title: Former Accountant for Chicago Construction Company Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for $1.8 Million Embezzlement

body_text: CHICAGO — A former senior accountant for a Chicago construction company has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for embezzling company funds. RICHARD A. MANDARINO entered false payment requests in the construction company’s accounting system, causing checks to be issued to vendor companies for goods and services that Mandarino knew were never provided. Mandarino then converted those payments to his and others’ personal use. He concealed the thefts by creating fictitious credits and offsets in the construction company’s accounting system. Mandarino committed the fraud from 2015 to 2017 while he resided in Canada and worked on the Chicago construction company’s Canadian business projects. As a result of his conduct, Mandarino caused losses totaling more than $1.8 million. Mandarino, 46, of Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, pleaded guilty last year to a federal wire fraud charge. In an order issued on Friday, U.S. District Judge Steven C. Seeger sentenced Mandarino to two years and two months in federal prison and ordered him to pay more than $1.8 million in restitution to his victims. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kartik K. Raman and former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Yusef Dale and Patrick J. King, Jr. “Defendant engaged in a deceptive and calculated scheme against his employer who trusted him with its finances,” the government argued in its sentencing memorandum. “The scheme was complex and multilayered.”


title: Justice Department Launches Second Investigation into George Mason University

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced today that it has launched an investigation into George Mason University to determine whether the University has denied equal treatment of individuals based on race or national origin, in violation of Title VI. The compliance review investigation will examine whether George Mason University, a recipient of federal financial assistance, has engaged in discriminatory practices based on race, color, or national origin against its students. It will be conducted pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits a recipient of federal funds from discrimination based on such protected characteristics. Institutions of higher education that are governed by Title VI are to protect students’ unfettered access to the school’s educational environment and opportunities, free from discrimination. The investigation will focus on discrimination against students based on race or national origin in George Mason’s admissions practices and the awarding of student benefits and scholarships. It will also investigate the University’s response to antisemitism on campus. “Public educational institutions are contractually obligated to follow our nation’s federal civil rights laws when receiving federal funds,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one should be denied access to opportunity or resources because of their race, color, or national origin, and the United States is committed to keeping our universities free of such invidious bias.” Note : Review the notice letter here .


title: Two Mexican Nationals Sentenced for Roles in Black Market Peso Exchange  Money Laundering Scheme

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Two Mexican nationals were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison to 55 months each in prison for their roles in a two-year, multimillion-dollar trade-based money laundering conspiracy to move drug trafficking proceeds through Texas to Mexico. According to court documents, Mauricio Anzures-Zarate, 53, of Mexico City, Mexico, and Beatriz Salcedo-Carreon, 63, of Guadalajara, Mexico, participated in a sophisticated, international money laundering conspiracy to transfer funds from the sale of illegal drugs in the United States to cartels in Mexico without physically transporting money across the U.S.-Mexico border. The conspirators concealed those funds through the movement of goods between the two countries. “The defendants used an elaborate, trade-based money laundering scheme to exploit our financial system and transfer the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking from the United States to Mexico,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These financial facilitators actively promoted cartel operations in cities across the United States, which enabled the flow of deadly narcotics into our communities. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue the total elimination of cartels and the money launderers who enable their pernicious activities.” “The lifeblood of any drug trafficking organization is the uninterrupted flow of cash,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas. “Here, defendants laundered drug proceeds through a sophisticated trade-based scheme. This criminal operation, and others like it, put money in the pockets of the cartels and endangered lives on both sides of the border. Taking this conspiracy out of commission is a great win, but it’s just the beginning.” “Despite the sophisticated tactics used to conceal profits made from smuggling poison into our country by the Mexican cartels, our expertise enabled us to dismantle their thriving operations," said Acting Special Agent in Charge William Kimbell of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Houston Division. “DEA, along with its federal counterparts, has dealt a significant blow to the finances of the Mexican cartels through the incredible investigative work of our agents. If we trace your money activities back to the cartels, you will have your day in court and will face justice.” “Anzures-Zarate and Salcedo-Carreon thought they could escape justice, but found our reach extends past the money trail they left,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Lucy Tan of IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Houston Field Office. “They conspired to use black market peso exchanges, which are one of the classic methods to launder drug dollars, and a method that leaves a traceable trail to the cartels. For businesses that get approached for a quick cash sale to transport goods into Central and South America, remember that we will find you because your greed leaves evidence.” According to court documents, the defendants directed money couriers to collect drug proceeds in numerous U.S. cities and then transfer the funds to Laredo, Texas, to be laundered through local businesses. As part of the scheme, store owners in downtown Laredo accepted the drug proceeds as payment for merchandise to be exported to businesses in Mexico. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Salcedo-Carreon, Anzures-Zarate, and others instructed the Mexican businesses to transfer pesos to accounts or people in Mexico who were affiliated with cartels. Through this trade-based money laundering scheme, Mexican cartels disguised illicit drug proceeds as legitimate international commercial transactions and received laundered drug proceeds in Mexico without physically transporting cash across the U.S.-Mexico border. Eight other defendants were previously convicted and sentenced for their roles in the money laundering conspiracy. Anzures-Zarate was ordered to pay a money judgement of $1,176,165 and Salcedo-Carreon was ordered to pay a money judgement of $887,269. The DEA and IRS-CI investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia provided significant assistance in this matter. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and April 2024 extradition of Salcedo-Carreon. Trial Attorneys Keith H. Liddle and Stephanie Williamson of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lance Watt, Amanda Gould, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney José Angel Moreno for the Southern District of Texas prosecuted the case.


title: Oklahoma City Duo Plead Guilty to Illegal Possession of Firearms Following Shooting at Apartment Complex

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – LARRY WELCH , 29, and JACOB MADISON , 24, both of Oklahoma City, have each pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. On May 6, 2025, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment, charging both Welch and Madison with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public record, on April 7, 2025, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to a reported shooting at an apartment complex. Witnesses told police that prior to the shooting, they had been involved in a dispute with the shooting suspects, later identified as Welch and Madison. Nobody was injured as a result of the shooting. Officers reviewed nearby surveillance video which showed Welch and Madison opening fire on the unarmed witnesses and then fleeing the complex. Officers canvassed the area, and shortly thereafter arrested Welch and Madison, who were found hiding in a residential backyard shed on a nearby property. Law enforcement also recovered two firearms, which Welch and Madison used during the shooting. Public records show that both Welch and Madison have lengthy criminal histories. Welch has previous felony convictions that include: possession of a firearm after felony conviction in Cherokee County District Court case number CF-2015-629; injuring or burning a public building in Mayes County District Court case number CF-2015-0228; and feloniously pointing a firearm in Cleveland County District Court case number CF-2019-1389. Madison has previous felony convictions that include: second-degree burglary in Oklahoma County District Court case number CF-2020-1275; knowingly receiving or concealing stolen property in Canadian County District Court case number CF-2022-437; and possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, unlawful possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute, committing a felony with a firearm with a defaced ID number, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia in McClain County District Court case number CF-2023-0072. On July 16, 2025, both Welch and Madison pleaded guilty, and both admitted they possessed a firearm despite their previous felony convictions. At sentencing, the defendants face up to 15 years in federal prison each, and fines of up to $250,000. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laney Ellis (SAUSA) is prosecuting the case. SAUSA Ellis is an attorney with City of Oklahoma City whose position is funded by a federal Project Safe Neighborhoods grant awarded to the City of Oklahoma City to enhance efforts to address and reduce violent crime. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Indiana man sentenced to federal prison for exploiting Texas minor through gaming app

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Putnam County, Indiana man has been sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison for production of child pornography in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Tristan Kalobbe Martin, 29, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography and was sentenced to 293 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 21, 2025. According to information presented in court, in June 2022, Martin began communicating with a minor from Jasper County, Texas, while gaming through an on-line game console. Although the victim told Martin they were 15 years old, Martin continued to communicate with the minor. Law enforcement authorities in Jasper contacted law enforcement in Indiana in reference to the relationship. Local law enforcement in Indiana seized Martin’s cell phone, which contained nine videos of the minor engaging in sexually explicit behavior. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. This case was investigated by the FBI; Putnam County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Office; and the Jasper Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Grove. ###


title: Sacramento Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: Jayson Fernandez Butay, 30, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb to 25 years in prison for producing child sexual abuse material and possessing child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced. Judge Shubb also ordered Butay to pay $118,278 to his victims in restitution. According to court documents, in April 2019, Butay used Snapchat to correspond with a 15‑year-old girl living in Finland. Butay lied about his identity and convinced her to send him naked images of herself. Once he received these images, Butay threatened to disclose them to his victim’s family and friends unless she sent him sexually explicit videos. In this way, Butay obtained at least one additional sexually explicit video from the victim. Butay also produced child sexual abuse material depicting additional minor victims, including at least one 9-year-old girl who remains unidentified, using common internet applications. Law enforcement agents subsequently executed federal search warrants at Butay’s residence in Sacramento. Agents seized hundreds of images and videos from Butay’s digital devices that depicted the sexual exploitation of children, including infants. “This investigation highlights the serious threat sextortionists pose to children who use popular messaging and social media apps,” said FBI Sacramento Field Office Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel. “Online anonymity combined with the natural inexperience of youth creates a dangerous environment that parents must better understand and monitor. The FBI works closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and bring these predators to justice. We urge anyone who has been targeted or victimized to come forward. You are not alone — we will help you.” This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stefanki 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 those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Sioux City Woman to Federal Prison for Meth Distribution

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A woman who distributed methamphetamine after previously being convicted of a felony drug offense was sentenced July 18, 2025, to more than five years in federal prison. Alesha Rasmussen, age 34, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 10, 2025, guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine after having been previously convicted of a felony drug offense. At sentencing, Rasmussen admitted that on July 10, 2024, she sold approximately one ounce of methamphetamine to an individual cooperating with law enforcement in Webster County, Iowa. Rasmussen was previously convicted of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa in November of 2011. Following her term of imprisonment for the 2011 offense, she was revoked from supervised release on four occasions for violations of her conditions of release. Rasmussen was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Rasmussen was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a six-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Rasmussen is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-CR-03042. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Cedar Rapids Man Who Conspired to Distribute Thousands  of Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to Federal Prison

body_text: A man who conspired to distribute fentanyl pills was sentenced today to 14 years in federal prison. Jaylon William Throgmartin, age 22, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. In a plea agreement and at the sentencing hearing, evidence showed that Throgmartin distributed thousands of fentanyl pills between December 2023 and October 2024. Throgmartin also facilitated the sale of a firearm in exchange for fentanyl pills. In January 2025, he distributed at least one fentanyl pill to someone who overdosed. The victim recovered after receiving Narcan. Throgmartin was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Throgmartin was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a four-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated as part of the Northern Iowa Heroin Initiative and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence‑driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . This case is part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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). Throgmartin is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-5. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Three Foreign Nationals With Prior Convictions Charged For Illegally Reentering The United States

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals and a Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country. Artemio Valencia-Rodriguez, 47; Uvalfre Mariano Cazares-Guillen, 33; and Ismael Artemio Hidalgo-Gomez 27, are all charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for all three defendants are scheduled for August 4, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler. According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Valencia-Rodriguez and Cazares-Guillen, both citizens and nationals of Mexico, and Hidalgo Gomez, a citizen and national of Guatemala, were all previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally. On July 1, 2025, Valencia-Rodriguez was remanded to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from the Clark County Detention Center. Valencia-Rodriguez was arrested by officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on February 8, 2024, for two counts Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14 and Kidnapping of Minor. Valencia-Rodriguez had previously been deported to Mexico on January 9, 2003, August 12, 2009, and August 17, 2009. Valencia-Rodriguez has two prior felony convictions for Possession of a Controlled Substance, and a felony conviction for Convicted Person Possess Firearm. On July 2, 2025, Cazares-Guillen was remanded to the custody of ICE from the Clark County Detention Center after he had been arrested by officers from Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Use/Posses Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Act Imitation Controlled Substance. Cazares-Guillen had previously been deported to Mexico on or about August 18, 2018, after being convicted of Burglary While in Possession of Firearm and two counts of Robbery. On July 3, 2025, Hidalgo-Gomez was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Clark County Detention Center after he had been arrested by officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Battery Domestic Violence. Hidalgo-Gomez had previously been deported to Guatemala on or about October 6, 2017, November 2, 2017, and February 4, 2021. Hidalgo-Gomez was convicted on January 19, 2021, of the same offense he is currently charged with in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona. If convicted, Valencia-Rodriguez and Hidalgo-Gomez both face a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. If convicted, Cazares-Guillen faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Jason Knight made the announcement. The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case. Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form . A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ###


title: Texas National Guard soldier convicted of alien smuggling

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old Houston resident has been found guilty for conspiring to smuggle illegal aliens into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. The jury deliberated for less than an hour before convicting Mario Sandoval following a one-day trial. Sandoval was deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border with the Texas National Guard as part of Operation Lonestar. Following release from his orders, Sandoval remained in the Rio Grande Valley began smuggling aliens in July 2024. The jury saw Sandoval’s text messages discussing that drivers were needed for trips from the Rio Grande Valley to destinations north of the immigration checkpoint. Surveillance would later show him at the immigration checkpoint at the same time he was sending text messages about the presence of law enforcement and K-9 patrols. The defense attempted to convince the jury no conspiracy existed, and his text messages were out of context. They did not believe those claims and found Sandoval guilty as charged. “The conduct in this case represents an unthinkable violation of public trust,” said Ganjei. “Thousands of brave men and women, military and civilian alike, work tirelessly to keep our border secure. It is truly disheartening that one bad apple chose to betray his fellow soldiers, his fellow citizens, and his country by engaging in human smuggling. I wish to thank the jury for their time and attention to this matter.” Sandoval was discharged from the Texas National Guard in October 2024. U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over the trial and set sentencing for Oct. 22, at which time Sandoval faces up to 10 years in federal prison. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Lamont and Ashley Martin prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood .


title: Former East Bay Financial Advisor Charged With Allegedly Operating Long-Running $9.5 Million Ponzi Scheme

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: OAKLAND – A federal grand jury indicted Edwin Emmett Lickiss, Jr., on one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering in connection with an alleged $9.5 million investment fraud scheme. According to the indictment filed on July 17, 2025, and unsealed today, between 1998 and September 2024, Lickiss, 77, was a financial advisor based in Danville and Alamo, Calif., who owned and operated Foundation Financial Group, a firm that provided investment services to investors in the Northern District of California, Idaho, and throughout the United States. Lickiss was a registered broker until 2014, when the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority suspended his broker’s license. Despite the suspension and loss of his broker’s license, Lickiss allegedly continued to solicit and obtain investments from victim investors until around September 2024. The indictment alleges that as part of his scheme, Lickiss falsely represented to investors that he would invest their funds in government bonds and other bonds. To induce his victims to invest their money with him, Lickiss claimed he had exclusive access to fictitious bonds that paid very high rates of returns, including rates in excess of 20 percent. Lickiss described the fictitious bonds as safe, secure, and tax-free, and falsely claimed, among other things, that they could be redeemed at any time. In order to convince investors that he had invested their funds as promised, Lickiss allegedly gave fraudulent promissory notes that included the terms of the fake bond investments and purported to track investors’ total investment in the fake bonds. Lickiss also occasionally made lulling payments to victim investors, falsely describing the payments as interest that had accrued on the nonexistent bonds, when, in fact, the payments were made with funds Lickiss fraudulently obtained from subsequent victim investors. In addition to making the foregoing misrepresentations, Lickiss allegedly failed to disclose to victim investors that he had been suspended in 2014 from association with any broker-dealer and that he subsequently lost his broker’s license in 2016. Instead of investing the funds as promised, Lickiss allegedly used victim investors’ funds to pay earlier investors, in the manner of a Ponzi scheme, and for his personal use, including cash withdrawals, home renovations, travel, and car, mortgage, and personal credit card payments. In all, Lickiss allegedly obtained at least $9.5 million from no fewer than 50 victim investors. United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Oakland Field Office Special Agent in Charge Linda Nguyen made the announcement. Lickiss is scheduled to make his initial appearance on July 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nathanael Cousins in Courtroom F in San Francisco. An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Defendant faces a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the wire fraud count, and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the money laundering count. Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has also filed a civil enforcement action against Lickiss in the Northern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Arash Rezaei and Benjamin J. Wolinsky are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Lynette Dixon. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and IRS-CI. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Atlanta Regional Office of the SEC for its assistance in the investigation. Lickiss Indictment


title: Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Return to the United States by an Alien After Deportation or Removal

component: Department of Justice

body_text: GULFPORT, MS – Pedro Aranda-Zaragoza, age 49, of Mexico pleaded guilty on July 17, 2025, to Unlawful Reentry into the United States by a Deported or Removed Alien. Aranda-Zaragoza is scheduled to be sentenced on August 26, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Federal law also provides for Aranda-Zaragoza to face Homeland Security removal proceedings after serving any prison sentence. On April 24, 2025, Aranda-Zaragoza was arrested as part of a Homeland Security Investigations review of employee documentation at the El Patron Mexican Grill in Vancleave, MS. Aranda-Zaragoza admitted to knowingly being an alien illegally present in the U.S., and to illegally returning after being lawfully removed from the United States. A review of his prior immigration records revealed that a Final Order of Removal had been issued against Aranda-Zaragoza in 2012. Aranda-Zaragoza was arrested by immigration officials in August 2018, and physically was removed from the United States to his home nation of Mexico that same month. A review of immigration records also revealed that Aranda-Zaragoza had not received permission or consent to apply for readmission or to lawfully reenter the United States from either the US Attorney General or from the Secretary of Homeland Security. Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, Patrick A. Lemon, praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations. Lemon and Eric P. DeLaune, Special Agent-in-Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, Louisiana, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline 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: Honduran National Sentenced To 27 Months In Prison

body_text: HAMMOND, INDIANA – Luis Banegas Rodriguez, 25 years old, of Honduras, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud in two cases, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor for the Northern District of Indiana. Banegas Rodriguez was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $533,043 in restitution. According to documents in each case, on January 11, 2023, Banegas Rodriguez and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 169 fraudulent paychecks totaling $233,569 at three branches of the same bank in the Northern District of Indiana. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a company that operates dairy farms in the Northern District of Indiana. Almost six months later, on June 23, 2023, Banegas Rodriguez and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474 at five branches of the same bank and three check cashing businesses in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “Banegas Rodriguez participated in a far-reaching conspiracy that caused major financial harm to community banks and small businesses across the United States. Due to the unwavering efforts and collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement, Banegas Rodriguez was brought to justice for his role in this scheme,” said Proctor. “The sentence imposed by the court sends a message that there are real consequences for engaging in fraud, particularly in northwest Indiana.” “The illicit actions of co-conspirators to commit bank fraud as they travel throughout the United States will not be tolerated,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Chicago. “HSI will continue to partner with our fellow law enforcement agencies to disrupt these types of offenders and hold them accountable for their crimes.” These cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Indiana State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Benton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County (Indiana) Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau (Oklahoma) Police Department, and the Houston (Texas) Police Department. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa from the Northern District of Indiana and Assistant United States Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan Howanitz from the Eastern District of Oklahoma.


title: Foreign Citizen Extradited to New Zealand to Stand Trial for Child Rape

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced that a foreign citizen overstaying a visitor visa on Oahu was extradited to New Zealand where he is wanted to stand trial for the alleged rape of a twelve year- old. The man invoked his right to name suppression under New Zealand law and is not being identified by the United States Attorney’s Office. According to the extradition request submitted by New Zealand, the man is charged with rape, indecent assault on a young person, and unlawful sexual connection, among other offenses, for a 2015 encounter with the minor victim in a guest room adjoining the minor’s family home. Multiple witnesses provided statements to New Zealand Police, including a female friend of the victim, who corroborated the victim’s story and reported having also been inappropriately touched by the man in the months preceding the incident. Following an initial encounter with New Zealand Police in September 2015, the man fled New Zealand, eventually finding his way to Hawaii. The United States Marshals Service, with substantial assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, arrested the man in March 2024. On April 3, 2025, following federal court proceedings in Honolulu, the court certified him as extraditable to New Zealand. The United States Secretary of State thereafter granted the extradition request, and he was surrendered to New Zealand authorities on May 30, 2025. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Slack of the District of Hawaii and the Office of International Affairs in the Justice Department’s Criminal Division


title: Philadelphia Man Admits to Gunpoint Robberies of Three City Stores in Three Days

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Tyree Hatch, aka “Jamal Morris” and “Omar Reed,” 48, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty before United States District Judge Gail A. Weilheimer this week on three counts of robbery which interferes with interstate commerce (Hobbs Act robbery), three counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. In January of this year, the defendant was charged by indictment with those offenses, arising from three armed robberies of Northeast Philadelphia businesses in November 2024. As detailed in court documents and admitted to by the defendant, on November 23, 2024, at approximately 1:12 p.m., he entered a convenience store located on the 6700 block of Castor Avenue, made conversation with an employee (Victim 1), then brandished his firearm. The defendant placed the gun into Victim 1’s back and walked him to the cash register. Hatch then grabbed money, Victim 1’s iPhone, and boxes of Newport cigarettes and fled the scene. Video recovered after the robbery showed the defendant entering a black Ford Explorer with PA tags. On November 24, 2024, at approximately 9 p.m., the defendant entered a smoke shop located on the 2000 block of Cottman Avenue, confronted an employee (Victim 2) and demanded money from the register. During the interaction, Hatch pulled out a firearm, and, believing the gun was fake, Victim 2 tried to disarm him. The gun went off during the struggle and Victim 2 suffered a gunshot wound to the shin. Hatch then fled the store with cash from the register. Video recovered after the robbery showed the defendant driving the same black Ford Explorer as the day prior. On November 25, 2024, at approximately 3:45 p.m., officers with the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) were dispatched to a smoke and vape shop located on the 7100 block of Castor Avenue, in response to a robbery in progress. Upon their arrival, an employee (Victim 3) informed them that the armed robber had taken cash, an iPhone, a carton of Newport cigarettes, and boxes of cigars. Aware of the previous two robberies, PPD officers surveyed the area for the black Ford Explorer and found it parked outside the defendant’s residence. Hatch was then seen entering the home, and a barricade was declared. The defendant soon exited the residence and was placed under arrest. Hatch is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3 and faces a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 24 years in prison. The case was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kwambina Coker and Linwood C. Wright Jr.


title: FEDERAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST PENSACOLA MAN FOR ATTEMPTING TO KILL ESCAMBIA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPUTY

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

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Darrion K. Finley, 21, of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on charges related to a shooting incident in late-2024 during an attempted traffic stop of a reported stolen vehicle. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges. Finley is scheduled for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida, on July 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The Indictment charges Finley with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Attempting to Kill an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy to Prevent Certain Communications, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. If convicted, Finley faces up to life imprisonment. The case is being jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office; and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case is part of Operation Take Back America ( https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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). The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Kilo Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Prison

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man has been sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl throughout Eastern North Carolina. Joshua Vines, 40, admitted to conspiring to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and pleaded guilty earlier this year. According to court records and evidence presented at sentencing, on October 25, 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents were conducting surveillance on a vehicle registered to co-defendant Nigel Gray. They observed the car parked outside a Dollar General in Elizabeth City, where a passenger and co-defendant, Omar Cardenas, exited and got into another vehicle. Both cars then left the area. Law enforcement later stopped the vehicle, driven by Vines, in Nashville, NC. During the stop, Vines contacted Gray by phone to ask for the car’s registration information. A trained K-9 alerted to the vehicle, prompting a search. Inside, officers found approximately 30,000 pills containing fentanyl or para-fluorofentanyl, with a combined weight of 1.5 kilograms, along with an additional kilogram of fentanyl powder. Vines had texted Gray that they were being detained and requested consent to search the vehicle. The group had planned to distribute the drugs in the Raleigh area. Gray and Cardenas have already been sentenced in federal court for their roles in the conspiracy. Vines has prior felony convictions for discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle, trafficking heroin, and trafficking cocaine by transportation. Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. HSI, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, the Raleigh Police Department, the Nashville Police Department, the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Severo and Katherine Englander prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00076.


title: FORMER LOCAL FIREFIGHTER FACING FEDERAL CHARGES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Garey A. Buscaino, 48, of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on charges related to a decade-long pattern of producing and possessing child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges. Buscaino is scheduled for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida, on July 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The Indictment charges Buscaino with the Production of Child Pornography of four different minor females between 2015 – 2025. He is also charged with the Possession of Child Pornography Involving Minors Under the Age of 12 Years Old. If convicted, Buscaino faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment as to each minor victim for the Production of Child Pornography and up to 20 years’ imprisonment as to the Possession of Child Pornography Involving Minors Under the Age of 12 Years Old. The case is being jointly investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Honduran National Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison

body_text: HAMMOND – Yesterday, Luis Banegas Rodriguez, 25 years old, of Honduras, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud in two cases, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Banegas Rodriguez was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $533,043 in restitution. According to documents in each case, on January 11, 2023, Banegas Rodriguez and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 169 fraudulent paychecks totaling $233,569 at three branches of the same bank in the Northern District of Indiana. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a company that operates dairy farms in the Northern District of Indiana. Almost six months later, on June 23, 2023, Banegas Rodriguez and his co-conspirators used fake identification cards to cash 178 fraudulent paychecks totaling $299,474 at five branches of the same bank and three check cashing businesses in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The fraudulent paychecks were designed to look like they had been issued by a building materials supply company in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “Banegas Rodriguez participated in a far-reaching conspiracy that caused major financial harm to community banks and small businesses across the United States. Due to the unwavering efforts and collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement, Banegas Rodriguez was brought to justice for his role in this scheme,” said Proctor. “The sentence imposed by the court sends a message that there are real consequences for engaging in fraud, particularly in northwest Indiana.” “The illicit actions of co-conspirators to commit bank fraud as they travel throughout the United States will not be tolerated,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Chicago. “HSI will continue to partner with our fellow law enforcement agencies to disrupt these types of offenders and hold them accountable for their crimes.” These cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Indiana State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Benton County (Indiana) Sheriff’s Department, the Benton County (Indiana) Prosecutor’s Office, the Poteau (Oklahoma) Police Department, and the Houston (Texas) Police Department. The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa from the Northern District of Indiana and Assistant United States Attorneys Kara Traster and Jordan Howanitz from the Eastern District of Oklahoma.


title: Nashville Hotel Agrees to Settle Allegations It Violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by Discriminating Against a Guest with a Service Animal

component: USAO - Tennessee, Middle

body_text: NASHVILLE – The United States has reached an agreement with Knights Inn Nashville, located at 99 Spring Street, Nashville, Tennessee, to resolve allegations that Knights Inn Nashville violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), announced Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee. Knights Inn Nashville is alleged to have refused to allow a family with a service animal stay in the hotel because it was against hotel policy. “Service animals are vital to the health and welfare of people in our community who need them,” said Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire. “This settlement shows that we will vigorously enforce the law to make sure that Tennesseans have equal access to facilities and not be barred because of challenges they may face.” According to the settlement agreement, the Complainant is an individual with a disability who reserved a room at the Knights Inn Nashville for the night of August 15, 2024, and noted in the reservation that they would be bringing a service animal. When the Complainant’s husband attempted to check in to the hotel, hotel staff argued with him for about 10 minutes, telling him that his family could not stay in the hotel with a service animal because it was against hotel policy. Complainant explained to the hotel staff that it is against federal and state law to deny them a room because of their service animal. Only after this public dispute and having Complainant print her service animal’s registration (which is not required under the ADA), did the hotel staff allow Complainant and her family to stay in the hotel. The ADA prohibits public accommodations from discriminating against an individual on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of its goods, services, privileges, advantages, or accommodations, and requires public accommodations to take those steps and make reasonable modifications that may be necessary to ensure that no individual with a disability is excluded, denied services, segregated or otherwise treated differently than other individuals because they have a service animal. As part of the settlement, Knights Inn Nashville has agreed to post a large sign in a conspicuous area of the hotel accessible by the public that reads, “Service Animals Welcome.” The owner of the hotel also will establish and implement a written policy specifically addressing the provision of services to individuals with disabilities who require a service animal for all hotels that he owns, including the Knights Inn Nashville, and to provide ADA training to all hotel staff who will make guest reservations or have contact with guests. Knights Inn Nashville will pay the Complainant $4,000 as part of the settlement and will pay a civil penalty to the United States in the amount of $2,000 to vindicate the public interest. Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly Veirs and Ellen Bowden McIntyre in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee investigated the complaint and negotiated the Settlement Agreement. The civil claims settled by this resolution are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the ADA, which was passed on July 26, 1990. The Act reaffirmed our nation’s commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities have the right to live, work, and fully participate in the community alongside their fellow citizens. More information about the ADA is available at the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA Information line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TTY) and via the ADA website at http://www.ada.gov or through contacting the U.S. Attorney’s civil rights hotline at 313-226-9151. ADA complaints may be filed by email to ada.complaint@usdoj.gov . # # # # #


title: Brazilian National Charged with Illegal Reentry

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully residing in Framingham has been indicted with illegally reentering the United States after deportation. Joelson Gomes Fonseca, 39, is charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. According to the charging documents, Fonseca was deported in March 2008 after having been convicted of an aggravated felony. The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Ferguson is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Armed Career Criminal Sentenced To 15 Years After Selling Drugs And Firearm To Undercover Officer

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber has sentenced Rodrick Quinelle Dallas (38, St. Petersburg) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and distributing cocaine. Dallas pleaded guilty in April 2025. According to court documents, on December 20, 2022, Dallas sold an undercover officer from the St. Petersburg Police Department a firearm and cocaine. Dallas received an enhanced sentence under the Armed Career Criminal Act based on his prior felony convictions for resisting an officer with violence and sale of cocaine. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: CaaStle Founder Charged In $300 Million Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia, announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging CHRISTINE HUNSICKER with wire fraud, securities fraud, money laundering, making false statements to a financial institution, and aggravated identity theft. The charges in the Indictment arise from an alleged scheme by the defendant to defraud investors in the fashion technology business CaaStle and a related venture out of more than $300 million through false statements, misleading claims, and fabricated documents. HUNSICKER self-surrendered this morning and will be presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer E. Willis. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken. “As alleged, Christine Hunsicker defrauded investors of hundreds of millions of dollars through document forgery, fabricated audits, and material misrepresentations about her company’s financial condition,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “The promise of pre-IPO technology companies can be fertile ground for fraudsters who play on investor euphoria. Investors should be aware of these incentives and that pre-IPO companies are not subject to the rigors of SEC registration. This Office is committed to protecting investors who place their trust and capital in emerging companies. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate, detect, and prosecute those individuals who abuse our markets and our investors” “Christine Hunsicker allegedly submitted fraudulent financial statements to swindle investors and banks of more than $300 million,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “This alleged scheme was stitched together with repeated deception and misinformation, ultimately betraying the trust of the defendant’s clients. The FBI remains committed to apprehending any business owners who implement unlawful practices to increase their personal wealth.” As alleged in the Indictment: [1] HUNSICKER, a well-known entrepreneur and successful businessperson in the fashion-tech industry, founded and was the chief executive officer of CaaStle, a clothing technology business. While promoting CaaStle as a rapidly growing business valued at more than $1.4 billion, HUNSICKER knew that CaaStle was in financial distress with limited cash and significant expenses. To raise the capital for CaaStle’s operations, HUNSICKER provided investors with falsified income statements, fake audited financial statements, fictitious bank records, and sham corporate documents that grossly overstated CaaStle’s operating profit, revenue, and available cash. She also misrepresented to investors that their funds would be used to purchase discounted shares from existing shareholders who needed liquidity, when in fact she fabricated the existence of those shareholders and used the money as new capital for CaaStle while concealing the company’s cash needs. In total, HUNSICKER fraudulently induced more than $275 million in investments. When confronted by an audit firm in October 2023 about transmitting a fake audit to an investor, HUNSICKER lied, falsely claiming that she had created the fake audit in connection with a lecture she gave at Princeton University, and that sending the audit to the investor had been a one-time error. In reality, HUNSICKER had provided two fake audits to the investor while soliciting an investment. She later repaid that investor to prevent the public disclosure of her fraud. Undeterred, she continued the scheme, providing an investor with fake bank account screenshots showing nearly $200 million in available cash when CaaStle had less than $200,000. One month later, in October 2024, HUNSICKER provided a different investor with a fake draft audit. In 2024, HUNSICKER also falsified the signature of a Board director to make it appear that the Board had authorized the grant of stock options to another investor, raising more than $20 million for CaaStle. Around the same time, HUNSICKER extended her fraudulent activities to a new business venture, P180, using false information about CaaStle’s success to raise approximately $30 million for P180. HUNSICKER also submitted false information about CaaStle to a bank in order to obtain and keep a $20 million personal loan. Even after the CaaStle Board removed HUNSICKER as Chair and prohibited her from soliciting investments, she continued her fraudulent activities and attempted to raise new capital. In early 2025, she sold $8 million of her CaaStle shares and more than $5 million in P180 convertible notes without disclosing material information to investors. In February 2025, HUNSICKER attempted to sell an additional $19 million of her CaaStle shares to another investor. HUNSICKER persisted in her deceptive practices even after law enforcement agents seized her electronic devices in March 2025, continuing to meet with the investor about a fake audit without revealing its fraudulent nature, her removal from the Board, or the prohibition against her selling shares. CaaStle filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on June 20, 2025. * * * HUNSICKER, 48, of Lafayette, New Jersey, is charged with one count of wire fraud, two counts of securities fraud, and one count of money laundering, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. HUNSICKER is also charged with one count of making false statements to a financial institution, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory sentence of two years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Mr. Clayton also expressed appreciation for the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which separately initiated civil proceedings against the defendant today. The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marguerite Colson and Alexandra Rothman are in charge of the prosecution. us_v._hunsicker_indictment.pdf [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Idaho Man Charged with Cyberstalking

body_text: BOSTON – A Rigby, Idaho man was arrested yesterday for allegedly cyberstalking a Massachusetts professor over the course of five months. Edward John Kay, 53, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of cyberstalking. Kay was arrested yesterday in Rigby, Idaho and will make an initial appearance in the District of Idaho today at 11 a.m. MDT (1 p.m. EST). He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. According to the charging documents, Kay met the victim in January 2025 when he enrolled in the victim’s online course on psychosis, which the victim taught at a university’s extension school. It is alleged that, after one Zoom meeting with the victim and one virtual class session, Kay became fixated on the victim, dropped the course, and proceeded to harass and intimidate the victim over email and LinkedIn for the following five months. Specifically, it is alleged that between January and June of 2025, Kay sent the victim over 80 harassing communications via LinkedIn and email – including at least one anonymous email account. In the communications, Kay allegedly expressed his adoration and love for the victim and repeatedly mentioned the victim’s minor child by name. It is alleged that the communications included: An April 1, 2025 LinkedIn message sent to the victim, in which Kay allegedly stated: “I miss you-truly, deeply- with all of my heart and soul. That day I saw you on Zoom…You were the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Not just appearance. Everything. Your presence. Your mind. Your light. To gain you…and then to lose you like that? It devastated me.” A May 9, 2025 email sent to several of the university’s offices with the victim copied, in which Kay alleged stated: “Dr. [victim’s last name] has been copied on all communications. She knows what is coming.” He added that this was only the “VERY BEGINNING” because “Every day, starting today, will mark a **new action of serious consequence**, taken by me in accordance with divine alignment and institutional justice.” A May 12, 2025 anonymous email sent to the victim from the email address [victim’s name]consience@protonmail.com, in which Kay allegedly professed his love for the victim, encouraged the victim to leave the university and stated, “You are still free. But you are not unreachable.” It is further alleged that Kay told another university professor about his obsession with the victim and his desire to separate the victim from her husband. According to the charging documents, on June 5, 2025, Kay emailed the victim and the president of the university stating that he purchased a first-class nonrefundable plane ticket to attend an in-person negotiations class at the university this summer, despite being banned from enrolling in the university’s courses. Airline records allegedly confirmed that Kay had purchased a one-way flight to Boston Logan Airport, that was scheduled to land on the morning of July 11, 2025, however he did not board the flight. The charge of cyberstalking provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by FBI Salt Lake City and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allegra Flamm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Columbia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine through the U.S. Mail

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for trafficking cocaine. Evidence presented in court revealed that in 2021, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating Calderon-Rosado for his involvement in a drug trafficking operation that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship parcels of drugs and drug proceeds. Investigators identified Calderon-Rosado as a significant supplier of cocaine in both the Columbia and Lexington County areas. According to the investigation, Calderon-Rosado regularly shipped large sums of cash to Puerto Rico, and in return, received kilogram quantities of cocaine by mail. Investigators identified two locations associated with Calderon-Rosado that he used for storing and distributing illegal drugs. On July 13 and Oct. 4, 2021, investigators intercepted two suspicious parcels addressed to locations associated with Calderon-Rosado. The first package contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine; the second, more than three kilograms. Following the October package, authorities executed an undercover operation involving the second package, and arrested Calderon-Rosado after he took possession of the cocaine. Law enforcement searched both associated addresses and seized more than $30,000 in cash, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, including a kilogram press, multiple stolen firearms, and ammunition. A review of postal and financial records revealed that between April 2020 and November 2023, Calderon-Rosado received over 30 kilograms of cocaine through the mail as part of the trafficking operation. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI Columbia field office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ariyana Gore and Lamar Fyall prosecuted this case. ###


title: Fargo Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for a Large Dangerous Drug Distribution Enterprise and Distribution of Drugs Resulting in Death

component: USAO - North Dakota

body_text: FARGO : Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Karmen Charles Fox, age 34 of Fargo, ND, appeared in United States District Court today, and was sentenced by Chief Judge Peter Welte to serve 480 months in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release for the offenses of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute 400 grams or more of Fentanyl (Count 1); Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering (Count 2); Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl) (Count 3); Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting In Death (Count 4); Distribution of a Controlled Substance (fentanyl) (Count 5); Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) (Count 7); and Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon (Count 9). Fox was also ordered to pay a $700 Special Assessment. As reflected in court documents, federal law enforcement responded to an overdose death on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation, North Dakota. A subsequent investigation revealed that Karmen Fox was the primary source of the pills that were ingested by the victim. Fox sold fentanyl pills to individuals throughout North Dakota, including on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation and Fort Berthold Indian Reservation for further distribution, including codefendants Scott Roberts (Roberts), Kristin Carrington (Carrington), Chasity Lynn Feather (Feather), Aiana Richotte (Richotte), among other coconspirators. Throughout the conspiracy, Fox and his codefendants used CashApp and other money transfer services to transfer the drug proceeds. In December 2022, Fox distributed more than 100 fentanyl pills to Feather and Richotte who in turn drove the pills from Fargo to Devils Lake for further distribution. While in Devils Lake, Richotte and the overdose victim smoked a pill. Thereafter, the victim returned to her residence on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation where she later died. After the victim was found unresponsive by her significant other, he called emergency medical personnel who unsuccessfully performed life-saving measures. Law enforcement later obtained search warrants for Richotte and Feather’s hotel room in Devils Lake as well as Feather’s person. Law enforcement seized $1,293 from Feather’s purse and approximately 175 fentanyl pills from Feather’s person. Further investigation of the coconspirators’ social media accounts revealed that Scott Roberts and Fox discussed having previously distributed “thousands” of pills. They also discussed the arrests of Feather and Richotte in Devils Lake on December 13, 2022. On November 21, 2023, a search warrant was executed on Fox’s residence in Fargo. Law enforcement seized approximately 25 grams of methamphetamine, two grams of heroin, three firearms, and 34 boxes of various ammunition. Fox was prohibited from possessing firearms because of two prior felony convictions, including Attempted Delivery of Controlled Substance-Heroin. Following a jury trial, Fox was found guilty of the above-mentioned offenses on March 19, 2025. Fox’s coconspirators plead guilty and were sentenced to federal prison for the following terms of incarceration: Roberts was sentenced to 120 months Carrington was sentenced to 42 months Richotte was sentenced to 28 months Feather is awaiting sentencing. “Today’s action reflects the significant prison sentence that awaits those who choose to infect our community with fentanyl, methamphetamines and illegal firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Drug dealers can’t hide from law enforcement in North Dakota, or anywhere in this country. The FBI is proud of our role in this joint effort with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners.” “The defendant prioritized financial gain over human life and it’s my hope that his sentence will serve as a stark warning to others who are engaging in the same conduct,” said Acting US Attorney Puhl. “If you distribute dangerous narcotics that result in overdose deaths, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law”. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; BIA, Lake Region Narcotics Task Force; North Dakota Crime Lab, BCI; Cass County Task Force; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This case was prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office, District of North Dakota. # # #


title: Ashley Man Sentenced to 300 Months in Prison

body_text: FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Kyle T. Brady, 39 years old, of Ashley, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Brady was sentenced to 300 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, on two occasions in July of 2022, Brady distributed methamphetamine. On July 19, 2022, a search warrant was served at Brady’s residence where approximately 250 grams of methamphetamine, a mixture of fentanyl and cocaine, and marijuana were found. Officers also located two handguns, a shotgun, an AR-15 rifle, two ballistic vests, and over a thousand rounds of ammunition. Brady has prior felony convictions for drug distribution and firearms offenses. This is Brady’s seventh conviction related to drug distribution, and as such, he was determined to be a career offender. “Drugs, firearms, and large quantities of ammunition are never a good combination, especially when they are illegally possessed by a convicted felon,” said Proctor. “The public is safer thanks to the combined efforts of the excellent team that investigated and prosecuted this case.” This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Auburn Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: St. Louis County Man Sentenced for Hosting Dogfights

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Friday sentenced a man who hosted dogfights and trained dogs to fight to 18 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Terrell Williams, 52, has also agreed to give up the dogs and training equipment seized by law enforcement during the investigation. Williams hosted dog fights in the basement of his home in Riverview, Missouri, on two occasions in July and August of 2021. Williams also bred and owned multiple bull terriers or terrier mixes between Sept. 5, 2020, and May 1, 2022, that were used for fights. On June 22, 2022, FBI agents conducted a court-approved search of Williams’ home and seized eight bull terrier mixes and three Yorkshire terriers, as well as equipment used to train and condition dogs. Multiple dogs appeared to be aggressive towards humans and other dogs, anxious or fearful. Dogs also bore scars consistent with dog bites or dog fighting, Williams’ plea agreement says. Williams pleaded guilty in March to a felony charge of dogfighting, which is punishable by up to five years in prison. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.


title: Gary Man Sentenced to 480 months in Prison

body_text: HAMMOND- Yesterday, Taquan Clarke, age 31, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and using a firearm to commit murder, following a 6-day jury trial, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor. Clarke was sentenced to 480 months in prison for using a firearm to commit murder. He was also sentenced to 240 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. He was also sentenced to 3 years of supervised release. Both sentences are to run concurrently. According to documents in the case, between June 2016 and February 2018, Taquan Clarke and numerous others conspired to possess and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. On July 28, 2017, Clarke was involved in a plot to rob an individual of cocaine and money. During this attempted robbery, Clarke shot the victim, K.H., in the head, resulting in K.H.’s death. “Taquan Clarke cut short the life of another man,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Proctor. “Thanks to the coordinated efforts of law enforcement, he has been brought to justice for that act. It is an honor to serve with the dedicated agents, officers, and prosecutors who made that happen.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team, the Gary Police Department, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. The trial was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys David J. Nozick and Caitlin M. Padula. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Taunton Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Drug Distribution, Access Device Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft Charges

body_text: BOSTON – A Taunton man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for participating in drug distribution and a drug conspiracy involving wholesale quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine. He was also sentenced for using an unknowing individual’s identity and an unauthorized access device to fraudulently rent locations he used for the purposes of drug trafficking. Terrence Pyrtle, a/k/a “Big T,” a/k/a “T,” a/k/a “big_t558,” 42, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In April 2025 , Pyrtle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of fentanyl and 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue; one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft; one count of access device fraud; and one count of aggravated identity theft. Pyrtle was charged in April 2023 , along with co-conspirator Ashley Roostaie. Pyrtle and Roostaie utilized the personal identification information (including name, date of birth and Social Security number) of an unknowing individual to fraudulently enter into lease agreements for two apartments in Braintree and Somerville, which Pyrtle then used to participate in a drug conspiracy involving distribution quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine. The drug conspiracy in which Pyrtle participated also extended to other locations across the state. Pyrtle and Roostaie also created an email account and obtained a counterfeit driver’s license using the individual’s identification information. Pyrtle and Roostaie also used the individual’s identification information to obtain a Green Dot debit card account, which they used to make payments associated with the apartments. By placing the apartment leases under another individual’s personal identification information, Roostaie and Pyrtle were able to conceal their connection to and use of the apartments which were used by Pyrtle in furtherance of his drug distribution and drug conspiracy. In May 2025 , Roostaie was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to two years of probation and was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine as well as restitution of $1,000. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston, Brockton, East Bridgewater and Bridgewater Police Departments and Plymouth County, Suffolk County and Bristol County Sheriff’s Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaitlin R. O’Donnell and David Cutshall of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Gun And Drug Trafficker Convicted

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced the conviction at trial yesterday of BIANNEURY PENA, a/k/a “Charly,” for his role in gun and drug trafficking conspiracies as well as his unlawful possession of a firearm as an illegal alien. The conviction comes after a 4-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Denise L. Cote. PENA is scheduled to be sentenced on October 17, 2025. “Within weeks of entering the United States unlawfully, Pena immersed himself in a gun and drug trafficking scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Pena and his crew smuggled guns and cocaine up and down the east coast without regard for the danger they were bringing to New Yorkers. Thanks to the prompt action of the DEA and our prosecutors, Pena was arrested and has been held accountable for his crimes.” As alleged in the Indictment and statements made in public filings and public court proceedings: On June 7, 2024, PENA and ABEL ROSARIO were arrested in New York, New York, after arriving from North Carolina by bus. At the time of their arrest, PENA and ROSARIO were smuggling two firearms into New York City from North Carolina. In their possession were the below-depicted Aero Precision model M4E1 firearm, a Glock .40 caliber model 23 handgun, dozens of rounds of ammunition, a standard magazine, two high-capacity magazines, and a drum magazine. Just a month earlier, in April 2024, PENA illegally entered the U.S. and began conspiring with ROSARIO, who was unlawfully present in the U.S. after having been previously deported. Between May and June 2024, PENA took three round trips between New York and North Carolina, during which he smuggled cocaine to North Carolina and returned with firearms. * * * PENA, 35, of the Dominican Republic, was convicted of three total counts and faces up to 50 years in prison. Count Charge Sentence Count One 18 U.S.C. § 933 (Gun Trafficking Conspiracy) 15 years, a maximum term of supervised release three years Count Two 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5) (Alien in Possession of a Firearm) 15 years, a maximum term of supervised release of three years Count Three 21 U.S.C. §s 846 and 841(b)(1)(C) 20 years; maximum term of supervised release of three years The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security, the New York City Police Department, the Port Authority Police Department, and the New York State Police. This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley C. Nicolas, Alexandra S. Messiter, and Brandon D. Harper are in charge of the prosecution. u.s._v._pena_indictment.pdf


title: Narcotics Trafficker Who Brought Fentanyl from California to the DMV Sentenced to 108 Months in Federal Prison

body_text: WASHINGTON – Ronte Ricardo Greene, 29, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 108 months in federal prison for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy which distributed hundreds of thousands of lethal fentanyl-laced pills from Southern California to destinations throughout the United States, including Washington D.C. Greene was one of 24 co-defendants arrested over the course of 2023 in D.C., Virginia, Maryland, San Diego, and Los Angeles and charged in the conspiracy. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Greene, aka “Cardiddy,” pleaded guilty on Feb. 27, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams of fentanyl. In addition to the 108-month prison term, Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ordered Greene to serve five years of supervised release. Joining in the announcement of Greene’s sentencing today were Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division, Inspector in Charge Damon Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department. According to court documents, Greene entered into the conspiracy in 2022 after he was introduced to a Los Angeles-based drug trafficker who was a wholesale distributor of the counterfeit pills. Greene’s role was to travel to Southern California, purchase the fentanyl-laced pills, and return with them to the DMV where he would sell the pills to others. Greene regularly boasted of the money generated from his drug trafficking, and posted photos of himself on social media holding stacks of cash. When Greene was arrested on Nov. 15, 2023, he was in possession of about 100 fentanyl-laced pills. This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. The prosecutions followed a joint investigation by the DEA Washington Division and the USPIS Washington Division in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The investigation had valuable support from the DEA Los Angeles, San Diego, and Riverside Field Offices, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington Field Office, and the Charles County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Central and Southern Districts of California, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the District of Maryland. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Kinskey, Solomon Eppel, and Iris McCranie of the Violent Crimes and Narcotics Trafficking Division. DEFENDANT AGE LOCATION CHARGES/SENTENCE Hector David Valdez, aka “Curl” 27 Santa Fe Springs, California Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit international money laundering. Craig Eastman 21 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Feb. 6, 2025, to 165 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl. Charles Jeffrey Taylor 21 Washington, D.C. Pleaded guilty Feb. 28, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Raymond Nava, Jr. 21 Bell Gardens, California Sentenced Sept. 17, 2024, to 14 years for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Ulises Aldaz 28 Bell Gardens, California Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 95 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Max Alexander Carias Torres 27 Bell Gardens, California Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit international money laundering. Teron Deandre McNeil, aka “Wild Boy” 35 Washington, D.C. Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; Conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Marvin Anthony Bussie, aka “Money Marr” 22 Washington, D.C. Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 120 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Marcus Orlando Brown 29 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Oct. 3, 2024, to 108 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Columbian Thomas, aka "Cruddy Murda” 27 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Oct. 22, 2024, to 160 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Wayne Rodell Carr-Maiden 35 Washington, D.C. Sentenced April 29, 2024, to 45 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Andre Malik Edmond, aka “Draco” 24 Temple Hills, Maryland Sentenced July 22, 2024, to 130 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Treyveon James Johnson, aka “Treyski” 21 Alexandria, Virginia Sentenced Sept. 5, 2024, to 108 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Karon Olufemi Blalock, aka “Fat Bags” 30 Alexandria, Virginia Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit wire fraud; conspiracy to commit money laundering. Ronte Ricardo Greene, aka “Cardiddy” 29 Washington, D.C. Sentenced July 18, 2025, to 108 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Melvin Edward Allen, Jr., aka “21” 39 Washington, D.C. Sentenced June 20, 2025, to 75 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Darius Quincy Hodges, aka “Brick” 34 Glen Allen, Virginia Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Lamin Sesay, aka “Rock Star” 28 Alexandria, Virginia Sentenced May 30, 2025, to 110 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Paul Alejandro Felix 26 Glendale, California Sentenced Nov. 12, 2024, to 164 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Omar Arana, aka “Frogs” 27 Cudahy, California Sentenced May 2, 2025, to 93 months, for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Edgar Balderas, Jr., aka “Nano” 27 San Diego, California Sentenced May 8, 2025, to 148 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Raul Pacheco Ramirez 31 Long Beach, California Sentenced Nov. 26, 2024, to 95 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Giovani Alejandro Briones 31 Victorville, California Sentenced Feb. 20, 2025, to 90 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Alfredo Rodriguez Gonzalez 27 Rosarito, Mexico Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit international money laundering. 23cr73