title: Man Charged for Planting Explosive Devices outside the RNC and DNC on January 5, 2021

body_text: WASHINGTON – Brian J. Cole, Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested this morning and charged for transporting and planting two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on January 5, 2021, at the headquarters of both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee in Washington D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Cole is charged in a complaint unsealed today with transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce with the intent to kill, injure, or intimidate any individual or unlawfully to damage or destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property. He is also charged with attempted malicious destruction by means of fire and explosive materials. Joining in the announcement were U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, FBI Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. “The well-being of our society rests on our ability as law enforcement to safeguard our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “When bad actors intervene to disrupt and threat that peace – to destroy the very fabric of our country – we must, we do, and we will track them down and hold them to account for their crimes to the full extent of the law. FBI and members of my office worked around the clock to methodically piece together the clues that ultimately identified the defendant.” “Today’s arrest was the result of good, diligent police work and collaboration on a case that languished for four years under the prior administration,” said Attorney General Bondi. “The American people are safer thanks to this morning’s successful operation.” “The investigation into the pipe bombs in Washington, D.C. has been a high priority since Deputy Director Bongino and I assumed our roles nine months ago. Since that time, our FBI teams have gone back over every fact and every data point looking for new leads – and today’s arrest is the result of that outstanding work,” said FBI Director Patel. “Although almost five years have passed, this shows the FBI will never rest in bringing justice to those who endanger American lives and our communities. I would like to thank our Washington Field Office, FBI personnel across the country, and our partners for their hard work and dedication which led to this arrest.” “This historic arrest shows this FBI delivers on its promises to protect the American people,” said FBI Deputy Director Bongino. “The pipe bombs could have caused devastating loss of life and injuries, as well as property damage. I want to thank the FBI employees who worked on this over the years, our law enforcement partners who assisted in the investigation, and the American people for the tips they shared with us.” "Today's actions underscore the long memory and reach of the FBI," said FBI’s Cox, the Assistant Director in Charge of the Washington Field Office. "The FBI and our partners do not forget. We do not give up. We do not relent. For nearly five years, the investigative team combed through a massive amount of data and leads to identify the suspect arrested today." According to the complaint, during 2019 and 2020, Cole purchased multiple components consistent with those used to manufacture the two IEDs at several retailers in northern Virginia. At approximately 1 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2021, multiple law enforcement agencies received reports of a suspected IEDs near the headquarters of the RNC in Washington, D.C. About 1:15 p.m. the same day, a second suspected IED was reported just a few blocks away near the headquarters of the DNC. The Hazardous Devices Section of the United States Capitol Police (USCP) neutralized both devices. Subsequently, the FBI assessed that the two devices contained a main explosive charge, a fuzing system, and a container. Video surveillance determined that the same individual placed the devices on the evening of January 5, 2021. The suspect had been wearing dark pants, a grey hooded sweatshirt, dark gloves, Nike Air Max Speed Turf shoes, and a facemask that obscured the person’s face. The video showed the individual adjusting eyeglasses and carrying a backpack. On January 5, 2021, about 7:10 p.m., Cole’s Nissan Sentra was observed driving past a License Plate Reader at the South Capitol Street exit from I-395 South, which is less than one-half mile from the location where the individual who placed the devices was first observed on foot near North Carolina and New Jersey Avenues, Southeast. Cell phone records further show that Cole’s cell phone communicated with cell towers in the area of the RNC and DNC on January 5, 2021, between 7:39 p.m. and 8:24 p.m. The FBI’s Cellular Analysis and Survey Team determined that the location of Cole’s cell phone during this period corresponded with the path of the suspect identified by the FBI through analysis of video from that day. This investigation is being conducted by the FBI Washington Field Office, the U.S. Capitol Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. cole_jr._-_criminal_complaint_redacted_xxx_redacted.pdf


title: Former State Employee and Co-Conspirator Sentenced for Stealing Unemployment Insurance Benefits

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT - A former employee of the State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency and her former romantic partner were sentenced today for their roles in an unemployment insurance fraud conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. Timeka Johnson, 44, was sentenced to 42 months in prison after having pleaded guilty to engaging in aggravated identity theft and conspiring to engage in wire fraud. Johnson’s co-conspirator Ray Anthony Eddington, 45, was sentenced to 36 months after having pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in wire fraud. Joining in the announcement were Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security—Office of Inspector General; Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General; Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Jason Palmer, Director of the State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency. The defendants were sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Stephen J. Murphy, III. Johnson was an employee for the State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (MUIA). Her duties included reviewing, processing, and verifying the legitimacy of unemployment insurance claims. According to court records, Johnson used her insider access to fraudulently process claims in the names of third parties. As part of the scheme, Johnson personally: accessed third-party unemployment insurance assistance claim information without authorization; dismissed and improperly closed fraud prevention triggers and information requests relating to third-party unemployment insurance assistance; uploaded false and fraudulent documentation to support illegitimate unemployment insurance assistance claims, including false and fraudulent personal identifying information in the names of third parties; falsely and fraudulently certified the entitlement of third-party claims as being eligible to receive unemployment insurance assistance funds; caused at least one other Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency employee to fraudulently access and alter third-party unemployment insurance assistance claim information for Johnson’s benefit in exchange for financial compensation from Johnson; caused unauthorized debit cards to be issued in the names of third-party unemployment insurance assistance claimants; caused improper payments to be issued in connection with unemployment insurance assistance claims; and conducted unauthorized cash withdrawals of unemployment insurance assistance issued in the name of a third party. According to court records, many of the third-party unemployment benefits that Johnson fraudulently caused to be issued were withdrawn from local ATMs by Eddington, her former romantic partner. As a result of the conspiracy, over $250,000 in fraudulent unemployment assistance payments were made by the State of Michigan. As part of their sentences, the defendants were ordered to pay $250,001 in restitution. “It is one thing to steal if you are hungry and can’t find a job. But it is despicable to abuse your position of trust so that you can steal from a program needed to help the unemployed,” stated U.S. Attorney Gorgon. “DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, Ph.D., said, “Government employees are entrusted to protect the integrity of these crucial aid programs. Those who betray that trust will be held accountable. The Office of Inspector General remains committed to aggressively investigating anyone who abuse their position, betray the public trust, and conspire with others to defraud government programs intended for a vulnerable population. We appreciate the continued partnership between DHS OIG and our law enforcement partners in bringing these individuals to justice”. “Today’s sentencings of Ray Eddington and Timeka Johnson demonstrate the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to investigate bad actors who defraud the unemployment insurance program for financial gain, particularly those like Timeka Johnson who abused her position of trust as a Unemployment Insurance Examiner. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who seek to exploit these critical U.S. Department of Labor programs, especially when it involves serious insider threats,” said Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “As a State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency Investigator, Timeka Johnson had insider access and the authority to help people—instead, she abused that trust by teaming up with Ray Eddington and others to commit identity theft and fraud. Their actions harmed the very communities that rely on these unemployment resources the most,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “This sentencing should serve as a reminder to anyone who defrauds Michigan’s assistance programs: FBI Detroit will never stop working to hold those accountable who abuse them. I want to recognize my team from the FBI Detroit Area Corruption Task Force, alongside our partners at the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, the State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan for their thorough work and successful prosecution in securing this sentence.” “Timeka Johnson’s actions prove once again that crime doesn’t pay. UIA aggressively goes after anyone who thinks they can get away with stealing taxpayer money,” said Jason Palmer, UIA Director. “I’m proud of the success our dedicated, professional agents have had in helping to bring bad actors to justice, especially those who worked for the agency." The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Yahkind. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the Department of Homeland Security—Office of Inspector General, Department of Labor—Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Unemployment Insurance Agency, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity


title: Former Senior Analyst for United States Postal Service Pleads Guilty to Bribery Scheme

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: A former United States Postal Service employee pled guilty this week to a bribery scheme involving USPS service contracts, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. Zechariah Yi, 52, of Aurora, Colorado, was indicted in March 2025 for his role in accepting payments related to USPS service contracts awarded to certain trucking companies. On Tuesday this week, Yi pled guilty to one count of Receiving a Bribe by a Public Official. According to court documents, Yi admitted that, while working as a Senior Network Operations Analyst for the United States Postal Service, he solicited and received approximately $1.5 million in kickbacks from the owners and associates of three trucking companies in exchange for Yi’s agreeing to help the trucking companies obtain USPS service contracts. The USPS service contracts awarded to the three trucking companies paid the companies a total of approximately $15 million. Yi faces up to fifteen years in federal prison. His sentencing date has been set for March 26, 2026. Yi is the fourth defendant to plead guilty as part of this bribery scheme. Previously, another USPS employee, Tai Rho, and the owners of two trucking companies, Wan Jin Yoon and Hong Jin Yoon, each pled guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Honest Services Wire Fraud for their involvement in the bribery scheme. They each face up to five years in federal prison. All three are set for sentencing in early 2026. The FBI Dallas Field Office and the United States Postal Service - Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marty Basu and Joshua Detzky prosecuted the case.


title: Harrisburg Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Troy Darnell McFall, age 54, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury for failing to register as a sex offender. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, from December 2024 and continuing to July 2025, despite being required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”), McFall traveled in interstate commerce without updating his sex-offender registration by leaving the state and later returning to Pennsylvania to reside at a new address. This matter was investigated by the United States Marshals Service (USMS). Assistant United States Attorney Michael Scalera is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: San Diego Man Pleads Guilty to Using Explosives to Burglarize ATM

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Son Nguyen of San Diego pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that he used an explosive to destroy a First Citizens Bank ATM in Rancho Bernardo in the summer of 2024. According to his plea agreement, Nguyen admitted that on June 28, 2024, he drove up to an ATM outside the First Citizens Bank branch and inserted a metal-shaped rod into the cash dispenser slot of the machine. He then removed the rod and inserted another device which had wires attached to it. The defendant pulled the wires that were attached to the device that was wedged into the ATM and its electrical components caught fire. The ATM was destroyed. Smoke emitted from the ATM for more than 30 minutes. At approximately 3:23 a.m., the San Diego Police Department received a call to investigate a burglary alarm at the bank. Upon arrival, officers observed the ATM with smoke coming out of it and electrical components on fire. Electrical wires protruded from the machine with a metal rod bent into a U-shape attached. Additionally, blue material with a white and black valve was found in front of the ATM. Nguyen had left the area. But investigators were able to track him through the bank’s surveillance footage, which showed the license plate number on the vehicle Nguyen used. According to a federal complaint, on August 23, 2024, federal search warrants authorizing searches of Nguyen’s residence and car were executed. Investigators found a U-shaped rod, a metal plate welded onto a pole, a balaclava, and a beanie. Investigators also found gas, black powder, potassium nitrate sulfur, explosive pre-cursor chemicals, a paper that explains how to make black powder and a firearm in Nguyen’s residence. Investigators found a black hose, neck gaiter and California license plate bearing number 24876J1 in his car. All of this equipment, license plate and clothing is consistent with what was used during the ATM bombing. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Shital Thakkar. DEFENDANTS Case Number 24cr1933-RBM Son Thanh Nguyen Age: 46 San Diego, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Malicious Use of Fire and Explosive Materials to Damage Property– Title 18, U.S.C., Section 844(i) Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCY Federal Bureau Investigation *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison  for Possessing a Firearm as a Felon

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025. Michael Spath, II, 35, was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Spath was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 27, 2025. On September 4, 2024, Sioux Falls Police responded to a report of an incident at Spath’s residence in Sioux Falls. While investigating the incident, police found two firearms under a nightstand next to Spath’s bed. Spath is prohibited from possessing firearms due to having multiple prior felony convictions. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Sioux Falls Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case. Spath was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Convicted Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Firearm

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

body_text: HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – A federal grand jury has indicted a convicted felon for illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona. A one-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Michael Lee Kelton, 44, of Gadsden, Alabama, with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to the indictment, on July 29, 2025, Kelton illegally possessed a Glock .45 semi-automatic pistol. Kelton is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of eight prior felony convictions that span from 2009 to 2024 for various drug offenses and theft. The ATF investigated the case along with the Etowah County Drug Task Force, Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, and the Atalla Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Davis A. Barlow is prosecuting the case. An indictment contains only charges. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty


title: Sioux City Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who possessed with the intent to distribute fentanyl pled guilty on December 4, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City. Alfredo Soberanes, age 31, from Sioux City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. At the plea hearing, pursuant to a plea agreement, Soberanes admitted that around midnight on August 31, 2023, in Sioux City, Iowa, law enforcement attempted a traffic stop on his vehicle. Soberanes first stopped his vehicle, however, when law enforcement began to approach, he drove away. Law enforcement did not pursue the vehicle but went to the address in Sioux City associated with the vehicle registration. Another person answered the door, and stated they knew Soberanes, but that he was not at the residence. Law enforcement was given permission to search the residence. Soberanes was ultimately located hiding in the basement, and he was arrested. Found in Soberanes’ possession at arrest was, amongst other illicit items, a digital scale, a firearm, and over 2,500 pills containing fentanyl. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Soberanes remains in the custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Soberanes faces a minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and four years of supervised release. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-04046. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Baltimore Man Pleads Guilty to his Role as the Shooter in a Drug-Related Robbery, Kidnapping, and Murder in Queens

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Marcus Pittman, also known as “Nacho” and “Cheese,” pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm and causing a death through the use of a firearm in connection with the kidnapping, robbery, and murder of a marijuana dealer on July 25, 2024. When sentenced, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life in prison. Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD) announced the guilty plea. “Today, the defendant pleaded guilty to an execution-style, drug-related killing carried out in the rear of a U-Haul van in brutal fashion,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Marcus Pittman was the trigger man of this robbery crew that traveled to our District for the purpose of kidnapping and robbing marijuana dealers. I commend our excellent prosecutors, the FBI Special Agents, and NYPD detectives whose outstanding work has brought all six defendants to justice for their brutal crimes.” “With five other defendants, Marcus Pittman orchestrated a kidnapping and armed robbery of two local marijuana dealers before executing a restrained captive in the back of a U-Haul,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “Pittman demonstrated an utter disregard for human life by shooting a defenseless rival in cold blood. May today’s plea send a message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable anyone who travels to our city to wage unnecessary violence and death.” According to court filings and statements by the defendant at the guilty plea proceeding, during the night of July 24, 2024 and into July 25, 2024, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants carried out a violent armed robbery and kidnapping plot that resulted in the defendant shooting and killing John Doe #1 inside of a U-Haul van in Bayside, Queens. Specifically, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants drove up from Maryland to New York for the purpose of robbing John Doe #1 and John Doe #2, who were both drug dealers. Once in New York, co-defendants Jerome Waters and William Barnett met with John Doe #1 and John Doe #2 at a stash house in Queens under the guise of purchasing marijuana. Moments later, Waters and Barnett pulled out their weapons and held up John Doe #1 and John Doe #2. They then brought Marcus Pittman and his brother Delonta Pittman into the stash house to assist in the robbery and kidnapping. While in the stash house, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants restrained John Doe #1 and John Doe #2 with zip ties and forced them outside and into the back of a Jeep and a U-Haul van. At the same time, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants stole approximately 30 pounds of marijuana from the stash house. Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants drove John Doe #1 and John Doe #2, who were still restrained, through Queens at gunpoint, demanding drugs and money. Co-defendant Jalon Garrett held a gun to John Doe #2 in one vehicle while Marcus Pittman held John Doe #1 at gunpoint in the back of a U-Haul van driven by Calvin Israel. Soon thereafter, Marcus Pittman shot John Doe #1 to death in the rear compartment of the U-Haul van. After the shooting, the defendants returned to Maryland. When John Doe #1’s body was later found by first responders, he still had a zip tie binding one of his hands and was surrounded by bags of marijuana. Co-defendants Barnett, Delonta Pittman, Waters, Garrett, and Israel all previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the crime, and are awaiting sentencing. This case was brought as 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. As part of the program, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and their local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Chand Edwards-Balfour and Adam Amir are in charge of the prosecution. Defendant: MARCUS PITTMAN (also known as “Nacho” and “Cheese”) Age: 30 Baltimore, Maryland Defendants Who Previously Pleaded Guilty: DELONTA PITTMAN (also known as “D Lo”) Age: 31 Maryland JEROME WATERS (also known as “the Engineer” and “Rome”) Age: 23 Baltimore, Maryland CALVIN ISRAEL Age: 23 Baltimore, Maryland WILLIAM BARNETT Age: 27 Baltimore, Maryland JALON LENNY GARRETT Age: 20 Baltimore, Maryland E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-413 (S-2) (KAM)


title: Kansas Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Machinegun

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Overland Park, Ks., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally possessing a fully automatic pistol. Verdell D. Mays, 30, of Overland Park, Ks. pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a machinegun. By pleading guilty today, Mays admitted on June 28, 2025, he possessed a Glock, Model 22C, .40 caliber fully automatic pistol and that the Glock pistol had a rear slide plate that was modified to produce automatic fire. Mays is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has prior felony convictions, including a prior conviction in federal court for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm. Under federal statutes, Mays is subject to a sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Jennings. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cass County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025. Willard Menard, 61, was sentenced to nine months in federal prison to be served consecutively to a state prison sentence of two years, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Menard was indicted Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 2, 2025. Menard was previously convicted of a federal sex offense. Because of his prior conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender. Menard was aware of his obligation to register and to keep his registration current with officials within the county in which he resided. From early January through April 2025, Menard knowingly failed to register and update his registration. This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case. Menard was immediately returned to state custody to continue serving a state sentence. Following that term of imprisonment, he will be remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his federal sentence. This case was brought as a 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 the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Maryland Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Minh Phuong Ngoc Vong, 40, of Bowie, Maryland, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his role in a fraudulent scheme that assisted foreign information technology (IT) workers posing as U.S. citizens with obtaining remote IT positions at over a dozen U.S. companies. According to court documents, Vong conspired with others, including John Doe, aka William James, a foreign national living in Shenyang, China, to defraud U.S. companies into hiring Vong as a remote software developer. After securing these jobs through materially false statements about his education, training, and experience, Vong allowed Doe and others to use his computer access credentials to perform the remote software development work and receive payment for that work. According to court documents, Vong knew that Doe was located next to North Korea. Additionally, Doe’s communications indicate that he is likely a North Korean national who was working to generate revenue for the North Korean government. According to the plea agreement, on Jan. 30, 2023, Doe submitted a fraudulent resume in Vong’s name to a Virginia-based technology company for a web application developer position that required U.S. citizenship as a condition of employment. The resume falsely represented that Vong possessed a Bachelor of Science degree and 16 years of experience as a software developer. In fact, Vong did not have a college degree or experience in software development. On March 28, 2023, Vong participated in an online job interview with the CEO of a Virginia-based company. Vong verified his identity and citizenship by showing his Maryland driver’s license and U.S. Passport. Following the interview, the Virginia-based company hired Vong and assigned him to work on a contract for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) involving a particular software application used by various U.S. government agencies to manage sensitive information regarding national defense matters. The Virginia-based company provided Vong with a laptop to use in connection with his employment and the FAA authorized Vong to receive a Personal Identity Verification card to access government facilities and systems. Vong installed remote access software on the laptop to facilitate Doe’s access to it and conceal his location in China. Between March 2023 and July 2023, Doe used Vong’s credentials to perform the software development work from his location in China. The Virginia-based company paid Vong more than $28,000 in wages for work he performed, portions of which Vong then sent overseas to Doe and other conspirators. As part of his guilty plea, Vong admitted that the Virginia-based company was not the only company he and his co-conspirators defrauded. Between 2021 and 2024, Vong used fraudulent misrepresentations to obtain employment with at least 13 different U.S. companies, who collectively paid Vong more than $970,000 in salary for software development services that were, unbeknownst to them, performed by Doe or other overseas conspirators. Several of these defrauded companies contracted out Vong’s services to U.S. government agencies in addition to the FAA. As a result of Vong’s fraudulent misrepresentations, these government agencies unknowingly granted Vong’s co-conspirators access to sensitive U.S. government systems, which they accessed from China. The FBI Baltimore Field Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina A. Hoffman for the District of Maryland prosecuted the case with valuable assistance from the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section. Under the Department-wide DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative, launched in March 2024 by the National Security Division and the FBI’s Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions, Department prosecutors and agents are prioritizing the identification and shuttering of U.S.-based “laptop farms” – locations hosting laptops provided by victim U.S. companies to individuals they believed were legitimate U.S.-based freelance IT workers – and the investigation and prosecution of individuals hosting them. The Department previously announced other actions pursuant to the initiative, including in January and June 2025.


title: Brooklyn Man Charged with Sex Trafficking, Interstate Prostitution, and Promotion Of Prostitution at “Penn Track” in East New York and Throughout the United States

body_text: Earlier today, an indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn, charging Kaleem Nurse, also known as “Consistent,” with sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, interstate prostitution, and promotion of prostitution. The charges in the indictment relate to Nurse’s trafficking of women to work as prostitutes in New York, including along an open‑air sex trafficking market on stretch of Pennsylvania Avenue in Brooklyn known as the “Penn Track,” and his transportation of women from New York to multiple other states with the intent that they engage in commercial sex for his financial benefit. Nurse was arrested today and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the arrest and charges. “As alleged, the defendant trafficked women to serve as commercial sex workers for him on the notorious Penn Track in Brooklyn and in numerous states across the country,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Today’s arrest reinforces our commitment to removing criminals from the streets in our District and protecting victims of exploitation by prosecuting individuals like Nurse. Our Office will continue to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of sex trafficking crimes that threaten the safety and dignity of our communities.” Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the FBI and New York City Police Department Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force for their work on the case. “Kaleem Nurse allegedly trafficked multiple women in New York and across the country, forcing them to perform sexual acts for his own financial gain,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. “Nurse’s alleged actions deprived his victims of their dignity and autonomy, degrading them to serve as vessels to satisfy his selfish greed. The FBI maintains its steadfast commitment to apprehending any sexual predator utilizing our city as a perverted hub to facilitate the exploitation of vulnerable women in our state and others.” According to court filings, between January 2021 and June 2025, Nurse had numerous women working in prostitution for him on the Penn Track and other locations across the United States, and trafficked at least one of those women using force, fraud and coercion. Specifically, evidence obtained pursuant to the investigation reflects that Nurse regularly required his female victims to solicit customers on the Penn Track and other locations across the country, including Miami and Atlantic City, and to engage in commercial sex acts with those customers. Nurse collected the proceeds earned by these women after they engaged in commercial sex acts with customers, and he used emotional manipulation and violence to discipline and control them. If convicted of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment. The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Reid and Miranda Gonzalez are in charge of the prosecution. The Defendant : KALEEM NURSE (also known as “Consistent”) Age: 30 Brooklyn, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-377 (VMS)


title: Mass Producer of Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Prison

body_text: CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking operation that mass produced thousands of illegal pills which were then distributed throughout Ohio. Thomas Taylor, 43, of Cleveland, was sentenced to 210 months (17.5 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent after pleading guilty in July to the following charges as outlined in the second superseding indictment: Conspiracy to Distribute and to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Distribution of a Controlled Substance. Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Maintaining Drug Premises. Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition; prior convictions include Felon in Possession of a Firearm in 2019; and Drug Trafficking in 2013 and 2007. Taylor was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $10,000 in fines. Judge Nugent imposed the sentence Dec. 3. According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Taylor led a major drug trafficking operation in northern Ohio. He recruited numerous individuals to help run his manufacturing operation to make fentanyl pills using ingredients he sourced from contacts in Mexico. Taylor maintained pill pressing equipment at several residences throughout the Greater Cleveland area that could make hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills each day. During the investigation, agents seized several firearms and ammunition, large sums of cash, and drug paraphernalia such as scales and plastic bags. In total, more than 3 kilograms of fentanyl, 2 kilograms of methamphetamine, and ½ kilogram of cocaine was also seized. Co-defendant Noreece Young, 53, also of Cleveland, previously pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy and is currently serving a 180-month (15 year) prison sentence. This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and the Southeast Area Law Enforcement Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian for the Northern District of Ohio.


title: Two Marion County Men Indicted For Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Reshawn Graham (36, Ocala) and Tyrone Pierson (29, Ocala) with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. If convicted, each faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. According to court documents, on October 7, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer negotiated the purchase of a pound of methamphetamine with Graham. Later that day, Pierson met with the undercover officer and told her the source of supply was delayed. The next day, Graham again reached out to the undercover officer and stated that Pierson now had the methamphetamine. Afterward, Graham and Pierson were arrested by law enforcement at a predetermined meeting location. Pierson was wearing a bag that contained approximately 438 grams of methamphetamine. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Anchorage man sentenced to 15 years for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine in Alaska

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for trafficking large quantities of illicit narcotics in Anchorage and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. According to court documents, in February 2024, Thurman Reed, 67, sold roughly six grams of fentanyl analogue and six grams of heroin. In March 2024, Reed also sold over 27 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine. One week later, Reed sold over 49 grams of heroin. In May 2024, Reed also sold over 311 grams of methamphetamine. In late May 2024, the FBI and Anchorage Police Department (APD) executed a search warrant on Reed’s residence and a storage unit, recovering a cumulative total of over 10 kilograms of pure methamphetamine, 245 grams of fentanyl, 485 grams of heroin and 15 grams of cocaine. U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Alaska The FBI and APD also recovered a firearm at Reed’s residence during the search. The firearm was found inside a backpack that contained distribution quantities of dangerous drugs and a digital scale. At the time of the search, Reed had seven prior felony convictions. On Aug. 14, 2025, Reed pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. “Mr. Reed was clearly undeterred by his seven prior felony convictions and chose to stockpile and distribute large quantities of dangerous drugs in Alaska, putting our communities at significant risk,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “My office is resolute in its commitment to target and prosecute drug traffickers for the crimes that are devastating our communities.” “Over the course of our investigation, the FBI and APD seized a stockpile of deadly drugs, including over 22 pounds of methamphetamine that this seven-time convicted felon had intended for distribution in Alaska,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Brandon Waddle of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Now, Reed’s days of menacing our community are over. We will continue working with our partners at every level to hold drug traffickers accountable." "I want to thank the FBI and the Anchorage High-Intensity Drug Tracking Area (HIDTA) Unit for their steadfast dedication in the aggressive pursuit of those trafficking deadly drugs within Alaska. I also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s office for prosecuting these cases so there is accountability for outrageous acts in our community. This case is a very clear example of our commitment to reducing the drugs in this community that have had such a devastating impact. People involved in this level of distribution should be investigated, prosecuted, and placed in jail for long periods of time so they will not continue to cause harm," said Chief Sean Case of the Anchorage Police Department. The FBI Anchorage Field Office and APD investigated the case as part of the Anchorage High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ainsley McNerney prosecuted the case. ###


title: Gainesville Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Attempting To Meet A 13-Year-Old Child To Engage In Sexual Activity

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jose Raul Andreu Rodriguez (23, Gainesville) to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. Andreu Rodriguez pleaded guilty on May 23, 2025. According to court documents, an undercover agent from Homeland Security Investigations posed online as a 13-year-old girl on a social media platform. Andreu Rodriguez contacted the undercover agent’s account. On November 14, 2024, after learning the girl’s age, Andreu Rodriguez engaged in a graphic sexual conversation and sent multiple explicit videos of himself. Andreu Rodriguez then arranged to meet the minor for sexual activity at a predetermined location in Marion County. When Andreu Rodriguez traveled to that location, he was arrested by law enforcement. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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 locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman sentenced Minh Phuong Ngoc Vong, 41, of Bowie, Maryland, today, to 15 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release — including six months of home confinement — for his role in a wire fraud scheme. Through the fraudulent scheme, Vong assisted foreign information technology (IT) workers in China, posing as U.S. citizens, with obtaining remote IT positions at more than a dozen U.S. companies. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office. Vong conspired with others, including John Doe, aka William James, a foreign national living in Shenyang, China, to defraud U.S. companies into hiring Vong as a remote software developer. After securing these jobs through materially false statements about his education, training, and experience, Vong allowed Doe and others to use his computer access credentials to perform the remote software development work and receive payment for that work. According to court documents, Vong knew that Doe was located in China next to North Korea. Additionally, Doe’s communications indicate that he is likely a North Korean national who was working to generate revenue for the North Korean government. “This prosecution shows that we, along with our law-enforcement partners, are serious about holding accountable individuals who endanger our nation,” Hayes said. “By conspiring with a foreign national to infiltrate U.S. companies, Mr. Vong put American businesses, their employees, and our broader economic and national security at risk. Our office will zealously pursue anyone who undermines the integrity of U.S. systems for personal gain.” “Vong is yet another subject being held accountable for using false identities on behalf of North Korea to infiltrate American companies,” Paul said. “His crimes threaten our economic and national security. I’m proud of the work FBI Baltimore has done to ensure that anyone who seeks to steal from or endanger the United States is brought to justice.” According to the plea agreement, on Jan. 30, 2023, Doe submitted a fraudulent resume in Vong’s name to a Virginia-based technology company for a web application developer position that required U.S. citizenship as a condition of employment. The resume falsely represented that Vong possessed a Bachelor of Science degree and 16 years of experience as a software developer. In fact, Vong did not have a college degree nor experience in software development. On March 28, 2023, Vong participated in an online job interview with the CEO of a Virginia-based company. Vong verified his identity and citizenship by showing his Maryland driver’s license and U.S. Passport. Following the interview, the Virginia-based company hired Vong and assigned him to work on a contract for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) involving a particular software application used by various U.S. government agencies to manage sensitive information regarding national defense matters. The Virginia-based company provided Vong with a laptop to use in connection with his employment, and the FAA authorized Vong to receive a Personal Identity Verification card to access government facilities and systems. Vong installed remote access software on the laptop to facilitate Doe’s access to it and conceal his location in China. Between March 2023 and July 2023, Doe used Vong’s credentials to perform the software development work from his location in China. The Virginia-based company paid Vong more than $28,000 in wages for work he performed, portions of which Vong then sent overseas to Doe and other conspirators. As part of his guilty plea, Vong admitted that the Virginia-based company was not the only company he and his co-conspirators defrauded. Between 2021 and 2024, Vong used fraudulent misrepresentations to obtain employment with at least 13 different U.S. companies, who collectively paid Vong more than $970,000 in salary for software development services that were, unbeknownst to them, performed by Doe or other overseas conspirators. Several of these defrauded companies contracted out Vong’s services to U.S. government agencies in addition to the FAA. As a result of Vong’s fraudulent misrepresentations, these government agencies unknowingly granted Vong’s co-conspirators access to sensitive U.S. government systems, which they accessed from China. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation. Additionally, Ms. Hayes thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina A. Hoffman, who is prosecuting the case with valuable assistance from the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section. The U.S. Attorney and FBI Baltimore also thank the supporting federal and local law-enforcement partners that assisted with this case. Under the Department-wide DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative, launched in March 2024 by the National Security Division and the FBI’s Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions, Department prosecutors and agents are prioritizing the identification and shuttering of U.S.-based “laptop farms” – locations hosting laptops provided by victim U.S. companies to individuals they believed were legitimate U.S.-based freelance IT workers – and the investigation and prosecution of individuals hosting them. The Department previously announced other actions pursuant to the initiative, including in January and June 2025. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Ocala Man Indicted For Attempted Transfer Of Obscene Material To A Minor

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Benjamin Hoover (44, Ocala) with attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. If convicted, Hoover faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Hoover is currently detained pending the resolution of the case. According to the indictment and evidence presented in court, on July 23, 2025, Hoover transferred a sexually explicit image of himself to someone whom he believed was a 15-year-old girl. In actuality, the minor was an undercover detective with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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 locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Lake County Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Attempting To Meet A 13-Year-Old To Engage In Sexual Activity

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Kahlil Yanier Amilivia Rodriguez (27, Groveland) to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Amilivia Rodriguez pleaded guilty on July 22, 2025. According to court documents, on October 5, 2023, Amilivia Rodriguez had an online conversation with an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old girl. Amilivia Rodriguez graphically described to the fictional child the sexual acts he wanted to perform with her. Amilivia Rodriguez was arrested when he arrived at a pre-determined location to meet with the minor to engage in sexual activity. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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 locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Polk County Man Charged With Attempted Production Of Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Bradly Dwayne Wimberly (32, Bradley) with attempted production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). If convicted, Wimberly faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison. According to the indictment and evidence presented in court, between February 15, 2024, and July 10, 2025, Wimberly, believing he was communicating with a 13 to 14-year-old girl, asked the minor on multiple occasions to produce sexually explicit images of herself and send them to him. In actuality, Wimberly was communicating with an undercover Homeland Security Investigations special agent. Wimberly is currently detained pending the resolution of the case. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Ocala Man Indicted For Possession With Intent To Distribute Fentanyl

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Endy Gonzalez (20, Ocala) with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. If convicted, Gonzalez faces a minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. According to court documents, on March 18, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer negotiated a transaction with Gonzalez for 1,000 fentanyl pills. When Gonzalez arrived at the predetermined meeting location, he was detained. A search of the vehicle that Gonzalez arrived in revealed approximately 999 fentanyl pills hidden under a seat. Testing by the DEA confirmed the pills contained fentanyl with a net weight of 109 grams. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Lake County Man Sentenced To 28 Years In Federal Prison For Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jon Don Bannister, Jr. (31, Clermont) to 28 years in federal prison for two counts of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Bannister entered a guilty plea on July 21, 2025. According to court documents, on April 26 and May 4, 2023, in Lake County, Bannister produced CSAM by filming himself engaging in sexual activity with a 14-year-old child. An investigation by law enforcement showed that Bannister had been supplying vape pens and drugs to minors. In return for these items, Bannister had asked the minors to provide him with nude images of themselves. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Mascotte Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Previously Removed Honduran National Guilty Of Attempting To Meet A 14-Girl-Old Girl For Sexual Activity And Illegally Reentering The United States

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Obdy Mencia Guerrero (42, Honduras) guilty of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Following the guilty verdict in September 2025, Mencia Guerrero separately entered a guilty plea to the felony offense of illegal reentry into the United States. Mencia Guerrero faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for the attempted enticement offense and a maximum of 2 years’ imprisonment for the illegal reentry offense. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 15, 2026. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Mencia Guerrero was previously removed from the United States on four prior occasions between 2003 and 2014. On July 27, 2024, Mencia Guerrero began communicating online with someone whom he believed was a 14-year-old girl. The “girl” was a deputy from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office working in an undercover capacity. After learning of her age, Mencia Guerrero traveled to a location in Marion County to pick up the “girl” to engage in sexual activity. When he arrived at the meeting location, Mencia Guerrero was arrested by law enforcement. Mencia Guerrero’s fingerprints confirmed he was the individual previously removed from the United States on four prior occasions. Mencia Guerrero had never applied for or received permission to apply for readmission to the United States. This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Riverview Man Receives Life Sentence For Distributing Fentanyl Resulting In Death

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Nicholas Van Duy (38, Riverview) to life in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl, the use of which resulted in death. Van Duy pleaded guilty on March 10, 2025. According to court documents, on May 31, 2022, Van Duy supplied fentanyl to Jaime Sue Van Hooser. Van Hooser, in turn, sold the fentanyl to a man who ingested the fentanyl, overdosed, and died. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office responded to the victim’s residence and determined that the death appeared to be an overdose. Additional investigation resulted in the identification of Van Hooser as the person who had supplied the fentanyl to the victim, and Van Duy as Van Hooser’s supplier. After a detective arranged to purchased fentanyl from Van Duy at his residence, investigators obtained a search warrant. A search of the home revealed fentanyl, a large amount of cash, and numerous firearms. Van Duy admitted to investigators that he had sold fentanyl to Van Hooser. The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that intoxication by fentanyl was the cause of the victim’s death. Van Duy, who had a prior conviction for trafficking in illegal drugs, was subject to a mandatory life sentence. In a previous proceeding, U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell sentenced Jaime Sue Van Hooser to 20 years in federal prison. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sinacore.


title: Picnic Day Shooter in Davis Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: Joseph Allen Davis, 19, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, police officers began investigating Joseph Allen Davis after determining that he was a shooter at the April 12, 2025, shooting at Rainbow City Park in Davis, where three people were injured by gunfire. Law enforcement officers conducted a search of Joseph Allen Davis’s apartment and seized a short-barrel AR-15-style pistol that was loaded with 23 rounds of ammunition. Davis is prohibited from possessing any firearms and ammunition because he was previously convicted of a felony gun possession offense. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Davis Police Department, the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, and the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting the case. Davis is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on March 26, 2026. Davis faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will 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. 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 U.S. Department of Justice 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: Two Fayette County Men Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crimes

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, Jawuan Akil Watts, 31, of Oak Hill, was sentenced to eight years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and Lesley Scott Watkins, 50, of Oak Hill, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, each for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 4, 2024, Watts and other individuals broke into a Fayette County pawn shop on three occasions while the business was closed and stole 33 firearms, ammunition, coins, and a gaming console. Watts traded, sold, or gave many of the firearms to others in the Oak Hill community including individuals with felony convictions. Watkins obtained several of the stolen firearms. On July 6, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Watkins’ residence after he sold two of the stolen firearms to a confidential informant. Officers found three firearms during the search, including two that were stolen from the pawn shop. Sixteen of the stolen firearms have not been recovered. As part of their guilty pleas, Watts admitted that he possessed a Heritage Manufacturing model Rough Rider .22-caliber revolver and a Colt model Peacemaker .22-caliber revolver in Fayette County on July 6, 2024, and Watkins admitted that he possessed an HS Product model XD-S .45-caliber pistol and a Sig Sauer model P220 45-caliber pistol in Fayette County on July 5, 2024. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Watts knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for burglary in Raleigh County Circuit Court on July 11, 2014. Watkins knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for delivery of a controlled substance in Fayette County Circuit Court on September 24, 2008. Watts has a criminal history that also includes two additional felony convictions and four misdemeanor convictions for property and drug possession offenses. United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Oak Hill Police Department. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorneys D. Keith Randolph and Timothy D. Boggess prosecuted the cases. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:25-cr-92 (Watkins) and 2:25-cr-93 (Watts). ###


title: ‘Insider’ who facilitated $345,000 bank fraud scheme sentenced to prison

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle –A Tacoma woman who used her brief employment with the victim credit union to steal account information of customers so that conspirators could take over the accounts and steal the funds, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 30 m0nths in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. Aneicia Ford, 32, began stealing account information from some 23 victims within weeks of the start of her employment. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Jamal N. Whitehead said, “What you did was serious… Your employer trusted you with access to customers’ more personal information…. Real people suffered real harm from the actions that you took.” According to records filed in the case, between May and August 2022, Aneicia Ford worked out of her Tacoma home as a contact center employee who helped customers with account issues. In that role, she had access to personally identifying information about customers of the credit union. Although Ford’s role in the conspiracy was relatively simple, she nonetheless independently analyzed the victims’ accounts to ensure a specific account would be a fruitful and viable target for the conspirators. Only Ford had access to information such as the amount of funds available, or the age or profession of an individual victim. The first account takeover in the scheme occurred just days after Ford completed her training to be a customer service representative for the credit union. The personally identifying information Ford stole was distributed by 23-year-old codefendant Dangelo Roberts, who with other conspirators used it to access and steal from customer accounts. Using the stolen account information, Roberts provided other conspirators with false IDs and used them to get debit cards and to make withdrawals from the victims’ accounts, often at the credit union’s branches. After obtaining increases to the ATM withdrawal limits, the conspirators obtained as much as $25,000 in cash. The conspirators would also spend victims’ funds by ordering cashier’s checks or purchasing postal money orders that they made payable to other conspirators or their associates. They used their illegal access to transfer money between accounts and check balances on accounts. In all, the scheme stole approximately $345,014 from accounts at the victim credit union. The victim credit union suffered that loss, making all the account holders whole. Ford pleaded guilty on May 20, 2025. Dangelo Roberts was sentenced last month to three years in prison for his role in the scheme. In asking for a 30-month prison sentence for Ford, prosecutors wrote to the court, “Ford knowingly joined in the conspiracy shortly after starting a new job— following training instructing her not to do precisely what she did—and she contributed to the conspiracy for months. The credit union’s electronic logs demonstrate that Ford accessed the victims’ accounts on multiple occasions throughout the course of her employment (and not, for instance, all 23 accounts at once). The account takeovers in this case could not have occurred without the personally identifying information she stole.” The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jessica M. Ly.


title: Two Marion County Men Sentenced To Ten Years For Distribution Of Fentanyl And Heroin

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Gerald Douglas Dandridge, Jr. (25, Ocala) to 10 years in federal prison for six counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin. Scott Weaver (38, Anthony), Dandridge’s co-defendant, also was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison of his role in five of the six counts. Both men entered guilty pleas in early 2025. According to court documents, on five occasions between May and December 2023, Dandridge and Weaver worked together to sell fentanyl and heroin to a confidential informant who was cooperating with law enforcement. Dandridge also separately sold fentanyl to the confidential informant in February and March of 2024. Dandridge and Weaver both have been previously convicted of offenses involving the possession with intent to distribute or sale of controlled substances. This case was investigated by the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.


title: Romanian Man Admits Sleight-of-Hand Crimes that Netted Nearly $200,000 in 22 States

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A Romanian national on Thursday admitted running “sleight-of-hand” schemes that cost a nationwide retailer almost $200,000. Bobi Covaciu, 39, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of wire fraud. He admitted tricking cashiers at Target stores in at least 22 states from February 2022 to September 2024 into believing that he had paid the full amount of cash for a purchase. Covaciu counted out cash matching the purchase price and then took back the cash from cashiers and secretly pocketed bills, shortchanging the retailer by hundreds of dollars or more per transaction. Covaciu would then return the merchandise at a different store for a full cash refund. In one transaction in St. Louis, Covaciu pocketed about $2,300 in a transaction and then returned merchandise in an Illinois store and two stores in Wisconsin over the next two days, his plea says. In at least 90 fraudulent transactions during this period, Covaciu stole about $196,220 in money and property. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 9, 2026. Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine. He will also be ordered to repay the money. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf is prosecuting the case.


title: Colorado Woman Sentenced To 36 Years for Creation of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Charlyna Butterworth, 29, of Aurora, was sentenced to 36 years in prison followed by supervised release for life after pleading guilty to one count of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. According to the plea agreement, Butterworth repeatedly sexually abused three minors who were all under the age of five while they were entrusted to her care and created child sexual exploitation material of the abuse. “This is a serious sentence for a serious crime,” said United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Peter McNeilly. “I am grateful that this individual is no longer in a position to harm another child.” United States District Judge Gordon P. Gallagher presided over the sentencing. The Federal Bureau of Investigation Denver Field Office handled the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alecia L. Riewerts handled the prosecution. 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Nine Members Of Drug Trafficking Organization Charged With Federal Drug And Firearms Offenses

body_text: Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging nine defendants with a drug trafficking conspiracy, distribution of fentanyl, methamphetamine, bromazolam, and firearms offenses. A summary of the counts and associated minimum and maximum penalties follows: Name AGE, CITY CHARGES MAXIMUM PENALTIES Christian Roux-Rey 31, Kissimmee Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense 15 years, up to life, in federal prison Jeremiah Maldonado 31, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl causing death 20 years, up to life, in federal prison Benjamin Rivard 31, Clermont Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl causing death Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon 25 years, up to life, in federal prison Elena Falzone 23, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl and bromazolam 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison Zaviar Kidd 27, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison Paul Jacas 31, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon 10 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison Olivia Goen 23, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison Carlos Carrasquillo-Rodriguez 20, Orlando Drug trafficking conspiracy Distribution of fentanyl 20 years in federal prison Rebecca Murray 31, Deltona Drug trafficking conspiracy 10 years, up to life, in federal prison The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms used during the commission of the offenses. According to the 27-count indictment, between approximately August 2022 and May 2024, these individuals conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine. Roux-Rey, Falzone, Jacas, and Goen are all charged with distributing controlled substances. Maldonado is charged with distributing fentanyl which resulted in the death of C.P. Rivard is charged with distributing fentanyl which resulted in the death of S.F. Falzone is also charged with distributing bromazolam, a Schedule IV controlled substance analog. Roux-Rey, Rivard, Kidd, Jacas, Carrasquillo-Rodriguez, and Goen are each charged with possessing controlled substances intended for distribution. Roux-Rey, Rivard, and Jacas, are each charged with possession a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. Rivard and Jacas are both charged with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Orlando Police Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Cloud Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel S. Lyons.


title: U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones Meets with Monroe County Leadership to Strengthen Public Safety and Environmental Protection Partnerships

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – United States Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones met this week with Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay, State Attorney Dennis Ward, and Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln to discuss ongoing efforts to protect public safety and preserve the natural resources of the Florida Keys. The meeting focused on the strong collaboration between federal, state, and local partners in areas including violent crime, narcotics trafficking, environmental enforcement, and maritime interdiction. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones reaffirmed the continued commitment of federal resources, personnel, and joint operations to support Monroe County’s priorities. During the visit, Mayor Michelle Lincoln honored U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones by naming him an Honorary Conch, a distinction reserved for those who have earned the trust of the Keys community but were not born in the Keys. The recognition reflects the long-standing partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Monroe County in protecting residents, visitors, and the fragile ecosystem that defines the island chain. “Monroe County is a model of how public safety, environmental stewardship, and community partnership can work together,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “Sheriff Ramsay, State Attorney Ward, and Mayor Lincoln are doing exceptional work for the people of the Keys. I am deeply grateful to be named an Honorary Conch, and our Office will continue to bring federal resources, coordination, and resolve to protect residents and to safeguard the extraordinary natural environment that makes Monroe County unlike anywhere else.” U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones emphasized that the Southern District of Florida will continue working closely with Monroe County leadership to strengthen enforcement efforts, support community safety initiatives, and preserve the protected ecosystems of the Keys. ###


title: St. Albans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jonathan Kennedy, 45, of St. Albans, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, between May and August 2025, Kennedy participated in a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine in St. Albans and elsewhere. As part of his guilty plea, Kennedy admitted that a co-conspirator in California shipped several pounds of methamphetamine to locations in Kanawha County during the time period. Kennedy further admitted that he took possession of the methamphetamine and re-distributed it after arranging for another co-conspirator to pick up the shipments at the delivery locations. Kennedy also admitted that he provided half-pound quantities of methamphetamine to a co-conspirator in St. Albans on May 30, 2025, and June 24, 2025, each time after the co-conspirator contacted him seeking methamphetamine for re-distribution to a customer. On June 25, 2025, Kennedy distributed approximately 690 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in St. Albans. On August 22, 2025, law enforcement officers intercepted a package en route to a Dunbar address and found it contained approximately 38 pounds of methamphetamine. Officers replaced most of the methamphetamine with a non-narcotic substance before the package was delivered to the Dunbar address. Kennedy admitted that he arranged for a co-conspirator to pick up the package and deliver it to a St. Albans address where Kennedy later took possession of it. Officers approached and arrested Kennedy shortly after he picked up the package. At the time of this offense, Kennedy was serving a term of supervised release as a result of his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm on October 4, 2022. Kennedy is scheduled to be sentenced on March 26, 2026, and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $10 million. United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), which is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-166. ###


title: Peñasco Man Sentenced for 2022 Fatal Stabbing

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Peñasco man was sentenced to more than 21 years in prison for the stabbing death of another man. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on December 25, 2022, Byron Sanchez , 49, an enrolled member of the Picuris Pueblo, was involved in an altercation with John Doe at his residence in Peñasco, New Mexico, within the exterior boundaries of the Picuris Pueblo. During the altercation, which occurred while both individuals were under the influence of alcohol, Sanchez fatally stabbed John Doe and placed his body in a bedroom. Law enforcement officials discovered John Doe’s body at the residence on January 11, 2023. Sanchez subsequently pled guilty to second degree murder. Upon his release from prison, Sanchez will be subject to five years of supervised release. Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and District 7 of the New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney R. Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case. This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of Indigenous victims and their families.


title: Operation Smoke and Mirrors Update: Kanawha County Man Sentenced to More than 17 Years in Prison for Major Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Antonio Lamar Jeffries, 36, of St. Albans, was sentenced today to 17 years and six months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Jeffries admitted to a key role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that operated in the Charleston area. According to court documents and statements made in court, between November 2022 and March 22, 2023, Jeffries conspired with others to distribute quantities of methamphetamine. Jeffries admitted that he arranged for a co-conspirator to drive to Bluefield, West Virginia, on February 4, 2023, to obtain methamphetamine from his supplier. Jeffries used a cell phone to arrange the meeting, provided the co-conspirator with money to deliver as payment for the methamphetamine, and instructed her to meet his supplier at the Mercer Mall in Bluefield. The co-conspirator exchanged the money for the methamphetamine as instructed. Law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of her vehicle as she drove back to Charleston and seized approximately 3.1 kilograms of methamphetamine from her vehicle. Jeffries admitted that he intended to distribute some of the seized methamphetamine to others and allow the co-conspirator to keep the rest. “This defendant chose to profit from destroying lives. Today, that ends,” said United States Attorney Moore Capito. “Thanks to the relentless work of law enforcement, 70 pounds of lethal drugs will never reach our families. And let me be clear: this is only the beginning. We will keep pushing forward, we will dismantle these networks, and we will seek the harshest sentences the law allows for those who target our community.” Jeffries has a criminal history that includes two prior convictions for drug offenses. At the time of the current offense, Jeffries was serving a term of supervised release as a result of his conviction for possession with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base in United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia on July 11, 2011. On August 20, 2025, Jeffries was sentenced to two years and six months in prison for violating the terms of supervised release, with the sentence to run consecutively to the sentence imposed for the current offense for a total term of incarceration of 20 years. Jeffries is among 31 defendants convicted of federal crimes as a result of Operation Smoke and Mirrors, a major drug trafficking investigation that yielded the largest methamphetamine seizure in West Virginia history. Law enforcement seized well over 400 pounds of methamphetamine as well as 40 pounds of cocaine, 3 pounds of fentanyl, 19 firearms and $935,000 in cash. Capito commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia National Guard Counter Drug program, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted the case. The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-31. ###


title: Final man pleads guilty in $4 million wire fraud conspiracy

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A 40-year-old Nigerian citizen who illegally resided in Houston has pleaded guilty for his role in a business email compromise conspiracy and for running a romance scam that targeted victims nationwide, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Leslie Chinedu Mba, 40, admitted to his role in conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit false statements in immigration documents. “These online scams that Mba and others perpetrated jeopardized the livelihood of family-run businesses, the ability of elderly individuals to retire, and exploited the trust on which our economy is based,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas remains committed to holding such fraudsters accountable, and protecting our people and companies from financial harm, especially when these scammers remain in our country under false pretenses and deceive immigration authorities.” From April 2018 to December 2023, Mba and others inside and outside of the United States carried out business email compromise and romance scams targeting unsuspecting victims. The schemes began overseas, where co-conspirators gained unauthorized access to business email accounts and redirected payments to fraudulent bank accounts. Victims believed they were sending money to legitimate businesses, but Mba and others instead funneled the funds to accounts they controlled. Mba and others acted as money mules, opening or using existing bank accounts to collect and move proceeds from the fraud. Additionally, Mba tried to obtain U.S. permanent residency through multiple fraudulent marriages after his initial application was denied and he was ordered to be removed from the country. The scheme resulted in a total loss of $4 million. Four others had also previously pleaded guilty to the same charges – Grace Morisho, 30, Rodgers Kadikilo, 29, Kristin Smith, 37, and Alexandra Golovko, 35, all of Houston. U.S. District Judge David Hittner accepted the plea and set sentencing for Feb. 26, 2026. At that time, Mba faces up to 20 years for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and five years for committing false statements on immigration documents as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will remain in custody pending that hearing. FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen M. Lansden and Alexander Alum are prosecuting the case.