitated Victim and Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Smith is also known by the following aliases: Jordain Jaden Smith, Jourdian Smith, Jordain Thompson, and Jordan Thompson. Smith’s prison sentence will be followed by 25 years of supervised release following his prison sentence which will include many conditions. As part of the plea agreement in this case, Smith was also advised of the requirement that he must comply with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. In 2023, Smith was charged by Indictment with five counts alleging Smith sexually abused two minor females and possessed materials involving the sexual exploitation of one of the minors. Smith pled guilty to two of the charged offenses involving two minor females. The sexual abuse alleged in the Indictment occurred within the boundaries of the Spirit Lake Reservation. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and reaffirms our office’s commitment to protecting children,” said United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase. “We will continue to pursue justice for victims of exploitation and hold offenders fully accountable.” "Today's sentence of is one more step forward in the pursuit of justice for the two minor females who were viciously abused by Jordain Jaden Smith," said FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston, Sr. "Those who sexually exploit children will meet the full force of the law. The FBI has no higher calling than to protect innocent children from sexual predators like Smith. We are proud of our work with our Federal, State and Local partners on this investigation." This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the nation, Project Safe Childhood, in conjunction with Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), helps federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies enhance their investigative responses to offenders who use the Internet, online communications systems, or computer technology to sexually exploit children. The ICAC Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces engaging in proactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Project Safe Childhood also helps to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from: Grand Forks Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office, with Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy assigned. # # #


title: Former Customs and Border Protection Officer Sentenced for Allowing Drug-Laden Vehicles to Enter the U.S.

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Diego Bonillo was sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison for allowing vehicles containing methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl to enter the U.S. In his plea agreement, Bonillo acknowledged that he worked for a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization wherein he agreed to accept payment for using his official position as an officer to allow drug-laden vehicles into the U.S. from Mexico without inspection. Bonillo admitted that as part of the conspiracy he allowed at least 75 kilograms of fentanyl, 11.7 kilograms of methamphetamine, and over 1 kilogram of heroin, into the United States. According to the government’s sentencing documents, during the investigation, agents discovered that Bonillo was using a second phone that was unknown to law enforcement to transmit his lane assignments to members of the drug trafficking organization so they would know which lane and what time to send their smugglers to ensure their entry. Eventually, agents determined that Bonillo’s role in the scheme began no later than October 2023 and continued until April 2024, allowing at least 15 vehicles to enter uninspected. According to the sentencing materials, Bonillo used his proceeds to travel internationally, purchase luxury gifts, buy tickets to the Canelo versus Munguia boxing match, attempt to purchase property in Mexico, and spend time at the Hong Kong Gentlemen’s Club in Tijuana, Mexico. “This sentence holds Bonillo accountable for betraying the public trust,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “He weaponized his badge for personal profit, funneling deadly narcotics through a port of entry and putting communities at risk. Corruption like this will be met with the full force of the law — and we will not hesitate to pursue and punish those who trade duty for dollars.” “Corrupt Customs and Border Protection officers betray their oath and endanger our national security,” said DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, Ph.D. “This sentence sends a clear message that such betrayal of public trust will not be tolerated.” “Former CBP Officer Diego Bonillo allowed massive amounts of drugs into the U.S. without regard for the deadly consequences it could have on our communities,” said Mark Dargis, Special Agent in Charge of FBI San Diego Field Office. “He disgraced the badge and violated his oath to protect the American people. This conduct betrays the public’s trust and is contradictory to the values and standards expected of a federal law enforcement officer. FBI San Diego and our partners will not tolerate such dishonorable behavior. This sentence reflects the FBI’s commitment to hold accountable anyone who corrupts their role at the expense of our citizens’ safety.” The sentencing took place on November 7, 2025. This press release was delayed due to the lapse in appropriations. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Van Demark, Bianca Calderon-Peñaloza, and Shauna Prewitt. DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr0908-RBM Diego Bonillo Age: 31 Chula Vista, Mexico SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances – Title 21, United States Code, Sections 952, 960, and 963 Maximum Penalty: Life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum Importation of Controlled Substances - Title 21, United States Code, Sections 952 and 960 Maximum Penalty: Life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation – Border Corruption Task Force Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility U.S. Border Patrol – San Diego Sector Intelligence Unit Homeland Security Investigations - SDNET Drug Enforcement Administration Homeland Security Investigations – Hermosillo Attaché


title: Clarksdale Man Sentenced to 30 Months for being a Felon in Possession of a Stolen Firearm

component: Department of Justice

body_text: JACKSON, MS – A Clarksdale man was sentenced on November 4, 2025, to 30 months of incarceration for being a felon in possession of a firearm in Hinds County. The defendant was also ordered to pay a fine and serve 3 years of supervised release following his incarceration. According to court documents, Kyler Seamster, 29, was found by law enforcement agents to be in possession of a stolen firearm during a street level narcotics operation executed by Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics throughout Jackson in 2024. Seamster had previous felony convictions for grand larceny and residential burglary in Tallahatchie County. Seamster was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 24, 2025, and pleaded guilty on August 5, 2025. Seamster will continue serving a concurrent 15-year state sentence for trafficking in stolen firearms out of Madison County. Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, Patrick A. Lemon and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement. The ATF investigated this case with the assistance of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Brett Grantham prosecuted the case. This case was investigated by the ATF as part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Clinton Man Found Guilty of Illegal Machinegun Possession

body_text: Jackson, MS – On October 2, 2025, following a two-day jury trial, a federal jury convicted a Clinton man for illegal possession of a machinegun. The trial and jury verdict occurred during the government shutdown. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Lennell Antonio Moore, Jr., 28, was stopped by Capitol Police for a traffic violation in Jackson. Officers conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and located three Glocks pistols with attached machinegun conversion devices (MCDs a/k/a switches). Two were in the center console, directly next to Moore, along with a drum magazine that held approximately 40-rounds of ammunition. Moore is scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2026. Moore faces a maximum penalty of ten years. He is currently being held in federal custody. Acting United States Attorney Patrick Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson made the announcement. The United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Capitol Police Department, and the Jackson Police Department investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matt Allen and Amber Jones. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Assault on a Federal Law Enforcement Officer and Discharging a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence

body_text: Gulfport, MS – A Jackson County, Mississippi man pleaded guilty on October 6, 2025, to one count of assault on a federal law enforcement officer and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. According to court documents, in September 2024, a federal task force officer and a Harrison County Sherrif’s Investigator were conducting surveillance outside of the Boomtown Casino in Biloxi when they noticed an older model, silver Honda Accord pull out of the parking lot with no lights on. The officers began following the vehicle and noticed one of the passengers sticking out of the window and looking back at the officer’s vehicle. Around this time, three shots were fired from the suspect’s vehicle striking the windshield of the officers’ vehicle. At least one of the bullets went through the windshield and struck one of the officers in the ear. The officer also had glass from the windshield fly into his eye. The officers radioed for backup and the suspect’s vehicle was eventually stopped. One of the passengers in the vehicle was identified as Cori Davis. During the investigation, officers located a nine-millimeter Glock pistol in the vicinity of the defendant’s route of travel. Agents also recovered three nine-millimeter shell casings matching the firearm nearby. The firearm had three rounds of ammunition missing. It was determined that Cori Davis was the purchaser of this firearm, and his DNA was found on a holster for this firearm. After Davis was arrested, he admitted to being the person who shot at the officers. Davis is scheduled to be sentenced February 10, 2025, and faces up to twenty years in prison for assault on a federal law enforcement officer and up to life in prison discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI, the D’Iberville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Smith prosecuted the case.


title: Telemarketing Company Operators Sentenced for Roles in Genetic Testing Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: WASHINGTON — Two men from Texas and Florida were sentenced today to four years and two years in prison, respectively, for their roles as leaders of a marketing company that solicited Medicare beneficiaries for medically unnecessary genetic testing. The Florida man received an additional two years in prison, to be served concurrently, for his role in falsifying the ownership information in Medicare enrollment documentation for a clinical laboratory. According to court documents, Paul Wexler, 56, of Spring, Texas, and Paul Bleignier, 64, of Seminole, Florida, operated a telemarketing company that recruited Medicare beneficiaries for cancer genetic (CGx) testing that was medically unnecessary. CGx testing uses DNA sequencing to detect mutations in genes that could indicate a higher risk of developing certain types of cancers in the future. It is not a method of diagnosing whether an individual presently has cancer, and Medicare covers CGx testing in limited circumstances. Further, Wexler, Bleignier and their co-conspirators solicited and received kickbacks in exchange for referring Medicare beneficiaries for CGx testing that was not eligible for Medicare reimbursement. Through the scheme, Wexler and Bleignier caused Medicare to be billed $17.3 million, and they were paid $5.2 million. While the criminal case for genetic testing fraud was pending, Bleignier opened a clinical laboratory and enrolled it in Medicare. Medicare requires a certification listing anyone with 5% or more ownership interest, but Bleignier used other people’s identities to disguise his involvement. The claims related to that laboratory were further tainted by kickbacks. Bleignier and his co-conspirators billed Medicare for $3,012,156 in claims that were ineligible for reimbursement, and they were paid $916,106. In April 2024, Wexler pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud. In November 2022, Bleignier pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive kickbacks, and in November 2024, he pleaded guilty to making false statements related to health care matters. At sentencing the two were ordered to pay $1.2 million in forfeiture each and $5.2 million in restitution. Bleignier was ordered to pay an additional $916,106 in forfeiture for his role in falsifying the ownership information in Medicare enrollment documentation. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida; and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement. HHS-OIG and FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Charles D. Strauss of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit .


title: Two Mexican Nationals Unlawfully Residing in the United States Arrested Transporting 72 Pounds of Methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.— Two Mexican nationals illegally in the United States have been charged with trafficking 72 pounds of methamphetamine. Alejandra Diaz-Alcantar, 45, and Juan Alberto Alvarado-Gonzalez, 41, have been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. According to court documents, an Oregon State Police K9 trooper stopped the white Chevrolet pickup on Interstate 5 in Lane County as part of an ongoing investigation. A search of the vehicle pursuant to a warrant revealed two duffel bags under the rear passenger seat. They contained 56 plastic bags and bindles of suspected methamphetamine, collectively weighing approximately 72 pounds. The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Law enforcement (They wish to not be named specifically.)


title: DC Man Found Guilty in Armed Robberies of Three Businesses in Washington, D.C.

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: WASHINGTON – Mark Thomas Moore 34, of the District of Columbia, was found guilty on November 6 following a bench trial in U.S. District Court in connection with the three armed robberies, including a U.S. Post Office, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Judge Amit P. Mehta found Moore guilty of two counts of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) and one count of armed postal robbery. Each count of Hobbs Act robbery carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. Armed postal robbery carries a maximum sentence of 25 years. Judge Mehta scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2026. According to the government’s evidence, Moore committed three armed robberies over a 30 day period in October and November 2022. Specifically, Moore entered a McDonalds, a 7-Eleven, and a U.S. Post Office while masked and armed with an imitation firearm. Each time, Moore held store employees at gunpoint and demanded money from the cash register. Store employees testified at trial that they feared for their lives—each believing that Moore possessed an actual firearm and was prepared to shoot them. Moore was arrested on Nov. 28, 2022, following a robbery of a CVS store in Arlington, Virginia. When Moore was arrested, he possessed clothing and items that tied him to earlier robberies. A subsequent residential search recovered additional distinct clothing worn by Moore during the robberies. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service also determined that Moore left a fingerprint inside the cash register drawer during the postal robbery. This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office’s Violent Crime Task Force, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Washington Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Carjacking Task Force. Valuable assistance was provided by the Arlington County Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caelainn Carney, Jared English, and Jason B.A. McCullough of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Martin. The case was investigated and indicted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Courtney. 23cr256


title: Marengo County Men Sentenced to Prison for Wire Fraud Conspiracy Involving Theft of More Than $1.2 Million in Building Materials

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Two Marengo County men were sentenced to 27 months and 13 months in prison for their roles in a wire fraud conspiracy involving theft of building materials worth more than $1.2 million. According to court documents, Bryan Keith Gracie, 40, of Demopolis, and Ellis Tyrone Miller, 35, of Dixons Mills, conspired with one another to steal building materials from a company in Thomasville between June 2021 and March 2022. To carry out the conspiracy, Gracie and Miller coordinated to provide unique delivery and shipment numbers for legitimate orders, intended for the victim company’s customers, to individuals who were not authorized to accept the shipments. Thereafter, Gracie and Miller made false entries and reversals of information into the victim company’s database, which communicated with servers outside of Alabama. Gracie and Miller also signed fraudulent bills of lading for shipments of stolen building materials to unauthorized third‑party trucking companies. Federal agents obtained numerous incriminating text messages between Gracie, a former employee of the victim company, and Miller, who worked at the company in a position of trust. For example, in November 2021, Miller instructed Gracie, “Wear hard hat and act like u signing in but don’t put nothing down please deliver the message.” In December 2021, Miller warned Gracie that an employee of the victim company had “been watching the cameras” and suggested that they should “chill for a minute.” Later, in February 2022, Gracie and Miller texted each other about what each was owed for illicit sales of stolen building products. During the conspiracy, Gracie and Miller facilitated at least 54 shipments of stolen products from the victim company to unauthorized third parties. The value of the stolen materials was at least $1,213,524.16. U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose sentenced Gracie to 27 months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Gracie will serve a three-year term of supervised release, during which time he will be subject to credit restrictions and will be prohibited from being on or around the victim company’s property. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge DuBose ordered Gracie to pay $100 in special assessments and $1,213,524.16 in victim restitution, jointly and severally with Miller. For his role in the scheme, Ellis was sentenced to 13 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock. Upon his release from prison, Miller will serve a three-year term of supervised release, during which time he will be subject to credit restrictions. The court did not impose a fine, but Chief Judge Beaverstock ordered Miller to pay $100 in special assessments and $1,213,524.16 in victim restitution, jointly and severally with Gracie. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Thomasville Police Department, and the Montgomery Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.


title: Prichard Drug Dealer Sentenced In Federal Court

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A resident of Prichard, Alabama, was sentenced in federal court on two counts of possession with intent to distribute MDMB-4en-PINACA, a schedule I controlled substance, commonly referred to as Ecstasy, and possession of a machine gun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock switch.” A machine gun conversion device is a device which renders a firearm capable of firing multiple rounds of ammunition by a single function of the trigger without manual reloading. Possession of such a device is a federal crime. LilChrosin Paul Mauldin, IV, 31, pled guilty to these two federal charges in July of 2025. Court documents show that Mauldin sold the controlled substance to a confidential informant and represented that it was Fentanyl. The informant also asked Mauldin whether he could help obtain a weapon. Mauldin told the informant that he had previously possessed a “box” of them but could find one for the informant. Mauldin subsequently contacted the informant to say that he had obtained a switch that he could sell to the informant. On October 31, 2025, United States District Court Judge Kristi Dubose imposed a 151-month sentence for the drug count and a 120-month sentence on the machine gun conversion device count and ordered that the sentences run concurrently. The judge further ordered that Mauldin serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment. As conditions of Mauldin’s supervision, he will also undergo testing and treatment for drug and/or alcohol abuse and he will be subject to a search of his person and premises upon reasonable suspicion. No fine was imposed but the judge ordered that Mauldin pay $200 in special assessments. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Mobile Man Sentenced To 10 Years For Robbery

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile man was sentenced on October 29, 2025, to 120 months in prison for robbery of a convenience store. According to court documents, Andre` Lionel Nettles, 40, robbed a Mobile area Circle K store of cigarettes on March 28, 2024. He was wearing a black jacket, black face mask, and pointed a gun at the clerk. The robbery was captured on store surveillance. While stealing the cigarettes, Nettles broke a plexiglass case, leaving blood and fingerprints on the scene. Forensic analysis of the fingerprints and DNA matched Nettles. After serving 120 months in the Bureau of Prisons, Nettles will be placed on a supervised release term of three years. He was also ordered to pay restitution and fines. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms along with Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys George May and Tandice H. Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.


title: Mobile Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison  for Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile man was sentenced in late October 2025 to 27 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. According to court documents, on April 19, 2025, a Mobile County Sheriff’s Office Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an expired license plate. After the vehicle came to a stop the driver, later identified as Teague, exited the vehicle. The Deputy instructed Teague to return to his vehicle, but he ignored the commands. Teague was detained and the Deputy conducted a cursory search of Teague for officer safety and discovered a firearm inside of his waistband. Following his arrest, a search of the vehicle revealed 429 various rounds of ammunition. Teague has several prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Teague was ordered to a 3-year supervised release term upon release from incarceration and must pay a $100 special assessment. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Five-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced In Federal Court

body_text: MOBILE, AL –A resident of Robertsdale, Alabama, was sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment on October 31, 2025, for his second federal conviction for felon in possession of a firearm. Albert Emil Tillman, 46, pleaded guilty to his two new federal charges, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Felon in Possession of Ammunition in July of 2025. According to court documents, Tillman had been previously convicted in state court for Robbery First Degree in 2000 and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in 2009. Most recently, he was convicted for Conspiracy to Manufacture Methamphetamine and Felon in Possession of a Firearm in federal court in 2013. Court documents show that Tillman was on supervised release from his prior federal convictions when his probation officer received information that Tillman was distributing methamphetamine in the Atmore, Alabama, area. Officers obtained a search warrant for Tillman’s motel room in Atmore and incriminating evidence was discovered in the room, including digital scales and smoking devices used to consume methamphetamine. The officers also discovered a shotgun and shotgun ammunition in the room. Tillman was arrested outside the room in his truck, where numerous additional rounds of shotgun and rifle ammunition were seized. Tillman was indicted for the two new counts, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Felon in Possession of Ammunition, as a result of this investigation. United States District Court Judge Kristi Dubose imposed a 28-month sentence in Tillman’s cases and ordered that the sentences run concurrently. The judge further ordered that Tillman serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. As conditions of Tillman’s supervision, he will also undergo testing and treatment for drug and/or alcohol abuse and will be subject to a search of his person and premises upon reasonable suspicion. No fine was imposed but the Judge ordered that Tillman pay $200 in special assessments. Judge Dubose also ordered the forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition that Tillman illegally possessed. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County (Alabama) Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced to 30 Months for Possessing Firearm

body_text: MOBILE, AL – On November 7, 2025, a Mobile man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. According to court documents, Anthony Maurice Parker, 29, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment at the Bureau of Prisons with 3 years of supervised release to follow. On June 3, 2025, officers with the Bay Minette Police Department encountered Parker’s vehicle stopped in the roadway, running and in drive, with Parker asleep behind the wheel. Parker was in possession of a firearm despite being a prohibited person due to prior convictions for Robbery 1 st and Certain Persons Forbidden to Possess a Firearm out of Mobile County. As part of his sentence, Parker was also ordered to be imprisoned at an institution where a substance abuse treatment program is available. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, along with the Bay Minette Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice H. Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry

body_text: MOBILE, AL –A Mexican national was sentenced on October 31, 2025, for illegally re-entering the United States after previously being removed from the country. According to court documents, Eric Vasquez-Gomez, 24, of Mexico was found to have illegally reentered the United States after prior removal. Vasquez-Gomez was sentenced by a District Court Judge to the time he’s served since his arrest on September 8, 2025. After the sentence was announced, the Judge ordered that Vasquez-Gomez be delivered to a duly authorized immigration official for deportation consideration. U.S. Attorney Sean Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Department of Homeland Security investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Atlanta Man Convicted at Trial for Trafficking Thousands of Methamphetamine Pills and Illegally Possessing a Firearm

body_text: MOBILE, AL – In October 2025 a federal jury convicted an Atlanta, Georgia, man for engaging in a yearslong methamphetamine-trafficking conspiracy, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. According to court documents and evidence presented at a weeklong trial, Kenyatta Lee Frazier, 44, manufactured and distributed tens of thousands of pressed methamphetamine pills throughout Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi between September 2022 and August 2024. The jury reviewed numerous photos and videos of the pills that Frazier took with his cell phones after manufacturing them with an illegal pill press machine. Frazier marketed and sold the pills as “ecstasy” to his various customers. In April 2023, agents arrested Frazier and a coconspirator during a traffic stop in Mobile after they had delivered 2,000 pressed methamphetamine pills to a customer in Mississippi. A court-authorized CCTV recording device installed in the truck in which Frazier was a passenger captured Frazier discussing drug deals, illicit profits, and the quality of his so-called “ecstasy” pills with coconspirators. When agents searched the truck, they found a loaded .380 caliber pistol that Frazier had concealed behind the plastic molding in the floorboard area near where he had been sitting. The pistol had previously been reported stolen out of Pinellas County, Florida. The jury reviewed text messages in which Frazier had shared photos of the same pistol in an effort to sell it, as well as a recorded jail call in which Frazier admitted that he “stuffed” the pistol so that police would not find it. At the time Frazier illegally possessed the pistol, he previously had been convicted of at least eight felonies, including robbery, aggravated assault, firearms offenses, thefts, and drug crimes. Frazier’s convictions carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years to life in prison. He will be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock in February 2026. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Roller and George May are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: District Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Killing a Disabled Elderly Man in Southwest Washington

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Terry Thompson, 33, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 24 years of incarceration on October 31, 2025, for shooting a disabled elderly man in a 7-Eleven parking lot in Southwest Washington D.C. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Thompson pleaded guilty to second degree murder while armed on April 4, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. On October 31, the Honorable Rainey Brandt sentenced Thompson to 24 years for murdering the victim, Christopher Callahan, 64. According to court documents, at 4:15 p.m., on May 15, 2023, the defendant emerged from a group of a men hanging out in the 7-Eleven parking lot, located at 3900 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Southwest. Thompson approached Mr. Callahan, who was sitting on his walker next to his car. The defendant had a rifle concealed in a duffle bag, and he began pointing it in Mr. Callahan’s face. Mr. Callahan feebly rose from his walker and attempted to swat the rifle away. The defendant then stepped back and fired a single round into Mr. Callahan’s neck, killing him instantly. Thompson then slowly walked off as onlookers stood by in shock. As people started to disperse from the area, the defendant walked back over to Mr. Callahan’s lifeless body, pointed the rifle at him, but then slowly walked off again without pulling the trigger a second time. The next day, the defendant was arrested in the same location wearing the same shoes that still had the victim’s blood on them. Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Hall, supported by Paralegal Specialist Lisa Speight, and Victim Assistant Latrice Washington-Williams. Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.


title: Jury Convicts Man of Murder Charges for 2021 Stabbing  on Alabama Ave in Southeast

body_text: WASHINGTON – Tywan Morris, 30, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty November 12, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia on charges of second-degree murder while armed for the October 17, 2021, murder of 27-year-old Danielle Stuckey in Southeast D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before finding Morris guilty of charges including second-degree murder while armed. Judge Michael Ryan scheduled sentencing for March 6, 2026. According to the government’s evidence, at 5:03 p.m., on Sunday, October 17, 2021, Danielle Stuckey and her 12-year-old child walked through the BP gas station at 2801 Alabama Avenue, Southeast to a nearby bus stop. A short time later, Morris pulled into the gas station with his girlfriend and child and parked at the first pump. While Morris was pumping gas, the victim approached him, and a brief argument ensued between the victim, Morris, and Morris’s girlfriend. Despite the victim walking back to the bus stop, Morris retrieved a knife with brass knuckles attached. Initially, Morris gave the knife to his girlfriend who attempted to stab the victim. Morris then retrieved the knife and charged at the victim. The victim attempted to back away, but Morris pursued her. He tripped her to the ground and kicked her in the head. While the victim was on the ground, Morris stabbed her in the left thigh transecting her femoral artery and vein and killing her. Morris then fled the scene with his girlfriend. That same day, law enforcement identified Morris as the killer and arrested him. Joining in the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the verdict, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant United States Attorneys Ariel Dean and Daniel Bromwich who prosecuted the case. Editor's Note: This matter occurred on date indicated but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.


title: Make DC Safe and Beautiful Taskforce Members Arrest D.C. Man Wanted for Labor Day Murder at Recreation Center

body_text: WASHINGTON – Tyrone Spencer, 44, of Washington, D.C., was arrested and charged with a homicide that occurred in the afternoon of September 1, 2025, in Northeast D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Spencer made his initial appearance before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Eric Glover earlier today, where Judge Glover found probable cause that Spencer committed the offense of first-degree murder while armed (premeditated), and ordered that Spencer be held without bond pending a preliminary hearing on November 19, 2025, before Judge Rainey Brandt. According to court documents, on September 1, 2025, Spencer approached the victim, Francois Adkins, in broad daylight at the Brentwood Recreation Center and opened fire. Spencer continued to shoot as the victim attempted to crawl away. Adkins died as a result of the injuries. On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at approximately 6:20 p.m., members of the Fifth District Crime Suppression Team (CST) were engaged in the “Make DC Safe and Beautiful Taskforce” Operations. MPD Officers were part of a federal task force which included HSI, ATF, FBI, DEA, Secret Service Police, and United States Park Police. The Taskforce was actively patrolling PSA 504 when they observed Spencer loitering with other individuals. Upon observing officers, Spencer dropped a white hand rolled cigarette. After smelling odor consistent with marijuana, Taskforce officers stopped Spencer and identified him for smoking marijuana in public. Their active police efforts led to Spencer’s active arrest warrant for murder being confirmed and Spencer’s arrest. This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Galloway. These charges are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Tiverton Man Sentenced for Enticing, Transporting a Minor to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A Tiverton man was sentenced in federal court in Rhode Island for enticing a 13-year-old girl to travel with him from her home in Pennsylvania to his family’s residence in Rhode Island, to engage in criminal sexual activity with her, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom. William C. Stewart, 22, was sentenced on November 13, 2025 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. to 15 years’ imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. The court also ordered the defendant to pay $5,000 in restitution to his victim and her family. Stewart pleaded guilty on April 1, 2024 to enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. According to court documents, on June 17, 2021, Stewart began communicating with a minor victim via Snapchat, quickly learning that she was 13 years old. During his ongoing communications, he persuaded the young girl to engage in unlawful sexual activity. Stewart admitted that in the middle of the night on June 30, 2021, he picked the girl up from outside her home and began to drive with her to his home in Tiverton, Rhode Island for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with her. Stewart drove with the girl through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. While enroute to Rhode Island, Stewart stayed at a hotel in New London, Connecticut, where he engaged in sexual activity with the minor victim and provided her drugs. After arriving in Rhode Island, Stewart continued to engage in sexual activity with the victim. According to information presented to the court, upon arrival at his family’s Tiverton residence on July 4, 2021, Stewart introduced the minor victim to his family members, using a false name for her and falsely stating that she was 19 years old. On July 7, the young girl contacted a friend via Snapchat and asked for help, after which the Tiverton Police identified the minor victim’s location and responded to Stewart’s home. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys G. Michael Seaman and Denise M. Barton. The matter was investigated by the FBI, Tiverton Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police.


title: Court Sentences Ecuadorian Drug Smuggler Caught On The High Seas With Approximately 1,092 Kilograms Of Cocaine

body_text: On October 22, 2025, United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Walter Alejandro Hedrera, an Ecuadorian national, to 108 months’ imprisonment for smuggling 1,092 kilograms of cocaine in the Pacific Ocean following his prior guilty plea on the charges. Court documents show that on September 24, 2024, while on routine patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter MUNRO located a drug smuggling vessel operating in international waters, approximately 160 nautical miles south of Manzanillo, Mexico. The vessel displayed no indicia of nationality, was operating northbound at a high rate of speed in a known drug trafficking area with visible suspect packages on deck. The U.S.C.G. helicopter fired warning shots which were ineffective in stopping the vessel. The helicopter then used disabling fire and shot out the engines to stop the smuggling boat. The MUNRO helicopter then observed and recorded video of the drugs smugglers jettisoning packages in the ocean while the boat was disabled. During a later boarding of the vessel, U.S.C.G. personnel recovered 24 bales from the water surrounding the vessel which yielded an at-sea weight of approximately 1,092 kilograms of cocaine. Herera and four other smugglers were taken into custody and brought to the United States for prosecution under the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act. The vessel was deemed a danger to navigation due to no suitable tow points and its distance from land. Consequently, the vessel was sunk upon completion of law enforcement activities. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney George F. May prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Sex Offender Sentenced To 20 Years For Possession Of Ai-Generated Child Pornography

body_text: MOBILE, AL – James Eugene Dees, age 52, was sentenced on October 2, 2025, to 20 years in prison for Possession of Obscene Visual Representations of the Sexual Abuse of Children and Penalties for Registered Sex Offenders. According to court documents, Dees had been convicted in Mobile County of a child pornography offense in 2022. As a result of that conviction, he was ordered to a term of probation and required to register as a sex offender. During the pendency of his probation, his probation officer became suspicious that Dees was violating the terms of his probation. A search warrant was executed, and Dees was found to be hiding in a home where he was prohibited from residing. He had in his possession a cell phone. The phone was searched and found to contain images of child pornography and images of computer-generated child pornography. Dees entered a guilty plea to the charges of Possession of Obscene Visual Representations of the Sexual Abuse of Children and Penalties for Registered Sex Offenders on June 12, 2025. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Kristi DuBose sentenced Dees to 20 years in prison. Once released, Dees will be placed on a supervised release for the rest of his life. Dees is prohibited from possessing internet capable devices. He is also ordered to have no contact with minors. Dees will be required to register as a sex offender. He was ordered to pay $200 in special assessments. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kacey Chappelear prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama at http://www.justice.gov/usao/als/ . ###


title: Ukranian National Sentenced To 7 Months For Human Trafficking Offense

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Taras Kosmirak, age 35, was sentenced on October 9, 2025, for Transportation of an Individual to Engage in Prostitution. According to court documents, a Soviet-born Russian citizen provided law enforcement with information that she was aware of an individual who manages a human trafficking organization in Brooklyn, New York. During her work with law enforcement, the Russian citizen began communicating with this person to see if they would employ her to work as a sex worker for her. The individual in New York agreed that the Russian could come work for her as a commercial sex worker. The individual in New York arranged for Kosmirak to come and pick up the Russian citizen and bring her to New York. The Russian citizen then began communicating directly with Kosmirak. He explained travel information and coordinated a pick-up location. On March 14, 2025, Kosmirak arrived at the pick-up location in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Law enforcement officers apprehended Kosmirak at the pick-up location. Kosmirak has been in custody since March 14, 2025. Judge Moorer imposed a time-served sentence. Kosmirak will be placed on a 5-year term of supervised release after incarceration, will be required to register as a sex offender, and will be referred to immigration officials for deportation proceedings. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. Homeland Security Investigations, Homeland Security Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kacey Chappelear prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources


title: Man Sentenced To Over 21 Years In Prison  For Distribution Of Child Pornography

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Zachary Norris, age 35, was sentenced on October 14, 2025, to 262 months in prison for Distribution of Child Pornography and Access with Intent to View Child Pornography. According to court documents, a social media platform reported that an account associated with Norris contained child pornography. Investigators obtained the content of that account and discovered multiple instances of Norris chatting with users about his attraction to children and conversations during which Norris would send videos of child pornography to other users. A search warrant was executed at Norris’s residence and his cell phone was seized and examined. Investigators found over 90 images and videos of child pornography, including a photo where it appeared an image of adult pornography had been altered so that a child’s face had been superimposed over the adult’s face. Norris will be placed on a 15-year term of supervised release after incarceration and is prohibited from possessing internet capable devices. He is also ordered to have no contact with minors. Norris will be required to register as a sex offender. Norris was ordered to pay $23,000 in restitution to the victims of his offense. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kacey Chappelear prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources


title: Felon Sentenced to Prison for 41 Months for Possessing a Firearm During a Domestic Incident

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile man was sentenced in late October 2025 to serve 41 months in prison for possessing a firearm after a felony conviction. According to court documents, Marcus Leon Sanders Jr., has five prior felony convictions which prohibits him from possessing a firearm. On October 6, 2024, Mobile Police Department (MPD) responded to a domestic incident. Witnesses reporting hearing a loud dispute. Upon officers’ arrival, Sanders was slashing the tires of a truck belonging to an intimate partner. When he was taken into custody, a loaded pistol was found in his pocket. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms along with Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice H. Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Mobile Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon

body_text: MOBILE, AL – In late October 2025, a Mobile man was sentenced to 48 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. According to court documents, Lorenzo Robert Warren, 41, was arrested by Mobile Police Department narcotics investigators during the execution of a search warrant at a house in Mobile on April 4, 2023. When officers arrived to execute the warrant, they found Warren in the backyard area of the house. Agents searched Warren’s pickup truck, which was parked nearby the house. Agents found a loaded and stolen 9mm pistol lying on the front seat of Warren’s truck. In an ashtray of the truck near the pistol, agents also located and seized a baggie containing crack cocaine. At the time Warren possessed the pistol, he previously had been convicted of several felony drug-distribution crimes. Warren’s convictions rendered his possession of the pistol illegal under federal law. In addition to the 48-month prison term, Chief U.S. District Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock ordered Warren to serve a three-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time he will be subject to drug testing and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Chief Judge Beaverstock ordered Warren to pay $100 in special assessments. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Pawtucket Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A Pawtucket man previously convicted and incarcerated in Massachusetts and Rhode Island on drug trafficking charges was sentenced in federal court in Rhode Island for distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom. Anthony Shukri Nelson, 41, was sentenced on November 13, 2025 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. to 90 months imprisonment to be followed by four years of supervised release. Nelson pleaded guilty on September 25, 2025 to distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine. According to court documents, between February 9 and February 23, 2022, Nelson delivered over 37 grams of methamphetamine and 11.5 grams of cocaine to another individual in exchange for cash. During the investigation, members of the FBI’s Rhode Island Safe Streets Gang Task Force conducted a court authorized search of Nelson’s Pawtucket residence, resulting in the seizure of approximately 225 grams of cocaine and more than $23,750 in cash. At the time of his arrest, Nelson was on probation stemming from a prior Rhode Island conviction. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey A. Erickson and Taylor Dean. The matter was investigated by FBI’s Rhode Island Safe Streets Gang Task Force with assistance from the Pawtucket Police Department and Rhode Island State Police.