title: Former Corrections Officer Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation and Distributing Child Pornography as a Result of Operation Relentless Justice

body_text: Gainesville, Florida – Devin Scott Waldeck, 35, of Cross City, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of child exploitation and one count of the distribution of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The sexual exploitation of a child is a horrific crime, and the distribution of child sexual abuse material is a continuing offense that has the effect of re-victimizing the innocent child each and every time those disturbing images and videos are shared. Our state and federal law enforcement partners are relentlessly pursuing the sexual predators who seek to victimize and sexually exploit children, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute those sick individuals to ensure they are locked away and unable to harm our kids.” Court documents reflect that, in November 2025, law enforcement became aware the defendant, posing as the mother of a minor child, was using the online Reddit platform to discuss the sexual exploitation of that minor child. In online communications with another Reddit user, the defendant offered the minor child to the Reddit user and graphically described ways the user could sexually exploit the minor. The defendant saved explicit videos and pictures of the minor child in a secret app on his cell phone along with other sexually explicit videos and photos of other named individuals. The defendant had hundreds of communications with other Reddit users discussing sexual “hookups,” including more than a dozen conversations where he stated he had sexual encounters or wanted to have sexual encounters with minors. The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen years’ imprisonment and up to thirty years’ imprisonment for the child exploitation count, and a mandatory minimum of five years’ imprisonment and up to twenty years’ imprisonment for distribution of child pornography. Both counts include up to a lifetime of supervision upon release. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt. Sentencing for is scheduled for August 25, 2026, at 2:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. This case was a result of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. For more information, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/pr/justice-department-announces-results-operation-relentless-justice . These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . 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: Metro Area Man Sentenced To 216 Months After Social Media Schemes Led to Armed Carjackings

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Alec Deschryver, 26, who has lived in various cities in the Denver metro area, was sentenced to 216 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of carjacking involving firearms. According to the plea agreement, in October 2023, Deschryver used a social media marketplace to contact a woman who was selling a Mercedes sedan and arranged to meet her and see the car. Deschryver, who arrived at the woman’s house with a second defendant, arranged a test drive of the vehicle with the woman’s husband. Once in the vehicle, Deschryver drove the Mercedes onto rural roads, stopped the car and brandished a firearm while threatening the man who was with him for the test drive. Deschryver drove away in the car and later sold it to an unwitting individual. In a second instance, in November 2023, Denver Police responded to a report of an armed carjacking that resulted in a shooting. In a similar scheme, Deschryver had responded to an advertisement for another Mercedes sedan listed on the same social media marketplace. Deschryver test drove the vehicle. Anticipating a sale, the seller went to remove a child safety seat from the backseat when Deschryver brandished a firearm. The victim backed away but was shot in the leg. Deschryver stole the vehicle. It was later recovered when the second defendant gave the car to a family member. “This case demonstrates two important things. First, violent criminals in our communities will be prosecuted and held accountable for their behavior,” said United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Peter McNeilly. “Second, this is an important reminder to the general public to use caution when engaging on social media marketplaces to sell or purchase goods.” “Engrained in the culture of ATF is working alongside our local law enforcement partners which contributed to the success in stopping these multi-jurisdictional violent crimes," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Chris Ashbridge. "Together, we operated as a powerful network that has delivered accountability and made our communities safer.” United States District Judge Gordon P. Gallagher presided over the sentencing. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Denver Police Department, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Northglenn Police Department. The prosecution was handled by the Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office. 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. Case Number: 1:24-cr-00012-GPG


title: Federal Jury Convicts Former Correctional Officer of Civil Rights Violation that Resulted in Inmate’s Death

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: A federal jury has convicted a former detention deputy at the Garvin County Jail (GCJ) in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, for her role in being deliberately indifferent to the serious medical needs of pretrial detainee Kayla Turley, resulting in bodily injury to Ms. Turley and her death. Paula Kelley was convicted of one count of violating 18 U.S.C. § 242. “This guilty verdict holds this former correctional officer accountable for her shocking failure to protect a vulnerable inmate in her care,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “By ignoring the victim’s serious medical needs, the defendant betrayed the most basic duties of her position and violated the victim’s civil rights. The Civil Rights Division has no tolerance for such abuses.” “Correctional officers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that individuals in their custody receive necessary medical care,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “When that duty is deliberately ignored, resulting in serious harm or death, there must be accountability. This conviction, and the guilty pleas of four other correctional employees and one correctional nurse, affirms the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of those held in our detention facilities.” “The correctional officers in this case failed to obtain clearly needed medical care for a pretrial detainee, resulting in her death. This failure to act to protect someone in their custody undermines the respect and reputation of all law enforcement,” said Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “This conviction, and the five other guilty pleas in this case, are a reminder that the FBI will vigorously investigate violations of civil rights to bring justice for the victims, and their friends and families.” On June 12, 2026, following a jury trial in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, Kelley was found guilty of violating 18 U.S.C. § 242. As established at trial, Kelley was on duty as a GCJ detention deputy when she learned that pretrial detainee Kayla Turley was facing serious medical needs. Despite knowing and observing Ms. Turley’s serious medical needs, Kelley willfully failed to take any reasonable steps to abate those needs. Due to the failure to act by Kelley and other GCJ staff, Ms. Turley suffered bodily injury and ultimately died. Kelley faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Four other former detention deputies and one former GCJ nurse previously pleaded guilty to violations of 18 U.S.C. § 242 for their roles in being deliberately indifferent to a substantial risk of serious harm to Ms. Turley. Detention Deputy Jennifer Baxter and former GCJ nurse Lynsee Noel each pleaded guilty to violating 18 U.S.C. § 242 based on their failure to take reasonable measures to help Ms. Turley get medical care for her serious medical needs. In addition, defendants Baxter and Noel – along with former Detention Deputies Vincent Matthews and Alesha Ingram – have each pleaded guilty to being deliberately indifferent to Ms. Turley’s safety when they failed to intervene and stop other inmates from assaulting Ms. Turley after the inmates became frustrated with Ms. Turley’s cries for help. Former Detention Deputy Melissa Melton pleaded guilty to one violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242 for being deliberately indifferent to a substantial risk of serious harm to Ms. Turley due to her serious medical needs, resulting in bodily injury to Ms. Turley. According to their plea agreements, Baxter, Noel, Matthews, Ingram, and Melton face a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. This case was investigated by the FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia E. Barry for the Western District of Oklahoma and Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.


title: Child Psychotherapist Sentenced to 10 Years for Distributing Child Pornography

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: WASHINGTON – Victor Renato Blythe, 61, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with his possession of 300 videos and 23,000 still images of child sexual abuse material, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Blythe was formerly employed as a psychotherapist and specialized in working with children and adolescents. Blythe previously was employed in the Psychiatry Department at Children’s National Medical Center. “Victor Blythe spent years hiding behind his credentials as a psychotherapist to gain the trust of vulnerable children, all while secretly collecting and trading the most exploitative images imaginable,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “He didn't just collect thousands of images of children being sexually abused; he encouraged others to exploit children. No sentence can undo the harm he caused, but this one ensures he is held accountable. We will continue to pursue anyone who preys on children with every tool we have.” Blythe was found guilty on May 22, 2026, before Judge Dabney L. Friedrich during a stipulated trial to distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography. In addition to the 10-year prison sentence, Judge Friedrich ordered Blythe to serve a lifetime of supervised release, to register as a sex offender, and to pay $71,000 in restitution. Federal prosecutors had requested a 188-month prison sentence. According to court documents, Blythe began to collect child sexual abuse material in 2000 and attempted to sexually exploit children. For approximately six years, Blythe traded child sexual abuse material with multiple people, including a person who was later arrested for child sexual abuse. In Blythe’s communications with that other person, Blythe detailed his sexual interest in children and advised the other individual on how to groom children for sexual abuse. For example, the other individual told Blythe that he was videochatting with a 14-year-old child for the purpose of sexual abuse and was afraid he made the child uneasy. Blythe responded, “Keep chatting with him. He will get comfortable with you video chatting once again.” Blythe also communicated with a minor child via Skype and told him to engage in sexual acts. During the conversation, the child stated that he was 15 years old, and Blythe responded, “So?? That’s HOT!!” When the child stated “its illegal,” Blythe replied, “[n]ot for me…” Blythe then sent the child a picture of his penis. Blythe repeatedly discussed interactions he had with children in the D.C. area and his efforts to groom them for sexual abuse. On at least one occasion in 2023, Blythe met in person with a minor child and offered to conduct therapy sessions with him. During one therapy session, Blythe asked the child about his sexuality and discussed his own sexuality with the child. Law enforcement reviewed Blythe’s digital devices and found over 300 videos and 23,000 still images depicting the sexual abuse of children, including infants and toddlers. This case was investigated by FBI Washington Field Office's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Fairfax County Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Bohlen. This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . 25cr253


title: Billings man pleads guilty to drug trafficking charges

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: BILLINGS – A Billings man who was traveling through Montana with five pounds of meth admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Jason Daniel Schauer, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Schauer faces 10 years in prison, a $10 million fine, five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Schauer remained on pretrial release pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Schauer was moving methamphetamine from Arizona to Montana. Schauer and a companion were pulled over outside Livingston on July 3, 2025, after a Montana Highway Patrol trooper watched the pair “tear through a (gas station) parking lot at a high rate of speed.” Troopers grew suspicious that Schauer might be trafficking drugs after seeing drug paraphernalia in the car, which prompted them to seek a search warrant. Searching the vehicle, troopers found five cellophane-wrapped bundles under the rear set of the car, weighing roughly five pounds total. DEA testing later revealed it was 2,202 grams of meth. When interviewed by the Montana Department of Criminal Investigation Schauer told agents he had paid $4,500 for the meth and that he purchased it in Phoenix from “cartel associated” individuals. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. Montana Highway Patrol, Montana Department of Criminal Investigation and the DEA conducted the investigation.


title: Wasilla doctor sentenced to three years for possessing child pornography

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Wasilla neurologist was sentenced today to 3.4 years in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, law enforcement became aware of Jeffrey Sponsler, 68, in February 2025, when another individual saw him masturbating to a video of two nude children being played from a laptop. Based on that information and after obtaining a warrant, law enforcement searched Sponsler’s home for electronics and other evidence of child exploitation. During the search, law enforcement discovered dozens of electronics throughout the house, including desktop computers, laptops, external hard drives, memory cards, DVDs and even VHS tapes. He also possessed copies of several books depicting nude children and very young adults. Forensic review of his devices revealed an extensive collection of CSAM. Sponsler ordered videos and pictures of nudist and naturist communities abroad. He then used his computer to edit images from the videos to create his own videos and slideshows of CSAM focused on girls roughly 7 to 12 years old. He edited photos by zooming in on young girls’ genitalia. He saved the edits and put them into a PowerPoint presentation, and creating slideshows of exclusively children’s genitalia. Sponsler’s unique method of collecting CSAM makes it difficult to calculate exactly how many images and videos he possessed. One external hard drive contained about 59,000 images and videos of nude minors. Among those, there were at least 110 images and 18 videos that Sponsler cropped himself to create CSAM, totaling at least 1,500 CSAM images defined by the sentencing guidelines. Prior to his arrest, Sponsler was a practicing neurologist and owned his own clinic, Alaska Brain Center. He also owned Alaska Music and Arts, a karate, music and dance studio. On May 21, 2025, Sponsler was indicted by a federal grand jury and subsequently arrested. On March 5, 2026, Sponsler pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. During sentencing, the Court also ordered Sponsler to pay a $20,000 fine and serve 15 years on supervised release following completion of his federal prison sentence. “Mr. Sponsler meticulously curated his collection of CSAM to feed his fixation of children and was able to fly under the radar of law enforcement for many years due to his unique collection methods,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Thankfully, a concerned member of the community reported Sponsler’s behavior and he will no longer live as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, fronting as a trusted member of the community and professional, while sexualizing children from behind closed doors at day’s end.” “Sponsler portrayed himself as a trusted member of our community, when in reality, he had been viewing, organizing, and collecting a disturbing amount of CSAM for his own perverse gratification,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Schlegel of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Our children are safer now thanks to a concerned citizen who reported Sponsler’s crimes to the FBI. This sentencing reinforces the message that sexual exploitation crimes against children will not be tolerated by our community, the FBI, and our dedicated law enforcement partners.” The FBI Anchorage Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . ###


title: Orleans Parish Resident Guilty of Drug Trafficking

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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that STERLING PIPKINS (“PIPKINS”) , age 42, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, to drug trafficking. Sentencing is set for September 10, 2026. According to court documents, PIPKINS sold cocaine to an individual he thought was a legitimate buyer during a controlled narcotics transaction in New Orleans on July 31, 2023. The maximum penalty for distributing cocaine is twenty years imprisonment, followed by a minimum of three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15th

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas joins the Elder Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC) and other government agencies and organizations across the country to spread the word about government and business imposter scams. The EJCC’s Never EVER campaign is a nationwide effort to create awareness about imposter scams. These scammers pretend to be someone they’re not — including government agencies and well-known businesses — to trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or get your personal information. June is also National Elder Fraud Awareness Month. USAO-KS hosted an Elder Fraud Bingo event in Overland Park to help educate seniors citizens about scammers and various tactics they use to defraud victims, including government imposter scams. “Elder fraud is a cruel and heartbreaking crime. Seniors, who have spent a lifetime earning and saving, should never see their retirement stolen by criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Losing money to fraud is hard at any age, but it’s especially devastating for older people with limited ability to replace their lost income. These victims have done nothing wrong except trust the wrong person or be fooled by a scam. My office is fully committed to aggressively prosecuting these offenders and strengthening education efforts to protect older adults from scams.” In December 2025, a federal grand jury in Wichita indicted two defendants for allegedly defrauding a victim as part of a scheme that involved co-conspirators posing as federal law enforcement agents. They are accused of falsely convincing the individual to purchase $255,287 in gold and give it to them for safekeeping. The members of this conspiracy, including the indicted men, allegedly primarily target elderly retired individuals, falsely asserting they are with a government agency and telling victims that their identity has been compromised in ways that could result in jail time and major financial loss for victims. Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million. These imposter scammers lie and pretend to be someone they’re not. Their goal? Trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or your personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies, so you’ll panic and act quickly before you have time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust. One common scam starts with an unexpected call from someone who says they’re from a well-known business, saying there’s suspicious activity on your account. To “help” you, they transfer you to someone who says they’re from the government. This so-called helper, who claims to be from the FBI, the FTC, or some other law enforcement agency, urges you to move your money to “protect it” — maybe by transferring it to an account they give you, depositing it in a “government account” or crypto ATM for “safekeeping,” or getting cash or gold and giving it to a courier. But it’s all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will. Other lies might involve a “suspended Social Security number” or supposed eligibility for government benefits. In all cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they’re with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. The agency name might be real or made up (but real-sounding), and some scammers might show you an employee ID or badge — all to seem more real. But they’re not. To recognize and avoid a government imposter, the “Never EVER” campaign asks you to keep these things in mind: • Never ever will someone from the government say: “Your money isn’t safe. Move it to protect it.” Only a scammer will. • Never ever will someone from the government threaten to suspend your government benefits if you don’t pay immediately. Only a scammer will. • Never ever will someone from the government demand that you pay with a payment app, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or gift cards. Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if the stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov . ###


title: Orange County Man Sentenced to Twelve Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida – Chase Dean Suriano (26, Ocoee) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Julie S. Sneed to 12 years in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Suriano to forfeit a computer and multiple drives used in the commission of the offense. Suriano pleaded guilty on March 12, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating Suriano after an individual reported that they had observed child sexual abuse material saved on the computer of another user, later identified as Suriano, while Suriano was screensharing. The FBI executed a search warrant on Suriano’s residence, which resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic devices. A forensic review of the devices revealed that Suriano used a browser on his computer to search for, download, and collect child sexual abuse material. In total, Suriano’s devices contained more than 7,500 images and over 900 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, a significant amount of which involved infants and toddlers. Additionally, at the time of the investigation, Suriano was the subject of a stipulated-to 10-year final injunction for protection against sexual violence following reports by a 7-year-old child that the child had been sexually abused by Suriano when Suriano was 18 years old. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Member of Nihilistic Violent Extremist Group “764” Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation Offenses

body_text: Orlando, FL — Shawn Krishendat Premsook, 26, of Clermont, Florida, has pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. According to the government’s factual basis, Premsook was a member of “764” and other Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) groups for approximately two years. During that time, Premsook joined these groups in extorting minors to engage in self-harm. On multiple occasions, he caused a minor girl to cut herself and use her blood to write messages such as his online moniker. Premsook also collected and distributed gore and child pornography images and videos of children who had been victimized by 764 members. 764 and related groups are NVEs who engage in criminal conduct within the United States and engage with other extremists abroad. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the United States Government. Members of 764 work in concert with one another towards a common purpose of destroying civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, including minors. Premsook faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each distribution offense, and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each possession offense. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Varadan for the Middle District of Florida is prosecuting the case with valuable assistance from Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Counterterrorism Section.


title: Mexican National Sentenced After Transporting 1,295 kilograms of Cocaine On Board a Vessel Subject to U.S. Jurisdiction

component: USAO - Virgin Islands

body_text: St. Thomas, USVI –U.S. Attorney Adam F. Sleeper announced today that one of three Mexican nationals, Francisco Hernandez Penaloza, 65, was sentenced on Friday, June 12, 2026, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Robert A. Molloy to 46 months’ imprisonment for his role in conspiring to transport and possess with intent to distribute approximately 1,295 kilograms of cocaine on board a vessel subject to U.S. jurisdiction. According to court documents, on September 5, 2024, during a routine patrol in international waters in the Eastern Pacific, a Royal Canadian Naval ship, the HMCS Yellowknife, intercepted a go-fast vessel after it was sighted approximately 427 nautical miles southwest of Acapulco, Mexico. A United States Coast Guard (USCG) Law Enforcement Detachment was aboard the HMCS Yellowknife. The go-fast vessel was dead in the water, floating adrift with bales and large fuel barrels visible on its deck. It displayed no indicia of nationality with no flag flown. The USCG Detachment conducted a right of visit boarding on the vessel as it was suspected of illicit maritime activity. Three people were encountered on board the vessel, including the defendant. A search of the vessel revealed 35 bales consistent with the packaging and transport of a large quantity of narcotics. The three people on board were detained. The bales were removed, and the vessel was sunk due to the damage to the hull. The packages inside the bales were tested by a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory, which confirmed that the bales contained a total of 1,295 kilograms of cocaine. This case was investigated jointly by the U.S. Coast Guard, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Criminal Chief Kyle Payne of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders.


title: Alexandria Man Guilty of Calling in Bomb Threat to Louis Armstrong  New Orleans International Airport

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY JOHNSON , age 36, of Alexandria, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 9, 2026 to an indictment charging him with willfully conveying a bomb threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Following his guilty plea, JOHNSON was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to a one‑year term of probation. According to court documents, on November 7, 2025, JOHNSON became involved in a dispute with airport personnel over parking fees while attempting to exit a parking lot at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The dispute escalated to the point that deputies with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office had to respond and address the situation. After leaving the area visibly upset, JOHNSON twice called AVCOM, the airport’s operations center, claiming there was a bomb in the airport and threatening to harm the operator. Investigators with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation quickly connected these threatening calls to the earlier parking dispute, identified JOHNSON as the individual responsible, and subsequently arrested him. During the investigation, JOHNSON admitted to making the calls. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office for their efforts in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Fort Myers Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

body_text: Fort Myers, Florida – Jose Manuel Caraballo-Torres (39, Fort Myers) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kyle C. Dudek to four years and three months in federal prison for possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Caraballo-Torres pleaded guilty on February 25, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on September 27, 2025, a deputy from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was patrolling State Road 31 in Punta Gorda when he observed a speeding truck. As the vehicle passed, the deputy initiated a traffic stop. Caraballo-Torres was one of multiple passengers in the truck which smelled of marijuana. The passengers were asked to step out of the vehicle for officer safety. During the traffic stop, the deputy conducted a pat down of Caraballo-Torres, who moved his hand towards his right-side waist band. The deputy immediately grabbed Caraballo-Torres, pushed him against the truck, and pinned Caraballo-Torres’s hands against the vehicle. The deputy retrieved a firearm from the waistband area of Caraballo-Torres. CCSO central communications advised that the firearm retrieved from Caraballo-Torres’s had been reported stolen out of Orlando. Caraballo-Torres’s criminal history indicated that he was on federal supervised release until 2032 related to a case from the District of Puerto Rico. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick Darcey and Jesus M. Casas. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Man Sentenced To Five Years In Prison For Intentionally Setting Fire To San Jose Post Office

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN JOSE - Richard Tillman was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for arson. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Davila handed down the sentence. Tillman, 45, was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2025. Tillman pleaded guilty to one count of Malicious Destruction of Government Property by Fire in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(f)(1) on February 9, 2026. According to the plea agreement, Tillman admitted to intentionally setting fire to the Almaden Valley United States Post Office located at 6525 Crown Boulevard in San Jose, California, on July 20, 2025. Tillman admitted that he intentionally set the fire in order to “make a point to the United States government.” In preparation for the fire, Tillman purchased firelogs and lighter fluid. He then drove to the Post Office with firelogs in his vehicle, backed the vehicle through the building’s front door, exited the vehicle, spread lighter fluid throughout the vehicle, threw a lit match into the vehicle, and exited the Post Office. The fire quickly spread from the vehicle to the Post Office, completely destroying its lobby, as depicted in the photographs below. Prior to July 20, 2025, the lobby of the Post Office was open to the public during business hours for retail transactions and access to post office boxes. The fire rendered the lobby unusable, and it has not been available to the public since. United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), San Francisco Division Inspector in Charge Stephen M. Sherwood, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge John Wester, and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement. In addition to the prison term, Judge Davila also sentenced Tillman to a three-year period of supervised release, and ordered Tillman to pay restitution of $2,371,682 to the United States Postal Service. The defendant was immediately remanded into custody. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael G. Pitman is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Sahib Kaur. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the USPIS, ATF, FBI, and the San Jose Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office appreciates the assistance of the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office.


title: Five Individuals Arrested on Drug Distribution and Firearms Trafficking Charges

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: TRENTON, N.J. – Five individuals were arrested on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to traffic firearms, and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. The charges are the result of a months-long investigation conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, into narcotics and firearms trafficking in Trenton, New Jersey. “ As this investigation makes clear, our office is laser focused on ensuring public safety for the people of New Jersey. The conduct alleged by these individuals involved the interstate transportation of firearms sold for profit and large quantities of cocaine delivered on demand. I am proud of the unrelenting efforts of our law enforcement partners through the Homeland Security Task Force as we identify and dismember groups that threaten our communities .” – U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer “These charges highlight the commitment of Homeland Security Investigations and our federal, state, and local partners to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations that pose a threat to our communities. “This extensive Homeland Security Task Force investigation, led by our special agents in Trenton, focused on individuals alleged to have orchestrated a complex narcotics and firearms trafficking operation spanning Ohio and New Jersey. We remain steadfast in our mission to pursue those who endanger public safety and to protect the communities we serve,” said HSI Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas. Kenny Scaley-Sandoval, 32, a Guatemalan citizen without legal status in the U.S. residing in Trenton, New Jersey; Kelvin Tavarez, 30, of Trenton, New Jersey, Enoc Pimentel, 39, of Clifton, New Jersey, and Andy Nazario, 44, of Clifton, New Jersey, all had their initial court appearances on June 10, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Justin T. Quinn in Trenton federal court. Scaley-Sandoval, Tavarez, and Pimentel were detained. Timothy Rios, 32, of Lorain, Ohio, was arrested in Virginia and had an initial court appearance on June 10, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Summer L. Speight in the Eastern District of Virginia. Rios was detained and is pending transportation to New Jersey. Defendant Name Charge(s) Kenny Scaley-Sandoval Conspiracy to distribute cocaine and Conspiracy to traffic firearms Kelvin Tavarez Conspiracy to distribute cocaine Enoc Pimentel Conspiracy to distribute cocaine Timothy Rios Conspiracy to traffic firearms Andy Nazario Possession with intent to distribute cocaine According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: In August 2025, law enforcement began investigating certain drug distribution and firearms trafficking activities in and around Trenton, New Jersey. HSI obtained over 3.8 kilograms of cocaine related to the drug distribution conspiracy involving Scaley-Sandoval, Tavarez, and Pimentel. HSI also obtained 16 handguns and rifles related to the firearms trafficking conspiracy involving Scaley-Sandoval and Rios. In addition, while executing a court-authorized search warrant on June 10, 2026, officers recovered a quantity of cocaine along with drug distribution materials and cash from Nazario’s attic. The count charging Scaley-Sandoval, Tavarez and Pimentel with conspiracy to distribute cocaine carries a maximum potential penalty of 40 years’ imprisonment, a mandatory minimum term of five years’ imprisonment, and a maximum fine of $5 million. The count charging Scaley-Sandoval and Rios with conspiracy to traffic firearms against carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The count charging Nazario with possession with intent to distribute cocaine carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1 million. U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer credited special agents with the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations – Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James, the United States Marshals Service, under the direction of Acting U.S. Marshal Nicholas A. Ricigliano, Jr., the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle, the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson, and the Mount Laurel Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Tim Hudnall, for their assistance in the investigation. These arrests are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton. The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ### Defense counsel: Kenny Scaley Sandoval: Andrea G. Aldana, Esq. Kelvin Tavarez: Suzanne Axel, Esq. Enoc Pimentel: Mark Davis, Esq. Timothy Rios: TBD Andy Nazario: John Holliday, Esq. scaleysandovaletal.complaint.pdf nazario.complaint.pdf


title: Vermont U.S. Attorney’s Office Marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: BURLINGTON – First recognized on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides an opportunity for dialogue and action on the issues of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation – crimes that are often overlooked or unreported. In 2026, government agencies and business across the United States are using this day to raise awareness about imposter scams and providing information about how to recognize and avoid them. In imposter scams, criminals pretend to be someone they are not – including government agencies and well-known businesses. The scammers attempt to trick people into giving them money, access to financial accounts, and/or access to personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies, in an attempt to cause panic and force quick action before a person has time to think critically and/or talk to someone they trust. Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million. Common imposter scams that have targeted Vermonters in recent months include: “Juror Scams,” where scammers impersonate a U.S. Marshal, court clerk, or local law enforcement officer to threaten recipients with fines and jail time for “failing to appear” for jury duty or obtaining personal information by seeking to “verify” identity. “DMV” or “Toll Scams,” where scammers pretend to be seeking collection of unpaid tickets, fees or tolls, threatening recipients with suspension of a license or registration if they do not pay immediately. “Family Emergency Scams,” where scammers impersonate law enforcement, or falsely claim a relative is in distress or under arrest, and demand payment for rescue or “bail” money for the relative’s release. “Money Protection Scams,” where a scammer pretends to be with a government agency who “noticed” suspicious activity in an account, and seeks transfer of the funds to a “safekeeping” account. “The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont is working tirelessly with our federal investigative partners to pursue scammers who reach into Vermont to cause fear and confusion for the sake of illicit profit,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. “We have had successes identifying these criminals to hold them accountable in the criminal justice system, and we will continue to prioritize investigation and prosecution of these offenders. But the best method to address this risk is prevention. I encourage everyone to become aware of the common methods used by scammers and help protect each other from these forms of abuse.” Here are some tips on how to avoid falling victim to a financial scam: Slow down, breathe, and take your time. Scammers thrive on panic and urgency; slowing down phone and text interactions will help you spot the signs of fraud. Don’t share personal or financial information with anyone you don’t know. If someone contacts you and makes demands, write down the phone number and hang up. Independently find the agency phone number from a trusted source before calling back. If the person asking for money or information claims to be a relative, a friend, or someone you know, do not respond right away. Instead, contact the person independently or ask a trusted family member or friend for help. In-person collection is a red flag; government agencies will not send someone to your home to collect cash. Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if a stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — please report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov . The Department of Justice also has a National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11, as well as resources for elder abuse awareness, prevention, and reporting at https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice . The U.S. Administration on Aging also helps connect older adults and their families to services through its Eldercare Locator, reachable at 1-800-677-1116 and eldercare.acl.gov .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin joins communities across the nation in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, an observance dedicated to raising awareness about the mistreatment, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. “Protecting older members of our community is one of our highest priorities,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “Our office is committed to prosecuting those who target seniors and educating communities about how to recognize and report signs of abuse.” Each year, an estimated one in ten older Americans experiences some form of elder abuse. This mistreatment can take many forms, including financial exploitation, emotional or psychological harm, physical abuse, neglect or abandonment, and sexual abuse. To address these threats, the Department of Justice collaborates with federal, state, local, and tribal partners to vigorously enforce federal laws that protect the elderly. In support of local awareness efforts, representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office will participate in a community resource fair organized by Milwaukee County DHHS Aging & Disabilities Services at Washington Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The event brings together service providers and community members to share information on preventing elder abuse and connecting older adults and caregivers with critical resources. “As the nation commemorates World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and celebrates America’s 250th anniversary we are reminded that protecting older adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation is a shared responsibility,” said Attorney Schimel. “Honoring the principles of liberty, dignity, and justice that have defined our nation for 250 years includes safeguarding some of our most vulnerable citizens and ensuring they can live free from harm and financial exploitation.” The Justice Department relies on the public’s assistance in remaining vigilant and reporting suspected fraud and abuse. Anyone with concerns about potential abuse, neglect, or fraud should contact local law enforcement or the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). For resources, reporting guidance, and additional information on federal efforts to combat elder abuse, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: United States Attorney’s Office Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, joins the Department of Justice and the Elder Fraud Coordinating Council, along with other government agencies and organizations across the country in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). WEAAD provides an opportunity for all of us to promote dialogue and action on the issue of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This year’s Elder Justice Coordinating Council’s campaign, entitled Never EVER, helps to raise awareness about how to recognize and avoid imposter scams. Imposters are scammers who pretend to be someone they’re not — including government agencies and well-known businesses — to trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or your personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies, so you’ll panic and act quickly before you have time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust. One common scam starts with an unexpected call from someone who says they’re from a well-known business, saying there’s suspicious activity on your account. To “help” you, they transfer you to someone who says they’re from the government. This so-called helper, who claims to be from the FBI, the FTC, or some other law enforcement agency, urges you to move your money to “protect it” — maybe by transferring it to an account they give you, depositing it in a “government account” or crypto ATM for “safekeeping,” or getting cash or gold and giving it to a courier. But it’s all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will. Other lies might involve a “suspended Social Security number” or supposed eligibility for government benefits. In all cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they’re with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. The agency name might be real or made up (but real-sounding), and some scammers might show you an employee ID or badge — all to seem more real. But they’re not. To recognize and avoid a government imposter, keep these things in mind: •Never ever will someone from the government say: “Your money isn’t safe. Move it to protect it.” Only a scammer will. •Never ever will someone from the government threaten to suspend your government benefits if you don’t pay immediately. Only a scammer will. •Never ever will someone from the government demand that you pay with a payment app, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or gift cards. Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if the stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting our seniors from the growing threat of elder fraud and financial exploitation. As part of that effort, we have reached out to senior citizen groups and community organizations to provide information on common scams, warning signs and steps individuals can take to safeguard themselves and their loved ones. We recently presented to a group of seniors at Congregation Shaarey Zedek and have other presentations planned for this summer. For those senior citizen groups and community organizations interested in having a representative from the U.S. Attorney’s Office speak to their group, please contact Public Affairs Officer Gina Balaya at 313-226-9758 or email at gina.balaya@usdoj.gov . To learn more about the department’s elder justice efforts please visit the Elder Justice Initiative page . To learn more about who to avoid imposter scams visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office observes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and warns of government and business imposter schemes

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day , the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois joins the Elder Justice Coordinating Council and other government agencies and organizations across the country to spread the word about government and business imposter scams. Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million. These imposter scammers lie and pretend to be someone they are not. Their goal? Trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or your personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies, so you’ll panic and act quickly before you have time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust. One common scam starts with an unexpected call from someone who says they are from a well-known business, saying there is suspicious activity on your account. To “help” you, they transfer you to someone who says they are from the government. This so-called helper, who claims to be from the FBI, the FTC, or some other law enforcement agency, urges you to move your money to “protect it” — maybe by transferring it to an account they give you, depositing it in a “government account” or crypto ATM for “safekeeping,” or getting cash or gold and giving it to a courier. But it is all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will. Other lies might involve a “suspended Social Security number” or supposed eligibility for government benefits. In all cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they are with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. The agency name might be real or made up (but real-sounding), and some scammers might show you an employee ID or badge — all to seem more real. But they are not. To recognize and avoid a government imposter, keep these things in mind: Never ever will someone from the government say: “Your money isn’t safe. Move it to protect it.” Only a scammer will. Never ever will someone from the government threaten to suspend your government benefits if you don’t pay immediately. Only a scammer will. Never ever will someone from the government demand that you pay with a payment app, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or gift cards. Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if the stranger says they are from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov .


title: Romanian National Sentenced for Illegal Re-Entry

body_text: St. Thomas, VI – United States Attorney Adam F. Sleeper of the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Puiu Lacatus, 37, of Romania, was sentenced on Friday, June 12, 2026, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Robert A. Molloy to time served—after having been detained for six months and one day—for illegally entering the United States after having been previously removed. According to court documents, on December 11, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents received a tip regarding a group of illegal immigrants staying at a residence in Estate Contant. HSI agents responded to the residence in Contant to conduct surveillance and observed the defendant leave and walk towards Nisky Center. Federal agents announced themselves as “Immigration” and inquired into his nationality and whether he had status to be in the United States legally. The defendant stated that he was Romanian and did not have status to be in the United States. Agents performed further records checks that revealed that the defendant had previously been deported twice. Agents confirmed with the Department of Homeland Security that there was no record found indicating that the defendant obtained consent from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to return to the United States, and that he was a citizen of Romania. The case was investigated by HSI with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Criminal Chief Kyle Payne of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands.


title: New Hampshire Drug Trafficker Pleads Guilty

body_text: PORTLAND, Maine: A Manchester, New Hampshire, man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court records, on January 19, 2025, Steven Jones , 46, was traveling in a vehicle that was reportedly driving erratically in York County. A Maine State Police trooper responded and found Jones and his companions parked in a restaurant parking lot. During the encounter, Jones got out of the car and a firearm slipped out of his waistband. He then fled the scene but was ultimately apprehended. Police recovered cocaine, methamphetamine, seven long knives, five firearms (including the one Jones dropped), as well as masks, gloves, tactical gear, and more than $3,000 in U.S. currency. Police later learned that Jones was the leader of a significant drug trafficking organization based in Manchester who was on his way to recover a drug debt—using the weapons and tactical gear he had brought with him—from a Maine-based drug associate. Jones faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 22 years in prison, a maximum fine of $10 million and a maximum supervised release term of life. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Maine State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the FBI investigated the case. Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Crestview Drug Traffickers Indicted

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Arzalea Teshean McLaughlin, 37, Benjamin Eugene Mack, 54, and Roger Cornell Daniels, 37, all of Crestview, Florida, have been indicted in federal court on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and cocaine base, conspiracy to commit unlawful use of communications facility, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge. McLaughlin, Mack and Daniels appeared in federal court for their arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. If convicted as charged, McLaughlin and Mack face a minimum mandatory of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life in prison, and Daniels faces a minimum mandatory of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to a total of 74 years’ imprisonment. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. 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. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Felon Sent to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Gun

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who illegally possessed a firearm as a felon was sentenced today to a year in federal prison. Dana Lee Scott, Jr. age 25, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 2, 2026, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon. Evidence during the case showed police officers observed Scott with a gun while conducting surveillance on a home in Waterloo. Officers eventually searched the home and found the gun. Scott was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Scott was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Scott 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 Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Waterloo Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-2045. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Two Hells Angels Sentenced for Racketeering Attempted Murder

body_text: Two members of the violent outlaw motorcycle gang, the Hells Angels (HAMC), were sentenced this week for participating in a gang-related attempted murder. David Lee Woodall, 47, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Jason Lee Hathaway, 48, of Columbia City, Indiana, each previously pleaded guilty to Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering (VICAR) attempted murder against their principal rivals, the Pagan Motorcycle Club (PMC). On June 10 and June 12, the court sentenced Hathaway to 51 months in prison and Woodall to 57 months in prison, respectively. According to court documents and evidence presented in court, the HAMC is a transnational violent outlaw motorcycle group that uses violence, threats, and intimidation to carry out its perceived mission and enforce its rules. According to the indictment, the HAMC has several support clubs to include the Red Devil Motorcycle Club (RDMC) that act as feeder outlaw motorcycle clubs in order to recruit members into the HAMC. The HAMC members were under a standing order to attack, injury and kill members of the PMC. On July 22, 2023, Hathaway rode on his motorcycle into a Dairy Queen in Cumberland County, North Carolina during daytime hours. Finding three PMC members there, Hathaway threatened them with a hammer. Hathaway attempted to strike one with the hammer but instead shattered the glass of the victims’ vehicle. After this attack, Hathaway called other HAMC members to the Dairy Queen as backup. Woodall was among those who answered the call. Once the HAMC assembled, they went out to the parking lot and confronted the same three PMC members, attacking them with hammers, brass knuckles and fists. The attack was suspended only when a PMC member shot at the HAMC members, killing one of them. This occurred while other citizens were patronizing the Dairy Queen. Several unrelated vehicles were damaged by the attack. Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Criminal Division A. Tysen Duva and U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina W. Ellis Boyle made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Raleigh and Fayetteville, North Carolina Police Departments and Cumberland County, North Carolina Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Deputy Chief Kelly Pearson of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Peaden and Charity Wilson for the Eastern District of North Carolina are 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).


title: Maryland Felon Pleads Guilty to Carrying Loaded Glock Outside D.C. Gas Station

body_text: WASHINGTON – Tyzell Myrick, 30, a previously convicted felon residing in Bowie, Maryland, pleaded guilty today in connection with his possession of a firearm when he was stopped by police at a Northwest D.C. gas station, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Myrick pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. Judge Contreras scheduled sentencing for September 30. According to court papers, in the early morning hours of Aug. 17, 2025, Metropolitan Police Department officers on patrol near the 900 block of Florida Avenue NW observed Myrick exit a gas station with a large rectangular bulge in his front waistband inconsistent with human anatomy. As officers approached, Myrick turned away and moved toward the wall of the gas station. Officers stopped Myrick and conducted a pat-down, during which they recovered a Glock 22 .40 caliber pistol loaded with a round in the chamber and 20 additional rounds in the magazine. At the time of his arrest, Myrick had a prior federal conviction in the District of Maryland for interference with interstate commerce by robbery and for using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, for which he received a seven-year federal prison sentence. This case was prosecuted under the Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful initiative. Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful is a law enforcement initiative in support of President Trump's Executive Order to crack down on gun violence, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties, and seek detention for federal firearms violators. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Washington Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Liss is prosecuting the case. 25cr267 Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube Or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Issue Warning Over Use of Drones During 2026 FIFA World Cup

body_text: The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas and FBI Dallas are jointly promoting the importance of drone safety and flight restrictions. The information below is intended to raise awareness among the public at large, help to ensure the safety of fans, and also serve as a deterrence. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed a Temporary Flight Restriction over multiple locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. These temporary flight restrictions temporarily restrict all aircraft – airplanes, helicopters, and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, more commonly known as “drones”) – from flying over a specific geographic area. On each match day, a temporary flight restriction will be in effect over AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. AT&T Stadium will be known as “Dallas Stadium” during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The flight restriction will span a 3-nautical-mile radius from AT&T Stadium, up to 3,000 feet, and will take effect 3 hours before the start of each match and will conclude 3 hours after the end of each match. During the FIFA Fan Festival, taking place from June 11, 2026, through July 19, 2026, a temporary flight restriction will be in place over Fair Park in Dallas, Texas, for each day of the Fan Festival. The flight restriction will span a 1-nautical-mile radius from the Dos Equis Pavilion in Fair Park, up to 1,000 feet, and will be in effect 1 hour before the start of the festival each day and 1 hour after the festival concludes each day. While these temporary flight restrictions are in place, the flying of any drone or other aircraft or UAS will be forbidden unless prior approval is obtained from the FAA. Violators will be subject to federal prosecution, imprisonment, fines, and/or forfeiture of their drone or UAS. To avoid committing criminal federal violations, all drone pilots are reminded and warned of their responsibility to: 1. Register and label your drone and obtain a Part 107 pilot’s license from the FAA before operating your drone in any flight-restricted airspace; 2. Register and label your drone and obtain a Part 107 pilot’s license before operating your drone in any capacity other than as a FAA-designated recreational pilot (including when flying for commercial purposes or for footage that may be monetized); 3. Obtain a TRUST certificate from the FAA to be carried with you at all times that you are piloting your drone for recreational purposes only; and 4 . Familiarize yourself with airspace classifications and restrictions (including temporary flight restrictions and Notices to Airmen or “NOTAMs”) before piloting your drone for any purpose to avoid flying in any flight-restricted airspace, or, if necessary, to seek permission and approval before flying in any flight-restricted airspace. As part of ongoing drone enforcement, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas has prosecuted numerous individuals for illegally flying unmanned aircraft systems (drones) in restricted areas, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. The cases are as follows: • David Flores, 3:25-CR-329-B, pled guilty to one felony count of Operation of an Unregistered Drone and was sentenced to time served (a period of about five months’ imprisonment); • David Fowler, 3:25-CR-231-L, pled guilty to one felony count of Operation of an Unregistered Drone, set for sentencing on June 23, 2026; • Melvin Mitchell III, 4:26-CR-162-O, charged via indictment with one felony count of Operating as an Airman Without an Airman’s Certificate, case is currently pending; • Ernesto Villanueva Gonzalez, 4:25-CR-149-BJ – pled guilty to one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace and sentenced to time served (approximately two months’ imprisonment) and a monetary fine; • Jason Carvell Banner, 4:24-CR-159-BJ, pled guilty to one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace for flying a drone over the Texas Rangers Ballpark, sentenced to 25 months’ probation and a monetary fine; • Scott Lorenzen, 3:24-CR-502-BK, pled guilty to one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace and sentenced to six months’ probation; • Shawn Yang, 4:26-CR-42-BJ, pled guilty to one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace and ordered to pay a monetary fine; • Vincent Paolella, 4:26-CR-148-BJ, charged via criminal information with one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace, case is currently pending; and • Jasson Longoria, 4:26-CR-149-BJ, charged via criminal information with one count of Violation of National Defense Airspace, case is currently pending. “We want the 2026 FIFA World Cup fans to have a world class time while they are in the DFW metroplex. When someone makes a decision to fly a drone over restricted airspace, they are wasting valuable law enforcement resources and jeopardizing the safety and overall experience of those who are there to watch the beautiful game. Please remember that you cannot fly a drone at or near the Dallas Stadium and FIFA Fan Festival, as they are no-fly zones,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “If you choose to ignore this warning, understand that we’ll be ready for you and you will be prosecuted.” “It is the drone operator’s responsibility to understand where Temporary Flight Restrictions exist. Before you fly a drone, I strongly encourage you to check for active flight restrictions using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “To ensure the safety of the World Cup events, we will use our full suite of capabilities to identify drone operators violating TFRs, seize their drones, and support their prosecution. A complaint, an information, and an indictment are merely an allegations of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. See a drone breaking the rules? Blow the whistle! Report it to 911, on-site law enforcement, or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.


title: Billings man sentenced to prison for trafficking drugs

body_text: BILLINGS – A Billings man who trafficked drugs while working as a cab driver was sentenced today to 42 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Sammy Joe Nava, 51, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, one count of possession with intent to distribute, and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided. The government alleged in court documents that while working as a driver for Yellow Cab, Nava and a partner were selling meth around Billings. Acting on a tip from a confidential informant, law enforcement learned in June 2022 that Yellow Cab employees known as “Sam” and “Dave” were selling meth across town. Sam provided the meth and Dave was a middleman who helped with the buys, according to the informant. Agents later identified “Sam” as Sammy Joe Nava. Between June 13 and June 29, 2022, law enforcement set up four different buys using the informant, who purchased increasing amounts of meth from the two men. The informant would contact Dave, later identified as David Lee Owen, who would drive the informant to Nava’s location. Owen would take the informant’s money, go inside and return with the meth. The informant started by purchasing 27.8 grams of meth, then 28.5 grams, and then 111.9 grams. On the final buy, the informant set up a purchase for a pound of meth, roughly 445 grams. Agents moved in and arrested Owen at the Yellow Cab offices where he was found with the pound of meth. Nava was arrested afterward. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and the DEA conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Tallahassee Felon Indicted for Multiple Counts of Gun Possession

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Nathan Taylor Porter, 21, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for two counts of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge. Porter appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Change of plea is scheduled for June 15, 2026, at 11:00 am before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Tallahassee, Florida. Porter faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment on each count if convicted of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. The case is being jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo. 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. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearms and Injuring Law Enforcement Agent During Arrest Attempt

body_text: CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to more than four years in federal prison for illegally possessing two firearms and injuring a law enforcement agent who was attempting to arrest him. On the morning of Jan. 31, 2022, members of a DEA Enforcement Group, accompanied by Homeland Security Investigations agents and an officer from the Posen, Ill. Police Department, attempted to execute an arrest warrant for ANDREW VESELY outside of his residence in Posen, Ill. Vesely had two outstanding felony arrest warrants—one for aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer and the other for criminal trespass to a motor vehicle—and he was also suspected of stealing multiple Jeep Grand Cherokees, one of which was parked outside the residence. When Vesely walked out of his home and approached a rear alley, four officers moved to apprehend him. Vesely jumped into the Jeep and managed to start the engine before a DEA agent reached into the open driver’s door and grabbed Vesely by the front of his coat to stop him from fleeing. Vesely put the Jeep into drive as he and the agent struggled for control of the car. As the Jeep began to move forward, Vesely’s backpack fell onto the ground in the alley. The agent lost his grip and was flung into several garbage cans as Vesely sped off. Vesely drove out of Posen at a high rate of speed and into the neighboring town of Markham. Officers from the Markham Police Department, who had been alerted by a dispatcher, chased Vesely on a major throughfare at more than 100 miles per hour through several traffic signals. Vesely crashed the Jeep into an embankment and was captured while attempting to run off. The backpack that had fallen in the alley contained a semiautomatic handgun and a spare magazine, both loaded with armor-piercing rounds. The backpack also contained a car-key programming device, 31 car-key fobs, and other tools suitable for stealing cars. Law enforcement later searched the room where Vesely resided in the home and discovered another loaded semiautomatic handgun, three loaded magazines, a bullet-proof vest, police scanner, 25 key fobs, and another car-key programming device. Vesely, 25, of Posen, Ill., pleaded guilty in July 2025 to one count of forcibly resisting, impeding, and interfering with an Officer of the United States government and one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. On June 9, 2026, U.S. District Judge John F. Kness sentenced Vesely to four years and four months in federal prison. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Todd C. Smith, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Chicago Field Division, and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of HSI. Valuable assistance was provided by the Posen, Ill. Police Department. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney William R. Hogan, Jr. “Violence in general, and most certainly violence against law enforcement officers tear at the very fabric that holds our communities together,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “Violence offends our way of life and undermines the safety and trust that we all depend on to achieve the pursuit of happiness. As I have repeatedly stated since becoming United States Attorney, criminal attacks on law enforcement constitute a direct assault on the rule of law as well as our justice system and will be met with swift, firm, and unequivocal legal consequences.” “The sentencing in this case sends a clear message that violence against law enforcement officers will not be tolerated,” said DEA SAC Smith. “DEA Special Agents and Task Force Officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect our communities from drug trafficking and violent crime. We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their commitment to ensuring accountability in this case.”