title: U.S. Department of Justice Announces Compensation Process for Victims Trafficked Through Backpage.com

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Today, the Department of Justice announced the launch of the Backpage remission process to compensate victims whose trafficking was facilitated through the Backpage.com website. This marks the largest remission process to date to compensate victims of human trafficking. “Backpage.com facilitated the exploitation of women and children as one of the largest online advertisers for commercial sex and sex trafficking over its 14-year existence,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Backpage and its executives made millions off the trafficking of victims. Today’s announcement underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to use forfeiture to take the profit out of crime and to compensate victims.” “Backpage used its position as the leading commercial sex advertisement website to make millions of dollars through their corrupt and heinous peddling of people,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “The District of Arizona was proud to hold its executives accountable though criminal convictions and is proud to continue our efforts by forfeiting those ill-gotten gains to compensate real victims.” “Today’s announcement shows the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that those who profit from human trafficking face the consequences of their actions,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “We will continue to work alongside partners to thwart this industry by decimating its capacity for monetary gain while seeking safeguards for its victims.” “Sex trafficking is one of the most horrific crimes we confront as a society,” said Chief Guy Ficco of IRS Criminal Investigation. “While traffickers try to operate in the shadows, the money always leaves a trail—and that’s where we come in. IRS-CI is committed to following that financial trail to expose criminal networks and help bring justice to survivors. We’re proud to work with our federal partners to dismantle those who profit from exploitation. Victims in this case should file their petitions by Feb. 2, 2026, to access the compensation they rightfully deserve.” From 2004 to April 2018, criminals used Backpage.com as an online platform to facilitate commercial sex and sex trafficking, including trafficking of minors. In April 2018, the government seized Backpage.com. To date, Backpage.com, its owners, and key executives and businesses related to the platform have been found guilty of criminal offenses, including conspiring to facilitate unlawful commercial sex using a facility in interstate or foreign commerce and money laundering, and have been sentenced to federal terms of imprisonment. In December 2024, the Department of Justice forfeited over $200 million in assets traceable to Backpage’s profits. These funds are now available to compensate victims for eligible losses. The Department of Justice has retained Epiq Global Inc. (Epiq) to serve as the Remission Administrator for this matter. Victims whose sex trafficking was facilitated through advertisements posted on Backpage.com between Jan. 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, and who incurred financial losses related to their trafficking may be eligible for remission. Individuals, their representatives, or estates of deceased victims may file a petition online or may obtain a Petition Form online at https://www.backpageremission.com/ . Victims may also call, email, or write to the Remission Administrator to request that a Petition Form be sent to them. The deadline to file a petition for remission is Feb, 2, 2026. For more information about the remission process – including eligibility requirements, updates, and frequently asked questions – please visit the official website at https://www.backpageremission.com/ or contact Epiq at 1-888-859-9206 toll-free, or 1-971-316-5053 for international calls, charges may apply. The Remission Administrator and the Justice Department will not ask for any payment to participate in this remission process. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated this matter. Senior Trial Attorney Austin Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Rapp with assistance on forfeiture from Joseph Bozdech of the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan, Chief of the Central District of California’s Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section, handled the asset forfeiture aspects of the related civil cases. Special Agent Richard Robinson of IRS-CI, Special Agent Desirae Tolhurst of the FBI, USPIS Inspectors Lyndon Versoza and Quoc Thai, and Analyst Jane Chung with the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, spearheaded the investigation. The Department of Justice, through the Asset Forfeiture Program, works diligently to compensate victims of crime. Since 2000, the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), which oversees the Asset Forfeiture Program’s victim compensation program, has successfully used its specialized expertise to return more than $12 billion in forfeited assets to victims of crime. MLARS Senior Attorney Advisor Jane K. Lee and Attorney Advisor Brittany R. Van Camp with the section’s Program Management and Training Unit are leading the remission process.


title: Rapid City Man Sentenced to 17 ½ Years in Federal Prison  for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine In and Around Rapid City

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, who was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on July 25, 2025. Andre Gibson, 46, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Gibson was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in May 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025. Gibson received multiple packages of methamphetamine through the United States Mail Service from surrounding states and worked with others to sell the methamphetamine within South Dakota. Working with others from outside of South Dakota, Gibson ultimately distributed between 1.5 and 5 kilograms (between 3 and 11 pounds) of methamphetamine in the Rapid City area. “More and more often, criminals are shipping narcotics through the U.S. mail system,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Fortunately, our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners are highly skilled at intercepting these packages and tracking down suspects, thereby allowing the U.S. Attorney’s Office to secure federal convictions and pursue significant prison sentences, just as we did against Andre Gibson.” This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case. Gibson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Illumina Inc. to Pay $9.8M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Arising from Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Genomic Sequencing Systems

component: Civil Division

body_text: Illumina Inc. has agreed to pay $9.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act when it sold to federal agencies certain genomic sequencing systems with cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Illumina is a Delaware corporation, headquartered in California, that manufactured and sold genomic sequencing systems throughout the United States. The settlement resolves allegations that, between February 2016 and September 2023, Illumina sold government agencies genomic sequencing systems with software that had cybersecurity vulnerabilities, without having an adequate security program and sufficient quality systems to identify and address those vulnerabilities. Specifically, the United States contended that Illumina knowingly failed to incorporate product cybersecurity in its software design, development, installation, and on-market monitoring; failed to properly support and resource personnel, systems, and processes tasked with product security; failed to adequately correct design features that introduced cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the genomic sequencing systems; and falsely represented that the software on the genomic sequencing systems adhered to cybersecurity standards, including standards of the International Organization for Standardization and National Institute of Standards and Technology. “Companies that sell products to the federal government will be held accountable for failing to adhere to cybersecurity standards and protecting against cybersecurity risks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement underscores the importance of cybersecurity in handling genetic information and the Department’s commitment to ensuring that federal contractors adhere to requirements to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.” “This settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to combat cybersecurity risks by ensuring that federal contractors protect private and sensitive government information.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom for the District of Rhode Island. “This settlement demonstrates our continued commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure companies fulfill their contractual obligations,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General. “Safeguarding the validity of Department of Defense research and data is vital to supporting the warfighter.” “ Significant damage can result from a failure to adhere to required cybersecurity standards, especially when the systems involved include sensitive genomic data,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to ensuring that entities who do business with the government uphold their cybersecurity obligations.” The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, Erica Lenore, a former Director for Platform Management, On-Market Portfolio at Illumina, to receive $1,900,000 as her share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex. rel. Lenore v. Illumina Inc. , No. 1:23-cv-00372 (D.R.I.). The resolution obtained in this matter 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 District of Rhode Island, with assistance from DCIS, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, and the Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General. The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Erin Colleran of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom of the District of Rhode Island. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. Note : Read the Settlement here


title: Ithaca Man Arrested for Enticement of a Minor and Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – David Pastorello, age 42, of Ithaca, New York, was arrested Tuesday evening and had his initial appearance on Wednesday on charges of enticement of a minor and distribution of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. The complaint alleges that Pastorello sent text messages to a girl under the age of 12, repeatedly requesting that the child have sex with him. Pastorello also sent the victim indecent images of himself, in addition to two images constituting child pornography under federal law. Later, Pastorello entered the victim’s apartment without permission before fleeing. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Prior to this offense, in May 2025, Pastorello was arraigned in Tompkins County Court for the New York State offense of possessing a sexual performance by a child less than 16 years old. In July 2025, just a few days prior to the incident that gave rise to the federal charges, Pastorello pled guilty in Cortland County Court to the New York State offense of disseminating indecent material to a minor. The Cortland County case was reset for sentencing. Pastorello was out on bond in both pending state cases. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Thanks to the quick work of federal, state, and local law enforcement, children have been protected and a dangerous predator has been apprehended. Despite having committed other crimes relating to child sexual abuse, Pastorello was allowed by state authorities to be out of custody. His new crimes demonstrate how dangerously unwise that decision was. Pastorello will be held fully accountable for the federal offenses he has committed.” FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Pastorello, a repeat offender with an alarming criminal history, is a dangerous predator who is now facing serious federal charges. These charges would not have been possible without the incredible assistance and coordination provided by our partners from the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, Ithaca Police Department, and New York State Police. Our communities should know the FBI is committed to leveraging these strong partnerships to bring the full weight of the federal government down on these disturbing predators looking to harm our children.” Following the initial appearance, Pastorello was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings. If convicted of enticement of a minor, Pastorello faces a maximum term of life in prison and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and for distribution of child pornography, a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute(s) the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. Pastorello would also be required to register as a sex offender if convicted. The FBI and New York State Police are conducting this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Hogback Man Charged After Violent Altercation Involving Firearm Leaves Woman Injured

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Hogback man is facing federal charges after an argument escalated into violence in front of multiple witnesses According to court documents, on June 19, 2025, Renaldo Descheny , 43, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe by strangling her and striking her in the face with a firearm. The assault resulted in a laceration requiring hospital treatment. During the altercation, Descheny also pointed the firearm at multiple individuals and discharged the weapon several times, including firing towards the vehicle as the victims attempted to flee. Descheny is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Descheny faces up to 10 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Pasco Man Caught With 25 Pounds of Methamphetamine Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza, age 27, a citizen of Mexico residing in Pasco, Washington, was sentenced on charges of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Birrueta-Mendoza pleaded guilty to those charges on February 18, 2025. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Birrueta-Mendoza to 10 years in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on January 18, 2024, Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in ongoing negotiations to sell upwards of 50 pounds of methamphetamine. On the day of the intended transaction, Birrueta-Mendoza was arrested by agents of the Department of Homeland Security and found to be in possession of 25 pounds of methamphetamine at a location in Sunnyside, Washington. Birrueta-Mendoza was unlawfully present in the United States when he committed this serious federal offense after being removed by authorities three times in 2018. “Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in drug trafficking after unlawfully returning to the United States. He intended to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine into our community without concern about its impact.” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Van Marter. “This office remains committed to working with our federal, state and tribal partners to remove those offenders who pose such a threat. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and my office’s commitment to hold drug distributors accountable.” “HSI remains committed to combating transnational criminal organizations that import and distribute narcotics in our communities,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin Jackson. “HSI will continue to ensure that individuals like Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza, who attempt to distribute narcotics in the Pacific Northwest, are held accountable.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy. 1:24-cr-02007-SAB


title: Turner Falls Man Sentenced for Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Turner Falls man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Springfield, Mass., for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Edward Dunphy, 79, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to three years in prison and five years of supervised release. In April 2025, Dunphy pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. Beginning in October 2022, an investigation began into online peer-to-peer file sharing networks used for the distribution of CSAM and, in February 2023, Dunphy was identified as a user actively uploading and downloading CSAM During a May 18, 2023 search of Dunphy’s home, a computer with an internal hard drive, eight external hard drives, a cell phone and an SD card among other items were seized. Upon forensic examination of these materials, over 340,000 files containing CSAM were located – including files depicting the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler and depicting the forcible rape of minor females. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Randy Maloney, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Montague Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Sullivan of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.


title: Convicted Felon Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison Following Robbery Spree of Six Indianapolis Businesses

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Javonte Smith, 34, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents, between November 21 and December 2, 2023, Smith went on an armed robbery spree in Indianapolis, Indiana, during which he robbed six businesses- often while armed with a handgun- and stole a total of $14,797 in cash. Date Victim Business November 21, 2023 Family Dollar; W. 38 th St. November 22, 2023 Family Dollar; E. 38 th St. November 23, 2023 McDonalds; N. Emerson Ave. November 24, 2023 Walmart; Fall Creek Dr. November 27, 2023 Walmart; N. Keystone Ave. December 2, 2023 Kroger; E. 16 th St. Following the final robbery on December 2 nd , Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officers followed Smith to a Motel 6 and arrested him. He was found wearing distinct shoes, black pants, and a blue dress- clothing he had been seen wearing on surveillance footage during several of the robberies. During a search of his vehicle, officers found additional disguises used in the crimes, including a black coat and black wig, medical mask, sunglasses, black gloves, a black puffer jacket, a brown coat, and a blue hooded sweatshirt. Officers also recovered a black Taurus handgun and the keys to a recently stolen GMC Terrain. At the time of his arrest, Smith had previously been convicted of multiple felonies; including resisting law enforcement, fraud on a financial institution, robbery, and two counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. These prior felony convictions prohibit Smith from ever legally possessing a firearm. “This defendant terrorized hard-working people just trying to do their jobs and earn a living,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Thanks to the swift work of our law enforcement partners, his violent crime spree was brought to an end, and he will now face serious federal prison time. This office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of repeat offenders who use firearms to commit violence in our communities.” “This sentence reflects the serious consequences awaiting those who choose violence and intimidation to commit their crimes. His action put lives at risk and threatened the safety of our community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable and get them - and the illegal weapons they carry - off our streets.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Walter, who prosecuted this case. SAUSA Walter is prosecuting violent crime cases as a part of the partnership with the City of Indianapolis to identify, investigate, and federally prosecute violent crimes taking place in Marion County. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: Convicted federal sex offender sentenced to 10 years in prison for possessing child sex abuse material

body_text: BILLINGS – A Terry man who possessed child sex abuse material was sentenced today to 120 months in prison to be followed by 30 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. He was also ordered to pay a $100 and a $5,000 special assessment. Ronald Orrin Schultz, Jr., 45, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The government alleged in court documents that on June 18, 2023, a file of suspected Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM) was uploaded to KIK. The video file depicted a prepubescent male engaged in sexual activity with an adult. The Cybertip associated with the upload identified an IP address, screen name, and email address with the KIK account. The investigation determined the upload originated from a residence in Terry, Montana. Law enforcement was aware that Schutlz, a convicted federal sex offender, lived there. A search warrant was obtained and executed on March 14, 2024. During the search, Schultz denied knowing anything about KIK. He did, however, identify where his electronic media would be discovered during the search and law enforcement collected it. A subsequent review of Schultz’s cellphone connected him to the KIK account. His other electronic media showed Schultz had an interest in minor females and he corresponded in a sexual nature with those he believed to be underage. The search warrant return relating to Schultz’s KIK account were even more incriminating and, for example, contained a limited number of CSAM images as well as videos of him masturbating and making representations that he likes underage girls and a willingness to go to jail as a result. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Prairie County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . XXX


title: Seven Face Methamphetamine Charges in Southeast Missouri

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: CAPE GIRARDEAU – Seven southeast Missouri residents have been arrested on federal indictments accusing them of drug crimes. All were indicted on July 1, 2025, and were arrested in a coordinated operation in recent weeks involving the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Sikeston Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the Charleston Police Department, the Mississippi County Sheriff's Office, the Scott County Sheriff's Office and the Missouri Air National Guard. Walter L. Rainey Jr., 51, of Sikeston, appeared in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau on Tuesday facing two counts of methamphetamine distribution. His detention motion says he sold a total of four ounces of meth during an investigation conducted by the DEA and the Sikeston DPS in 2024. Sikeston residents Ruben R. Hampton, 28, Rachaun L. Dorsey, 46, and Raheem O. Jones, 27, each face at least one count of methamphetamine distribution. Hampton faces a total of four, as well as two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dorsey faces three counts of methamphetamine distribution. Motions seeking to have the men held in jail until trial say they sold meth during a Sikeston DPS investigation. Malcom J. Turner, 34, of Sikeston, Christopher A. Howard, 48, of Sikeston, and William J. Bogan III, 26, of Scott City, in Scott County, Missouri, were each indicted separately with one count of methamphetamine distribution. A detention motion says the men sold meth during a DEA investigation. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. “The indictment of these individuals proves once again that no jurisdiction is immune to the presence of narcotics,” DEA St. Louis Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. “The DEA, in conjunction with our partners at the Sikeston Department of Public Safety and other law enforcement agencies, are to be applauded for investigating and removing these individuals from the streets of Southeast Missouri.” “This operation shows the ongoing collaboration between local and federal law enforcement,” said Sikeston Department of Public Safety Chief James B. McMillen. “Continuing to work together and sharing intelligence is the key to success. Our DEA partners are a vital part of our efforts to remove these dangerous people from our community.” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Hahn and Julie Hunter are prosecuting the cases.


title: Fugitive Member of Chilean ATM Crew Arrested after ATM Bombing in San Ramon

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A member of an ATM robbery crew has been arrested and charged with bank robbery and conspiracy to commit bank robbery arising from a string of robberies from banks and ATMs throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced. According to court documents, Diego Ananias Arellano Diaz, aka Fabio Cristian Hernandez, was arrested July 29, 2025, in Newport Beach for his participation in a conspiracy to break into and steal money from financial institutions between May and October 2024. To avoid detection, the crew rented short-term vacation properties near their intended targets and used cars rented on the black market. Conspirators identified ATMs in vulnerable locations and then, using construction-crew disguises, blowtorches, cellphone jammers, and other sophisticated tactics, broke into the ATMs and stole their cash. More than 29 banks and credit unions were targeted during the period of the conspiracy, with more than $4 million in cash taken. On Oct. 31, 2024, a grand jury returned an indictment charging 11 defendants with conspiracy to commit bank robbery and bank robbery. Arellano was separately charged by complaint as “John Doe 2” on Oct. 21, 2024, and again as Diego Arellano once his true name was learned on May 14, 2025. According to the San Ramon Police Department, Arellano was identified as the one of the suspects responsible for a bombing and burglary of an ATM in a Target in San Ramon that occurred on July 20, 2025. Court records reflect that Arellano is also charged in the Los Angeles Superior Court with assault with a deadly weapon under an alias, Fabio Hernandez. Arellano is presently in state custody and is expected to make his appearance in federal court following state proceedings. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the police departments of the cities of Burbank, Citrus Heights, Clovis, Elk Grove, Fresno, Garden Grove, Modesto, Newport Beach, Rocklin, Roseville, Sacramento, and San Ramon, and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Office, and the Seattle Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California also received assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the District of Oregon, the Central District of California, and the Western District of Washington. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert L. Veneman-Hughes and Justin J. Gilio are prosecuting the case. If convicted, the defendant face a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison for bank robbery and five years in prison for conspiracy to commit bank robbery. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Kenner Woman Pleads Guilty To FEMA Fraud

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Michael M. Simpson announced that SONJA LEE (“ LEE ”), age 49, pled guilty on July 29, 2025, to filing a false claim with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 287. According to the indictment, LEE , filed a false claim with FEMA for financial assistance alleging that, after Hurricane Ida, her primary residence and personal property were damaged, knowing that her claim was false. At sentencing, LEE faces up to five years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. LEE also will be ordered to pay restitution to FEMA. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial Crimes Unit handled the prosecution. * * *


title: Former Federal Prison Employee Admits to Methamphetamine Charge

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A former teacher at Federal Corrections Institution Gilmer has admitted to smuggling methamphetamine and other contraband into the prison for an inmate. Jordyn Peters, age 29, of Burnsville, West Virginia pled guilty to providing a prohibited object in prison – methamphetamine. According to court documents, over a three-month period in 2024, Peters delivered methamphetamine to an inmate in exchange for $4,000 while employed at FCI Gilmer. Peters faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Justice Office of Inspector General investigated. U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.


title: Berkeley County Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearms Charges

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Travis Jackson Latta, 38, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute eutylone. According to court documents and statements made in court, officers were responding to a domestic violence call and encountered Latta with a firearm. He is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior conviction of attempt to kill in retaliation against a witness. Latta, during a separate investigation, was also found in possession of eutylone, known as “Boot,” which he intended to unlawfully distribute. Latta will serve 15 years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Martinsburg Police Department investigated. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.


title: Metairie Man Sentenced to 175 Months Imprisonment for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that KEVIN LILLIS (“LILLIS”) , age 51, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was sentenced on July 30, 2025 to 175 months in prison by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, after previously pleading guilty to distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2). Judge Milazzo’s sentence also included 15-years of supervised release after LILLIS’s term of imprisonment, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and a requirement that LILLIS register as a sex offender. A restitution hearing is set for October 28, 2025 According to the court documents, after receiving a case referral based on evidence gathered in an unrelated investigation, special agents with the FBI executed a search warrant at LILLIS’S residence in March 2024. During the execution of the warrant, agents seized and searched electronic devices belonging to LILLIS that contained files depicting the sexual victimization of children and obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children, including more than 600 images and 6 videos, 1 of which was approximately 12 minutes in length, depicting the sexual victimization of children, and dozens of images and videos depicting such obscene visual representations. Among the files LILLIS searched for, downloaded, stored, and distributed, were images of newborn infants approximately less than one (1) day old at the time the files were created. The newborn infants were depicted engaging in sexually explicit conduct. These files also included images portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence. LILLIS distributed the files on numerous days between January 2024 and March 11, 2024. Agents also discovered conversations LILLIS had with other users of end-to-end encrypted messaging applications, including on or about November 19, 2023, December 20, 2023, February 5, 2024, and March 5, 2024, in which LILLIS stated he had engaged in hands-on sexual contact with multiple prepubescent minors as young as between eight and ten years old over the past two decades. During several of these conversations, LILLIS sent sexually suggestive pictures he took of minors with whom he interacted, including a prepubescent female who was approximately eight years old at the time the picture was taken, and whose picture LILLIS distributed on or about March 5, 2024. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's 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.projectsafechildhood.gov. U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Armed Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced To Prison

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that JAHREEK BUSH was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas to 117 months in prison for trafficking fentanyl and cocaine while armed with a loaded firearm. BUSH was previously convicted, following a five-day jury trial, of six counts of distributing or possessing with intent to distribute narcotics and one count of carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. “Jahreek Bush dealt highly dangerous drugs, including fentanyl that he falsely branded as heroin, and he illegally carried a loaded gun while doing so,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Armed drug traffickers fuel violence and overdoses in our communities. This Office and our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to bring to justice those who put innocent lives at risk.” According to allegations contained in the Superseding Indictment, the evidence offered at trial, and matters included in public filings: From January through April 2023, BUSH sold cocaine and fentanyl—which BUSH falsely billed as heroin—in Monticello, New York. On April 25, 2023, as BUSH arrived at a parking lot in Monticello for a drug deal, BUSH was arrested by officers from the New York State Police and the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office. At the time of his arrest, BUSH was wearing a fanny pack containing a loaded 9-millimeter semi‑automatic handgun, more than 100 individually wrapped packages containing fentanyl, and plastic bags containing additional fentanyl and cocaine. Images of the handgun and packages are shown below. * * * In addition to the prison term, BUSH, 29, of Monticello, New York, was sentenced to three years of supervised release. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, the New York State Police, and the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office in connection with this investigation. The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Vasu, Benjamin Levander, and Courtney Heavey are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Second Defendant Charged in a Superseding Indictment After Allegedly Assaulting Two Motorcyclists in Skull Valley

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Alex Doran Craig, 32, of Tooele County, Utah, with multiple violent crimes after he and his codefendant, previously charged, allegedly zip-tied, kidnapped, and assaulted two motorcyclists when they unknowingly crossed onto the Skull Valley Indian Reservation. According to court documents, in April 2025, Craig and Russell Allen, 50, of Tooele County, Utah, allegedly assaulted the victims and told them they were trespassing on Indian land. The victims were allegedly ordered to the ground facedown, zip-tied, kicked and threatened with a knife. As alleged, the defendants took the victims’ belongings, including their motorcycles, purportedly as an impound for trespassing. The victims were then transported in a truck traveling at an estimated 100 mph to a remote desert area. The victims were then released without any of their property and had to hike over 10 miles, which took about six or seven hours, for help from the Dugway gate guards. Law enforcement later recovered the motorcycles in a maintenance shed on Skull Valley Indian Reservation Road. In June 2025, many of the additional stolen items were recovered by law enforcement, including two cell phones, two wallets containing identification cards for the victims and a GoPro Max camera. During the investigation, video evidence, victim reports, witnesses and jail calls identified both Craig and Allen as participants in the alleged crimes against the victims. Craig and Allen are charged with kidnapping, assault, and theft while within Indian Country. Their initial appearance on the superseding indictment is scheduled for July 31, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Sam Pead of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). This case is also 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law .


title: Federal jury convicts four conspirators in vast Hampton Roads drug-trafficking ring

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A federal jury yesterday convicted four defendants charged in a 127-count superseding indictment relating to a Hampton Roads-based drug trafficking conspiracy. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, federal law enforcement opened an investigation into large-scale drug trafficking activity at Lux Auto in Newport News around June 2021. The conspirators used the business as a base of operations, storing illegal drugs in vehicles throughout the parking lot of Lux Auto. Members of the organization were frequently armed with handguns and other weapons. Between August 2020 and August 2023 at major airports in the Mid-Atlantic area, law enforcement seized almost $400,000 in drug proceeds and 1,000 pounds of marijuana and contraband relating to the conspiracy. Members of the organization had varying roles and responsibilities. The leaders engaged with the sources of supply outside Virginia and arranged for the purchase of large loads of marijuana. They also instructed other members of the organization to arrange for couriers to fly to the sources of supply, deliver money to them, and return to Virginia with the marijuana. The leaders further arranged for midlevel members to receive marijuana from couriers and distribute it to customers or have subordinate dealers sell the marijuana. Cortez Dayshawn Bumphus, aka Co, 32, was convicted of continuing criminal enterprise; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; conspiracy to launder money; being a felon in possession of a firearm; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime; maintaining a drug-involved premises; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking. Dilquon Best, aka Quon or DQ, 33, was convicted of continuing criminal enterprise; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; conspiracy to launder money; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking. Earvin Jerome Moore, aka Gooch, 45, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana; maintaining a drug-involved premises; and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking. Kamani Johnson, aka Komma or Kazz, 30, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of marijuana, and interstate travel in aid of racketeering. Thirty-one other defendants pled guilty previously. A federal district court judge will determine any sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Jason S. Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen accepted the verdict. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric M. Hurt and Luke Bresnahan are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Alyson C. Yates, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:23-cr-54.


title: Federal Grand Jury in Chicago Indicts Man for Felony Assault of Law Enforcement Officers for Alleged Attack During Arrest

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — A federal grand jury in Chicago has indicted a man for felony assault of three law enforcement officers for an alleged attack during the execution of an arrest warrant. The assaults occurred on the afternoon of July 17, 2025, in the lobby of the Kane County Sheriff’s Department in St. Charles, Ill., according to the indictment and a criminal complaint previously filed in the case. Two officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations approached FRANCISCO JAVIER ACEVEDO-CALDERA and informed him that they had a warrant for his arrest, the charges allege. Acevedo-Caldera, who had recently been bonded out of the Kane County Jail, resisted the arrest, kicked one of the officers, head-butted the other officer, and then bit a Kane County Sheriff’s Deputy who offered to assist the ICE-ERO officers, the charges allege. The officers were eventually able to subdue Acevedo-Caldera and execute the arrest warrant. Acevedo-Caldera, 39, who resided in Aurora, Ill., remains detained in federal custody. The indictment charges him with three counts of forcibly assaulting a law enforcement officer. Two of the counts are punishable by a maximum sentence of twenty years in federal prison, while one of the counts is punishable by up to eight years. Arraignment in federal court has not yet been scheduled. The indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Shawn L. Byers, Field Office Director for ICE-ERO in Chicago. Valuable assistance was provided by the Kane County Sheriff’s Department. The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Finch. The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. acevedo-caldera_indictment.pdf acevedo-caldera_complaint.pdf


title: Illumina Inc. to Pay $9.8M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Arising from Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Genomic Sequencing Systems

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE – llumina Inc. has agreed to pay $9.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act when it sold to federal agencies certain genomic sequencing systems with cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Illumina is a Delaware corporation, headquartered in California, that manufactured and sold genomic sequencing systems throughout the United States. The settlement resolves allegations that, between February 2016 and September 2023, Illumina sold government agencies genomic sequencing systems with software that had cybersecurity vulnerabilities, without having an adequate security program and sufficient quality systems to identify and address those vulnerabilities. Specifically, the United States contended that Illumina knowingly failed to incorporate product cybersecurity in its software design, development, installation, and on-market monitoring; failed to properly support and resource personnel, systems, and processes tasked with product security; failed to adequately correct design features that introduced cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the genomic sequencing systems; and falsely represented that the software on the genomic sequencing systems adhered to cybersecurity standards, including standards of the International Organization for Standardization and National Institute of Standards and Technology. “Companies that sell products to the federal government will be held accountable for failing to adhere to cybersecurity standards and protecting against cybersecurity risks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement underscores the importance of cybersecurity in handling genetic information and the Department’s commitment to ensuring that federal contractors adhere to requirements to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.” “This settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to combat cybersecurity risks by ensuring that federal contractors protect private and sensitive government information.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom for the District of Rhode Island. “This settlement demonstrates our continued commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure companies fulfill their contractual obligations,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General. “Safeguarding the validity of Department of Defense research and data is vital to supporting the warfighter.” “Significant damage can result from a failure to adhere to required cybersecurity standards, especially when the systems involved include sensitive genomic data,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to ensuring that entities who do business with the government uphold their cybersecurity obligations.” The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, Erica Lenore, a former Director for Platform Management, On-Market Portfolio at Illumina, to receive $1,900,000 as her share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex. rel. Lenore v. Illumina Inc., No. 1:23-cv-00372 (D.R.I.). The resolution obtained in this matter 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 District of Rhode Island, with assistance from DCIS, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service. The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Erin Colleran of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom of the District of Rhode Island. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. Note: Read the Settlement here ###


title: Gunrunner Who Illegally Trafficked More than 200 Firearms to DC Area Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison

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

body_text: WASHINGTON – Michael Pittman, 30, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison in connection with trafficking more than 200 illegal firearms from Georgia and North Carolina to the Washington D.C. area where he sold many of them to convicted felons, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Pittman pleaded guilty on April 14, 2025, to conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. “It’s bad enough we have a gun problem in D.C. but even worse when you traffic them in from other states,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “Firearms traffickers present an immediate danger to the community. My office will aggressively prosecute these criminals and take them off the street for a significant amount of time.” In addition to the 84-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Tanya S. Chutkan ordered Pittman to serve three years of supervised release. Joining in the announcement was Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. According to court documents, from at least April 2023 through May 2024, Pittman rented cars and drove to Georgia and North Carolina where he purchased guns from illegal firearm suppliers. Pittman re-sold the firearms in the D.C. area, advertising them through different means. He took photos of the firearms displayed on his bed with prices. Between April 2023 through May 2024, Pittman obtained, advertised, or sold 200 or more firearms. On May 30, 2024, Virginia State Police arrested Pittman in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, as he was returning to D.C. from a buying trip. Pittman fled from a traffic stop before he crashed and ran into the nearby woods. Police recovered Pittman’s backpack which contained 16 firearms, an additional firearm he had dropped, and two firearms he had left in his vehicle. Law enforcement subsequently obtained a warrant and searched Pittman’s residence. In Pittman’s home, law enforcement recovered hundreds of rounds of ammunition, firearm cleaning and repair tools, firearm magazines, and three additional firearms. Law enforcement also observed the same red-and-black patterned bed spread observed in the images from Pittman’s phone. Pittman has one prior felony conviction for second degree assault in Prince George’s County, Maryland, for which he was sentenced to two years in prison suspended as to all but 30 days. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division with valuable assistance from the Virginia State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron A. Tepfer and Sarah Martin. 24cr296


title: Serial Armed Robber and Rapist Sentenced for “Nightmarish” Crimes

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – Today, Deandre Martece Williams was sentenced to 327 months in prison on charges of felon in possession of a firearm and kidnapping, in connection with a series of armed robberies, non-fatal shootings, and rapes he committed in 2023, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced. In sentencing Williams, United States District Judge Mark A. Goldsmith stated that Williams’s “utter disregard for human dignity is breathtaking in the worst sense of the word” and referred to his conduct as “nightmarish.” During a three month stretch in 2023, Williams victimized fifteen people in eight separate incidents, seriously injuring four people, and raping three at gunpoint. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Detroit Field Division, Chief Todd Bettison, Detroit Police Department (DPD), and Kym Worthy, Wayne County Prosecutor. During the investigation, DPD collected fired cartridge casings from the scene of multiple shootings. With the help of the ATF and the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), they identified a pattern of targeting sex workers and their customers. The ATF and DPD methodically pieced together other evidence from the crime scenes and identified Williams as a suspect. On October 20, 2023, ATF agents executed a federal search warrant at Williams’s house, arrested him, and found the gun used in the robberies. Williams frequently found his victims in parked cars along neighborhood streets. Williams commonly approached on foot, placed his handgun through an open window or door, and robbed his victims. After the robberies, Williams shot at several of the victims as they tried to flee. Several of the victims were injured by gunfire. Williams raped two of his victims during the robberies. Through their investigation of the robberies, the ATF and DPD uncovered evidence linking Williams to a rape and adult kidnapping. Williams and that victim had agreed to meet over a dating app. When Williams arrived at the victim’s hotel room, he pulled out a handgun and held the victim at gunpoint for several hours while repeatedly raping the victim. Williams’s arrest for the robberies also led to DNA evidence linking him to an unsolved Criminal Sexual Conduct from 2012. Williams pleaded guilty to two counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Third Circuit Court in Detroit for those offenses and was sentenced in March to 10 years 6 months up to 20 years prison in the Wayne County Third Circuit Court. “We should all hate robbery and cruelty. And this sinister man did plenty of both. For years, he was prowling around our streets. But through ingenuity and hard work, the ATF and DPD made our city safer,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon. “Deandre Williams is a ruthless predator who used firearms to dominate, violate, and destroy lives,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “He didn’t just break the law — he shattered families, preyed on the vulnerable, instilled fear, and left a trail of mayhem wherever he went. ATF’s unique firearm expertise will continue to be the bedrock of gun violence reduction efforts in Detroit. This expertise enables ATF and our law enforcement partners to identify AND target the most prolific shooters across the Detroit metropolitan community for federal prosecution. Mr. Williams is a poster child for what this partnership does: removing violent thugs from the community. Williams will now need to pack a suitcase because he will be behind bars. Exactly, where he deserves to be.” “The investigation of Deandre Williams yielded an unexpected dividend. WCPO was able to successfully prosecute Williams on a 2012 sexual assault case as a direct result of evidence collected in his federal cases. We are pleased that all of his victims will see him receive the justice he deserves,” said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Detroit Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.


title: CEO and Medical Director Charged in $500M COVID-19 Test Billing Fraud

body_text: DETROIT – Two individuals were charged for their involvement in a $500 million, nationwide scheme that involved billing Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and other health insurance programs for COVID-19 testing services that were never rendered, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced today. Cemhan “Jimmy” Biricik (age 46) of Boca Raton Florida, and Dr. Martin Perlin (age 74) of Fairfield, Connecticut were charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and more than 50 substantive counts of health care fraud. Biricik was the sole member and Chief Executive Officer of Fast Lab Technologies, LLC (Fast Lab). Dr. Perlin was Fast Lab’s Medical Director and provider responsible for ordering the majority of the tests. Both defendants were arrested this morning. According to the Indictment, during the Covid-19 pandemic, New York-based Fast Lab operated a website offering “free” covid tests. When individuals went to the website to order tests, they were asked to provide their insurance information. Fast Lab then used this insurance information to fraudulently bill Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and numerous private insurances for both antigen (“rapid”) and PCR (“laboratory) tests, across multiple dates for each beneficiary. Specifically, Fast Lab’s claims represented that (1) the antigen tests had been observed by medical professionals, (2) saliva samples were collected by medical professionals, and (3) PCR testing was performed on those samples. In reality, the vast majority of antigen tests—if taken at all—were taken at home and not observed by medical professionals; saliva samples were never collected nor returned to Fast Lab; and PCR testing was never performed. Dr. Perlin was the ordering physician for these tests, despite not having a treating relationship with the beneficiaries. Further, Fast Lab would regularly submit insurance claims before the test kits were even delivered to the beneficiaries. In total, Biricik billed or caused to be billed more than $500 million in claims and was paid more than $50 million. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Mario Pinto, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Chicago Regional Office; Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Division; Special Agent in Charge Derek M. Holt of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of the Inspector General; Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Employee Benefits Security Administration Janet Dhillon (DOL-EBSA); Detroit Division; Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Silvestro, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS); Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Detroit Field Office, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); Special Agent in Charge Megan Howell, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG); Acting Inspector in Charge Sean McStravick, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); Owen Cypher, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Michigan and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU). The public is reminded that an Indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is being investigated by Special Agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, OPM-OIG, DOL-EBSA, DCIS, MFCU, IRS-CI, DOL-OIG, USPIS, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Regina R. McCullough and Ryan A. Particka. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan T. Nees of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York also provided assistance.


title: Two Ohio Men Sentenced to Combined 62 Years in Prison for Sexual Crimes Against Children

body_text: CLEVELAND and AKRON, Ohio – The U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) has announced enforcement actions for Title 18 violations involving exploitation and abuse of children and child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). These cases are separate and not related. U.S. District Court Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan imposed the sentences. Jordan Dodd, 24, of Jefferson, Ohio, was sentenced to 600 months (50 years) in prison and a lifetime of supervised release after imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan. In February, Dodd pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography and conspiracy to produce child pornography. Judge Brennan imposed the sentence July 24. Court documents show that in April 2024 while Dodd was incarcerated on an unrelated matter, he began an online relationship with an adult female. He conspired with her to take sexually explicit photographs of an infant she had in her care and send those photographs to him while he was still incarcerated. In a separate investigation which began in September 2023, Dodd was found to have possessed digital devices with images that contained CSAM, with at least one image involving a prepubescent minor under the age of 12. Michael Monroe James, 28, of Clinton, Ohio, was sentenced to 151 months in prison (more than 12 years) after he pleaded guilty in March to receipt and distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child pornography. He was also ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $7,500 in restitution. Judge Brennan imposed the sentence July 21. Court documents show that in June 2024, James was engaging in sexually explicit and violent communications with an undercover agent purporting to be a pregnant 11-year-old girl using the Whisper social media app. During a search of James’ electronic devices, investigators found more than 700 files of CSAM involving infants or of a sadistic nature. The defendant was also found to have created artificial intelligence-generated nude photos of other minors. The FBI Cleveland Division conducted the investigations for both cases. Each case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel for the Northern District of Ohio. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country and 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. To report child sexual abuse, please visit cybertipline.org , or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


title: Airport services worker at Dulles International Airport pleads guilty to smuggling cocaine

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Peruvian citizen pled guilty today to importing cocaine into the United States. According to court documents, José Luis Castillo Rojas, 43, was employed by an airport services company at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Castillo Rojas held a Special Access Seal that provided him unescorted access to customs security areas within the airport, including access to international flights and secure baggage areas. On April 24, Castillo Rojas arrived at IAD on COPA Airlines Flight 404 from Tocumen International Airport in Panamá City, Panamá, with one cargo bag and one backpack. During an authorized inspection of Castillo Rojas’ cargo bag, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered multiple packages of cocaine, totaling 1.95 kilograms and more than $54,000 in counterfeit U.S. currency. An inspection of his cellphone revealed a text message conversation in which Castillo Rojas discussed retrieving the cargo bag from an individual in Peru and payment for delivering the bag to an individual in the United States. Castillo Rojas is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 6. He faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Christine Waugh, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C. made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff accepted the plea. Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyndi McVey and David Lubitz and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Harvey are prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-188.


title: California Defense Contractor and Private Equity Firm Agree to Pay $1.75M to Resolve False Claims Act Liability Relating to Voluntary Self-Disclosure of Cybersecurity Violations

body_text: Defense contractor Aero Turbine Inc., of Stockton, California, and private equity company Gallant Capital Partners LLC, of Los Angeles, have agreed to pay $1.75 million to resolve their liability under the False Claims Act for knowingly failing to comply with cybersecurity requirements in an Aero Turbine contract with the Department of the Air Force. In connection with the settlement, the United States acknowledged that Aero Turbine and Gallant took significant steps entitling them to credit for cooperating with the government. “Government contractors must follow required cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive defense information,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “When defense contractors fail to comply with cybersecurity requirements, they can mitigate the consequences by making timely self-disclosures, cooperating with investigations, and taking prompt remedial measures.” “Every defense contractor must provide adequate security to safeguard covered defense information,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez for the Eastern District of California. “We commend Aero Turbine and Gallant for disclosing the issue and promptly cooperating to address it. We encourage others to follow their example of self-reporting to resolve violations.” “Protecting the integrity of the Department of Defense (DoD) procurement processes is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” said Director Kelly Mayo of DCIS. “Failing to comply with DoD contract specifications and cybersecurity requirements puts DoD information and programs at risk of exploitation. DCIS will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to investigate allegations of false claims on DoD contracts.” “This case serves as a reminder that cybersecurity transcends mission sets. Ensuring companies adhere to robust cybersecurity safeguards is integral to maintaining the Air Force’s operational edge against adversaries,” said Special Agent in Charge Caroline Galinis of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), Procurement Fraud Detachment 1. “AFOSI’s Procurement Fraud team, alongside investigative partner agencies and the Department of Justice, played a critical role in protecting U.S. national security interests.” The settlement resolves the liability of Aero Turbine and Gallant under the False Claims Act for knowingly submitting or causing others to submit false or fraudulent claims for payment on a Department of the Air Force contract, which were allegedly false or fraudulent because they had not complied with the contract’s cybersecurity requirements. From January 2018 to February 2020, Aero Turbine allegedly failed to implement certain cybersecurity controls in National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-171 that, if not implemented, could lead to significant exploitation of the system or exfiltration of sensitive defense information. In addition, from June to July 2019, Aero Turbine and Gallant allegedly failed to control the flow of, and limit unauthorized access to, sensitive defense information by providing a software company based in Egypt with files containing such information, even though the software company and its foreign citizen personnel were not authorized to receive sensitive defense information under the Air Force contract. After learning of the issues, Aero Turbine and Gallant provided the government with multiple written self-disclosures, cooperated with the government’s investigation of the issues, and took prompt remedial action. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, DCIS, AFOSI, and the Air Force Materiel Command Law Office Procurement Fraud Division. The matter was handled by Fraud Section attorneys Robin Overby and Christopher Terranova and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Thiess. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Note : Read the Settlement here .


title: Two Men Charged For Nationwide Fraud Scheme Targeting Hundreds Of Elderly Victims

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia; and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced charges against JINGBIN JIANG and SU JIAN LIU, a/k/a “Fatty,” a/k/a “Ah Pang,” for a scheme to defraud elderly victims across the United States, which attempted to steal over $18 million from over 350 victims and resulted in actual losses of over $5 million to over 70 victims. JIANG was arrested in Staten Island this morning and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron. LIU is still at large. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil. “As alleged, Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu worked together with others to steal the hard-earned money of some our most vulnerable New Yorkers and others around the country,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Taking advantage of our elderly after they have worked so hard to save and contributed so much to our city and this country is heartless and despicable. These charges, and the efforts of the FBI and the NYPD, should serve as a warning to fraudsters and cybercriminals: New Yorkers want you held accountable for your crimes, and the women and men of our Office are committed to doing so.” “Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu allegedly defrauded elderly victims of more than $5 million by utilizing extortionate tactics to coerce withdrawals of significant cash or purchases of gold,” said FBI Assistant Director Christopher G. Raia. “This alleged conspiracy wielded fear of bankruptcy and arrest to ensure victims complied with the unlawful requests for money. The FBI is committed to apprehending any individual who utilizes online platforms to target and exploit vulnerable victims across the country.” “These defendants allegedly led a nationwide fraud scheme with the goal of targeting innocent, elderly victims and stealing millions of their hard-earned savings,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu allegedly participated in a plot involving elaborate, fictitious narratives to manipulate elderly victims and trick them into participating in their scheme, which involved attempts to steal over $18 million from 350 people. I am grateful to the members of the NYPD, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for holding these alleged predatory fraudsters accountable.” According to the allegations in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court: [1] Between at least in or about 2023 and in or about July 2025, JIANG and LIU participated with others in a fraudulent scheme that primarily targeted elderly victims located all across the United States, including in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, California, Connecticut, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Missouri, Mississippi, Kentucky, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, and Montana. The scheme proceeded in the following manner: First, victims would typically see a pop-up message on their computers indicating that they needed to call a particular phone number controlled by members of the scheme. The pop-up message would typically claim to come from a technology company, a bank, or the government. Second, when victims called the phone number, they were told a fictitious narrative that would ultimately lead to a suggestion that the victims withdraw money from their bank account. For example, some victims were falsely told that their computers had a virus, or that their computers had been hacked into and used to commit serious crimes, like downloading child sexual abuse material. Others were falsely told that their bank accounts had been compromised and were vulnerable to unauthorized withdrawals. To avoid arrest or protect their bank accounts from being compromised, victims were instructed to withdraw large amounts of cash from their bank accounts or purchase large quantities of gold. Some victims were even told that their money would be safely held in the custody of a consumer protection agency like the Federal Trade Commission, and they were sent notices on fake federal government letterhead purporting to bear the signature of a federal government official: Third, many victims were told that a courier would be arriving at their home (or other coordinated pick-up location) to retrieve the gold and/or cash. Victims were often provided with the courier’s name (which was fictitious), a description of the courier’s clothing, and sometimes a password, purportedly to ensure the courier was authorized to pick up the gold and/or cash. Other victims were told to purchase and transfer cryptocurrency or gift cards, which did not require a courier. Victims were typically under the impression that this gold and/or cash would then be deposited, on the victims’ behalf, into a new, safe, uncompromised bank account (or with the Federal Trade Commission, as noted above) that they could access without concern in the future. In reality, these funds were stolen and never returned to the victims. Some victims engaged in multiple transactions before realizing the fraudulent nature of the scheme. JIANG and LIU participated in the scheme by managing and supervising the couriers that traveled to meet the victims to pick up the cash and gold, which was then transported back to New York City. JIANG and LIU received information about potential victims from other members of the scheme on text-messaging platforms, in messages that typically included the zip codes and the amounts of cash or gold to be collected from each victim. JIANG and LIU could then decide whether to accept the pick-up, and if they did, the other members of the scheme would provide more specific details about the victim and when and where to pick up the cash or gold. After arranging for couriers to make the pick-ups, JIANG and LIU would provide updates to other members of the scheme about the couriers’ progress. After the victims provided the criminal proceeds to the couriers, JIANG and LIU arranged for the criminal proceeds to be distributed to other members of the scheme, including by converting cash and gold into cryptocurrency to be easily transmitted to members of the scheme located overseas, including in India and China. In total, members of the conspiracy have attempted to steal at least approximately $18 million from over 350 victims, and they have successfully stolen at least approximately $5 million from over 70 victims. If you or someone you know has been victimized by this scheme, please file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, which is available at ic3.gov. * * * JIANG, 37, of Staten Island, New York, and LIU, 38 of Edmond, Oklahoma, are both charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. Mr. Clayton praised the investigative work of the FBI and NYPD’s Joint Organized Crime Task Force. Mr. Clayton also thanked the New York State Police and the Bedford Police Department for their assistance in the investigation of this case. This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent & Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew K. Chan and Angela Zhu are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. u.s._v._jiang_and_liu_indictment.pdf [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Bloods Gang Member Apprehended in Durham in Possession of a Firearm while on Post-Release Supervision Sentenced

component: USAO - North Carolina, Middle

body_text: GREENSBORO – A Durham, North Carolina man was sentenced today in Greensboro to 8 years in prison after pleading guilty to a firearm charge, announced United States Attorney Clifton T. Barrett of the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC). WILLIAM LOVELL HARPER, age 26, was sentenced to a total of 96 months imprisonment plus 3 years of post-release supervision by the Honorable William L. Osteen, Jr., United States District Judge for the MDNC. According to court records, on September 4, 2024, officers apprehended HARPER on Hillsborough Road in Durham and recovered a loaded handgun from his person. At the time of his apprehension, HARPER had three active warrants for his arrest, including one stemming from a robbery in Durham on March 2024 and another for violating his post-release supervision. HARPER had been previously convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury and Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon in Beaufort County in 2017, as well as Conspiracy to Commit Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill in Craven County in 2018. Thus, at the time of the instant offense, HARPER was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. In 2023, HARPER admitted that he was a member of the Bloods criminal street gang. In April of this year, HARPER was convicted of Robbery of a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon in Durham County for conduct occurring on March 28, 2024. He received a sentence of 11 to 146 months. 60 months of today’s federal sentence will run consecutively to HARPER’s state sentence. HARPER pleaded guilty on April 10, 2025, to one count of felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). The case was investigated by the Durham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Durham County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Iverson. ###


title: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced for Possession of Pistol While on Pretrial Release

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Andre Jamar Turman, 34, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 28 months in federal prison for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a loaded Haskell Model JS-45 pistol while he was on probation and on pretrial release for multiple cases, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Turman pleaded guilty on Dec. 17, 2024, to the indictment charging him with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. In addition to the 28-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Jia M. Cobb ordered Turman to serve three years of supervised release. Joining in the announcement were U.S. Marshal Robert Dixon of D.C. Superior Court, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) According to court documents, on May 4, 2023, Deputy U.S. Marshals and MPD detectives were searching for Turman due to numerous bench warrants out of D.C. Superior Court as well as an outstanding arrest warrant. At about 11:30 a.m., officers spotted and arrested Turman on the 2400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, near Twining Square Park. A Deputy U.S. Marshal patted down the right front pants pocket and recovered a loaded Haskell Model JS-45 pistol. The firearm was not registered in the District of Columbia. In addition, the firearm previously had been reported as stolen. Turman was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had been previously convicted of carrying a pistol without a license and sentenced to more than a year in prison. At the time of his arrest, he was on probation and pretrial release for multiple cases—including release in another firearm case in Maryland. This case was investigated by the ATF, MPD, and U.S. Marshals. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shezhad Akhtar and Chrisellen Rebecca Kolb. 23cr171


title: New Haven Man Sentenced to More than 6 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking Offense

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JESUS SEGUINOT, also known as “Chuchi,” 35, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 78 months of imprisonment for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy. According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 25, 2020, Seguinot was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 30 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for drug distribution and gun possession offenses. He was released from federal prison in May 2021. In October 2021, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force learned that Luis Salaman, also known as “Bebe,” was distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout New Haven. The investigation revealed that Salaman worked with Seguinot and others to distribute fentanyl. Between November 2021 and March 2022, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of fentanyl from Salaman, Seguinot, and their associates. Investigators also learned that Seguinot possessed a firearm during that time. Seguinot was arrested on April 10, 2023. On December 19, 2024, a jury found Seguinot and Salaman guilty of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and Salaman guilty of three counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Seguinot’s criminal history also includes state convictions for drug distribution and weapon possession offenses. Seguinot has been detained since January 2, 2025. Salaman, who has been detained since his arrest on April 5, 2022, awaits sentencing. This investigation has been conducted by FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes members from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.


title: Andover Man Pleads Guilty for Producing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Images

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – An Andover man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court for producing and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces. Dale Howe, age 37, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of Production of Child Pornography and one count of Possession of Child Pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro scheduled sentencing for November 5, 2025. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, the defendant provided the minor victim with drugs and sexually assaulted the minor victim. The defendant created images of the sexual abuse, which were found during a search of his phone. The defendant distributed at least three of the child sexual abuse images through a social media platform. The defendant was also in possession of more than 3,500 files of unrelated CSAM. The charges for Production of Child Pornography provide for a sentence with a minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years. The charge for Possession of Child Pornography provides for a sentence with a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Homeland Security Investigations, the Andover Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police, the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) and the Derry Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S Attorneys Heather A. Cherniske and Anna Z. Krasinski are prosecuting the case. ###


title: Florida Woman to Pay $400,000 to Settle Allegations of Falsifying Diagnoses in connection with an Amherst Compounding Pharmacy

body_text: CONCORD –Georgina Exposito of Florida, owner of 3 rd Party Services of Florida, agreed to pay $400,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by submitting false claims to Medicare and TRICARE based on fake medical diagnoses, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces. According to the settlement agreement and the complaint in partial intervention, Exposito and her company altered patients’ medical diagnoses to obtain prior authorizations on behalf of pharmacies, including PerforMix Specialty Pharmacy, a compounding pharmacy located in Amherst. This resulted in the submission of false claims to Medicare and TRICARE. “Submitting false claims to federal health care programs like Medicare and TRICARE undermines the integrity of our health care system and diverts critical resources away from patients who need them,” said U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Accountability in cases like this helps restore trust in our health care system and ensures taxpayer dollars are protected.” “The submission of falsified prior authorization requests undermines an important safeguard against unnecessary Medicare costs,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement highlights HHS-OIG’s ongoing commitment to combatting fraud in the taxpayer-funded Medicare program, and we will continue to thoroughly pursue allegations of False Claims Act violations.” The False Claims Act permits whistleblowers to file civil lawsuits alleging that false claims have been submitted to the United States. This FCA settlement resolves allegations against Georgina Exposito’s company originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower. As part of the settlement the whistleblower will receive a portion of the settlement amount. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. The United States’ case against the other defendants named in the complaint in partial intervention continues. This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Defense, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz. ###


title: Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: WACO, Texas – A Mississippi man was sentenced in federal court to 240 months in prison for distribution of child pornography, involving the sexual exploitation of a minor. According to court documents, Foster Denzel Harris, aided and abetted by another, knowingly distributed and attempted to distribute visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct in violation of federal statute. In 2022, the victim in this case reported to FBI that she had been exploited when she was 16 years old, and living in Killeen. Between 2016 and 2022, while using KiK social media application on her phone, Harris extorted $21,000 dollars from her, threatening to expose her if she didn’t pay. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who exploit children by distributing child sexual abuse material will be held fully accountable,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp. “The pain these victims silently endure is immeasurable, and the FBI will relentlessly pursue anyone who preys on them. We applaud the extraordinary courage of the victim in this case, whose fortitude to come forward enabled us to obtain a measure of justice and put a stop to the continues abuse. If you have information about child exploitation, contact your local FBI office or submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov.” This 20-year sentence is the maximum sentence allowed under the statute. Harris was also ordered to pay $31,429.00 in restitution to the victim and placed on lifetime supervised release. This case was investigated by the FBI San Antonio Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Gloff prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.