title: Lincoln Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine and Firearm Charges

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Michael Lee Gragg, 52, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on March 19, 2026, in federal court in Lincoln for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine and use, carry, and possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Gragg to 120 months’ imprisonment on the conspiracy charge to be followed by 60 months’ imprisonment on the firearm charge. There is no parole in the federal system. After Gragg’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release. Information provided to law enforcement indicated that between November of 2024 and January of 2025, Gragg was involved in the distribution of methamphetamine with other persons in the Lincoln area. In November of 2024, the Lincoln Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force facilitated the purchase of one-ounce quantities of methamphetamine on two occasions from Gragg. In December of 2024, two purchases were made of methamphetamine, totaling approximately ¾ ounce, from Gragg in one day. During the second purchase, Gragg also sold a 9mm pistol. On January 7, 2025, investigators followed Gragg to Omaha where Gragg met with his suspected source and drove to a house where they met with a third person. Gragg and his source then drove back to Lincoln in their respective vehicles. Gragg was contacted after he returned to Lincoln. During a search of his pickup, investigators found just under one pound of methamphetamine. Gragg admitted he and his source had just obtained that methamphetamine in Omaha. Gragg had agreed to drive it back to Lincoln where he and his source planned to divide it up. This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.


title: Lincoln Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Bernie Charles Campbell, 56, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on March 19, 2026, in federal court in Lincoln for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture with a prior serious felony drug trafficking conviction. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Campbell to 130 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Campbell’s release from prison, he will begin an eight-year term of supervised release. He was also ordered to forfeit a total of $4,840.00 in U.S. currency seized from Campbell and his Lincoln residence on August 12, 2024. Information provided to law enforcement indicated between June and August of 2024, Campbell was involved in the distribution of methamphetamine in the Lincoln area. On August 10, 2024, a search warrant was obtained for Campbell’s Lincoln residence. Prior to the execution of the search warrant, investigators saw Campbell leave his residence with a small child. They were followed to the parking lot of a Lincoln restaurant where Campbell was detained while the search warrant was served at his house. Investigators found a homemade explosive device and $1,300 cash in the car. During the search at Campbell’s house, investigators found a safe containing at least 200 grams of methamphetamine in a safe in a bedroom shared by Campbell, the child, and the child’s mother. Marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and additional cash were also found in that room. Campbell had a prior conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine from Lancaster County, Nebraska, for which he was sentenced to 6-12 years in prison in 2009. This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.


title: Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska-March 2026

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 14 unsealed Indictments charging 16 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Charlie Red , age 57, of Hialeah, Florida, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about November 18, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 10 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Jeffrey T. Ehlers , age 66, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges Ehlers with receipt of child pornography following a prior conviction beginning at least on or about September 1, 2025, until on or about December 16, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Ehlers with possession of child pornography following a prior conviction on or about December 16, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Giovany Alberto Gomez Aguilar , age 45, of Colleyville, Texas, is charged with aiding and abetting the sale or receipt of stolen vehicles between on or about February 1, 2026, and February 13, 2026. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Pedro Jose Serpa , age 54, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about January 2, 2026. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 25 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 10 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Teon Wayne Patterson , age 42, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about December 28, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Victor Henderson a/k/a “Whodi”, a/k/a “Wop”, a/k/a “Don” , age 26, Cedric Glover a/k/a “Ced” , age 29, and Christopher Grutel a/k/a “22”, a/k/a “Twenty Two”, a/k/a “Creep”, a/k/a “Gunner” , age 25, all of Omaha, Nebraska, have been charged in an three-count indictment. Count I charges Henderson, Glover, and Grutel with conspiracy to knowingly possess firearm in furtherance of crimes of violence between on or about January 1, 2023, and on or about October 31, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 20 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and $100 special assessment. Count II charges Henderson, Glover, and Grutel with conspiracy to traffic in firearms between on or about July 29, 2023, and on or about July 30, 2023. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 15 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and $100 special assessment. Count III charges Henderson, Glover, and Grutel with use, carry, and discharge of a firearm, during in relation to a crime of violence on or about July 30, 2023. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and $100 special assessment. Juan Us-Ralios , age 41, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges Us-Ralios with false representation of a social security number on or about December 3, 2024. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Us-Ralios with false claim to U.S. Citizenship on or about December 3, 2024. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges Us-Ralios with illegal reentry of a removed alien on or about March 4, 2026. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 1-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Alberto Avitia-Esparza , age 54, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges Avitia-Esparza with distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 17, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Avitia-Esparza with distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about April 9, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges Avitia-Esparza with distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about July 28, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Count IV charges Avitia-Esparza with reentry of a removed alien after having been convicted of a felony on or about July 29, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Nathanial Condon , age 40, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about November 21, 2025. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not less than 5 years and up to life, and a $100 special assessment. Deron Lewis-Payne , age 23, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges Lewis-Payne with bank robbery on or about February 10, 2026. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Lewis-Payne with use, carry and brandish a firearm during a crime of violence on or about February 10, 2026. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 7 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 5-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. The following individual was charged with being an alien, who previously had been excluded, deported and removed from the United States and were found in the United States, without the Attorney General of the United States or her designated successor having expressly consented to the defendant’s reapplication for admission into the United States: Juan Rivera-Flores , age unknown The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. The following individuals were charged with being an alien, who previously had been excluded, deported and removed from the United States following a felony conviction and were found in the United States, without the Attorney General of the United States or her designated successor having expressly consented to the defendant’s reapplication for admission into the United States: Martin Trujillo-Munoz , age unknown Mateo Abarca-Uriostegui , age 52 The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. The following individual was charged with being an alien, who previously had been excluded, deported and removed from the United States following an aggravated felony conviction and were found in the United States, without the Attorney General of the United States or her designated successor having expressly consented to the defendant’s reapplication for admission into the United States: Cresencio Lorenzo-Garcia , age 50 The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.


title: Illegal alien gang member accused of multiple murders gets maximum sentence for federal firearms crime

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: VICTORIA, Texas – A 41-year-old illegal alien from Cambodia has been ordered to federal prison for unlawfully possessing a weapon linked to a fatal shooting, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck. Savin Seng aka “Two-Face” pleaded guilty Nov. 18, 2025. U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered him to serve 180 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence. On Oct. 3, 2025, an incident occurred at a residence in the Telferner community outside Victoria, where authorities found a female victim deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. The shooter had left his cell phone and fled the scene. An image on the phone showed Seng holding a Glock pistol with an extended magazine. A witness had also identified him as the murder suspect. Law enforcement located Seng less than a mile from the scene of the shooting and took him into custody. At the time of his arrest, he had a loaded Glock 17, 9mm pistol in his shorts along with a loaded 31-round extended magazine. Seng had illegally entered the United States as a child from Cambodia and never held lawful immigration status in the country. Court documents allege he had been ordered removed as an aggravated felon in April 2016 but had not been physically removed. He has been in custody in California, Georgia and Louisiana, according to court records, and had an active arrest warrant from 2022 for another homicide in Los Angeles, California. Seng admitted he possessed multiple guns while remaining in the United States illegally. The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Latimer County Resident Sentenced To Over 22 Years For 2024 Tuskahoma Murder

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Willard Leroy Robbins, Jr., a/k/a Bub, age 41, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 274 months in prison for one count of Murder in Indian Country—Second Degree. The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Latimer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police. On May 27, 2025, Robbins pleaded guilty in federal district court to the charge. As part of the plea, Robbins admitted to shooting the victim with a 12-gauge shotgun and setting fire to the residence. According to investigators, on the evening of April 10, 2024, County dispatchers received a call about a man armed with a long-barreled firearm walking along Highway 2. A Choctaw Lighthorse officer responding to dispatch encountered Robbins, intoxicated and walking along the roadside. As the officer was placing Robbins under arrest for public intoxication, dispatchers received a second emergency call directing them to a residence nearby in Tuskahoma. Lighthorse officers and Latimer County deputies arriving on the scene found the residence on fire. Once the flames were extinguished, law enforcement found the victim inside, deceased from an apparent gunshot. Investigators processing the crime scene discovered two Remington-branded 12-gauge shotgun shells that matched a box of shells found in Robbins’ possession, and a boot print that matched the boots Robbins was wearing at the time of his arrest. Witnesses also reported seeing Robbins in possession of a 12-gauge shotgun prior to the fire. The crime occurred in Latimer County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Robbins will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced For Unlawful Reentry

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Eastern

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Wilson Vladmir Menjivar Sibrian, a/k/a Wilson Sibrianmenjivar, a/k/a Sibrianmenjivar Wilson, a/k/a Wilson Sibrian, a/k/a Sibrian Wilson, a/k/a Wilson Menjivar, a/k/a Menjivar Wilson, a/k/a Wilson Menjivar-Sibrian, a/k/a Wilson Menjivarsibrian, a/k/a Menjivarsibrian Wilson, age 28, a Salvadoran national unlawfully present in Bryan County, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time served for one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien. The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. On December 3, 2025, Sibrian pleaded guilty to the charge in federal district court. According to investigators, on November 17, 2025, Sibrian, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on November 20, 2018. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewis M. Reagan represented the United States.


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced For Unlawful Entry And Document Fraud

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Roberto Lopez-Mendez, a/k/a Roberto Lopez Mendez, a/k/a Roberto Lopez, age 27, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Haskell County, Oklahoma, was sentenced to six months in prison for one count of Document Fraud, and six months in prison for one count of Illegal Entry – Misdemeanor. The Court ordered the sentences to be served concurrently. The charges arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Stigler Police Department. On July 28, 2025, Lopez-Mendez pleaded guilty to the charges in federal district court. According to investigators, on June 9, 2025, Lopez-Mendez, who was illegally present in the United States, knowingly possessed a United States of America Permanent Residency Card, which he knew to be forged, counterfeited, altered, falsely made, or which was otherwise unlawfully obtained. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing. Lopez-Mendez will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Cornell represented the United States.


title: Honduran National Sentenced To Three Years For Cocaine Trafficking

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Fredis Amilcar Guiza Hernandez, age 35, a Honduran national, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. The charge arose from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office. On September 15, 2025, Guiza Hernandez pleaded guilty in federal district court to knowingly and intentionally possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, with intent to distribute it. According to investigators, on October 6, 2024, Sequoyah County Sheriff’s deputies conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 arrested Guiza Hernandez after discovering him in possession of four kilograms of cocaine. The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing. Guiza Hernandez will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.


title: Owner of Now-Closed Milwaukee Prenatal Care Coordination Company Sentenced to 60 Months’ Imprisonment for Healthcare Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on March 19, 2026, Lakia Jackson (age 36) was sentenced to 60 months’ incarceration for committing a healthcare fraud scheme through which she stole $2,655,463.63 from a Medicaid benefit meant to help at-risk pregnant women and women with young children. On December 2, 2025, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of healthcare fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. The guilty plea followed a 20-count indictment that was issued on October 16, 2024. When Jackson pleaded guilty, she acknowledged that she engaged in a scheme to defraud Wisconsin Medicaid by, among other things, offering women kickbacks in exchange for their Medicaid numbers and falsely billing Wisconsin Medicaid as though she provided reimbursable services—almost always the maximum permitted per month under the program—when, in fact, she and her employees provided few to no covered services. As part of her plea agreement, Jackson acknowledged that “by committing this fraudulent scheme, she enriched herself at the expense of the community she was supposed to be helping, and that she thereby reduced the resources available to mothers and babies at risk for negative birth outcomes, including infant death.” Jackson’s sentencing followed Chief Judge Pamela Pepper’s sentencing of two other women this year who engaged in similar fraudulent schemes related to the prenatal care coordination benefit. Those women, Precious Cruse and Markita Barnes, were sentenced by Chief Judge Pepper to 111 months’ imprisonment and 121 months’ imprisonment, respectively. In announcing the sentence, Chief Judge Pepper discussed the substantial negative impact Jackson’s fraud scheme, and others like it in the Milwaukee area, have had not only on public trust in government benefit programs, but also on the availability of the benefit program she defrauded. Chief Judge Pepper noted that, unlike Barnes and Cruse, Jackson fully accepted responsibility for her conduct and expressed significant remorse for her crimes. In addition to the 60-month period of incarceration, Chief Judge Pepper issued a money judgment of forfeiture in the amount of $2,361,799.17 and ordered Ms. Jackson to pay restitution to Medicaid in the same amount. “Judge Pepper summarized the seriousness of this very well when she observed that the defendant took a huge amount of money designed to help people in great need and that, due to this massive fraud, not only are millions of dollars in public benefits gone, but decision-makers in government are reluctant to fund programs like this in the future. Many at-risk pregnant women and new moms will not get the help they need,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Schimel. “We must learn a lesson from these cases: public benefit programs must have barriers in place to prevent fraud. Unfortunately, the lack of safeguards made these massive thefts far too easy.” “Lakia Jackson defrauded the American people and stole from programs meant to help at-risk mothers and young children by offering kickbacks and falsely billing Medicaid. The FBI will aggressively pursue individuals who cheat our healthcare programs,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. “The FBI, along with our partners, will work diligently to identify, investigate, and bring justice to those who commit fraud and steal from the American taxpayer.” “Public benefits can provide critical resources to those in need of them,” said Attorney General Kaul. “We are committed to holding individuals who defraud Medicaid accountable.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Wisconsin Department of Justice Medicaid Fraud Control and Elder Abuse Unit, investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Julie F. Stewart and Kate M. Biebel prosecuted the case. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Tallahassee Man Sentenced for Drug Distribution Conspiracy & Illegal Weapons Charges

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

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Garret Culpepper, 25, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and unlawful possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The term of imprisonment will be followed by eight years on federal supervised release, and Culpepper was also ordered to forfeit property and U.S. currency connected to the drug trafficking activity. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case is the result of the outstanding investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and our federal law enforcement partners, which dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking scheme by the defendant. My office will continue to deliver successful prosecutions, like this one, to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi through Operation Take Back America that our communities would be liberated from the scourge of drugs and criminal violence that has plagued our streets for far too long.” Court documents reflect that beginning in 2023, investigators identified the defendant as a significant distributor of illicit marijuana and THC products, including THC ‘vape’ cartridges. Investigators were able to detail the defendant’s involvement in the manufacture and distribution of thousands of THC cartridges, hundreds of pounds of THC products such as wax, and thousands of pounds of raw marijuana. This investigation ultimately led to the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s Tallahassee residence on March 18, 2025, during which investigators recovered equipment designed to fill THC vape cartridges in bulk, just under 34 pounds of THC products, approximately 15 pounds of raw marijuana, body armor, multiple firearms, including rifles and handguns staged for easy access throughout the residence, and over $80,000 in U.S. currency. “THC vape devices containing Schedule 1 Controlled Substances are a real concern and DEA is treating them as such,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Florida Inmate Pleads Guilty to  Distribution & Receipt of Child Pornography

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Edward G. Winn, 47, an inmate of the Florida Department of Corrections who is formerly of Sarasota, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office will continue to aggressively prosecute the disgusting offenders who seek to sexually exploit kids online, and who peddle the horrific images and videos of child sexual abuse material that has the effect of re-victimizing those innocent victims each and every time it is shared.” Court documents reflect that since September 2, 2015, the defendant had been incarcerated in the Florida Department of Corrections after being convicted of multiple counts of possession of child pornography. While the defendant was an inmate at Madison Correctional Institution, investigators discovered he used a prison-issued tablet to receive child pornography from the Internet which he also distributed to other inmates between May 6, 2024, and July 9, 2024. A search of the defendant’s tablet revealed that it contained almost 400 child pornography images, some of which depicted children as young as infants. Winn faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 40 years’ imprisonment on each count, and a lifetime of supervision upon release. Sentencing is scheduled for June 1, 2026, at 3:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Florida Department of Corrections-Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Sioux Falls, South Dakota Man Sentenced to Six Months in Federal Prison  for Defrauding a Local Credit Union

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Bank Fraud. The sentencing took place on March 18, 2026. Brandon Phillips, 32, was sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, restitution, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Brandon Phillips was indicted for Bank Fraud by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on December 15, 2025. Phillips was involved in a scheme where he cashed a forged check in the amount of $2,500 at a credit union in Sioux Falls, in order to defraud the credit union out of the funds. This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case. Phillips was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Sioux Falls, South Dakota Woman Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on March 16, 2026. Ashlee Vanarsdale, 39, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Vanarsdale was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury in July 2025. She pleaded guilty on December 17, 2025. On the afternoon of June 5, 2025, Sioux Falls Police were dispatched to a report of a woman reportedly overdosing on fentanyl. First responders found the victim unconscious and not breathing. They were able to revive her through the administration of Narcan. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where a blood test showed the presence of fentanyl in her system. The subsequent investigation revealed the victim had purchased fentanyl powder from Vanarsdale shortly before the overdose. In an interview with law enforcement, Vanarsdale admitted selling the victim half a gram of fentanyl powder for $150. This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case. Vanarsdale was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Manufacturing Company Agrees to Pay $887,234 to Resolve Improper Paycheck Protection Program Loan

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Cold Spring-based manufacturer of custom screw machine parts, Segepo-FSM, Inc., agreed to pay $887,234 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act, a federal law that prohibits the submission of false or fraudulent claims. Congress created the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to provide emergency financial assistance to small American businesses struggling to pay employees and other expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible small businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Borrowers were required to certify in their applications that they were eligible for the requested loans and that the information they provided was true and accurate. Regulations provided various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the number of employees. The settlement resolves allegations that Segepo-FSM, Inc. falsely certified it was eligible to apply for and receive forgiveness of its $503,900 second-draw PPP loan. Segepo-FSM, Inc. stated that it had fewer than 300 employees in its application. At the time of its loan and forgiveness applications, Segepo-FSM, Inc. was a subsidiary of Dentressangle. The Government contends that, together with its foreign affiliates, Segepo-FSM, Inc. had more than 300 employees and was therefore ineligible for that loan. Based on this false certification, SBA awarded and ultimately forgave Segepo-FSM, Inc.’s second-draw loan. The settlement resolves a lawsuit brought by a private citizen under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party can file a civil action on behalf of the United States, thereby bringing allegations of fraud to the Government’s attention, and share in any financial recovery. As part of this resolution, the individual who filed the qui tam complaint is eligible to receive a portion of the settlement proceeds. The civil case is captioned United States ex rel. Verity Investigations, LLC v. Segepo-FSM, Inc. , Case No. 2:24-cv-105-DLB-CJS. This matter was handled by the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability. – END –


title: Los Angeles, California Man Sentenced to More Than 2 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Los Angeles, California, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on March 16, 2026. Isaiah Croom, 23, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Croom was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on December 15, 2025. In late 2024, Croom operated as a member of a California-based drug trafficking organization that brought large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from California to South Dakota and used short-term rental properties as bases of operation to distribute the drugs in and around Sioux Falls. Croom participated in the conspiracy by delivering drugs to customers and collecting cash. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Minneapolis comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, USMS, USPIS, SD DCI, SFPD, MCSO, and SDHP with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota. This case was investigated by the DEA, the USPIS, the IRS, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case. Croom was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: SDNY Announces Recovery Of Hundreds Of Millions Of Dollars For Victims Of Iran-Sponsored Terrorism

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced today that the United States has entered into a settlement resolving a 17-year forfeiture litigation that will result in the payment of approximately $318 million to hundreds of victims of Iranian state-sponsored terrorism. In 2008, the United States commenced a forfeiture action that exposed an Iranian government-owned bank’s secret interest in 650 Fifth Avenue, a 36-story commercial and office tower located in the heart of Manhattan. Following the filing of the forfeiture complaint, hundreds of victims of Iranian government-sponsored terrorism filed claims and initiated separate litigation to enforce judgments obtained against the Government of Iran. After more than 17 years of complex litigation, all remaining parties to the related actions have entered into a global settlement that will result in a multi-hundred-million-dollar payment to these long-suffering victims, including victims and family members of the 1984 bombings of U.S. military facilities in Beirut, Lebanon; of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C.; and Iranian proxy terrorist organizations’ attacks against civilians, including U.S. citizens, in Israel and elsewhere. “Iran has sponsored terrorism for decades,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Since the inception of this litigation, the overriding goal of the Department of Justice has been to vindicate the rights of victims of the Government of Iran’s long-standing policy of supporting and promoting terror attacks across the world, including 9/11. This Office’s many years of determined litigation show our unrelenting commitment to victims’ rights, and has led to this significant recovery. For nearly two decades, we pursued hidden Iranian government assets tied to a Manhattan skyscraper to ensure those funds would ultimately compensate victims of Iran-sponsored terrorism rather than terrorists and their enablers.” According to the Complaint, Amended Complaint, public court filings, and other public litigation records: The building at 650 Fifth Avenue (the “Building”) was originally constructed by a charitable foundation controlled by the former Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, prior to the Islamic Revolution that led to the installation of the current regime in Iran in 1979. The new regime took over control of the charitable foundation and created a partnership with Bank Melli Iran, an Iranian government-owned bank sanctioned by the U.S. government for its role in financing Iran’s weapons of mass destruction programs. Bank Melli Iran controlled its interest in the Building through front companies known as Assa that were established in the Isle of Man and in New York. The highest levels of the Iranian regime orchestrated this deceptive structure in the 1980s, including the Iranian Central Bank and the offices of the Prime Minister and the President of Iran. After the imposition of broad sanctions against the Government of Iran by the United States in 1995, the owners of the Building concealed Bank Melli Iran’s ownership interest and facilitated the payment of tens of millions of dollars of income from the Building’s operations to Bank Melli through Assa. In October 2008, this Office filed a forfeiture complaint against Bank Melli Iran’s interest in the Building. In November 2009, this Office filed an amended forfeiture complaint against the entire Building and other related properties. Following the filing of the complaint and the amended complaint, numerous groups of judgment creditors holding judgments against the Government of Iran for injuries resulting from state-sponsored terrorism filed claims and independent judgment-enforcement actions against Assa, the Building, and the Building’s owner. In April 2014 and July 2017, the Office entered into settlements with these victims’ groups providing that any recovery the Government obtained through forfeiture would be distributed to the victims. In July 2017 and May 2021, the Office and the victims’ groups all obtained judgments against Assa’s interests in the Building and in related partnership distributions from the Building’s income. In January 2025, this Office, the victims’ groups, and the Building’s owner entered into a further, final settlement providing for the dismissal of all remaining claims in exchange for a payment of $318 million to the victims’ groups, consisting of an initial payment of $129 million and a deferred payment of $189 million to be paid in three years, plus interest. The initial $129 million payment was completed Friday, March 20, 2026. In addition to providing for recovery for terrorism victims, in connection with the settlement the partnership that owned the Building and the majority partner are being dissolved and the Building is being transferred to a new successor entity. The transfer of the Building and the transactions to consummate the global settlement agreement received approvals from the Office of the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control. * * * Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and its New York Field Office Counterintelligence/Cyber Division; the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; and the New York City Police Department. Mr. Clayton also thanked the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice National Security Division for their assistance in this case. This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Lockard is in charge of the civil forfeiture action.


title: Texas Woman Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Sexually Abuse a Child in Mexico

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A Texas woman was sentenced Friday to 25 years in prison and 20 years of supervised release for conspiring with another person to sexually abuse a child outside the United States. Anika Bywater, 29, formerly of Gonzalez, Texas, pleaded guilty on Dec. 10, 2025, to conspiracy to engage in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places. According to court documents and information provided at the sentencing hearing, Bywater was living in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, when she and another person created two separate videos of themselves sexually abusing the victim. Law enforcement officers learned of the conduct when they discovered videos of the abuse circulating on the internet. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes of the District of Maryland; and Assistant Director Heith Janke of the FBI’s Criminal Division made the announcement. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit investigated the case. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s law enforcement attaché office in Mexico City and the Washington Field Office. Acting Deputy Chief Kyle P. Reynolds of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Reema Sood of the District of Maryland prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Texas Woman Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Sexually Abuse a Child in Mexico

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Texas woman learned her fate in federal court for her role in conspiring with another person to sexually abuse a child outside the United States. U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Anika Bywater, 29, formerly of Gonzalez, Texas, to 25 years in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to engage in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places. In December 2025, Bywater pled guilty to these charges. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, Department of Justice Criminal Division, and Assistant Director Heith Janke, FBI – Criminal Division. According to court documents, and information provided at the sentencing hearing, while living in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, Bywater and another person created two separate videos of themselves sexually abusing a young child. Law enforcement officers learned of the conduct when they discovered videos of the abuse circulating on the internet. This case is 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 Attorney’s 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 justice.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI Child Exploitation Operational Unit for its work in the investigation, and the FBI’s law enforcement attaché office in Mexico City and Washington Field Office for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Reema Sood and Acting Deputy Chief Kyle P. Reynolds, Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), who prosecuted the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Final Defendant in Bowling Green Methamphetamine Conspiracy Sentenced to 18 1/2 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Bowling Green, KY – On March 17, 2026, Shantaja S. Hutchins , the final defendant in a six-person methamphetamine conspiracy centered in Bowling Green, Kentucky, was sentenced to serve 18 1/2 years in federal prison. First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy M. Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement. According to court records, Shantaja S. Hutchins, 49, invested in large quantities of methamphetamine which Leroy B. Riggsbee , 40, obtained. This conspiracy involved the transportation of 77 pounds of methamphetamine from the Atlanta, GA area to Bowling Green, KY. The 77 pounds of methamphetamine was seized following the traffic stop of a vehicle occupied by Joseph A. Raby , 43, and Brandon T. Trent , 27, on January 4, 2023. Hutchins was in a separate car following Trent and Raby back from Georgia. Hutchins was sentenced on March 17, 2026, to serve 18 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. The other members of the conspiracy were previously sentenced for their roles in connection with this drug conspiracy. Riggsbee , a lead defendant with Hutchins , was sentenced on November 17, 2025, to serve 17 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Jeffery W. Glass , 53, was sentenced on February 4, 2025, to serve 4 3/4 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Tyler P. Houchens , 31, was sentenced on November 5, 2024, to serve 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Houchens fled police during this conspiracy and was found to possess for resale 10 lbs. of methamphetamine. Raby was sentenced on November 7, 2023, to serve 9 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Trent was sentenced on May 2, 2024, to serve 2 years and 1 month in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Antoine J. Bass , 43, was charged with selling methamphetamine on two occasions. On November 16, 2023, he was sentenced to serve 6 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for his role as a street level drug dealer. First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler stated, “The Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force and ATF dismantled a significant drug trafficking conspiracy that intended to distribute at least 77 lbs. of methamphetamine in and around the Bowling Green area. Bowling Green is a model for cooperation between federal and state law enforcement and federal and state prosecutor’s offices. These convictions and sentences continue to demonstrate that Bowling Green is one of the worst places in America for drug traffickers to peddle their narcotics.” ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes said, “This case is another successful example of law enforcement working together at all levels to make our community safer. ATF and the Bowling Green Warren County Drug Task Force joined forces to remove a dangerous drug trafficker and his poison from Central Kentucky. As a direct result of this partnership and aggressive prosecution by our US Attorney’s Office, Shantaja Hutchins will now spend nearly 20 years in federal prison.” Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force Director Tommy M. Loving stated, “This case is another example of the strong partnerships and collaboration between state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies. Through this joint effort with the ATF, investigators made what we believe to be a record seizure in a single case—77 pounds of methamphetamine that was being transported back into Warren County. Today’s final sentencing ensures that the primary individuals responsible for this operation will no longer be able to distribute their poison in South Central Kentucky. We commend the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky for its continued dedication to prosecuting major drug traffickers and helping keep our communities safe.” There is no parole in the federal system. The case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: Justice Department Clears Path for Resolution Copper Project in Arizona, Strengthening U.S. Resource Security

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: The Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) has delivered a major win for mineral development and national security. On March 13, the Division’s Appellate Section secured a decision from the Ninth Circuit affirming the district court’s denial of a preliminary injunction seeking to block the Resolution Copper project in Arizona. The decision allows the federal government to proceed with a congressionally mandated land exchange crucial to advancing development of one of the largest known copper deposits in the world. Copper is essential for energy infrastructure, defense systems, and advanced manufacturing. The Resolution Copper project will play an important role in developing a stable, domestic copper supply. By reducing reliance on foreign sources, the project will support broader national security objectives and strengthen the U.S. economy. The land exchange will also result in federal ownership of over 5,400 acres of ecologically and culturally significant land in Arizona. The Ninth Circuit and Supreme Court’s rulings are significant steps forward in ensuring the United States can meet growing demand for critical minerals. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD made the announcement. Deputy Assistant Attorney General Robert Stander of ENRD argued the appeal. ENRD’s Natural Resources Section handled this matter in the District Court.


title: Florida Doctor Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements in Connection with Multi-Million-Dollar Health Care Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Florida-based doctor has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to making false statements in connection with a multi-million-dollar health care fraud scheme involving medically unnecessary genetic testing and durable medical equipment (DME). Simon Grinshteyn, 52, pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements relating to health care matters. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for June 24, 2026. Grinshteyn was charged in January 2026. Between February 2020 and June 2020, Grinshteyn worked with a purported telemedicine company to sign medical documentation, including doctors’ orders, for medically unnecessary genetic testing and DME. The medical records and doctors’ orders Grinshteyn received and signed were pre-populated and made it appear that Grinshteyn was providing legitimate consultations to the Medicare beneficiaries and had conducted examinations of the beneficiaries and/or would provide further medical care to them. Grinshteyn generally did not contact the beneficiaries himself and had no provider-patient relationship with the beneficiaries. DME suppliers and laboratories ultimately submitted claims to Medicare for these signed orders. As a result of Grinshteyn’s participation in this scheme, Medicare paid more than $3.1 million in claims for DME and genetic testing that were based on false documentation. The charge of making false statements relating to health care matters provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Robert Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division; Jason Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division; Kelly Lawson, Acting Regional Director, Boston Regional Office, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor; and Christopher Silvestro, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra Brazier and Lindsey Ross of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit prosecuted the case.


title: Boston Woman Pleads Guilty to Role in Bank Fraud Ring

body_text: BOSTON – A Massachusetts woman has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston in connection with a scheme to defraud a bank in Massachusetts. Trinity Antonetty, 24, of Boston, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud. U.S. District Judge Julia E. Kobick scheduled sentencing for Aug. 18, 2026. Between July and October 2024, Antonetty opened a business bank account and allowed Phalentz Vernot to deposit fraudulently obtained cashier’s checks into the account. Antonetty used funds from one of the checks Vernot deposited into her account to purchase a cashier’s check payable to a shell company Vernot controlled. When the bank froze another of the checks Vernot deposited into Antonetty’s account for suspected fraud, Antonetty called the bank and falsely claimed that she operated a high-end car dealer and that the funds were related to a luxury car. In July 2025 , Vernot and five other men were charged as part of a related investigation into a multi-million-dollar scheme to defraud banks in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Vernot pled guilty on Dec. 17, 2025. Earlier this month , two additional people were charged for their roles in the scheme. The charge of bank fraud provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Haven Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Connecticut State Police, the Glocester (RI) Police Department, the Sutton Police Department, the Concord (MA) Police Department, the Dracut Police Department, the Westwood Police Department and the Abington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Brockton Man Pleads Guilty to Two Separate Cases Involving the Distribution of Large Quantities of Fentanyl and Cocaine

body_text: BOSTON – A Brockton man has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to two separately charged cases involving the distribution of kilograms of fentanyl and, in one case, cocaine. Elijah Melton, 28, pleaded guilty on March 20, 2026 in United States v. Elijah Melton et al. , Cr. No. 22-10356-LTS, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl), and to one count of distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Melton also pleaded guilty in United States v. Theodore Richards et al. , Cr. No. 25-10288-LTS, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 5 kilograms or more of cocaine). U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled sentencing for July 15, 2026. On Dec. 7, 2022, in recorded calls, Melton agreed to deliver four kilograms of fentanyl to an individual working with law enforcement. Among other things, the defendant stated, “I told you four, I got you the four.” That evening, the defendant sent an associate to deliver the kilograms to a residential area in Attleboro, Mass. The associate arrived in a car, which law enforcement stopped. From the trunk of the car, a bag containing approximately 3.5 kilograms of fentanyl was seized. Melton’s associate, Samuel Fonseca, 32, of Brockton, previously pleaded guilty in 22-10356-LTS. His sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026. Melton was arrested on Dec.12, 2023 (22-10356-LTS). Following his arrest, a search was conducted and a mobile phone was seized from Melton. The phone contained communications relevant to the second charged case against Melton (25-10288-LTS). Specifically, investigators discovered communications on an encrypted application between Melton and a user identified as “James Jackson,” which is alleged to be co-defendant Theodore Richards. In those communications, from 2023, “James Jackson,” located in California, agreed to deliver to Melton, in Massachusetts, kilograms of fentanyl (referred to as “boy”) and cocaine (referred to as “girl”). “James Jackson” ultimately agreed to send Melton 4 kilograms of fentanyl, 32 kilograms of cocaine and approximately 300 pounds of marijuana. “James Jackson” sent Melton photographs of the drugs he would be sending. On or about Oct. 29, 2023, “James Jackson” sent an associate to Massachusetts to deliver the drugs to Melton. Melton confirmed receipt and described to “James Jackson” his efforts to sell the drugs in Massachusetts. Theodore Richards has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. The charges of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine), and distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl, provide for a sentence of at least 10 years in prison and up to life, at least five years of supervised release and up to life and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Rhode Island State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Crowley and Samuel R. Feldman of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood . The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Alabama Doctor Sentenced to Over One Year in Prison for $2.7 Million Telemedicine Health Care Fraud Scheme

body_text: BOSTON – An Alabama-based doctor has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for a $2.7 million telemedicine fraud scheme involving medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME) and genetic testing primarily used to detect mutations in genes that could indicate a higher risk of developing certain types of cancers. Tommie Robinson, 44, was sentenced on March 20, 2026 by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 16 months in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release. Robinson was also ordered to pay $2,784,733.49 in restitution. In October 2025 , Robinson pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud. Robinson was charged in August 2025 . Between December 2018 and March 2021, Robinson worked with telemedicine companies to sign medical documentation, including doctors’ orders, for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment and genetic testing. The orders Robinson signed were pre-populated based on telemarketing calls made to Medicare beneficiaries. Robinson generally did not contact the beneficiaries himself and had no provider-patient relationship with the beneficiaries. DME suppliers and laboratories ultimately submitted claims to Medicare for these signed orders. As a result of Robinson’s participation in this scheme, the suppliers and laboratories submitted over $2.7 million in claims to Medicare for DME and genetic testing that were medically unnecessary and based on false documentation. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Robert Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division; Jason Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division; Kelly Lawson, Acting Regional Director, Boston Regional Office, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor; and Christopher Silvestro, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra Brazier and Lindsey Ross of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit prosecuted the case.


title: Federal Judge Sentences Suburban Chicago Man to Six and a Half Years in Prison for $3.3 Million Covid-Relief Fraud

body_text: CHICAGO – A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to six and a half years in federal prison for scheming to fraudulently obtain more than $3.3 million in small business loans and grants under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Under the leadership of United States Attorney Andrew S. Boutros and consistent with the Administration’s priorities to identify, investigate, and prosecute criminal fraud in the federal government entitlement and benefit programs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois is taking a fresh look at Covid-19 fraud. In 2020 and 2021, FRANCESCO DISTEFANO and a co-defendant, SARGIS URUMIEH, engaged in fraud related to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), two sources of relief under the CARES Act. The pair applied for and obtained loans and grants for two companies where Urumieh served as a corporate officer. Distefano also applied for and obtained loans for a technology company that he owned and controlled. The applications contained numerous false statements and misrepresentations regarding the companies’ operations, including the number of employees, gross revenues, and payroll expenses. As a result of the fraud, Distefano and Urumieh caused a loss to the federal government of more than $3.3 million. Distefano also fraudulently collected more than $37,500 in unemployment benefits from the state of Illinois in his name and the name of a relative while simultaneously receiving the Covid-relief loan proceeds and continuing to work for his technology company. Distefano used his Covid-relief and unemployment fraud proceeds to purchase, among other things, a Lamborghini Huracan, Maserati Ghibli, Land Rover Evoque SE, and Porsche 911, all of which were seized by law enforcement and forfeited to the government. Distefano, 29, of Addison, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to a federal wire fraud charge. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Jeremy C. Daniel sentenced Distefano to 78 months in federal prison. Urumieh, 58, of Glendale, Calif., also pleaded guilty to a federal wire fraud charge. Urumieh is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel on July 22, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. U.S. Attorney Boutros announced Distefano’s sentence along with Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, Adam Jobes, Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in Chicago, and Brett Lehnert, Acting Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General. “As the nation was struggling with the Covid pandemic, the defendant was scheming to defraud the PPP, EIDL, and unemployment programs,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey S. Snell argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum in Distefano’s case. “It was not the result of a momentary lack in judgment, but a continuing series of decisions, motivated by greed.” Anyone with information about suspected Covid-19 fraud can report it to the Department of Justice by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721, or by submitting an online complaint here .


title: Deplorable conditions and deceptive business practices lead to federal charges under the Animal Welfare Act for Hopkins County dog breeder

body_text: PLANO, Texas – A Hopkins County woman has been indicted and charged with federal violations related to an unlicensed breeding facility in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Kristine Michelle Hicks, 51, of Cumby, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas this week charging her with acting as an animal dealer without a license and four counts of wire fraud. Hicks appeared in federal court on March 23, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Don D. Bush. According to the indictment, in December 2025, an investigation into Hicks’ breeding facility, “Giant German Shepherds,” began after a video surfaced on social media showing Hicks tying a dog to a tree and shooting the animal three times, killing it. The investigation revealed that from June 2024 through December 2025, Hicks is alleged to have operated a dog breeding and dog sales business in Hopkins County for which she did not have a license. The indictment describes deplorable conditions the animals were kept in, with most animals requiring emergency care due to starvation, parasite-related illnesses, lack of veterinary care and immunizations, and inadequate shelter from environmental exposure. The indictment also alleges that in addition to operating an unlicensed facility, Hicks made fraudulent claims as to the parentage, health, and training of the dogs to inflate the sales price of the animals, often by thousands of dollars. Hicks also fraudulently claimed the dogs were of a certain temperament bred specifically to be trained as service animals. One such dog was sold to a paralyzed, bed-ridden, disabled veteran. The dog was aggressive, drew blood several times, and had to be muzzled before any veterinary care. Hicks also purported her animals to be healthy, AKC (American Kennel Club) registered dogs and promised to provide paperwork as proof. Instead, Hicks sold dogs that were of mixed breeds, randomly sourced from other litters, and had diseases or were in an otherwise unhealthy state. If convicted, Hicks faces up to 20 years in federal prison. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General and the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Morris. A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Dorchester Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Trafficking

body_text: BOSTON – A Dorchester man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to trafficking firearms. Joshua Morency, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license and one count of possessing a machinegun. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2026. Morency was arrested and charged in November 2025 . In August 2025, an investigation of Morency began for unlawfully distributing firearms in the Boston area. Over the course of the investigation, Morency sold 17 firearms in undercover controlled purchases. The majority of the firearms purchased from Morency were 3D-printed, privately made firearms (commonly known as “ghost guns”). The charge of dealing in firearms without a license provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possessing a machinegun provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department and the Suffolk County and Plymouth County Sheriff’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aidan Lang of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Thomaston Resident Pleads Guilty to Border Patrol Assault

body_text: PORTLAND, Maine: A Thomaston resident pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to assaulting a U.S. Border Patrol agent engaged in his official duties. According to court records, in August 2025, a United States Border Patrol agent responded to a one-vehicle crash in Washington, Maine. As law enforcement conducted a roadside investigation, Olivia Wilkins , 24, came upon the scene in an automobile and parked close to officers. Wilkins voiced concerns regarding Border Patrol’s presence in the area, but was permitted to move the vehicle further back from the crash to continue observing law enforcement. As the Border Patrol agent took an individual on scene into custody and began moving the individual to a nearby Border Patrol vehicle, Wilkins quickly accelerated toward the agent, who pulled the individual off the roadside away from the oncoming vehicle. Wilkins stopped the vehicle without striking either the agent or the individual in custody before swerving back into the lane of travel and fleeing the scene. Maine State Police troopers were able to arrest Wilkins a short distance away. Wilkins faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release, and will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI investigated the case.


title: Motorcycle Gang Associate Sentenced to Over 12 Years in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Ring

body_text: BOSTON – A Byfield man was sentenced on Friday in federal court in Boston for his role in a conspiracy to distribute crystal methamphetamine. James Adams, a/k/a “Jimmy,” 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor, IV to 151 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In December 2025 , Adams pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine. Adams was one of four individuals charged in connection with a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking ring operating in Eastern Massachusetts by members and associates of the Unknown Bikers Motorcycle Club. In approximately October 2023, law enforcement received information about drug trafficking activities of a large-scale methamphetamine supplier in the Eastern Massachusetts area. Over the next several months, Adams was identified as a drug trafficker who distributed methamphetamine to customers throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Controlled purchases of methamphetamine we conducted with Adams, as well as from his co-conspirators James Snow of Tewksbury, Danielle Steenbruggen of Peabody and Daniel Loughman of Wakefield. Approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine and four firearms were seized throughout the investigation from controlled purchases, motor vehicle stops and search warrants. Adams is the second defendant to be sentenced in the case. Steenbruggen pleaded guilty in August 2025 and, in November 2025, was sentenced to 93 months in prison. Snow pleaded guilty on Dec. 1, 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 23, 2026. Loughman pleaded guilty on Dec. 2, 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2026. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in New England; Jason Buckley, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Chief Steven A. Skory of the Wakefield Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Newbury, Newburyport, Haverhill and Peabody Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: New Jersey Man Sentenced to Prison for Sexually Assaulting Woman Seated Next to Him on Philadelphia-Bound Flight

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Vernon Baker, 41, of Linden, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 25 months’ imprisonment and one year of supervised release by United States District Judge Anita B. Brody for sexually assaulting the woman seated next to him on a flight into Philadelphia. The defendant was charged by indictment in January of last year with one count of abusive sexual contact on an aircraft and pleaded guilty in December. As detailed in court filings, on October 30, 2024, aboard a commercial flight from Los Angeles to Philadelphia, Baker made sexual advances toward the female passenger sitting next to him. After the victim refused his advances, Baker took out his penis and forcibly tried to get the victim to touch him. He then grabbed her breast over her clothing and untied her pants. Traumatized and shaken, the victim rushed to the back of the cabin where she reported this assault to flight attendants. This case was investigated by the FBI, the Federal Air Marshal Service, and the Philadelphia Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josh Davison and Special Assistant United States Attorney Meagan Gordon.


title: Farmington Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearm Charges

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, investigators with the FBI and the Region II Task Force conducted a joint investigation that included multiple controlled drug purchases from and surveillance of Tasheena Hoskie , 44, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. On July 12, 2024, investigators attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Hoskie ’s vehicle as it traveled from Arizona to New Mexico. Hoskie initially stopped but then fled at high speed, throwing packages from the vehicle. After her vehicle was disabled, Hoskie was taken into custody. Inside the vehicle, investigators recovered approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine, roughly 4,130 fentanyl pills, and two firearms. Investigators also recovered approximately 548 grams (1.2 pounds) of methamphetamine that had been thrown from the vehicle. Hoskie pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and using, carrying and possessing a firearm during and in relation to and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. At sentencing Hoskie faces not less than ten years and up to life in prison. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated the case with assistance from the Region II Narcotics Task Force, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Farmington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jack E. Burkhead is prosecuting the case.


title: Detroit Man Sentenced for Role in Drug Trafficking Organization

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced today for his role in a drug trafficking operation that distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl in Harrison County, West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced. Malik Rashard Fikes, also known as “Face,” was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison. Fikes was a supplier of drugs for the conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl from residence in Shinnston, WV. Fikes will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. This case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Puerto Rico Woman Who Flew to Philadelphia With Nearly 15 Pounds of Cocaine in Checked Bag Sentenced to Almost Three Years in Prison

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Karelys Colon Sevilla, 29, of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, was sentenced today to 34 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Kelley Brisbon Hodge for transporting nearly 15 pounds of cocaine to Philadelphia in a checked bag on a commercial flight. The defendant was charged by indictment in May 2024 with one count of possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and pleaded guilty in October of last year. As detailed in court filings, on February 13, 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) received information that Colon was flying from Puerto Rico, via Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, to the Philadelphia International Airport (“PHL”) and possibly concealing narcotics in her checked luggage. After HSI confirmed that Colon was indeed a ticketed passenger set to arrive at PHL, investigators sought and received from the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas an anticipatory search warrant for the defendant’s luggage, contingent on an alert from a Police K-9 on the luggage. Following the arrival of Colon’s plane to PHL, Pennsylvania State Police K-9 Ivan was instructed by his handler to examine every piece of checked luggage from that flight. K-9 Ivan only alerted to the presence of narcotics on one piece of luggage, a blue-gray soft-sided bag bearing a tag with the defendant’s name and flight information. Pursuant to the search warrant and the K-9’s alert, investigators then opened the bag and recovered approximately 6.8 kilograms of a white substance, which testing later showed was cocaine. This case was investigated by HSI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Philadelphia Police Department, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigation, and Pennsylvania State Police and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eileen Castilla Geiger.


title: Nigerian National Sentenced for His Role in Multi-Million Dollar Business Email Compromise Scheme

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A Nigerian national received a federal prison term for his role in a multi-million-dollar wire fraud and money laundering scheme. U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman sentenced James Junior Aliyu, 31, who resided in South Africa at the time of his criminal conduct, to 90 months in federal prison in connection with the conspiracy. Judge Boardman also ordered Aliyu, who was extradited from South Africa to the United States to face these criminal charges, to repay $2,389,130 to the victims. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Christopher R. Heck, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Special Agent in Charge Brian McDonough, U.S. Secret Service (USSS) – Washington Field Office. In August 2025, Aliyu pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Aliyu acknowledged that he conspired with others, including Kosi Goodness Simon-Ebo, 31, and Henry Onyedikachi Echefu, 34, to deceive and defraud multiple American victims. All three are Nigerian citizens who resided in South Africa at the time of the crimes. According to his plea agreement, from February 2017 until at least July 2017, Aliyu conspired with others to perpetrate a business email compromise scheme. Aliyu and his co-conspirators, including accomplices residing in Maryland, gained unauthorized access to email accounts associated with individuals and businesses they targeted. As part of the scheme, co-conspirators sent false wiring instructions to the victims’ email accounts from “spoofed” emails, which are messages from forged sender addresses. Co-conspirators then sent messages to deceive the victims into sending money to bank accounts the perpetrators controlled called “drop accounts.” During the same time frame, Aliyu and his accomplices conspired to commit money laundering by disbursing the fraudulently obtained funds in the drop accounts to other accounts. Co-conspirators moved the stolen money by initiating account transfers, withdrawing cash, and obtaining cashier’s checks. They also wrote checks to other individuals and entities to hide the true ownership and source of these assets. In total, Aliyu and his co-conspirators attempted to defraud victims of at least $10.4 million, and the victims suffered an actual loss of at least $2,389,130. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended HSI’s Mid-Atlantic El Dorado Task Force and USSS for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa, and South African Police Service. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing Aliyu’s extradition from South Africa. OIA and the Department of Justice Canada’s International Assistance Group provided substantial assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of both Echefu and Simon-Ebo. Ms. Hayes also recognized Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy who prosecuted the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Self-proclaimed 'terrorist' sentenced to prison for threatening calls to VA employees

body_text: SAVANNAH, GA: A Hinesville man who threatened to kill employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs has been sentenced to federal prison. Alexis Beatles , 44, of Hinesville, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for his conviction on two counts of Interstate Communications with Threats to Injure Another, said Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Chief Judge R. Stan Baker also fined Beatles $1,500 and ordered him to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. “Alexis Beatles directed threats of death and violence to VA employees, U.S. citizens and even the families of police officers,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “We commend our law enforcement and investigative partners for making our community safer by holding Beatles accountable.” As described in court, Beatles called a Department of Veterans Affairs hotline in December 2024 and made demands to the phone operator wherein he threatened to kill federal employees and others. Beatles made numerous threats, including threatening to crash his car into the Savannah VA Clinic, to “destroy” U.S. citizens, to rig his home with explosives to kill any police officers that came to his home, and to kill the children of any officers who attempted to arrest him. The FBI, with assistance from the Savannah Police Department’s SWAT and Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams, arrested Beatles on a criminal complaint in January 2025. He later was formally indicted by a federal grand jury, and in September 2025, a jury convicted Beatles in U.S. District Court after a two-day trial. Evidence introduced during Beatles’ sentencing included social media posts in which Beatles declared himself to be a terrorist and celebrated other terrorist attacks. “This sentence demonstrates the VA-OIG’s commitment to protecting veterans, VA employees, and federal property,” said Special Agent in Charge David Spilker with the VA Office of Inspector General’s Southeast Field Office. “The VA-OIG thanks the US Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation.” “Alexis Beatles’ reckless and violent threats against Department of Veterans Affairs employees and law enforcement officers were deeply disturbing and have no place in our society,” said Brad Snider, Senior Supervisory Special Agent of FBI Georgia’s Savannah office. “This conviction sends a clear message that threats of violence, especially those targeting our veterans and first responders, will not be tolerated.” The case was investigated by the FBI and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant United States Attorneys L. Alexander Hamner and Darron J. Hubbard.


title: Pawtucket Man Sentenced for Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A Pawtucket man who pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of child pornography was sentenced today in federal court, announced United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. Gary Ethier, 60, was sentenced by U.S District Court Judge Melissa R. DuBose to 15 years of imprisonment to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Ethier previously pleaded guilty on December 1, 2025. “Individuals who distribute child sexual abuse material play a direct role in the ongoing abuse and exploitation of children,” said United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “This 15-year sentence reflects the seriousness of these crimes and sends a clear message that these offenses will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted.” According to court documents, in November 2024, members of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cyber Crimes Center received information that Ethier was discussing the sexual exploitation of minor children with another individual online. Ethier also sent the individual multiple images of child pornography. On December 2, 2024, Ethier’s home was searched by members of HSI and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. As a result of the search, law enforcement located more than 600 images depicting child pornography on Ethier’s electronic devices. “This case emerged as a cyber lead from the depths of the internet and uncovered a dangerous and depraved individual living right here in Rhode Island. After a meticulous investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and our partners at the Rhode Island State Police, Gary Ethier is now facing a lengthy federal sentence,” said Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “We remain committed to protecting children and holding predators like Ethier accountable for their crimes.” The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter I. Roklan. The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island ICAC Task Force. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .