title: Los Lunas Man Charged in Federal Case Involving Large Scale Machinegun Conversion Device Trafficking

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

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Los Lunas man has been charged in federal court after an undercover investigation allegedly revealed a sustained operation to manufacture, convert, and sell machineguns and a significant quantity of machinegun conversion devices, commonly known as “switches.” According to court documents, in August and September 2025, an undercover ATF agent identified Robert Gurule , 23, advertising firearms and suspected machineguns for sale on Facebook, including videos of him handling and firing a fully automatic weapon. Screenshots from videos posed to social media The investigation led to multiple controlled purchases during which Gurule allegedly sold firearms equipped with machinegun conversion devices, commonly known as “switches,” and claimed he regularly converted semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons. On October 2, 2025, Gurule allegedly sold the undercover agent a rifle with a conversion device and a high-capacity drum magazine for $1,600, demonstrating how the weapon functioned as a machinegun and offering to supply additional firearms. He later agreed to sell multiple machineguns, completing a second transaction on December 5, 2025, in which he allegedly sold three machineguns and an additional firearm for a total of $4,600. Laboratory analysis confirmed that the firearms and conversion devices met the federal definition of machineguns. Photographs Gurule sent of the firearms In April 2026, Gurule allegedly arranged to sell approximately 80 machinegun conversion devices and additional firearms to the undercover agent. On April 24, 2026, Gurule and codefendant Izatah Hausner , 21, met with the agent and displayed the devices and negotiated a sale valued at $11,500. Both men were arrested at the scene after the agent took possession of the conversion devices. During the transaction, Hausner also allegedly offered to sell a firearm and stated he was involved in fentanyl distribution. “The illegal sale of these conversion devices is a deliberate escalation of violence that puts our community and our officers at extreme risk,’ said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “Since day one, I have worked with a sense of urgency to address our crime problem by getting back to the basics of federal prosecution. My priority remains keeping New Mexicans safe by relentlessly prosecuting those who flood our streets with these illegal weapons.” "The trafficking of machinegun conversion devices has evolved from a domestic policing issue into a transnational threat,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge A. J. Gibes. These clandestine operations allow criminals to bypass background checks, placing low-cost, high-impact tools in the hands of cartels and violent offenders. Through historic cooperation, the ATF and our partners are targeting these social media-driven networks to close the lethality gap that threatens law enforcement and civilian safety on both sides of the border." “This investigation is a clear example of what can be achieved through coordinated law enforcement efforts," said New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez. "By working alongside our federal and local partners, we are sending a strong message: the illegal trafficking of machineguns and conversion devices will not be tolerated in New Mexico. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners to keep our communities safe.” Gurule is charged with unlawful possession and transfer of a machinegun and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has been scheduled for April 29, 2026. If convicted of the current charge, Gurule faces up to 10 years in prison. Hausner is charged with aiding and abetting and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has been scheduled for April 29, 2026. If convicted of the current charge, Hausner faces up to 10 years in prison. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Albert Gibes, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today. This case was investigated by the New Mexico ATF Firearms Trafficking Task Force in collaboration with the New Mexico Department of Justice. Additional assistance was provided by the Albuquerque Police Department, the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bernalillo Police Department. The New Mexico ATF Firearms Trafficking Task Force works to identify, deter, disrupt, and dismantle Firearms Trafficking Organizations (FTOs) supplying firearms to individuals and groups engaged in our community’s most egregious acts of violence, as well as any associated, violent offenders. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case. Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower. This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering. Law enforcement agencies are racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately: Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477) Email: ATFTips@atf.gov Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community falls victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Convicted Felon Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Possessing a Loaded Firearm and Fentanyl

body_text: WASHINGTON - Lanoix Pierrelus, 26, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 41 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm while also carrying 50 fentanyl pills he intended to sell, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. On Aug. 26, 2025, Pierrelus pleaded guilty before Judge Nichols in U.S. District Court to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. In addition to the 41-month prison term, Judge Nichols ordered Pierrelus to serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 51-month prison term. According to court papers, on Oct. 22, 2024, Metropolitan Police Department officers on patrol in a high-crime area observed a group of about eight individuals congregating in the street near a Toyota sedan. When Pierrelus noticed the officers’ approach, he moved quickly toward the rear passenger door of the vehicle, reached toward his groin area, and crouched behind the car. Officers searched the area where he had crouched and recovered a loaded Ruger Model 57 pistol, with a round in the chamber and 21 rounds in the magazine. When officers searched Pierrelus following his arrest, they recovered a black satchel containing 50 blue pills stamped “M30.” The pills appeared to be oxycodone but were later confirmed by a DEA laboratory chemist to be fentanyl, with a total net weight of about 5.4 grams. Pierrelus admitted he intended to sell them. Pierrelus was on court-ordered supervision for a prior felony firearm conviction at the time of the offense. The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division Office. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emory V. Cole. 25cr49 Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube Or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: Miami Mother and Son Face Federal Fraud and Identity Theft Charges Involving Elderly Victim

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a mother and son made their initial appearances in federal court on Friday to face an indictment charging them with fraud and identity theft offenses involving an elderly victim that spanned years. According to court records, Natacha Maria Lezcano, also known as Maria Margarita Lezcano, 63, of Miami, became a live-in caregiver for the victim in 2020. She later obtained permission from the victim for her husband and son, Daniel Romero, 33, also of Miami, to move into the residence. “This indictment alleges a cruel betrayal of trust,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “According to the charges, the victim, an elderly woman, opened her home to these defendants and, in return, they exploited her age, her trust, and her identity for financial gain. During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, this case serves as a reminder that financial exploitation of the elderly can be every bit as devastating as violent crime. Our Office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who target vulnerable victims. The charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.” Beginning in 2020 and continuing through 2023, Romero is alleged to have used the victim’s personal identifying information to open fraudulent credit cards, make unauthorized purchases, and transfer funds for his personal benefit. The conduct involved submitting false credit applications, impersonating the victim in communications with financial institutions, and initiating unauthorized electronic transfers from the victim’s bank accounts. Lezcano is alleged to have known about the fraud and failed to report it to authorities. Romero is charged with wire fraud, bank fraud, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Lezcano is charged with misprison of a felony. If convicted, Romero faces up to 20 years in prison on each of the wire fraud and bank fraud counts, up to 10 years for access device fraud, and a mandatory consecutive term of at least two years for aggravated identity theft. Lezcano faces up to three years in prison. U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Townsend of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Miami Field Office, made the announcement. USSS Miami is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Love is prosecuting the case. An indictment/complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.sdfl.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.sdfl.uscourts.gov , under case number 26-cr-20139. ###


title: Fort Polk Soldier Charged for Threatening to “Walk Into a Synagogue With My AK” and “Kill Every Single Jew” Inside

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: LAFAYETTE– On April 23, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Jakob Marcoulier, a 22-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Polk, by criminal complaint with transmitting a threat in interstate commerce after he told people on the platform Discord that he would kill Jewish people in a synagogue. Marcoulier faces up to 5 years in federal prison for the charge. “Threats against synagogues and Jewish Americans are threats to the religious freedom promised to every single one of us, and this Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting those freedoms,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s vigilance and swift action in identifying and taking action against those who perpetrate these threats, and our Office looks forward to seeing justice done in this case.” “The FBI is focused on preventing violent hate crime attacks and disrupting violent criminal plots, before they occur," said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. "Once the concerned citizen reached out to 1-800-CALL-FBI to report this situation, FBI Special Agents in Birmingham and New Orleans, and our partners in the U.S. Army, acted swiftly in this case. This is a perfect example of how the public is law enforcement's greatest partner." According to court documents, FBI’s National Threat Operations Center received an online tip in February 2026 about a Discord user named “el.bostino” who had made threats toward synagogues. FBI secured recorded audio from Discord in which the individual, later determined to be Marcoulier, made these threats, stating among other things that “after this deployment if the Jews still have reign over our government, I am going to walk into a synagogue with my AK, with a 75-round drum mag, and all of my extra mags, with my level four plates, and my haka helmet that’s three plus, and I am going to kill every single Jew I know inside of that synagogue. And that’s my goal in life.” Marcoulier went on to emphasize the seriousness of his threats, saying among other things that “you guys will never do anything about but I will. I just have to finish this, I have to go back overseas and do what I have to do. And then you'll see me in the news. I promise you,” and that “you guys don’t want to do anything for the f[***]ing cause when it actually needs to happen … I’ll still kill these mother[***]ers in order to make sure the white youth is f[***]ing secured.” Marcoulier was arrested on April 23. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. The FBI investigated this case alongside the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (DACID). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer . The case number for this matter is 26-mj-00108-01. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Suspect in White House Correspondents’ Dinner Shooting Charged with Attempt to Assassinate the President

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, was arraigned today in U.S. District Court on charges stemming from the April 25, 2026, shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, announced the Department of Justice. Allen is charged by complaint with one count of attempt to assassinate the President of the United States, transportation of a firearm & ammunition in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony, and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence. "Cole Allen now faces the full weight of federal justice,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This alleged assassin was stopped because of the courage and professionalism of law enforcement officers who responded without hesitation by doing their jobs. Because of them, the President of the United States, administration officials and all attendees at the dinner were safe. Make no mistake: deranged attacks on our elected officials will never go unpunished." “The evidence is abundantly clear: Cole Tomas Allen traveled to Washington D.C. for the purpose of assassinating President Trump and targeting members of the Trump administration, “said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Thanks to the heroic actions of our brave law enforcement partners who acted quickly and professionally, Allen did not succeed - and now, he will be held fully accountable. This FBI and our interagency partners have worked around the clock over the past two days investigating this case, and today’s charges are the first step in justice being served and providing answers to the American people.” “Cole Allen traveled across the country with deadly weapons and a plan to assassinate the President of the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. “The swift and courageous response of the Secret Service officers prevented unimaginable tragedy. There is no room in this city for political violence.” "This foiled plot was a brazen attempt to assassinate the president and numerous high-ranking U.S. government officials," said Darren Cox, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. "Violence is never an acceptable means of expressing political dissent. I would like to thank our partners for their assistance in the aftermath of this attack as we work tirelessly to ensure Allen is brought to justice." According to court documents, on April 6, 2026, Allen made a reservation at the Washington Hilton hotel for three nights, from April 24 to April 26, 2026. Allen traveled by train from his home near Los Angeles to Chicago before boarding a train from Chicago to Washington, D.C. Allen arrived in the District at approximately 1 p.m. on April 24, 2026, and checked into the Washington Hilton later that day. At approximately 8:40 p.m., Allen approached a security checkpoint on the Terrace Level of the hotel leading to the hotel’s ballroom. Allen ran through the magnetometer holding a long gun. U.S. Secret Service personnel assigned to the checkpoint heard a loud gunshot. A U.S. Secret Service officer, who was wearing a ballistic vest, was shot once in the chest. The Secret Service officer drew his service weapon and fired multiple times at Allen, who fell to the ground and suffered minor injuries but was not shot. Officers subsequently arrested Allen, who was in possession of a 12-gauge pump action shotgun and a Rock Island Armory 1911 .38 caliber pistol. Following his arrest, Allen was advised of his Miranda rights and invoked his right to remain silent. Allen was transported to Howard University Hospital for minor injuries and has since been released to law enforcement custody. Shortly before 8:40 p.m. on April 25, 2026, Allen sent an email to members of his family and a former employer explaining the actions he was about to take. The email, a copy of which law enforcement has obtained from a recipient, stated: “I wish I could have said anything earlier, but doing so would have made none of this possible. My sincerest apologies for all the trouble I've caused. (scheduled send)-Cole.” Allen signed his email “Cole ‘coldForce’ ‘Friendly Federal Assassin’ Allen.” As part of this investigation, law enforcement reviewed records of firearm transactions from California and federal database sources. These records showed that on Aug.17, 2025, Allen purchased a 12-gauge pump action shotgun from a California firearms dealer. On Oct. 6, 2023, Allen purchased a .38 caliber semi-automatic pistol from another firearms dealer. Based on the serial numbers in the database records, these two firearms are the same two firearms that Allen at the Washington Hilton on April 25, 2026. This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and the U.S. Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Ballentine, Charles Jones, Adam Barry. Read the affidavit here.


title: Former Correctional Officer and Federal Inmates Charged in a Multi-Count Indictment for Conspiring to Bring a Controlled Substance and Dangerous Weapon onto Federal Tier of Local Jail

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – Former Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex deputy LACHAVION CAMPBELL (“CAMPBELL”) , federal inmates DARREKA BOYKINS (“BOYKINS”) , TARAY BUTLER (“BUTLER”) , and GREGORY ROBINSON (“ROBINSON”) , and the former dating partner of an inmate, CRYSTAL MORRISON , (“MORRISON”) , were charged in a seven-count sealed indictment by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2026, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. The indictment was unsealed today. According to the indictment, CAMPBELL , BOYKINS , MORRISON , BUTLER , and ROBINSON were charged for their respective roles in a 2024 conspiracy to provide, and possess contraband, including the drug Suboxone and a knife, to federal inmates detained on the federal tier of Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex, as well as providing, and possessing contraband in prison, all of which are violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act. They were also charged with making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The indictment alleged that BOYKINS and CAMPBELL devised a plan in which CAMPBELL would meet with MORRISON to receive contraband purchased by LPCC inmates via Cash App. MORRISON met CAMPBELL at agreed upon locations within the Eastern District of Louisiana to give CAMPBELL the contraband. Thereafter, in exchange for payments, CAMPBELL utilized various methods of concealment to bring contraband into LPCC, including placing the contraband in blankets, towels, and mop buckets to avoid detection. The indictment further alleges the coconspirators used the scheme to smuggle various contraband items, including Suboxone, a knife, electrical tape, legal documents soaked in synthetic marijuana, cell phones, nicotine vape pens, THC vape pens, SIM cards, and an Allen wrench, into LPCC. Count 1 charges CAMPBELL , BOYKINS , MORRISON , BUTLER , and ROBINSON with conspiracy to provide and possess contraband in prison, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. Each defendant faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 2 charges CAMPBELL , BOYKINS , MORRISON , BUTLER , and ROBINSON with providing and possessing contraband in a prison, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §§1791(a)(1), 1791(a)(2), (b)(1)(3), and 2. Each defendant faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 3 charges BUTLER with possession of contraband in a prison, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §§1791(a)(2) and (b)(1)(3). BUTLER faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 4 charges BOYKINS , BUTLER , and ROBINSON with possession of contraband in a prison, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §§1791(a)(2) and (b)(1)(3). Each of these defendants face up to 5 years imprisonment, up to $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 5 charges BOYKINS with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(E) BOYKINS faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 6 charges BOYKINS , BUTLER , and ROBINSON with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(E). Each of these defendants faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and up to 3 years supervised release for this count. Count 7 charges CAMPBELL with making a false statement to an agency of the United States, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 1001(a)(2). CAMPBELL faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 2 years supervised release, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00 for this count. “Smuggling items into a jail compromises the safety and security of the institution, the inmates, and the employees. Correctional facilities depend on the integrity of those entrusted to safeguard them. Our office is committed to holding responsible those who betray that trust as well as those who seek to traffic dangerous contraband into a correctional facility.” said U.S. Attorney Courcelle. As to each charged count against them, CAMPBELL , BOYKINS , MORRISON , BUTLER , and ROBINSON also face payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 U. S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Felon Who Illegally Possessed Gun Sentenced to Federal Prison

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who unlawfully possessed a gun was sentenced on April 24, 2026, to five years in federal prison. Nicholas John Baker, age 35, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 25, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. Baker was previously convicted of conspiracy to manufacture a controlled substance (methamphetamine), in the Iowa District Court for Jackson County in 2014. On July 31, 2025, Baker possessed a gun during a domestic dispute. Later that same day, officers searched Baker’s home and they found a stolen gun in the attic. The gun was equipped with a 32-round magazine. At the guilty plea, Baker admitted he knowingly possessed the firearm. Baker was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Baker was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Baker is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. 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 case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Vander Stoep and was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-1044. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Six-Time Felon Sentenced to Over a Decade in Federal Prison After Firing a Gun in a Residential Neighborhood

body_text: A man who was convicted of his sixth felony offense after firing a gun eight times in a Cedar Rapids, Iowa, neighborhood was sentenced today to more than eleven years in federal prison. Larnell Logn, age 41, from Frankfort, Illinois, received the prison term after a November 5, 2025, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. At the guilty plea, Logan admitted he had five felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing a gun. His convictions included domestic abuse assault by strangulation and drug conspiracy. He further admitted that on November 15, 2023, he possessed a 9mm handgun. Evidence at sentencing showed that on the afternoon of November 15, 2023, Logan got into an argument with two people outside a home in Cedar Rapids. Logan grabbed one of the people and demanded money. The victim got inside the house and shut the door. Logan kicked the door open. He entered the home and assaulted the victim in the home. After doing so, he said he was going to get his “30” and kill everyone. Logan left the home. A short time later, the assault victim and another person in the house heard gunshots in the backyard. They looked out the windows and saw Logn driving away from the house. Multiple neighbors heard the gunshots and saw Logan’s car driving away. CRPD began looking for Logan’s car. Just before 3:00 p.m. a CRPD officer located the car. After the officer activated his lights and sirens, Logan sped away. While fleeing, he reached speeds of at least 50 mph in a residential area. At one point, Logan sped by a school bus with children nearby. Officers were able to corner Logan and he stopped his car. Logan got out of his car and ran. Officers caught him, but Logan resisted until the officers were able to put handcuffs on him. Officers searched Logan’s car. They found a 9mm handgun in the car. The handgun had an extended magazine capable of holding 32 rounds of ammunition. There was a round in the chamber and 12 rounds in the magazine. Logan was intoxicated at the time of his arrest. Logan was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Logan was sentenced to 137 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Logan is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department. 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. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-cr-35. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Dyer Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison For Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: HAMMOND – Michael Deckinga, 42 years old, of Dyer, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip S. Simon after pleading guilty to Distribution of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Michael Deckinga was sentenced to 180 months in prison, 15 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution to the victims of the offense. According to documents in the case, between November 22, 2024, and May 14, 2025, Deckinga distributed child pornography, and further he admitted to accessing child sexual abuse material on Kik Messenger for approximately five years. “The Defendant was a wolf in sheep’s clothing. To the public, Michael Deckinga presented himself as Vice President of Advancement at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana dedicated to providing a religiously inspired education to Indiana’s young people,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. “But once behind the Internet’s veil of anonymity, Deckinga betrayed his true self. He collected a trove of some of the vilest child pornography available, which he then distributed to likeminded users. Over the same period, he sent a host of graphic online messages to multiple purported minors to solicit additional child pornography. Thankfully, agents from Homeland Security Investigations, working closely with partners in the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, uncovered Deckinga’s crimes so that he could be held accountable by the federal justice system. I thank HSI, the Indiana State Police, and the Dyer Police Department for their excellent investigative work. I also thank Mr. Patrick Harrington’s team from the Tippecanoe County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and AUSA Emily Morgan from the US Attorney’s Office, for their excellent work bringing this case to a just conclusion. Their combined efforts show how effective Project Safe Childhood can be when its members work as a team and a predator is now behind bars. “Homeland Security Investigations will relentlessly pursue those who distribute child pornography and exploit innocent children. Our agents are dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice. We thank our law enforcement partners for their collaboration and remain committed to safeguarding our communities from these horrific crimes,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. All of the agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case would like to thank the local community for their outpouring of support. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Dyer Police Department, and the Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov .


title: Court Sentences Mobile County Man For Possessing A Firearm As A Four Time Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL - On April 16, 2026, United States District Court Judge Kristi K. DuBose sentenced Demarcus Jeremy Hodge to 61 months’ imprisonment for Possession of a Firearm as a Convicted Felon. Court documents show that on July 31, 2025, Hodge was stopped by the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) for a traffic violation. A MCSO Deputy could smell the odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle and asked HODGE to exit the vehicle. The deputy conducted a pat-down for officer safety and a loaded handgun was found in Hodge’s waistband. Law enforcement searched the vehicle due to the strong smell of suspected marijuana. Two bags of marijuana and a set of digital scales, used for weighing drugs, were found in the vehicle. A MCSO Narcotics Investigator arrived on scene and read Hodge Miranda warnings. Hodge advised that he understood his rights and agreed to speak with law enforcement officers. Hodge stated the marijuana was his and he forgot the gun was on him during the traffic stop. Hodge also admitted he was a convicted felon and knew he should not have a gun. Hodge added that he purchased the gun on the streets from a woman for $300. An ATF Special Agent examined the firearm, a Sig Sauer, 9mm handgun, and determined it was not manufactured in the State of Alabama and thus affected interstate commerce by making its way into Alabama. At the time Hodge possessed the firearm, he had been previously convicted of the following felonies: Promoting Prison Contraband, on or about April 21, 2016, in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, in case number CC-2015-006497; Receiving Stolen Property (Count 1) and Possession of a Controlled Substance (Count 2), on or about December 4, 2019, in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, in case number CC-2019-002452; and Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, on or about February 8, 2022, in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, in case number CC-2020-002693. The firearm was determined to have been stolen from a man who resided in the State of Florida. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys George F. May and Galliard S. Ladd prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Beatrice Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison  for Possession of a Machinegun

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Jarviuntae Hale, 21, of Beatrice was sentenced to 108 months in prison for unlawful possession of a machine gun conversion device, commonly known as a “Glock-switch.” A machine gun conversion device is a device which renders a firearm capable of firing multiple rounds of ammunition by a single function of the trigger without manual reloading. According to court documents, on the evening of Thanksgiving, November 28, 2024, a shooting occurred at a bonfire in Frisco City, Alabama. One individual was killed after being shot multiple times. The suspect was identified as Hale. Witness accounts of the shooting were of a “burst” of fire consistent with that a machine gun. No weapon was ever recovered. A short time later, a search warrant was executed at Hale’s residence where a machinegun conversion device was located inside of an empty Glock firearm box under Hale’s bed. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was notified and continued the investigation leading to Hale’s federal indictment. On April 16, 2026, United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed a 108-month sentence for possession of the machine gun conversion device and ordered that Hale serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. Frisco City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Court Sentences Mobile County Man For Possessing A Firearm As A Convicted Felon

body_text: MOBILE, AL - On April 10, 2026, United States District Court Judge Kristi K. Dubose sentenced Ray Anthony Parker to 70 months’ imprisonment for Possession of a Firearm as a Convicted Felon. Court documents show that on July 22, 2024, a Mobile Police Department (MPD) Officer executed a traffic stop on a vehicle which was traveling east on Airport Boulevard for improper lane usage. The MPD Officer approached the driver side of the vehicle and immediately noted the odor of marijuana. The Officer contacted the sole occupant of the vehicle who identified himself as Ray Parker. While speaking with Parker the odor of marijuana emanating from within the vehicle grew stronger. The MPD Officer asked Parker to exit the vehicle at which time the Officer detained him, placing him in the back seat of his patrol vehicle. While placing Parker in the patrol vehicle Parker stated that he had marijuana and a firearm inside of his vehicle. The Officer searched the vehicle and recovered a clear plastic bag containing approximately five grams of marijuana. The Officer then recovered a Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun with an extended magazine under the driver’s seat. Parker had previously been convicted of felony offenses to include Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin in the United States District Court for the Southern District if Alabama, Case No. CR16-00064-CRB, on or about August 15, 2016, and Possession/Receipt of a Controlled Substance in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, Case No. CC2010-005621, on or about April 2, 2012. The Glock firearm was not manufactured in the State of Alabama and thus affected interstate commerce by its transportation into the State of Alabama. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Mobile Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney George F. May prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Repeat Felon sentenced for Possession of a Firearm

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Bryan Ellard, 42, of Theodore was sentenced on April 23, 2026, to 60 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. According to court documents Ellard has prior felony convictions for Forgery 2 nd Degree, Robbery 2 nd Degree, Theft of Property 1 st Degree, and Destruction of Government Property by an Inmate. After his convictions, on May 29, 2025, deputies with the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Ellard’s residence. In his bedroom deputies found three firearms, which were manufactured outside Alabama, and ammunition. Ellard admitted he was a felon and knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms. Following the term of incarceration, Ellard will be placed on three years of supervised release. He was ordered to receive substance abuse and mental health treatment during his incarceration. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms along with Mobile County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice H. Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama at http://www.justice.gov/usao/als/ .


title: Felon in Possession of a Firearm Sentenced

body_text: MOBILE, AL –Michael Bexley of Mobile was sentenced on April 16, 2026, to 51 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Bexley, 36, has several prior felony convictions, including Possession of an Unregistered Firearm in the Southern District of Alabama, Attempted Burglary 1 st Degree, Discharging a Gun into an Occupied Building and Certain Persons Forbidden to Possess a Firearm. On July 10, 2025, officers with the Mobile Police Department were dispatched to Theodore, Alabama on a suspicious circumstances call. Bexley was trying to disassemble a motorcycle with a “For Sale” sign on it. It appeared to be a theft in progress. When officers arrived, Bexley was in possession of a firearm. The owner of the motorcycle was identified and denied knowing Bexley or giving him permission to access the motorcycle. White’s term of incarceration will be followed by three years supervised release. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms along with Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tandice H. Blackwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Bloomington Man Charged with Sending Interstate Threats to Injure

body_text: PEORIA, Ill. – A Bloomington, Illinois, man appeared in federal court today after being charged by criminal complaint on Friday, April 24, 2026, for transmitting interstate threats to injure, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). Sean E. Lenckus, 35, of Bloomington, was released on conditions of bond following his initial appearance. The complaint alleges that Lenckus transmitted several interstate threats to injure another person from February 2023 through April 2026. Lenckus was arrested on Friday evening by federal agents with assistance of the McLean County Sheriff’s Office. He was placed on bond pending trial. If convicted, the maximum statutory penalties for the alleged crime charged are five years’ incarceration, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Agencies participating in the investigation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, and the McLean County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas McMeyer is representing the government in the prosecution. Members of the public are reminded that a complaint is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.


title: Justice Department Secures $510,000 Settlement in Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Kentucky Landlord

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that Joseph E. Johnson, the owner and manager of residential rental properties in Lexington, Kentucky, agreed to pay $510,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that he sexually harassed female tenants in violation of the Fair Housing Act. “The Justice Department will not tolerate violations of our federal fair housing laws, including landlords’ unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favors,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement demonstrates our commitment to continuing to enforce these laws so tenants remain safe and secure in their homes.” “No one should have to choose between homelessness and sexual harassment in the place where they should feel safest,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Our office is committed to holding accountable anyone who preys on and harasses vulnerable tenants in Eastern Kentucky, and this settlement sends a clear message that sex discrimination in housing will not be tolerated.” The Justice Department’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky in December 2024, alleges that Johnson sexually harassed female tenants for decades, including in their homes and at the rental office. The suit alleges that Johnson offered to forgive rent in exchange for sexual contact, demanded sexual contact from his tenants, subjected tenants to unwelcome sexual touching, made unwelcome sexual comments and sexual advances, let himself into female tenants’ homes without notice or permission, and threatened to evict tenants who refused his demands. The complaint also alleges Johnson failed to stop his employees when they engaged in similar conduct. Pursuant to the consent order , which was approved today by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, the defendant must pay $500,000 to tenants who were harmed by his harassment and a $10,000 civil penalty to the United States. The consent order permanently bars Johnson from managing residential rental properties and from contacting tenants harmed by his harassment. It also mandates training and the adoption of policies and procedures to prevent future discrimination in his rental properties. If you are a victim of sexual harassment by another landlord or property manager or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, call the Justice Department’s Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743 or submit a report online . More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt . This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative . The initiative, which the Department launched in October 2017, seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the department has filed 52 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $19 million for victims of such harassment.


title: Georgia man sentenced for his role in fraud conspiracy

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Quentavious Price, 38, of Hampton, GA, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Between January and September 2022, Price, along with co-conspirators Lorenzo Jones, Ameer Clark, and Montez White, and others, conspired to defraud financial institutions. Members of the conspiracy would travel from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Western District of New York, and steal genuine checks from businesses. Using those checks, they would create fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of the businesses. Members of the conspiracy then recruited individuals to cash the fraudulent checks, buy clothes for the individuals to make them appear to be construction workers or laborers, and then drive them to area financial institutions and direct them to cash the fraudulent checks. If the checks were successfully cashed, the individuals received a small payment. Specifically: in January 2022, Price, Jones, and two others flew from Atlanta to Buffalo and drove an individual to various KeyBank branches to cash or attempt to cash fraudulent checks drawn on the KeyBank accounts of a business based in Elma, NY, and a second business based in Tonawanda, NY. in March 2022, Price and two others came to Buffalo from Atlanta and drove three individuals to M&T Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches to cash, or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of businesses based in Tonawanda, Clarence, NY, and Sanborn, NY. in September 2022, Price, Jones, Clark, and White flew from Atlanta to Rochester, NY, and drove six individuals to M&T Bank branches, KeyBank branches, Northwest Bank branches, Bank on Buffalo branches, and Evans Bank branches, to cash or attempt to cash, fraudulent checks drawn on the bank accounts of two businesses based in Rochester, and one based in Alden, NY. In addition, Price used the identity of the owner of one of the victim businesses during a felony violation. The total loss amount, including actual loss and intended loss, Is $64,979.67. Lorenzo Jones, Ameer Clark, and Montez White were previously convicted and sentenced. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Bonanno. The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto. # # # #


title: DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

component: USAO - Tennessee, Eastern

body_text: KNOXVILLE, Tenn. On Saturday, April 25th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) will provide the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Location information is available from the DEA, along with items that cannot be accepted. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. This April’s event is DEA’s 29 th nationwide event since its inception 16 years ago. Last fall, Americans turned in nearly 571,054 pounds of prescription drugs at nearly 4,317 sites operated by the DEA and 4,263 from its state and local law enforcement partners. The DEA will now accept vaping devices and cartridges at any of its drop-off locations during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is important to note that DEA cannot accept devices containing lithium-ion batteries. If batteries cannot be removed prior to drop-off, DEA encourages individuals to consult with stores that recycle lithium-ion batteries. Concerns have been raised across the United States over illnesses and deaths caused by vaping and the high youth vaping initiation rates. To support a healthy lifestyle and energetic population, especially among America’s youth, DEA is committed to doing all it can to help safely dispose of vaping devices and substances. The DEA’s “Take Back” day and “Get Smart About Drugs” initiatives address the vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses because of these drugs. Synthetic opioids, such as illicit fentanyl, are the primary driver of the increase in overdose deaths. For information on DEA’s “Take Back” in Spanish , click here , or for more information on the “Get Smart About Drugs” publication, click for English or Spanish. In addition to DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, there are many other ways to dispose of unwanted prescription drugs every day, including the 11,000 authorized collectors that are available all year long. For more information, visit DEA’s year-round collection site locator . Participating in the next DEA Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25th, simply means cleaning out your medicine cabinet or anywhere you keep unused, unwanted, or expired medications and dropping them off at your nearest collection site. For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the April 26th Take Back day event, go to DEA Drug Take Back event or by calling 800-882-9539 . The FDA also provides information on how to properly dispose of prescription drugs. More information is available here: English or Spanish . ###


title: Echelon Fitness Multimedia, LLC Agrees To Settle False Claims Act Allegations For $2,100,000

body_text: KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Echelon Fitness Multimedia, LLC (Echelon), a Chattanooga, Tennessee-based company that sells connected fitness equipment, such as smart bikes, treadmills, and rowers and provides digital memberships that offer live and on-demand classes, agreed to settle allegations under the False Claims Act (FCA) that the Company deceptively undervalued fitness equipment imported into the United States to lessen tariff obligations and other import assessments owed to the United States. Under the terms of the settlement, Echelon will pay at least $2,100,000 to resolve the FCA claims. According to filed documents, it was alleged that from September 2019 through January 2023, Echelon knowingly submitted inaccurate invoices to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that underreported the cost of equipment purchased from a China-based manufacturer-assembler and repeatedly failed to include the cost of computer tablets incorporated into packaged equipment shipped from China to the United States when declaring the total values of the imported equipment to CBP, improperly reducing tariffs and other import assessments. The civil settlement includes the resolution of a case filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee under the qui tam , or whistleblower, provisions of the FCA by a relator, Mr. Greg Dahlstrom. Under the whistleblower provisions a private party, known as a “relator,” can file an action on behalf of the United States and may receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. Greg Dahlstrom v. Echelon Fitness Multimedia, LLC et al. , Case No. 1:22-CV-222 (E.D. Tenn.) The relator will receive $420,000 of the proceeds from the settlement and possibly additional sums as permitted under the FCA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan G. McGonigal and Alexa Ortiz Hadley for the Eastern District of Tennessee represented the United States, with assistance from DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG). The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating waste, fraud, and abuse impacting the United States and its agencies. One of the most powerful tools in this work is the FCA. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to DHS at https://hotline.oig.dhs.gov/#step-1 or 800-323-8603. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. ###


title: Illinois Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to File and to Pay Employment Taxes

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that George Dilles (age 55) of Inverness, Illinois, pled guilty to one count of failure to truthfully account for and pay employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7202. On April 20, 2026, the district court accepted Dilles’ guilty plea. According to the plea agreement, Dilles was the president and part-owner of NG Enterprises, Inc., a company that provided elderly home personal care in the Milwaukee area and over time employed from 50 to 110 workers. Dilles was required to withhold federal income taxes, Social Security taxes, and Medicare taxes from his employees’ wages, hold those amounts in trust, and pay them over to the IRS. Additionally, he was responsible for filing quarterly tax returns (Forms 941) reporting those amounts to the IRS, and for paying the employer’s matching portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes. For 17 quarters in tax years 2019 through 2023, Dilles willfully failed to file Forms 941 and to pay over the taxes due. Including all relevant conduct, the loss to the IRS totaled more than $1.2 million. Dilles’ sentencing is scheduled for June 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before United States District Court Judge J.P. Stadtmueller. At sentencing, he faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, as well as a term of supervised release after any imprisonment. IRS, Criminal Investigation, investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. Scully is prosecuting. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Jury Finds Six-Time Felon Guilty Of Drug And Firearm Charges

body_text: CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – On April 22, 2026, following a two-day trial in United States District Court, a jury convicted Richard Allen, Sr., also known as “Hoss,” 55, of Chattanooga, TN, of possessing 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it; possessing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Sentencing is set for October 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Charles E. Atchley, in United States District Court at Chattanooga. Allen faces a mandatory minimum 10-years imprisonment up to a maximum of life imprisonment. The evidence presented at trial showed that on August 15, 2024, Chattanooga Police Officers encountered Allen in the East Lake Courts Housing Complex and found him to be in possession of over 50 grams of a methamphetamine mixture, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and two loaded pistols. Allen is a multi-convicted felon, having sustained six previous felony convictions in state and federal courts. On September 6, 2024, officers again encountered Allen in East Lake Courts. He was found to be in possession of over 21 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine. United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee made the announcement. The Chattanooga Police Department Neighborhood Policing Bureau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Chattanooga Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case. Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Chattanooga Field Office and Drug Enforcement Administration Chattanooga Resident Office provided valuable assistance during the investigation and trial. Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Poole and Kevin Brown represented the United States at trial. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: Macon Offenders Guilty in ATF Firearms Trafficking Investigation

body_text: MACON, Ga. – Three Macon offenders, two with prior felony convictions, have been held accountable at the federal level for their roles in an illegal firearms and drug trafficking network as part of a larger Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigation in the community. Brandon Thorpe, 32, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on April 23. Thorpe faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. His sentencing hearing will be scheduled by the Court. Lonnie Alexander, 44, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on April 21. Alexander faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison to be followed by at least five years of supervised release and a maximum $10,000,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for July 9. John Cato, 25, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Feb. 5, 2026, after he pleaded guilty to firearms trafficking on Nov. 19, 2025. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over the cases. There is no parole in the federal system. “High-capacity firearms and ammunition, including a machinegun, were removed from the streets of Macon and the defendants were held accountable for their crimes as a result of this ATF-led investigation,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Our office is working in close partnership with local, state and federal authorities to uphold the law and make every community we serve safer.” “ATF remains committed to identifying and dismantling criminal networks trafficking firearms that fuel violent crime in our communities,” said ATF Resident Agent in Charge Robert W. Davis. “This case underscores our relentless focus on repeat offenders who illegally sell guns and narcotics, putting lives at risk. We will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure those who threaten public safety are held accountable.” According to court documents and statements in court, ATF agents learned in March 2024 that Alexander, a convicted felon, was illegally selling firearms and narcotics in Macon and opened an investigation. Between April 2024 and April 2025, Alexander was recorded carrying out multiple illegal sales of guns and drugs at locations around Macon, including within 1,000 feet of Mercer University’s campus on April 23, 2024. During that transaction, Alexander distributed over 27 grams of cocaine to an individual in the parking lot of Towne Place Suites, near Mercer University’s campus. Alexander sold over 40 grams of cocaine at different times earlier that month. On May 22, 2024, an individual who had previously told Alexander that he was a convicted felon and that he wanted a gun for drug trafficking, purchased a 9mm pistol with a magazine and three rounds of ammunition during a transaction arranged by Alexander at his Macon home. The following day, an individual bought a loaded 9mm pistol from an associate of Alexander’s, with Alexander receiving a “finder’s fee” for arranging the sale. On September 12, 2024, an individual bought a 9mm pistol in a transaction arranged by Alexander at a gas station in Macon. Later that day, the individual bought a .38 special revolver and over 15 grams of methamphetamine from Alexander at an apartment complex in Macon. On April 23, 2025, Alexander arranged a sale of firearms and methamphetamine to an individual in a restaurant parking lot in Macon. During the transaction, Alexander sold over 80 grams of methamphetamine, and Cato sold three firearms to the individual, including a machinegun. On May 20, 2025, Cato sold seven firearms and a 50-round drum magazine to an individual in a restaurant parking lot in Macon. On June 26, 2025, Thorpe drove Cato to a parking lot in Macon, carrying a dozen firearms, including a Glock switch, which converts a semi-automatic pistol into a machinegun. Cato intended to sell the firearms to an individual. The individual purchased all the firearms from Cato. On July 9, 2025, Cato arrived at a parking lot in Macon to sell a convicted felon firearms and promethazine, a sedative. As ATF agents surrounded Cato’s car, Cato ran into oncoming traffic on Riverside Drive. The agents soon caught and arrested him. Inside Cato’s car were four firearms, two of which had been reported stolen, and 192 ounces of promethazine. In all, ATF seized 30 firearms. Cato is responsible for trafficking 26 firearms; of those 26 firearms, Thorpe is responsible for possessing 12 of them. ATF seized four illegal firearms from Alexander. The firearms included a machinegun, conversion devices, and stolen guns. In addition, ATF seized more than 67 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of methamphetamine from Alexander, and 192 ounces of promethazine from Cato. Alexander and Thorpe each have previous felony convictions. Thorpe also had an active warrant from another county at the time of his arrest. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The case was investigated by ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch is prosecuting these cases for the Government.


title: Former Primary Health Network CEOs Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Non-Profit Medical Organization of Millions of Dollars

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Two former CEOs of Primary Health Network (PHN), a non-profit medical organization headquartered in Sharon, Pennsylvania, have been sentenced in federal court to terms of imprisonment on their convictions for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentences on Drew Pierce, 58, of West Middlesex, Pennsylvania, and Jack Laeng, 72, of Lake Milton, Ohio, sentencing Pierce on April 23, 2026, to 40 months of imprisonment and Laeng on April 16, 2026, to 24 months of imprisonment. According to information presented to the Court, Pierce engaged in multiple schemes to defraud PHN over the course of almost a decade, with Laeng joining him in two of those schemes. First, Pierce, Laeng, and others agreed to enter into contracts with a developer on behalf of PHN in return for kickback payments of 50% of the funds the developer received from PHN. PHN’s board of directors was not aware of the kickback payments, which ultimately caused a loss to the company of more than $1.5 million. Laeng was the CEO of PHN for the beginning of the scheme, from 2011 to about 2014, at which time Pierce took over as CEO. Pierce, Laeng, and others also engaged in a scheme in which they inserted a company called TopCoat between PHN and the company’s legitimate vendors. Through the scheme, PHN paid TopCoat, which provided no services other to then pay the true vendors a lesser price. PHN’s board of directors was unaware that TopCoat performed no actual work and was made up entirely of PHN insiders. The TopCoat scheme caused a loss to PHN of more than $400,000. In addition to these schemes, Pierce separately engaged in another kickback scheme, as well as in a scheme to pay his own personal expenses out of PHN accounts and conceal those payments as business expenses. Another co-defendant in some of the schemes, Mark Marriott, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2026. Assistant United States Attorneys William B. Guappone and Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the defendants. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Dallas Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Federal Officer with Deadly Weapon and Drug Trafficking

body_text: A Dallas man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon and methamphetamine and heroin trafficking, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. Angel Flores, 36, of Dallas, was sentenced on April 22, 2026, by United States District Judge Ed Kinkeade for assaulting a federal officer and conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. According to court records, Flores, and another individual, Andres Saucedo, Jr., 42, of Dallas, were involved in importing and trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin obtained from a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization. Court documents reveal that Flores sold undercover agents a kilogram of heroin for $7,200 in the Dallas area in late 2024. Flores, Saucedo, and others working with them continued selling kilogram quantities of methamphetamine to numerous other individuals from that time until Flores was arrested on May 21, 2025. The two even orchestrated the sale of two kilograms of methamphetamine on May 20, 2025, the day before Flores was apprehended by FBI SWAT. During the investigation, according to court documents, agents discovered that Flores, Saucedo, and others plotted to rob another drug trafficker of 30 to 40 kilograms of methamphetamine on May 19, 2025. While surveilling Flores and Saucedo to prevent this robbery, Flores and Saucedo realized they were being followed and attempted to lure two federal agents to a place where other coconspirators in their group would ambush and shoot them. Before reaching the planned ambush location, Saucedo fired a gun at an undercover FBI Task Force Officer in one of the vehicles. The undercover officer was an FBI Task Force Officer with the Dallas Police Department who was working with the OCDETF North Texas Strike Force, now the Homeland Security Task Force. “Angel Flores was not only a drug trafficker who poisoned our communities with massive amounts of deadly heroin and methamphetamine, he was also a predator in the violent business of robbing other narco-traffickers,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “This predator of predators will spend the next 30 years extracted from our community.” “Combatting violent crime and drug trafficking is the primary focus of the Dallas Homeland Security Task Force. The sentence imposed in this case underscores the seriousness of the defendant’s role in distributing large quantities of narcotics and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer. The FBI will continue working with our partners to dismantle the infrastructure of drug trafficking organizations in our communities,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “Yesterday’s sentence is an example of the serious consequences of dealing dangerous drugs and committing violent acts in our communities,” said Joseph B. Tucker, Special Agent in Charge of DEA Dallas. “Mr. Flores will spend the next 30 years in federal prison for dealing dangerous drugs and assaulting a federal officer. DEA Dallas is committed to hold the rule of law and protect American lives. DEA and its Homeland Security Task Force law enforcement partners throughout the region will continue to investigate those who prey on the innocent in our communities and bring them to justice.” This investigation was conducted by the OCDETF North Texas Strike force, now the Homeland Security Task Force, with Special Agents and Task Force Officers from DEA, FBI, HSI, the Dallas Police Department, Grand Prairie Police Department and Coppell Police Department all participating. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney L. Coker prosecuted the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force 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.


title: DEA to Host 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25th

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will host the 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at nearly 4,200 locations nationwide. Twice a year, DEA joins forces with local law enforcement and community groups to host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, giving the public a safe and anonymous way to dispose of expired and unused prescription medications. By getting rid of unnecessary medications in the home, families can help prevent prescription drug misuse and reduce the potential for accidental poisonings. “DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is one of the most effective ways we can prevent addiction before it starts,” stated DEA New Jersey Field Division Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James. “Too often, unused medications sit in medicine cabinets where they can be misused, stolen, or lead to accidental overdoses. By safely disposing of these medications, we are protecting our families and saving lives.” DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has been in effect since 2010, but the program was started in New Jersey in 2009 by the DEA New Jersey Field Division and their partners. This program has provided an easy and accessible way to dispose of medications that could pose a threat if misused. Over the past 16 years, National Prescription Take Back Day has removed more than 20 million pounds of unwanted medications from communities across the United States. New Jersey residents have surrendered more than 444,000 pounds of these medications. Opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine, are among the most misused prescription pain medications, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should be securely sealed in their original container. Syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs are not collected. To learn how to properly dispose of these items we encourage you to visit FDA.gov . To find the Take Back Day location nearest you visit www.DEATakeBack.com . For those unable to participate in this month’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, there are more than 16,500 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses that offer safe medication disposal year-round. In addition, many police departments also provide permanent drop boxes to ensure Every Day is Take Back Day . ###


title: Texas Man Sentenced for Fatal High-Speed Flight from Border Patrol Checkpoint While Trafficking Methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Texas man who fled a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint at high speed, drove into oncoming traffic, and killed a motorcyclist while transporting nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine has been sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on November 8, 2023, Jeffery Christopher Saint Louis , 29, approached a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Highway 54 and, after being referred to secondary inspection, fled at a high rate of speed. Law enforcement officers observed Saint Louis driving recklessly, reaching speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, swerving between vehicles, and ultimately driving into oncoming traffic on the wrong side of the road. As the pursuit continued, Saint Louis collided head-on with a motorcyclist, killing the victim at the scene. Data recovered from the vehicle later showed that Saint Louis was traveling approximately 71 miles per hour at the time of impact and did not apply his brakes before the crash. After the collision, his vehicle veered off the road into a nearby brush, where responding officers detained him. Saint Louis' vehicle following head-on collision A subsequent search of the vehicle, conducted pursuant to a warrant, revealed approximately 9.9 kilograms of pure methamphetamine concealed in the trunk. Methamphetamine located in Saint Louis’ trunk Methamphetamine recovered from Saint Louis’ vehicle on scale During interviews with law enforcement, Saint Louis admitted he knew the narcotics were in the vehicle and that he intended to distribute them. He further acknowledged fleeing from the checkpoint because of the drugs. Saint Louis pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint. Upon his release from prison, Saint Louis will be subject to five years of supervised release. Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, made the announcement today. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, the New Mexico State Police, Alamogordo Police Department, and Otero County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez prosecuted the case.


title: April Federal Grand Jury 2025-B Indictments Announced

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the April Federal Grand Jury 2025-B Indictments. The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence. Roberto Angul-Iribe. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of Firearms. Roberto Angulo-Iribe, 55, a Mexican national, is charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-152 Kevon Aldair Bautista-Marin. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Bautista-Marin, 29, a Guatemalan national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after previously being removed in August 2016, November 2020, November 2022, and May 2023. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-144 Leonel Cruz Perez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien; Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Cruz Perez, 34, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after previously being removed in October 2011 and August 2015. Further, Cruz Perez is charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-146 Daniel Estrada. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Estrada, 28, a Mexican national, is charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Osborn is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-145 Michael Emilio Gonzalez. Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute. Emilio Gonzalez, 18, of Catoosa, is charged with knowingly possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-153 Perfecto Alejandro Lopez Carrera; Cristian Bernardo Zamora. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Lopez Carrera, 33, a Guatemalan national, and Bernardo Zamora, 26, a Mexican national, are charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine from February 2026 through March 2026. They are additionally charged with knowingly possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Lopez Carrera is further charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-140 Michael Keith Meeks. Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition. Meeks, 36, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing firearms and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and Valeria Luster are prosecuting the case. 26-CR-154 Kevin Allen Pilon. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Pilon, 31, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-147 Arturo Uribe. Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition; Possession of Stolen Firearms. Uribe, 29, of Commerce, is charged with possessing firearms and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. Further, he is charged with knowingly being in possession of several stolen firearms. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Miami Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-141 Ramiro Vergara Urquiza. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of Firearms; Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Vergara Urquiza, 52, a Mexican national, is charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. He is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after previously being removed in March 2023. Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-142 Charles Alan Walker. Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography. Walker, 41, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is charged with knowingly attempting to coerce a minor child to engage in a sexually explicit activity. He is additionally charged with attempting to receive images of children being sexually abused. Homeland Security Investigations, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-143


title: Hobbs Man Sentenced for Illegal Firearm Possession After Shooting Security Officer

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Hobbs man was sentenced to 66 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm after he shot a store employee during an attempted liquor theft at an Albuquerque business. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on December 29, 2024, Kevin Metcalf , 37, entered El Rey Liquors in downtown Albuquerque and attempted to steal a bottle of alcohol. When a store employee intervened, Metcalf fled the scene before turning around and firing a shot toward two employees standing in the doorway, striking an employee in the leg. As the incident unfolded, a nearby officer with the Albuquerque Police Department heard the gunshot and observed a vehicle leaving the area without headlights. After a short attempt to evade, the vehicle was stopped, and Metcalf , who was seated in the front passenger seat, was detained along with the driver. Officers observed a tan firearm protruding from beneath the front passenger seat. A subsequent 911 call reported the shooting, and responding officers reviewed surveillance footage and confirmed Metcalf was the shooter. Metcalf later admitted that the firearm recovered from the vehicle was the one used during the offense. At the time, Metcalf had prior felony convictions and knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. Metcalf pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Upon his release from prison, Metcalf will be subject to three years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Albert Gibes, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.


title: Pensacola Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possession of Obscene Materials Involving Minors

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Jordan T. Quinones, 30, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of obscene materials involving minors. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the vigilance of our state law enforcement partners in closely monitoring this sex offender, they were able to detect his continued criminal sexual deviance and help bring him to justice. Keeping our kids safe from sexual predators like this defendant remains one of my office’s top priorities, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases.” Court documents reveal that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conducted routine checks on the defendant as a registered sex offender in late 2025. When suspicious materials were associated with the defendant, law enforcement followed up with an interview of Quinones, which led to obtaining a search warrant of his cellular telephone. Law enforcement located images that depicted obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. The defendant was maintaining them in an online account. The images were cartoon or computer generated files, which depicted sexual abuse, sadomasochistic abuse, and bestiality involving minors. The defendant remains detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Quinones faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for July 14, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. The case is being jointly investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Tulsan Sentenced After Jury Convicted Him of Shooting Another Man

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced after being found guilty by a federal jury in December 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Bruce Mitchell Cass, 52, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Cass was ordered to serve 166 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. In December 2024, a federal jury heard evidence and testimony about Cass walking into a home wearing a mask and pointing a gun at several people, including a toddler, before he shot the victim once. In July 2024, Tulsa Police Officers were dispatched to a shooting. When officers arrived on the scene, they found the victim, shot once in the abdomen. Medical personnel rendered aid and transported the victim to a local hospital for emergency surgery. Before surgery, the victim identified Cass as the shooter. Court dockets show that Cass is a felon and previously convicted of violent crimes in state court, including arson, after pouring gasoline on a grocery store clerk and the counter, then igniting it. Cass is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Jolly and Ammon Brisolara prosecuted the case.


title: Illegal Alien from Guatemala Charged with Assaulting Federal Officer and Illegally Entering the United States

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Marco Antonio Herrera, a citizen of Guatemala, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on charges of assaulting a federal officer and illegal entry into the United States. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that on April 1, 2026, Herrera was found by Immigration and Customs Enforcement Officers in Williamsport, PA. It is also alleged that Herrera is a citizen of Guatemala with no legal basis to be present in the United States. Herrera allegedly refused to comply with the officers’ investigation and impeded them by resisting arrest and striking one of them with his elbow. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 8 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Tallahassee Man Federally Indicted for Forty-Six Counts of Fraud

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Jonquaris Richardson, 27, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for 46 counts of false claims against the United States through fraudulent federal tax forms. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Richardson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for June 15, 2026, before District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle. If convicted, Richardson faces up to five years’ imprisonment on each count. The case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. The Department of Justice has created the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: USP Allenwood Inmate Charged With Possessing Weapon And Assaulting An Inmate

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Michael Lonesome, age 40, an inmate at USP Allenwood, White Deer, PA, was indicted on April 23, 2026, by a federal grand jury for possessing a weapon in prison and assault with a dangerous weapon. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Lonesome possessed a razor blade, which he allegedly used to assault another inmate. The Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Robin Zenzinger is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 10 years in prison and a fine. A sentence would also include a period of supervised release following imprisonment. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. ###