title: Sarcone Leads Revival of NDNY Health Care Fraud Task Force

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York convened a meeting of the NDNY Health Care Fraud Task Force, bringing together representatives from federal and state agencies, regulatory partners, and private-sector stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the fight against health care fraud. The meeting marks the revitalization of a task force designed to support information sharing, investigative coordination, and strategic enforcement efforts across the Northern District of New York. The task force was established in 2004 and was suspended in 2020. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III was joined by Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice National Fraud Enforcement Division, Colin M. McDonald, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz. “I commend the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York for its decisive leadership in revitalizing the NDNY Health Care Fraud Task Force,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice, National Fraud Enforcement Division. “By convening federal, state, regulatory, and private-sector partners, this Office is sending a clear message: health care fraud will not be tolerated in this country. Focused initiatives like this task force are vital to protecting vulnerable patients, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and preserving the integrity of our health care system. I look forward to working closely with this outstanding team in the fight against fraud.” “The reconvening of this task force should put all fraudsters on notice,” said First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone . “Those who enrich themselves through stealing from the hardworking American taxpayers will be relentlessly investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable to the highest standard under the law. I thank Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald for joining our task force meeting and for his leadership in advancing the Trump Administration’s whole-of-government approach to these investigations. Together our partner agencies with the full support of the federal government, will use every available tool to identify fraud, dismantle criminal schemes, and recover taxpayer dollars. Health care fraud is not a victimless crime, every fraudulent claim submitted, every false bill paid, and every scheme designed to exploit our system steals from the taxpayers and exploits the integrity of programs that millions depend upon.” Federal Bureau of Investigations Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli , stated: “The criminals committing health care fraud operate across jurisdictions, exploit technology, move money rapidly, and often rely on the assumption that government agencies will remain siloed in their response. Our responsibility is to prove them wrong. Americans expect government funds to be used as intended, and the strength of this task force is found in our collective ability to share intelligence and coordinate resources to ensure anyone who chooses to abuse our systems is swiftly investigated and brought to justice.” “The mission of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is to root out fraud, waste, and abuse in federal health care programs. Our agency is incredibly grateful to have such strong partnerships with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners as well as private entities that contribute to safeguarding health care programs,” stated Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General . “Fraud in our health care system is a billion-dollar problem that affects taxpayers, vulnerable populations, and citizens who rely on health care providers to prioritize care over greed. This task force is an exemplary effort of public and private partnership to protect the federal health programs that serve millions of beneficiaries.” The task force will focus on identifying emerging fraud trends, coordinating investigations among partner agencies, sharing intelligence, and pursuing both criminal and civil enforcement actions against individuals and organizations engaged in fraudulent conduct involving federal and state health care programs. The inaugural meeting included representatives from the following entities: Federal agencies: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York; Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG); U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York. New York State agencies: New York State Office of the Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG); New York State Office of the State Comptroller (OSC); New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS); New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE). Program integrity contractor: Northeastern Unified Program Integrity Contractor (NE UPIC). Private-sector partners: UnitedHealthcare; MVP Health Care; Excellus BlueCross BlueShield; Fidelis Care; Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan (CDPHP); MetLife. FAUSA Sarcone said “I want to sincerely thank all our task force members—federal, state, and private—for their commitment to this mission. Working together, sharing intelligence, resources, and investigative tactics to detect fraud, we can hold offenders at all levels accountable, recover taxpayer dollars and root out fraud. I applaud their commitment to proactively pursuing these fraudsters. The United States Attorney’s Office expects future announcements and press conferences in the coming months announcing investigations, prosecutions, and task force updates On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports 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: Sisters indicted for wide ranging wire fraud and identity theft scheme involving debit cards and gift cards

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – One of two sisters who allegedly defrauded a national retailer and individuals by gift card and debit card fraud, appeared yesterday and pleaded not guilty to a 16-count indictment in U.S. District Court in Seattle, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Hayley Brown Lundquist, 30, of Snohomish County was ordered detained pending trial currently scheduled for August 3, 2026. Brown Lundquist’s sister, Samantha Fleischacker Gillihan, 34, of Arlington, was arrested last month and pleaded not guilty to the indictment. She was released on her personal recognizance. “As alleged in the indictment, these two defendants cut a wide swath of fraud in Snohomish County,” said First Assistant Neil Floyd. “We put a priority on assisting local law enforcement who are struggling to put a stop to persistent offenders who continue to commit crimes despite local arrests.” “This investigation demonstrates the importance of thorough local investigations and the value of strong partnerships across all levels of government,” said Lynnwood Police Chief Coleman Langdon. “What began as a municipal investigation ultimately revealed criminal activity that extended beyond the scope and jurisdiction of a single agency. Through close coordination with federal authorities, investigators were able to leverage additional resources, expertise, and prosecutorial capabilities to pursue a more comprehensive response to the criminal conduct involved.” “These subjects are charged with stealing tens of thousands of dollars by draining gift cards they had not purchased, as well as debit cards obtained by exploiting other people’s identities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners like the Lynnwood Police Department take wire fraud and identity theft seriously and are committed to holding fraudsters accountable.” According to the indictment, the two defendants used a sequencing scheme to load gift card numbers on their smart phones – numbers for gift cards they never purchased that may have been purchased by others. The women would use any balance on the gift cards to purchase merchandise and then return the merchandise for cash or other value. Some of the merchandise was sold to others. In all the pair defrauded the retailer of more than $80,000. In addition to the gift card scheme, Brown Lundquist and her sister used stolen debit cards belonging to other people to purchase merchandise. At times they used fraudulently obtained debit cards along with fraudulently obtained gift cards to make purchases. At the time of her arrest, Brown Lundquist had identity information for numerous people in her possession. Each woman is charged with multiple counts of wire fraud for their gift card and debit card scheme. Each is also charged with Aggravated Identity Theft for using a real person’s information in connection with the debit card purchases. Finally, Brown Lundquist is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm because of her previous felony convictions in Snohomish County: In 2019 she was convicted of three counts of possession of stolen property; and in 2022 she was convicted of possession of a stolen vehicle and identity theft. Those convictions mean she cannot possess firearms, but law enforcement found two handguns in her bedroom, alongside fraudulently obtained merchandise, on August 5, 2024. Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum two-year sentence to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed in the case. Being a felon in possession of a firearm is punishable by up to ten years in prison. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by the Lynnwood Police Department with assistance from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn Forstein.


title: Former Anson, Texas City Manager Convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: An Abilene federal jury convicted the former Anson, Texas City Manager of attempted enticement of a minor, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. Following a one-day trial, the jury convicted Ervin Joe Campbell, 64, on Monday, June 8, 2026, of one count of attempted enticement of a minor. “This defendant elected to go to trial, which is his constitutional right. But we were ready, and the jury convicted him of attempted enticement of a minor after only 30 minutes of deliberation. The unfortunate and sad reality is that predators lurk in every facet of life, including those in positions of trust, like this defendant,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Under my watch, we will prioritize rooting out predators no matter where they lurk.” “Protecting children from sexual predators is a top priority for Homeland Security Investigations,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “This conviction demonstrates the commitment of HSI and our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who seek to exploit minors and to ensure they are held accountable.” According to evidence presented at trial, several federal, state and local law enforcement agencies worked together to conduct an undercover chat operation in Abilene, Texas, targeting the solicitation of prostitution and child predators. During the operation, a sergeant with the Texas Attorney General’s Office posed as minors, aged fifteen and sixteen, via an undercover online account. The advertisement posted on Facebook Marketplace was listed as “Massage and Fun.” The jury also heard evidence that Campbell responded to the advertisement and agreed to meet the two minors for sex even after the undercover agent informed him that she and her friend were 15 and 16 years old, respectively. Geolocation data from Campbell’s cell phone, and cell phone call detail records confirmed that Campbell left his home in Anson after the conversation on Facebook and drove approximately 30 minutes to a hotel in Abilene, Texas where he had agreed to meet the minors. He arrived with two condoms and more than $500 in cash and he had agreed to give the girls $500 in exchange for sex. Agents further discovered that Campbell had saved a contact in his cell phone for the person he believed to be a 15-year-old minor and the contact’s name was listed as “15.” Campbell is set for sentencing on September 17, 2026, before U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix. Campbell faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. He also faces a $250,000 fine. The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations Dallas, the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division in Abilene, the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and the Abilene Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Whitney James and Allyson Monte prosecuted the case.


title: Ahold Delhaize USA Inc. to Pay $40M for Allegedly Reporting Inflated Drug Prices on Claims to Federal Healthcare Programs

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: WASHINGTON — Ahold Delhaize USA Inc. (Ahold Delhaize), headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts, has agreed to pay the United States and participating states a total of $40 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act and state analogs by reporting inflated “usual and customary” prices on claims to federal healthcare programs. “Federal healthcare programs rely on pharmacies reporting accurate pricing information used in the applicable payment formulas,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “If pharmacies report inflated ‘usual and customary’ prices on claims to federal healthcare programs, the programs pay more than they should on those claims.” “Pharmacies are trusted with charging the contracted prescription prices to Medicare and Medicaid and not unfairly and unlawfully taking advantage of the government and the public,” said U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “This settlement confirms that the United States will take all necessary steps to bring to justice dishonest pharmacies.” “Pharmacies in federal health care programs must report truthful prices. Inflating those prices, as alleged here, puts the integrity of taxpayer funded programs at risk,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Scott J. Lampertof the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, HHS OIG will continue to aggressively pursue such conduct to protect these critical programs and all the people who rely on them.” The United States alleged that Ahold Delhaize supermarkets with in-store retail pharmacies – including supermarket chains operating under the names Giant, Hannaford, Stop & Shop, Food Lion, and others – operated prescription savings programs pursuant to which enrolled members received discounted prices on prescription drugs. The United States contends that, in light of the features and operations of those savings programs, and the applicable Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and TRICARE program requirements (including, where applicable, contractual requirements), the discounted prices should have been reported as “usual and customary” prices on claims submitted to Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and TRICARE. Reported “usual and customary” prices serve as ceiling prices on payments to pharmacies under the applicable healthcare program payment formulas. The United States contends that Ahold Delhaize pharmacies failed to accurately report their discounted prices as their “usual and customary” prices on claims to Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and TRICARE, causing those programs to pay inflated amounts on such claims. The Medicaid Program is jointly funded by the federal government and the states. Of the $40 million resolution announced today, the federal share is $32.9 million and the remainder will be paid to states participating in the settlement. The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Lawrence LaBenne, who was a pharmacist at an Ahold Delhaize supermarket in Pennsylvania. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. Mr. LaBenne will receive $6,083,587 from the federal share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. LaBenne v. Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize N.V., et al. , Civil Action No. 18-CV-925 (W.D. Pa.). This settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services, the Defense Health Agency, and state Medicaid programs. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The matter was handled by Trial Attorney Jeffrey A. Toll and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Skirtich for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Arizona Woman Arrested for Punching Homeland Security Agent in the Face

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – On June 8, 2026, an Arizona woman was charged with assault on a federal law enforcement officer for punching a federal agent in the face, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. “As alleged, this defendant responded to lawful orders from federal officers by lashing out with violence and punching an officer in the face. Assaulting law enforcement officers is unacceptable. Period. Federal officers must be able to carry out their responsibilities without being subjected to violence, intimidation, or obstruction. This Office will continue to prosecute those who, as alleged here, assault officers and interfere with the lawful execution of their duties.” - U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer “Violent acts committed during what should be peaceful protests will not be tolerated,” said HSI Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas. “Homeland Security Investigations remains resolute in ensuring that individuals who threaten or attack law enforcement face the full force of the law.” Mariano Anthony Perez, 31, of Phoenix, AZ, was charged by complaint with forcibly assaulting a federal officer involving physical contact and appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court on June 8, 2026 on that charge. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: On June 5, 2026, officers and special agents of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were engaged in official duties relating to security and crowd-control operations during a demonstration near the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark. As part of their duties, HSI special agents and officers, including Victim-1, an HSI special agent, were assigned to perimeter enforcement for Delaney Hall. The assignment required HSI personnel to clear demonstrators from the road leading to and from Delaney Hall for law enforcement vehicles to enter the facility. At approximately 6:30 p.m., several HSI special agents first saw Perez walking back and forth past the entrance to the facility. The special agents issued numerous commands to Perez to move back, but Perez did not respond. Minutes later, Victim-1 was standing by the facility entrance while several law enforcement vehicles were trying to enter the facility. Perez attempted to walk past Victim-1 toward the vehicles but was physically pulled back by Victim-1, who told Perez in sum and substance that Perez could not walk that way. Notwithstanding that directive, Perez pushed past Victim-1 and continued walking in that same direction. Victim-1 followed behind Perez and called for Perez to stop. Victim-1 then attempted to grab hold of Perez. At that point, Perez abruptly turned around and punched Victim-1 in the face with a closed fist. Victim-1 sustained injuries to his upper and lower lip from Perez’s punch. The assault was captured on video footage both from publicly accessible social media accounts and from pole cameras in the area, as shown below: The charge of assaulting a federal officer resulting in physical contact carries a maximum potential penalty of 8 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of HSI- Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, with the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake A. Nasar of the Criminal Division in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ### Defense counsel: Linda Foster, Assistant Federal Public Defender. perez.complaint.pdf


title: Grand Jury Indicts Northern Nevada Man for Embezzling Nearly $8 Million in Funding From Broadband Infrastructure Project

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A federal grand jury today returned a 16-count indictment that charged the owner of Uprise, LLC, a former internet service provider located in Reno, Nevada, with felonies in connection with an alleged embezzlement from a federal grant project. Stephen A. Kromer (48) is charged with felony counts of embezzlement of government property, federal program theft, money laundering and presenting a false document, all in connection with his alleged embezzlement of more than $7.8 million from a federally funded high-speed internet construction project near Lovelock, Nevada. “Today’s 16-count indictment against the defendant is serious; and should send a clear message that the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to ending corruption,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The Public Corruption Strike Force within the U.S. Attorney’s Office is working closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partner agencies to root out corruption, including theft of federal program grant funds.” “Through multiple fraudulent schemes, the defendant clearly exploited trust to line his pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Field Office. “The grants were intended to enhance broadband infrastructure in rural communities in Nevada. Instead, the defendant brazenly misappropriated these funds for personal gain.” “We want to thank our partners at the Department of Justice and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for tackling fraud head on and being essential stakeholders in stopping waste, fraud, and abuse of federal funds,” said Nevada State Director Alida Ceballos for USDA Rural Development. “From Day 1, USDA and DOJ have worked hand-in-hand to bring bad actors to justice and ensure those who exploit taxpayer dollars are held accountable.” According to court documents, Kromer owned Uprise in 2022 when it applied for a federal grant under the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) ReConnect Program, proposing to construct a $36-million internet project that would provide access to high-speed internet to users living or working in rural Lovelock, Nevada, about 100 miles northeast of Reno. As part of the funding for the project, Uprise agreed to contribute $9 million toward the cost of the project. In June 2023, the USDA awarded Uprise a $27 million ReConnect grant to fund the Lovelock Project and required Uprise to deposit its $9 million share of the funding into a separate financial account called the Pledged Deposit Account (PDA) that restricted withdrawals to payments for costs of the Lovelock Project as approved by the USDA. According to the Indictment, Kromer embezzled about $7.8 million of funding from the Lovelock Project by withdrawing the funds from the PDA and depositing them into his personal bank account via 32 wire transfers he made from the account between May and November 2024. The Indictment alleges that with each transfer Kromer caused false accounting entries to be made in the books and records of Uprise to make it appear that the withdrawals were made to pay for the costs of the Lovelock Project when, in truth and fact, they were not. Kromer then submitted the false information to the USDA. The Indictment further alleges that Kromer disguised and concealed the proceeds of the embezzlement by moving the proceeds from his personal bank account into accounts he held at various cryptocurrency exchanges where he converted more than $6.2 million of the proceeds from U.S. dollars into cryptocurrency. Kromer is charged with one count of theft of government property; four counts of federal program theft; five counts of money laundering; five counts of monetary transactions in criminally derived property; and one count of using a false document. An initial appearance has been scheduled for June 24, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah. If convicted, Kromer faces the maximum statutory penalty of 50 years’ imprisonment on the federal theft charges and more than 100 years’ imprisonment on the money laundering and false document charges. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Field Office, and Nevada State Director Alida Ceballos for USDA Rural Development made the announcement. The FBI and USDA Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Myhre and Skyler Pearson are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Over 7 Years in Federal Prison  for Possessing a Firearm as a Felon

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on June 1, 2026. Alex Montileaux, 32, was sentenced to seven years and seven months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Montileaux was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in December 2025. He pleaded guilty on March 2, 2026. On November 7, 2025, Montileaux was a passenger in a car stopped by the police. A drug dog detected the presence of illegal drugs in the car. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement found a loaded pistol along with two loaded magazines for the pistol. The pistol and magazines had previously been reported stolen, and Montileaux was involved in the theft of the pistol. Montileaux had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Possessing a firearm after such a conviction is a federal felony. 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). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Summerset Police Department, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case. Montileaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Former Circus Official Sentenced to 22 Months in Prison for Stealing $123,000

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Wednesday sentenced a former St. Louis circus official to 22 months in prison and ordered him to repay $130,905. George S. Pace, 63, was on the board of directors of the nonprofit circus beginning in 2020 and later became board president. From December 2022 through at least September 2023, he stole from the circus in multiple ways. He used a credit card that he’d obtained without the knowledge or approval of the circus to pay thousands of dollars of personal expenses, including payments to nail salons, restaurants, and for skin care treatments. He used a second card for more unapproved expenses, including horseback riding related expenses and for restaurant meals. When another circus official reviewed the second card’s expenses, Pace lied and claimed the card had been stolen. Pace presented the official with forged account statements falsely showing that he had resolved the charges. Pace also diverted checks drawn on the circus’ bank account to himself instead of using them to pay down a line of credit. Pace’s diversion of the line of credit payments caused thousands of dollars in interest to be accrued by the circus. Finally, Pace deposited thousands of dollars of donor checks made out to the circus into his personal account. In the plea agreement, Pace admitted defrauding the circus out of over $123,015. He also will be responsible for repaying fees and interest to two banks totaling $7,889. Pace also fraudulently applied for two U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Loans totaling $29,400. The SBA denied the loans. In court Wednesday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwendolyn Carroll said defrauding a nonprofit was “one of the most offensive types of frauds,” and represented years of deliberate acts by Pace. Pace, of Ladue, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to four counts of wire fraud. “The shame should only be borne by George Pace and no one else. He stole from a locally owned non-profit circus that has been creating fun memories for families and children for decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “Like a typical embezzler, Pace was a wolf in sheep’s clothing and exploited the trust that was given him.” The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwendolyn Carroll prosecuted the case.


title: Mannford Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Producing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Mannford man was sentenced today for Production of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Thomas William Martin, 42, to 360 months' imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release. Upon his release, Martin will be required to register as a sex offender. Lastly, Martin was ordered to pay $28,000 in restitution. According to court documents and statements during the sentencing, the Broken Arrow Police Department began investigating Martin in 2024 after receiving reports that he had inappropriate contact with minor children. After detectives executed a search warrant on Martin’s devices, they discovered 1,132 images of children, including infants, being raped and abused. Detectives discovered that Martin had taken sexually explicit images of children under his care. The child sexual abuse material found on Martin’s devices was sent to the National Child Victim Identification System, managed by the NCMEC, for identification. They identified 97 children whose images were previously identified and reported to NCMEC for cataloging. Those victims live in the United States and various parts of the world. They were notified and allowed to submit victim impact statements to the court. Restitution paid by Martin will go directly to the victims who requested restitution. Martin will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI, the Broken Arrow Police Department, the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, local, and tribal 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: Department of Justice indicts eight conspirators who threatened  University of Michigan officials, businesses, and the Jewish Federation

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – Eight individuals associated with the University of Michigan were indicted for their alleged roles in conspiracies to threaten University of Michigan leaders, law enforcement, and businesses, including the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, announced U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan of the FBI Detroit Field Office joined Gorgon in the announcement. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Zainab Aliasgar Hakim (Canton, Michigan) (age 23), Amatullah Aliasgar Hakim (Ann Arbor, Michigan) (age 21), Paige Elizabeth Feyock (Ann Arbor, Michigan) (age 26), Ahmet Kerem Korkaya (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) (age 28), Jonathan Hongru Zou (Ann Arbor, Michigan) (age 22), Alexander Matthew Sepulveda (Chicago, Illinois) (age 23), Mariam Muhammed Odeh (Dearborn, Michigan) (age 24), and Colin Hunter Weger (Ann Arbor, Michigan) (age 24). “In America, we rule by law not by fear. These alleged threats and attempts to terrorize government officials, businesses, and the Jewish Federation are anti-American. We will counter intimidation with justice,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon. “No one has the right to threaten, intimidate, and coerce public officials, law enforcement officers, community institutions, or their families. In the dead of night, masked and hooded defendants allegedly threw noxious chemicals through the windows of families’ homes and taped demand letters to their front doors. At every step they attempted to cover their tracks and delete evidence of their crimes. Those who engage in coordinated campaigns of threats and intimidation should expect to be held fully accountable under federal law,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “This multi-state operation led to the arrests of numerous defendants across Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin for alleged criminal activity committed within our state. I am grateful for the exceptional work of the dedicated FBI Detroit team, alongside our partners from FBI Chicago, FBI Milwaukee, University of Michigan Department of Public Safety, Ann Arbor PD, Huntington Woods PD, City of Plymouth PD, Bloomfield Twp PD, Canton PD, Chicago PD (Illinois), Milwaukee PD, Southfield PD, Novi PD, Romulus PD, West Bloomfield PD, Michigan State Police, Ypsilanti PD, Eastern Michigan University PD, and the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center, whose collaboration made this operation possible." After the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel, the defendants and unindicted conspirators enacted a series of coordinated “actions” threatening University of Michigan leaders, law enforcement, and businesses. Seemingly prompted by their perception of the University of Michigan’s and other victims’ purported financial support of Israel, the conspirators insisted publicly that they “must escalate, mobilize, and organize to demand divestment by any means necessary.” According to the indictment, on October 20, 2023, the defendants publicly posted a list of demands on social media directed at University of Michigan leadership. Among the demands, they required the University to make a “full and complete divestment” from Israel and any businesses supporting Israel. Unsatisfied by the University’s response, the defendants “prepared to take action” against the leadership by what they called “autonomous actions,” which included forcibly entering and occupying University of Michigan buildings, defacing buildings, and blocking and disrupting events on campus. They also posted threats on the internet that included photos of their “autonomous actions.” Below are two examples of the alleged threats posted to social media after “autonomous actions” targeting the homes of a University of Michigan elected official and the University of Michigan Provost. The defendants also allegedly held meetings to identify targets of their “autonomous actions.” They used the internet to research personal addresses, photographs, political and social connections, business ownership, and other personal details of the targets. They also discussed methods by which to harm the targets and their families, including poison, bombs, and psychological torture. For example, on May 21, 2024, Feyock and then-medical student Korkaya agreed to “kill,” “torment,” and “terrorize” their targets and families. Referring to one victim, Korkaya stated his “entire family” was on his “hit list” Feyock added that they should “get” the “kids” of two victims. Korkaya, referring to another victim, stated, “I’m gonna be the dirtiest f------- doctor ever / I’m gonna be [victim’s] doctor / poison her a-- slowly.” Feyock agreed, “We need people following [victim] / get into that house then burn it down.” As part of the conspiracy, the defendants are alleged to have traveled at night to the targeted homes and businesses. They damaged and defaced homes and businesses with spray-painted messages, threats, and symbols, including inverted triangles, which Hamas has used in its military videos to mark targets for death; red handprints, which Hamas has used to symbolize the Ramallah Lynching of 2000 and the murder of two Israeli military reservists during the Second Intifada; and phrases such as “INTIFADA” and “DIVEST NOW.” The defendants also left demand notes containing additional threats, caulked doors shut, bike-locked entryways, broke windows, and threw glass jars filled with butyric acid and dye into the homes. The defendants took photographs of the destruction and posted the photos online with “official statements” and additional warnings and threats, such as “you cannot hide” and “we only come back stronger.” Below are photos of the alleged threats spray-painted on the Jewish Federation Building on the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel, as well as two other businesses. The indictment also charges Zainab Aliasgar Hakim and Paige Elizabeth Feyock with witness intimidation. In July and August 2024, Hakim and Feyock devised a plan to confront the victim, a University of Michigan student whom they believed may have been cooperating with federal authorities. They planned to convince the victim not to provide information about the defendants’ criminal activities. Hakim warned that the victim was “going to send us to federal prison.” Feyock explained, “we have to do something about [victim] / [victim] is actually a liability / the fact that [victim] is naming you to [unindicted conspirator] is a major issue.” Feyock told other conspirators that the victim “has to be neutralized” and that she and Hakim were going to “strip search” the victim “to see if he is wearing a wire / not taking no chances with him.” Hakim and Feyock confronted the victim on August 6, 2024, and afterward, Feyock told another conspirator that the victim “knows not to talk about [the autonomous actions].” Alexander Matthew Sepulveda is also charged in the indictment with destruction of property to prevent seizure. According to the indictment, Sepulveda and Jonathan Hongru Zou were involved in an “autonomous action” at the home of the University of Michigan’s Provost. Sepulveda and Zou threw two glass jars filled with a blue substance and food compost through a window of the Provost’s home. They also spray painted the home with inverted red triangles and phrases including “Divest” and “Free Palestine.” In April 2025, law enforcement attempted to execute a search warrant at Sepulveda’s home. An unindicted conspirator warned multiple conspirators about the warrant via encrypted group chats. In response, Sepulveda is alleged to have cleared the contents of his phone and laptop. Upon conviction, the alleged crimes carry the following penalties: Conspiracy to Transmit a Threat: up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000; Conspiracy to Tamper with a Witness: up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000; and Destruction of Property to Prevent Seizure: up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000. This case was investigated by FBI Detroit with assistance from the following agencies: University of Michigan Department of Public Safety, Ann Arbor PD, Huntington Woods PD, City of Plymouth PD, Bloomfield Twp PD, Canton PD, Chicago PD (Illinois), Southfield PD, Novi PD, Romulus PD, West Bloomfield PD, Michigan State Police, Ypsilanti PD, Eastern Michigan University PD, Michigan Intelligence Operations Center, and the Michigan Department of Attorney General. The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Resnick Cohen, Maggie Smith, Matthew Roth, and Robert Kuhn. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.


title: Ohio Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: COVINGTON, Ky. – A Cincinnati, Ohio, man, Gregory Kimble, 37, was sentenced on Tuesday to 97 months by U.S. District Judge Chad Meredith for felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, in the early hours of January 1, 2025, officers responded to a hotel in Covington and encountered a woman who told them that she had just discharged Kimble’s pistol in the hallway outside his hotel room before fleeing to the lobby. She also indicated that Kimble had discharged the pistol in the hotel room hours before. Officers did not find the pistol on January 1, 2025, but they did find a spent cartridge and two live rounds of ammunition in Kimble’s room. They also observed a bullet hole in the wall outside his room. On January 2, 2025, Kimble engaged in a text message conversation from jail regarding the retrieval of his property from the hotel. During that conversation, Kimble asked the other person to let Kimble know when he goes to the hotel so that Kimble could provide him with “specific instructions on how to do something else very important.” Law enforcement thereafter returned to the hotel and located a pistol hidden on a ceiling tile in the hotel’s internal stairwell that matched the woman’s description of Kimble’s pistol, as well as the ammunition found in Kimble’s hotel room. Kimble admitted to possession of the firearm and that he knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a prior felony. Kimble also admitted that he had hidden the firearm on the ceiling tile. Kimble was previously convicted of trafficking in controlled substances in 2019. Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Louisville Field Division; and Chief Justin Wietholter, Covington Police Department, announced the sentence. he investigation was referred to ATF by the Kenton County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, who separately indicted Kimble for other, state-level felony crimes in connection with Kimble’s conduct on January 1, 2025. The investigation was conducted by the Covington Police Department and the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Spievack is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. – END –


title: Missoula man pleads guilty to gun charge

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

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Missoula man who had previously been convicted of felony assault admitted to illegally possessing a firearm today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. The defendant, Jason Duane Spadt, 54, pleaded guilty to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Spadt faces 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Oct. 8, 2026. Spadt remained released pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Spadt was found with a loaded handgun in his truck during a traffic stop in Great Falls. Spadt was convicted in October 2022 in Missoula County of partner/family member assault and as part of his conviction he is registered as a violent offender and explicitly prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. On March 5, 2025, Spadt was pulled over in Great Falls and when officers conducted a probation search of Spadt’s truck, they found a 9mm handgun loaded with a round in the chamber. Along with the gun, officers found 9mm hollow point ammunition. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Great Falls Police Department conducted the investigation.


title: George Herman Ruth Sentenced To 11 Years For Mail Fraud Scheme And Violating Supervised Release

component: USAO - Tennessee, Eastern

body_text: GREENEVILLE, TN – On June 10, 2026, George Herman Ruth, 70, of Morristown, was sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment by the Honorable Clifton Corker, United States District Judge, in the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville. Today’s sentence followed Ruth’s prior entry of a guilty plea to twenty-five separate counts of mail fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud class action administrators throughout the country. Following Ruth’s imprisonment, he will be on federal supervised release for three years. According to filed court documents and statements made in court, Ruth was previously sentenced to prison for 56-months for Conspiracy to Defraud the United States Social Security Administrator, and Conspiracy to Defraud the United States Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, in the Southern District of Indiana. Upon his release from imprisonment, in October of 2023, Ruth began serving a term of federal supervised release in the Eastern District of Tennessee that required him to submit truthful monthly reports to his supervising probation officer. From at least January 2023 and continuing through at least July of 2025, Ruth engaged in a large-scale scheme to deceive class action administrators and to enrich himself through fraud. Ruth identified class action lawsuit settlements and submitted hundreds of fraudulent claim forms to different class action administrators in which he purported to be entitled to relief under the terms of the relevant class action lawsuit. Ruth predominately used the names of former Major League Baseball players to submit false claims. To facilitate his fraud, Ruth opened post office boxes throughout northeast Tennessee to receive mail from class action administrators and opened a bank account in the name a sham business called “El Mundo Marketing” to deposit fraudulent received payments from class action administrators. Ruth used proceeds from the fraud scheme to travel, to gamble, and to continue the scam. Ruth admitted that he attempted to obtain more than $250,000 through his fraud scheme. Ruth repeatedly submitted false monthly supervision reports to his probation officer to facilitate his mail fraud scheme. For example, Ruth falsely reported on numerous monthly supervision reports that he did not have access to a post office box when, in truth, Ruth had thirteen separate post office boxes that he used to advance his mail fraud scheme. Additionally, Ruth falsely reported on monthly supervision reports that he did not travel out-of-state when, in fact, Ruth regularly traveled out-of-state without permission. “George Herman Ruth’s conviction exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the United States Attorney’s Office to investigate and prosecute individuals who commit fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III for the Eastern District of Tennessee. “The eleven-year prison sentence imposed today reflects the seriousness of Ruth’s actions and will hopefully deter others from running schemes to defraud in the Eastern District of Tennessee.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service has been at the forefront of protecting consumers from fraud schemes for many years,” said Inspector in Rodney M. Hopkins of the United States Postal Inspection Service’s Atlanta Division. “Anyone who engages in deceptive practices like this should know they will not go undetected and will be held accountable, regardless of where they are.” This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, and the Morristown Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan Blackwell, Christian Lampe, Mac Heavener, and Wayne Taylor represented the United States. ###


title: Man Charged with Sending Antisemitic Threats to Kill Governor of Hawaii and His Family

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Eric Lee Boltz, 51, residing in Montana, was charged by criminal complaint on June 3, 2026, with sending interstate communications containing threats and cyberstalking. Boltz was arrested and had his initial appearance in the District of Montana on June 10. Boltz was ordered detained pending transportation to the District of Hawaii. According to court records, in December 2025, Boltz left a series of threatening and antisemitic voicemails with Hawaii Governor Josh Green’s office. Disguising his voice, Boltz threatened to kill the Governor and his family and sexually assault his daughter. When interviewed by law enforcement, Boltz said he left the voicemails to “shake [Governor Green] up.” If convicted, Boltz faces up to 5 years in prison and fine of up to $250,000 per count, plus a term of supervised release. The charges in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. In the case of conviction, any sentence would be imposed by a United States District Judge based on the statutory sentencing factors and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines. FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Eucker is prosecuting the case.


title: Los Angeles Man Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison For Conspiring to Distribute Controlled Substances

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Bao Xu, 33 years old, of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine and distributing five grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Xu was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release. “For more than a year, Xu distributed harmful drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine across the country. From his Los Angeles apartment, Xu marketed drugs on the Dark Web, sold them in exchange for virtual currency, and arranged their delivery via mail. This high-tech scheme distributed drugs to every state in the United States, including cities and towns throughout Indiana, averaging more than 260 drug deals and $55,000 in sales per month and ultimately leading to the seizure of more than $2,000,000 in virtual currency. Xu’s sentence makes clear that drug traffickers cannot hide on the Dark Web: They will be tracked down and brought to justice for sending poison to the heartland. This prosecution was brought through the combined efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Indiana State Police, New York City Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and South Gate Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney and NDIN Appellate Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. “The Drug Enforcement Administration is leading efforts to combat cyber and Dark Web-based criminal networks responsible for the surge of controlled substances throughout the United States. These illicit operations pose a significant threat to public health and safety, exploiting vulnerable individuals and fueling addiction within our communities. For more than a year, Xu managed a highly sophisticated, nationwide drug trafficking organization that operated on a mass scale, thus profiting from the suffering of others. Even Indiana was not immune to his illegal and immoral actions. The sentencing of Xu sends a clear message that this type of criminal activity is not welcomed here in our Hoosier state,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke. “The FBI is committed to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into our communities and holding accountable those responsible for distributing them,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. “Today's sentence is the result of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to protecting the public from the dangers associated with drug trafficking.” Xu’s co-defendant, Jianhua Zhao, is currently scheduled for sentencing on September 3, 2026. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Indiana State Police, New York City Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and South Gate Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney and Appellate Division Chief Joseph P. Falvey. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.


title: Jury Convicts Arizona Man for Threatening to Kill President Trump and Former Vice President Harris

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – An Arizona man was convicted by a federal jury on June 8, 2026, for threatening to kill former Vice President Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump. Rene Ortiz, 56, of Casa Grande, Arizona, was found guilty of two felony violations for Making Threats Against Successors to the Presidency and one felony violation of Threats Against Former Presidents. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 1, 2026, before Senior U.S. District Judge Stephen M. McNamee. On Nov. 5, 2024—Election Day—Ortiz delivered to the federal courthouse in Phoenix a written threat to “execute the newly elected [President of the United States] by firing an M-16A2 service rifle with a magazine of 6 rounds,” directed at both candidates. After the election, on Nov. 25, 2024, Ortiz delivered a second threat to shoot “the incoming fraudulent elected [President of the United States] … at the inauguration on January 20th, 2025,” to the federal courthouse in Tucson. When interviewed by the U.S. Secret Service about the threats, Ortiz repeated his intent to make the threats; he was subsequently arrested on Jan. 17, 2025, ahead of the Presidential Inauguration. “The message in this case is clear: The American people will not stand for threats of political violence against President Trump or any other elected official,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “A jury of Mr. Ortiz’s peers unanimously agreed that his threats were egregious violations of the law and rendered a just verdict. Once again, federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and agents from the U.S. Marshals Service and U.S. Secret Service proved their excellent skills and duty in protecting our elected officials.” “The Secret Service takes every threat against our protectees with the utmost seriousness,” said Special Agent in Charge William R. Mack of the Phoenix Field Office. “Our agents, working closely with our law enforcement partners, acted swiftly and thoroughly to investigate these threats and ensure the safety of those we are sworn to protect. This conviction demonstrates our unwavering commitment to our protectees and to upholding the law, as well as the dedication and professionalism of our team and law enforcement partners.” “Our incredible Nation continues to flourish through a living Constitution with the understanding that we must abide by the Rule of Law,” said U.S. Marshal Van Bayless. “This case is an excellent reminder that anyone who threatens or attempts to intimidate our elected or appointed officials will be investigated by law enforcement, will be prosecuted, and will be held accountable for their conduct.” A conviction for Threats Against the President and Successors to the Presidency or Threats Against Former Presidents carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. The U.S. Secret Service conducted the investigation with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Chang and Abbie Broughton, District of Arizona, Phoenix, are handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: 25-CR-00153 RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-095_Ortiz # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Convicted felon charged with assaulting a federal officer

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Keith Holmes, 30, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with assault on a federal officer, discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and being a felon in possession of ammunition. The charges carry mandatory minimum penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum of life. According to the criminal complaint, in October 2020, Holmes was convicted in the District of Maine on federal charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and sentenced to serve 96 months in prison. Subsequently, jurisdiction of Holmes’ supervision was transferred to the Western District of New York. On May 13, 2026, an arrest warrant was issued for Holmes for violating the terms of his federal supervised release, causing Holmes to become a fugitive from justice. On June 8, 2026, four Deputy U.S. Marshals (USMS), along with nine USMS Fugitive Task Force officers, went to a residence at 861 Glenwood Avenue in Buffalo to arrest Holmes for violating the terms of his supervised release. At approximately 3:25 p.m., law enforcement surrounded the residence and announced their presence. They entered the residence and approached a bedroom where Holmes was located. As law enforcement was about to make entry, Holmes fired multiple rounds through the bedroom door in the direction of the Deputy U.S. Marshals and Task Force Officers, striking a ballistic shield held by one Deputy U.S. Marshal approximately three times. Law enforcement returned fire striking Holmes, who was provided medical treatment, and transported to the Erie County Medical Center for further treatment. No members of law enforcement were injured. The FBI recovered a 9mm privately made firearm, referred to as a “ghost gun,” on a dresser in the bedroom near where law enforcement initially encountered Holmes. The FBI also recovered approximately 20 live rounds of 9mm ammunition and multiple fired 9mm cartridge casings. “This case highlights the dangers that are faced every day by law enforcement officers,” stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “Rather than run away, these officers are running towards danger in their efforts to enforce the law and keep our communities safe. Any defendant who puts the life of a law enforcement officer at risk will face the consequences and be held fully accountable.” “On Monday afternoon, our US Marshals Task Force was on Glenwood Avenue working to protect the City of Buffalo by removing a dangerous and violent criminal from our streets. During this arrest operation, they came under attack and were forced into a gunfight to defend their lives,” said Charles Salina, U.S. Marshal for the Western District of New York. “I would like to recognize the courageous work of every member of our task force. Thank God for their exceptional training and teamwork, they were able to successfully respond to the threat and return home safely to their families and loved ones.” “Violence against law enforcement officers threatens the safety of our communities and will not be tolerated,” said Brendan Dunford, Acting Special Agent-in- Charge of FBI Buffalo. “These officers put themselves in harm's way every day to protect the American people. When someone attacks law enforcement, they are threatening the safety of our communities. FBI Buffalo and our partners will relentlessly pursue those responsible and ensure they are held accountable.” The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan E. Leydecker. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Brendan Dunford, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Erica Shields. Additional assistance was provided by the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Brazos County methamphetamine dealer sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violation in the Eastern District of Texas

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Bryan drug dealer has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Matthew Forrest Jarrett, 38, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on June 10, 2026. According to information presented in court, in June of 2025, law enforcement received information that Jarrett would be delivering a large amount of methamphetamine to the Liberty County area. A traffic stop was attempted and Jarrett fled at a high rate of speed. Once the vehicle pursuit ended, Jarrett attempted to flee on foot and was apprehended by a canine unit. Jarrett was arrested pursuant to active warrants, and a search of the vehicle revealed nearly one kilogram of methamphetamine and 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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Lee. ###


title: Nashua man sentenced to 7 years in prison for trafficking meth by train

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Nashua man who helped traffic methamphetamine in Montana was sentenced today to 88 months, followed by 10 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. J. Daniel Peters, 55, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that Peters and a partner were smuggling meth from Michigan into the Wolf Point area by Amtrak train. In July 2024, law enforcement learned that Peters was possibly involved with moving drugs by train into Montana. By February 2025, agents had received approval to track calls made from Peters’s phone. They discovered Peters was in contact with a number ultimately determined to belong to Peters’s partner, Deante Mathis. The same phone number Peters and Mathis were using was also used as a contact number for Amtrak train reservations between Detroit, Michigan, and Glasgow, Montana. On March 20, 2025, law enforcement learned train tickets from Detroit to Glasgow had been purchased for the following day using the number. Law enforcement staked out the Glasgow Amtrak station and saw Peters arrive by car and pick up Mathis, who had been on the train. Officers searched Peters’s vehicle and found roughly one pound of meth in Mathis’s luggage. Mathis admitted to law enforcement that he moved meth by train three times in the previous six months, providing it to Peters who sold it around the Wolf Point area and using the proceeds to buy more. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.


title: New Orleans Man Guilty of Felony Drug and Gun Charges

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On June 5, 2026, defendant, PHALANDERS RASHAAD KING (“KING”) , age 37, pleaded guilty, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to Count One, Count Two, Count Three, Count Four, Count Five, and Count Six of the Superseding Bill of Information pending against him, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. Count One charged the defendant with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, forty (40) grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D) and 846. Count Two charged the defendant with distribution of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Three charged the defendant with distribution of forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Count Four charged the defendant with possession with intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin and cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Five charged the defendant with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count Six charged the defendant with maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 856(a)(1). As to Count One, Three, and Four, KING faces a term of imprisonment of between 5 and 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000 and at least four years of supervised release. For Count Two, the maximum penalty is up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release. For Count Five, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A)(i), the maximum penalties are between 5 years and up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutively to any other sentence of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. For Count Six, the penalty is up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, and up to three years of supervised release. KING also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for each count to which he pled guilty. He is scheduled for sentencing on September 17, 2026. According to court documents, on August 24, 2023, undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted an operation to locate fentanyl distributors in the French Quarter. Through this effort, agents located KING’s co-defendants. Through 2023 and into 2024, undercover agents conducted ten purchases of fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine from KING’s co-defendants, and eventually from KING himself. Through surveillance operations and a court-authorized wire interception of KING’s phone, agents established that KING conspired with his co-defendants to distribute these drugs, utilizing an apartment and a storefront that KING maintained in the Central Business District of New Orleans. Agents executed a search warrant on those two locations in May 2024, that allowed the recovery of additional controlled substances, fourteen firearms, and over $10,000 in U.S. currency. In total, over the course of the investigation, agents recovered over 300 grams of fentanyl and over 300 grams of methamphetamine from members of the conspiracy. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and 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. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Dawkins and Brittany L. Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Okreek Man Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Federal Prison  for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced an Okreek, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on June 2, 2026. Sheldon Denoyer, age 36, was sentenced to five years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Forfeiture of the unregistered firearm was also ordered. Denoyer was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2025. He pleaded guilty on March 2, 2026. This conviction stems from an incident that occurred on June 13, 2023, in Mission, South Dakota, within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On that date, Denoyer was observed standing on a street corner with a short-barreled rifle, firing it into the air. Denoyer then got into a vehicle and departed the area. A short time later he was observed exiting the vehicle, leaving the rifle behind, and fleeing from law enforcement. The rifle was recovered and found to have a barrel length of 11 ¾ inches. The rifle was not registered to Denoyer in the National Firearm Registration and Transfer record as required by federal law. 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). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case. Denoyer was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Man Surrenders for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Today, United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Said Abdullahi Ereg surrendered peacefully to the FBI. He was indicted on June 24, 2024, for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. According to court documents, Ereg exploited the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the COVID-19 pandemic and was involved in obtaining, misappropriating, and laundering millions of dollars in program funds that were meant to feed children in need. He ran a grocery and deli in Minneapolis and was under the sponsorship of the nonprofit, Feeding Our Future. A federal arrest warrant was issued for Ereg after he was charged, but he was not arrested as he was living overseas and his exact whereabouts were unknown. The Federal Child Nutrition Program operates throughout the United States and administers the programs at the national and regional levels by distributing federal funds to state governments, which provide oversight over the Federal Child Nutrition Program. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) administered the program in the state. According to court documents, Ereg owned and operated Evergreen Grocery and Deli, a for-profit business that participated in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future. From approximately April 2020 to April 2021, Ereg is alleged to have defrauded the program by submitting false reimbursement claims, for which he received more than $4.2 million in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. At times, Evergreen Grocery and Deli claimed to have served more than 3,000 meals, twice a day, seven days a week. Ereg’s wife, Najmo Ahmed, also worked at the business and received payroll payments directly from Feeding Our Future. Ahmed pleaded guilty on February 24, 2025, to one count of money laundering. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2026, by United States District Court Judge Nancy E. Brasel. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports 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. On June 4, 2026, the FBI announced the launch of its Most Wanted Fraudsters List, publicly identifying Ereg as a fugitive from justice. The next day, Ereg communicated through counsel his desire to return to the United States. He surrendered to FBI agents at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport earlier this afternoon. “Today’s apprehension of Said Abdullahi Ereg, a fugitive on the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters List, highlights the collective commitment of the DOJ, FBI, IRS, and USPIS, along with our USAO to bring every alleged fraudster to justice. Ereg was one of eight fugitives added to the FBI’s newly announced fraud list just six days ago and is the first to be taken into custody to face charges for his alleged actions,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “We are proud to have assisted the Department of Justice in today’s surrender of a suspect accused of betraying the public’s trust and committing crimes against our community’s most vulnerable,” said HSI Minneapolis/St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy. “This case sends a clear message: being outside the United States does not place you beyond the reach of HSI and our law enforcement partners. Our commitment is unwavering: those who exploit programs intended to support children and families will be identified, investigated, and brought to justice here in Minnesota.” The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Kline, Matthew Murphy, and Austin Bowyer are prosecuting the case.


title: Former Hapeville Police Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Tasing Handcuffed Detainee and Obstructing Justice

body_text: ATLANTA - Shevoy Brown, a former officer with the Hapeville, Georgia Police Department, was sentenced to more than three years in prison for using unreasonable force by repeatedly tasing a handcuffed detainee and then writing a false report to cover up his crime. “Brown willfully violated our Constitution by abusing his power to violently and unnecessarily assault a man in his custody. He then made matters worse by writing a false report in a failed effort to obstruct any investigation of the matter,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Brown’s misconduct was a violation of his oath and is an affront to our district’s many honorable law enforcement officers who serve with great integrity.” “This sentence demonstrates that no one is above the law, including those entrusted to enforce it,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “When a law enforcement officer abuses their authority and violates an individual’s civil rights, the FBI will work to ensure they are held accountable.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other evidence presented during Brown’s trial: On the evening of June 3, 2024, Hapeville Police Department officers arrested a man for trespassing at an apartment complex and transported him to police headquarters. The man was placed alone in a small holding cell and handcuffed to a stationary bench. Although the detainee posed no threat, Brown entered the cell twice and tased him at least six times, including in the genitals, without any legal justification. Brown stopped tasing the victim only after another officer intervened. Brown’s repeated tasing caused injury that required medical attention. After the victim was transported from police headquarters by ambulance, Brown wrote a false use of force report in an attempt to justify and minimize his actions. In the report, Brown stated that he tased the victim twice to gain compliance after the victim supposedly kicked the door and window to the holding cell. But the victim had stopped hitting the window before Brown entered the cell and had never kicked anything. Moreover, Brown omitted that he handcuffed the victim to a bench and then tased the victim four additional times. Earlier today, U.S. District Judge Steven D. Grimberg sentenced Shevoy Brown, 31, of Hampton, Georgia, to three years and one month in prison, followed by two years of supervised release. Brown was convicted on February 26, 2026, following a jury trial. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Bret R. Hobson and Brent Alan Gray prosecuted the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Sisseton Woman Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison  for Possession of Fentanyl and Failure to Appear

body_text: ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Failure to Appear. The sentencing took place on June 1, 2026. Laycie Williams, age 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and four years in federal prison for Failure to Appear, with the sentences to be served consecutively for a total of 14 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Williams was also ordered to pay $3,968 in restitution and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance stemmed from an incident that occurred in February 2023, in Aberdeen, South Dakota. In the early morning hours of February 26, 2023, Williams and the victim were socializing at a residence in Aberdeen. Co-defendant Carlin Mellette arrived at the residence and provided Williams with three pills containing fentanyl. Williams shared the pills with the victim, who ingested only half of one pill, resulting in the fentanyl overdose death of the victim. Williams and Mellette were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023. Williams pleaded guilty on October 21, 2024. Following her guilty plea, Williams was released on bond pending sentencing. On May 19, 2025, Williams failed to appear for her scheduled sentencing hearing. Williams was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025 for Failure to Appear. She pleaded guilty to that offense on November 3, 2025. Mellette pleaded guilty to Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death, and he was sentenced in May 2025 to 25 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. “This is another tragic demonstration of the deadly and horrific nature of illicit fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The heartbreaking reality is that many of its victims never intended to take it at all. The victim here took only half the intended dose in one of these illegal pills, manufactured to look like a prescription opioid, and that was the end of her life. One mistake, one counterfeit pill, one irreversible moment can bring death and destruction to any family, in any of our communities, at any time. I can promise you that this Administration and every level of law enforcement across South Dakota are doing everything possible to dismantle the drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations bringing these poisons into our country.” 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). This case was investigated by the FBI Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Aberdeen Police Department, the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, the Potter County Sheriff’s Office, the Gettysburg Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case. Williams was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Justice Department Encourages Communities to Apply for Nearly $700M in Grants to Support Law Enforcement Around the Country

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department announced that the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) has released nearly $700 million in grant Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support law enforcement. The released NOFOs include the COPS Hiring Program (CHP) and several other grant programs that: Support the hiring and retention of sworn law enforcement officers, Keep school students safe, Promote the health and safety of our nation’s law enforcement personnel, Keep communities safe by providing active shooter training, and Provide critical technology resources through congressionally designated projects. “The funding announced today reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the men and women of law enforcement who keep our communities safe,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “By investing directly in law enforcement, we are empowering agencies across the country to respond more effectively to evolving threats. This is another key step in the Trump Administration’s mission to make America Safe Again — and one that will support our nationwide effort to reduce crime in every zip code.” “These grants will deliver real, measurable impact in communities across the country,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward Jr. “This Administration is committed to strengthening public safety and ensuring accountability to the taxpayer. The Department will make certain that every dollar invested goes directly toward reducing crime and upholding the rule of law. Supporting the heroic work of state, local, and tribal law enforcement is not only an honor, but an essential step forward in our shared mission to keep the American people safe.” The COPS Hiring Program is intended to reduce crime and advance public safety by providing direct funding to state, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies for the hiring of career law enforcement personnel in an effort to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Up to $158 million will be available. The STOP School Violence Prevention Program provides funding to improve security at schools and on school grounds in the grantees’ jurisdictions through evidence-based school safety programs. Up to $73 million will be available. The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Program provides funding to improve the delivery of and access to mental health and wellness services for law enforcement and their families through training and technical assistance, demonstration projects, and implementation of promising practices related to peer mentoring, access to mental health services and wellness programs. Up to $9 million will be available. The Preparing for Active Shooter Situations Program provides funding for scenario-based training that prepares officers, deputies, and other first responders to safely and effectively handle active-shooter and other violent threats. This year’s program will train at least 20,000 first responders through scenario-based, multi-disciplinary training classes. Up to $10 million will be available. The COPS Office Anti-Heroin Task Force Program advances public safety by providing funds directly to state law enforcement to locate and investigate illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids. Up to $34 million will be available. The COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program is designed to investigate illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine. Funding must be used to locate or investigate illicit activities such as precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine traffickers. Up to $13 million will be available. The COPS Technology and Equipment Program provides congressionally designated and directed spending to develop and acquire effective law enforcement equipment, technologies and interoperable communications that assist in responding to and preventing crime. This is not a competitive NOFO and Congress has allocated $400 million for the COPS Technology and Equipment Program. State and local governmental entities must comply with 8 U.S.C. § 1373, which provides that state and local government entities may not prohibit, or in any way restrict, any government entity or official from sending to, receiving from, maintaining, or exchanging information regarding citizenship or immigration status, lawful or unlawful, of any individual with components of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or any other federal, state or local government entity. Priority consideration will be given to jurisdictions that cooperate with federal law enforcement to address illegal immigration and coordinate and participate with the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF). The COPS Office is the component of the U.S. Department of Justice responsible for advancing the practice of community policing and the Administration’s priority of Making America Safe Again by supporting the nation’s state, local, territorial and Tribal law enforcement agencies through information and grant resources. For more information on COPS Office NOFOs, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants .


title: Sacramento Man Charged with Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a single-count indictment against Raymond Fetzer, 38, of Sacramento, charging him with receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. The indictment was unsealed today following Fetzer’s arrest. According to court documents, between April 16, 2024, and March 2, 2026, Fetzer was in receipt of CSAM downloaded from the internet. The Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Sokolich is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Fetzer faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years, and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty by beyond a reasonable doubt. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.


title: Federal judge convicts sex offender on child sexual exploitation charges

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A federal judge found a previously convicted sex offender guilty today on charges of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), coercion and enticement of a minor, receipt of CSAM, and possession of CSAM. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Brian James Backues, 46, sent sexually explicit chats to entice an 11-year-old girl to produce a video of sexually explicit conduct and to commit sexual acts between February and March of 2025. Backues was previously convicted of child sex crimes in the City of Norfolk in 2020. Backues faces a mandatory minimum of 35 years and up to life in prison when sentenced on Oct. 16. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Heck and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nikolas Nelson are prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-136.


title: Legal Permanent Resident Indicted for Illegally Voting in 2024 Election

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury returned a single-count indictment, presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, charging Ekam Monfum, 38, a legal permanent resident and non-citizen living in Rock Hill, for illegally voting as an alien. The indictment alleges that Monfum came to the United States in December 2022 and obtained status as a legal permanent resident because he is married to a United States citizen. Despite not being a citizen, in August 2024, a registration to vote was submitted through the registration portal with the South Carolina Election Commission in Monfum’s name. The process requires the registrant to affirm that they are a United States citizen. Therefore, Monfum voted in the 2024 election. Monfum faces a maximum penalty of one year in federal prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Monfum will have an arraignment scheduled in the next few weeks. The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Potterfield is prosecuting the case. All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Saint Francis Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Saint Francis, South Dakota man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on June 2, 2026. Ryan Leading Cloud, age 29, was sentenced to time served through June 12, 2026, equal to approximately seven and a half months in custody, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Leading Cloud was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2025. He pleaded guilty on March 2, 2026. The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on July 27, 2025, in Todd County, South Dakota, in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On that date, Leading Cloud was arrested for disorderly conduct, and he was transported to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Correctional Facility. Upon arrival at the Adult Correctional Facility, Leading Cloud spit at a corrections officer, hitting the officer that had transported Leading Cloud. This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case. Leading Cloud was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.