title: Red Lake Woman Found Guilty of Murder and Arson

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A Red Lake woman has been found guilty of five counts of first-degree murder and one count of arson following a two-and-a-half-weeklong trial, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. On March 15, 2024, Jennifer Marie Stately, 37, attacked and killed two of her young children. The evidence at trial showed that Stately, when alone with the children at their home on Red Lake Nation, assaulted the boys causing numerous injuries and attacked them with a knife. Stately fatally stabbed her older son before setting the home on fire. Investigators with the ATF determined Stately used gasoline and lighter fluid to ignite three separate fires, including fires at both exit points of the home. While the older boy died of his sharp force injuries, the younger boy was trapped inside and died of carbon monoxide poisoning. After setting fire to the home, Stately fled the scene and was missing for several hours. The Red Lake Tribal Police Department issued an AMBER Alert, and, less than an hour later, a motorist spotted Stately in Todd County—approximately 150 miles south of the Stately home. Minnesota State Patrol, the Todd County Sheriff’s Department, and the Long Prairie Police Department responded to Stately’s location. She was apprehended and booked in the Todd County Jail. Following a two-and-a-half-week trial before the Honorable Judge John R. Tunheim, the jury returned guilty verdicts on all six counts: two counts of first-degree premeditated murder, two counts of murder in the course of committing child abuse, one count of murder in the course of committing arson, and one count of arson. At trial, Stately pursued the affirmative defense of insanity. The jury rejected that defense. "The FBI is honored to have partnered with federal, state and tribal law enforcement partners to bring justice to these young victims who had no chance at survival while in the care of the one person who should have kept them safe," said Rick Evanchec, the Interim Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Minneapolis Field Office. “ATF Certified Fire Investigators are experts in fire science and routinely provide expert assistance on cases involving both criminal and accidental fires. We are proud to have provided that expertise in this investigation to honor these young victims and hopefully provide some measure of closure to the community. Our commitment to protecting the public and the most innocent among us is unwavering, and ATF will continue partnering with our federal, state, and local partners to protect Minnesota communities from violent criminals,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Spence E. Burnett. “We all witnessed the devastating aftermath of Jennifer Stately’s horrific and unthinkable actions that night. We hope that holding her accountable for her crimes will provide some sense of justice for the family and the entire Red Lake community who are forever impacted by the loss of these two young boys,” said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “We stand with our federal and tribal law enforcement partners in our shared grief and commitment to seeking justice and supporting the community.” “The guilty verdict this week brings justice to a case that has deeply affected our entire Red Lake Nation community. On behalf of the dedicated men and women of this department, I want to acknowledge the tireless work of our Investigators along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Minnesota BCA Crime Scene Technicians, Todd County Sheriff’s Office, Long Prairie Police Department and lastly the United States Attorney’s Office for their professionalism and determination with such a tragic incident. Most importantly, our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the victims. No verdict can undo the pain of their loss, but we hope this outcome provides some sense of closure. The Red Lake Department of Public Safety remain committed to protecting our community, standing with victims and ensuring justice is served,” said Director of Red Lake Department of Public Safety Kendall Kingbird, Sr. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, aided by the ATF, the BCA, the Todd County Sheriff’s Department, the Long Prairie Police Department, and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department. The coordination of resources between these law enforcement agencies was imperative to the apprehension of Stately and the ultimate resolution of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachel L. Kraker and Garrett S. Fields prosecuted the case.


title: U.S. Attorney Dunavant adds Additional Attorneys and Support Staff to U.S. Attorney's Office

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, is pleased to announce the recent hiring and assignment of five (5) new Assistant U.S. Attorneys, one (1) new Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (JAG SAUSA), and two (2) new support staff positions in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “With the dramatic increase in our case filings since October, these new positions are much needed, and a welcome addition to our outstanding staff who effectively represents the United States, enforces the rule of law, and protects public safety in West Tennessee every day,” said U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant. Jennifer Collins, Assistant U.S. Attorney, is a graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry. She received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Law and is licensed to practice in Mississippi and Tennessee. She previously worked at Webb, Sanders & Williams, PLLC in Tupelo, Mississippi and for the Memphis City Schools district as Associate General Counsel. Prior to becoming an AUSA, she worked at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee as a Paralegal Specialist for the Appellate Division and Homeland Security Task Force. She will be assigned to the Civil Division of the Memphis office. Meghan Fowler, Assistant U.S. Attorney, obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her law degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She has been a prosecutor for over 16 years in Tennessee and Mississippi, handling all levels of State criminal prosecutions. She served as an Assistant District Attorney in Shelby County, Tennessee and worked as a Senior Trial Assistant in the Special Prosecution Unit as well as the Domestic Violence Unit. She also served as an Assistant District Attorney in North Mississippi before serving as an Assistant District Attorney General Pro Tem for the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference. She will be assigned to the Organized Crimes & HSTF Unit in the Criminal Division of the Memphis office. Brooke Greer, Legal Assistant, is a graduate of Union University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Prior to this position, she worked as a civil paralegal for a private law firm in Jackson, Tennessee. She is originally from Charlotte, North Carolina and is excited to begin working in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office in Jackson, Tennessee. Raven Icaza, Assistant U.S. Attorney, obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Loyola University Chicago and her Juris Doctorate from University of Memphis. She began her career in the 25th Judicial District of Tennessee as an Assistant District Attorney. and litigated a variety of cases throughout the district, primarily Fayette County. She was a member of the Child Protective Investigative Team and the Vulnerable Adult Protective Investigative Team. She currently serves as Secretary on the board of Fayette Cares, a local non-profit dedicated to helping those affected by homelessness, domestic violence, or otherwise in crisis. She will be assigned to the Organized Crimes & HSTF Unit in the Criminal Division of the Memphis office. Darrius Samples, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, earned his Juris Doctor from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University. He is admitted to practice law in Maryland where he gained foundational experience in criminal procedure and courtroom litigation. He joined the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps and served as a Military Justice Advisor, Chief of Client Services, and Defense Counsel, which included an overseas assignment in South Korea. He advised commanders on complex military justice matters, oversaw legal services operations, and represented service members in serious criminal cases. He will be assigned to prosecute criminal cases arising from the Memphis Safe Task Force Operation. Gavin Smith, Assistant U.S. Attorney , attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and his Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis School of Law, where he was a member of the Law Review. He served as an Assistant District Attorney at the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office in Memphis, where he prosecuted violent crimes and homicides. He was a member of the D.A.’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) and also served as the Chief Prosecutor over a vertical team of prosecutors in both general sessions and criminal courts. He will be assigned to the Firearms & Violent Crimes Unit in the Criminal Division of the Memphis office. Berina Suljic, Paralegal Specialist, earned her Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Law, in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After relocating to the United States, she earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies from Southwest Tennessee Community College in Memphis, Tennessee. Following graduation, she worked at an immigration law firm as a paralegal and applied her international legal background and technical expertise to support case strategy and client advocacy. She joins the U.S. Attorney's Office with extensive experience handling complex legal matters and a wealth of knowledge in immigration law. She will be assigned to the Firearms & Violent Crimes Unit in the Criminal Division of the Memphis office. Irris Williams, Assistant U.S. Attorney , is a lifelong Memphian and graduated from Memphis Harding Academy. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Spelman College and received her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. She began her career as an Associate Attorney at Becker Law Firm practicing family law. She served as an Assistant District Attorney for the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office prior to joining the Firearms and Violent Crimes Unit at the U.S. Attorney's Office. She will be assigned to the Firearms & Violent Crimes Unit in the Criminal Division of the Memphis office. usao-tnw_new_hires_-_press_release_photos_february_26_2026_0.pdf ### For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.


title: Members of a York County Drug Conspiracy Sentenced to Federal Prison

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

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cory Martin, 32, of Rock Hill; Travis Queen, 33, of Rock Hill; Brandon Ramsey, 23, of Clover; and Wesley Huffstetler, 31, of York have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a fentanyl and meth drug trafficking conspiracy. A fifth member of the conspiracy, Ashley Daniels, 34, is awaiting sentencing. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit investigated a drug conspiracy in the York County area led by Martin. Multiple witnesses identified Martin, Queen, Ramsey, and Huffstetler as members of the conspiracy. During the investigation, law enforcement used confidential sources to contact Martin to buy methamphetamine and fentanyl. After coordinating the drug sales, Martin sent Brandon Ramsey to deliver the drugs. Huffstetler’s house was used to receive and store shipments of meth for the drug conspiracy. During the investigation, law enforcement intercepted over 3.7 pounds of methamphetamine shipped to Huffstetler’s house. Martin, Queen, Ramsey, and Huffstetler were eventually arrested on state charges related to the investigation. While incarcerated, Martin spoke to Daniels and instructed her to retrieve fentanyl and methamphetamine from Martin’s home. Queen then spoke to Daniels and instructed her on which drugs to keep and which drugs to sell. Law enforcement intercepted the calls and found the methamphetamine and fentanyl pills after a search of Daniels’ property. In total, over 26.4 pounds of methamphetamine and over 22 pounds of fentanyl were attributed to the conspiracy. After Martin was indicted and detained on federal charges, he participated in the submission of false letters to the court in an attempt to mislead the court about his role in the drug conspiracy. As a result, the government charged Martin with contempt of court. Martin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine, and contempt of court. Ramsey, Daniels, and Queen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Huffstetler pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Martin to 276 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. Queen was sentenced to 125 months imprisonment, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Ramsey was sentenced to 96 months followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Huffstetler was sentenced to 90 months followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Ashley Daniels has not yet been sentenced. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar J. Fyall is prosecuting the case. ###


title: India-based scheme courier sentenced to 6 years in prison on fraud charges

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: MISSOULA – A man originally from India who stole over $1.7 million from the elderly was sentenced today to 72 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. Zabi Ullah Mohammed, 29, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud after trial in October 2025. U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. The government alleged in court documents, and at trial, that Zabi Ullah Mohammed was a courier connected to an India-based scheme designed to steal from the elderly across the United States. Although the scheme contained many different variations, the ultimate end was that victims were fraudulently led to believe it was necessary to withdraw money and other assets from various financial institutions and provide it to a “federal agent” purportedly for “safekeeping.” In reality, there was no “federal agent” and the money that victims provided to Mohammed under this pretense was simply stolen from the victims. Authorities discovered Mohammed as a conspirator in this case because a victim in Missoula reported she was defrauded of over $900,000. To catch the fraudsters involved, law enforcement set up a ruse pickup in Missoula with a package that contained a tracking device. Mohammed arrived and picked up the package of what he believed was cash. When Mohammed discovered the tracker inside, he threw the package out of his vehicle and attempted to flee. When arrested, Mohammed attempted to claim he was a victim of this scheme as well; however, a trial jury found that Mohammed was, in fact, a member of the conspiracy. Victims in this case lost over $3,900,000, and Mohammed personally retrieved approximately $1,700,933 in gold and U.S. currency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katy Stack prosecuted the case. The FBI and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Brazilian National Unlawfully in the United States Sentenced for Selling 14 Firearms Without a License

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Brazilian national unlawfully residing in Worcester has been sentenced to prison for selling firearms without a license. Joao Vitor Dos Santos Goncalves Pimenta, 21, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns to 27 months in prison. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In August 2025, Goncalves Pimenta pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license. Between July and September 2024, Goncalves Pimenta sold 14 firearms without the required license in exchange for cash. The firearms included pistols and AR-15-style rifles and large capacity magazines. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Patricia H. Hyde, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Revere Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Crowley and John Reynolds of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.


title: Former American Embassy Employee Sentenced  for Rape of Minors in Burkina Faso

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A Maryland man was sentenced today to life in prison for forcibly sexually assaulting two minor girls in Burkina Faso in 2022 and 2023. After a two-week trial in October 2025, a federal jury in the District of Maryland convicted Fode Sitafa Mara, 41, of four counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor, as well as one count each of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and attempted obstruction of justice. Mara, a U.S. citizen, was an employee at the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, at the time of his offenses. “The defendant, while representing the U.S. government abroad, violently sexually abused two acutely vulnerable child victims,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “His crimes were reprehensible. While no sentence could undo the harm he caused, today’s outcome demonstrates that those who abuse children – domestically or abroad – will face significant consequences in the American justice system. We thank our partners at the U.S. State Department for helping us pursue justice for these victims.” “Our message is clear, those who prey on our children will pay a hefty price,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Mara targeted and abused two innocent young girls, and now he’ll be behind bars for a long time where he belongs. We’re committed to partnering with our community and law-enforcement partners to ensure that justice is served by relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting predators who commit these deplorable acts.” “The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is committed to protecting the integrity of U.S. diplomatic missions and ensuring the safety of local communities where we serve,” said Deputy Assistant Director George Semertsidis of the DSS Office of Special Investigations. “We will thoroughly investigate any allegations of criminal conduct by those associated with U.S. diplomatic facilities and work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to bring offenders to justice. This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to accountability and the protection of the most vulnerable.” “Protecting children and safeguarding vulnerable populations from sexual exploitation and abuse is a core priority of the U.S. Agency for International Development Office of Inspector General (USAID OIG) and we will continue to pursue those who violate that trust wherever they operate," said Acting Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Laura Rousseau of USAID OIG. “With continued oversight jurisdiction over foreign assistance, USAID OIG will ensure significant consequences for perpetrators, holding accountable anyone who exploits their overseas positions — including individuals employed by the United States, aid organizations, or the United Nations.” “Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents in Maryland, with assistance from federal law enforcement partners, demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in bringing justice for the victims in this case,” said Acting Executive Director John Condon of HSI. “Their relentless pursuit of the facts and commitment to protecting vulnerable children across the world exemplifies HSI’s mission to investigate crimes that threaten the safety and security of our communities at home and abroad. HSI remains steadfast in its efforts to combat child exploitation and ensure that those who harm children are held fully accountable. I commend our agents for their outstanding work and unwavering dedication to uphold the values of justice and integrity.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Mara, on multiple occasions, forcibly raped two teenage Burkinabé girls at his Embassy-leased residence in Ouagadougou. Because the residence was reserved for use by U.S. diplomatic personnel, it fell under the United States’ jurisdiction for prosecution. The previous resident of Mara’s residence had developed a relationship with the minor victims and their family, providing them with nourishment and safety. The minor victims lived in abject poverty in a structure without running water a short distance from what became Mara’s residence. When Mara arrived, he saw opportunity and immediately capitalized on his access to the victims. Mara repeatedly sexually abused them for approximately one year, beginning when the victims were 13 and 15 years old. He used the girls’ mother’s life-threatening illness as an opportunity to demand sex, telling them he could not help them without receiving something in return. Mara provided the girls with phones so he could summon them while his wife was away at work. Mara was also convicted for sending sexually enticing messages to one of the minor victims and for attempting to persuade his housekeeper to lie to U.S. investigators to help him conceal his crimes. The DSS Office of Special Investigations and the DSS Regional Security Office at U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou, as well as USAID OIG and HSI, investigated the case. The Burkinabe authorities provided significant assistance. Trial Attorney Adam Braskich of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ranganath Manthripragada and Brooke Oki for the District of Maryland prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.


title: Repeat Felon Sentenced for Possessing a Pound of Methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – An Afton man was sentenced today for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Zackery True Huddleston, 38, to 120 months imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release. In June 2025, Bixby Police officers responded to a car wreck that involved injuries. Witnesses told responding officers that a man later identified as Huddleston walked away from the wreck. When officers attempted to speak with Huddleston, he took off running and led officers on a foot pursuit through a neighborhood. Officers found Huddleston and detained him. While being booked, Huddleston began crying on the floor and stated, “I don’t want to go back to prison.” The officer asked why he would go back to prison, and Huddleston replied, “the dope.” After searching his vehicle, officers found more than a pound of methamphetamine stashed, along with Huddleston’s driver's license and marijuana card. Court dockets show that Huddleston pleaded guilty in several State cases for felonies such as manufacturing controlled substances, possessing a stolen vehicle, or second-degree burglary. When he received a suspended sentence, it ended up being revoked due to non-compliance. Huddleston will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The Broken Arrow Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.


title: Four Admit to Federal Drug Offenses

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people have entered guilty pleas in connection to methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Steven Anthony Blatt, 63, and Jeanetta Nicole Sigler, 50, both of Paden City, West Virginia, each pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Blatt, also known as “Stevie,” and Sigler worked together to sell methamphetamine in Wetzel and Tyler Counties. Following a trip to Morgantown to pick up drugs, officers stopped Blatt and Sigler and seized 427 grams of methamphetamine from their vehicle. D'Angelo Jones, 29, of Wheeling, West Virginia, admitted to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Jones was selling heroin and fentanyl in Ohio County. Investigators seized 20 grams of heroin and fentanyl, along with a firearm and $1,200 from his residence on Wheeling Island. Roland N. Copney, 37, of Wheeling, West Virginia, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During an investigation of gunshots being fired on Wheeling Island, Copney was identified as a possible subject. Officers executed a search warrant at his residence and seized more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 12 grams of fentanyl, and ammunition. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Jennifer Conklin are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. Investigative agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; and the Wheeling Police Department. U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided. Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration.


title: Hays man sentenced for assault on Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Hays man who struck a man in the face with a screwdriver was sentenced today to 6 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. Russell Thomas Young, 40, pleaded guilty in October 2025 to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that the defendant and John Doe spent portions of the day together at Doe’s house on September 23, 2023. Young and Doe were outside doing yard work when Young began to act strangely, staring into the windows of the home. Eventually Young entered Doe’s home and went into the basement. While Young was in the basement, Doe and Doe’s wife overhead Young speaking as though other people were in the basement with him, despite Young being the only person there at the time. At that point, Doe went into the house and yelled down the stairs that Young should leave. Young then emerged quickly from downstairs with a screwdriver in his hand. He attacked Doe by stabbing him with the screwdriver on the left side of Doe’s face, near the temple. Young continued to punch and strike Doe with the screwdriver until Doe’s wife stopped the assault by striking Young with a fishing pole. Doe’s wife called 911 and, because the house was filling with smoke, reported that Young had set the house on fire. Law enforcement arrived at the scene and extinguished a fire that started in the basement furnace. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services, Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and Phillips County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. XXX


title: St. Louis Man Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for $300,000 Kohl’s Cash Scam

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Thursday sentenced a man who stole nearly $300,000 worth of online merchandise from Kohl’s to 87 months in prison. Judge Autrey also ordered Marshall Lampkin, 36, to pay the retailer $301,713 and forfeit the stolen items that have been recovered. According to evidence and testimony at Lampkin’s trial in August, Lampkin carried out his scheme by first using Kohl’s Cash to purchase merchandise in a Kohl’s store, generally for more than $1,000. He would then immediately use the same Kohl’s Cash to order merchandise online, knowing that the in-person transaction had not yet registered. Lampkin returned the items he bought in the store for Kohl’s Cash so he could repeat his scam. Lampkin used the scheme hundreds of times at dozens of stores in more than a dozen states, evidence and testimony showed. Kohl’s asked Lampkin to stop, deactivated his online account and alerted stores, but Lampkin continued by recruiting multiple accomplices, Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf said during Thursday’s hearing. Lampkin had $293,000 in online purchases, which included flooring, furniture, small appliances and other items, shipped to storage units in St. Louis and a relative’s house in Illinois. He then sold or tried to sell those items by advertising them on Facebook. The Kohl’s Cash scam was part of a series of escalating scams lasting nearly 20 years, Ladendorf said. Lampkin began by illegally selling MetroLink tickets in 2007. He shoplifted from big box stores from 2010-2011 and then targeted a national pharmacy chain’s rewards program beginning in 2013 and continuing through 2023, Ladendorf said. When confronted by store staff, Lampkin would become violent, he said. The U.S. Secret Service and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Ladendorf and Derek Wiseman prosecuted the case.


title: Two Individuals Convicted of Operating Illegal Multimillion-Dollar Pyramid Schemes

body_text: A federal jury in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, convicted an Illinois woman and man for running illegal multimillion-dollar pyramid schemes in at least four different states. “Today’s verdict holds Candice Cunningham and Joseph Johnson Jr. accountable for their lies to steal from victims through their pyramid schemes,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants stole millions of dollars from victims across America with false guarantees of earnings and refunds. This trial conviction reflects the dedicated work of the prosecutors and agents who brought this case to vindicate the victims. The Criminal Division will continue to investigate and prosecute those who prey on, trick, and defraud people.” “The defendants ran illegal pyramid schemes in multiple states over several years that caused millions of dollars in losses to victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr of the FBI Milwaukee Field Office. “The losses sustained by the victims resulted in financial and emotional devastation that will bring lasting harm. The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to working with our partners to combat financial fraud schemes." According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Candice V. Cunningham, 38, and Joseph E. Johnson Jr., 53, both of Chicago, operated a series of pyramid schemes that were advertised to victims under various names including Wealth Partners Publishing, Wealth Wise, Zero to Profit, 30 Day Success Formula, Lav Label, Beckett Group, and Dreams To Reality Group. Marketing materials for the pyramid schemes misrepresented that if a victim-participant invested money in one of the schemes, that victims would receive payments from other participants he or she recruited. The materials also falsely promised that if a victim did not receive payments from other participants, the victim was guaranteed that his or her initial investment would be fully refunded. Most victims did not receive any payments from other participants and were denied the return of their initial investment. Cunningham, Johnson, and others generated $5 million in proceeds as a result of these schemes. Cunningham and Johnson were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and six counts of mail fraud. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count. They are scheduled to be sentenced on June 23. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. Trial Attorneys Christopher Berridge and Kashan Pathan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.


title: Remarks of U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon at La Rana Press Conference - English and Spanish

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery United States Attorney Adam Gordon La Rana Press Conference February 26, 2026 My name is Adam Gordon, and I’m the United States Attorney for the Southern District of California. Joining me are: The lead prosecutors on this case, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Mellor and Matthew Sutton; James M. Nunnallee, Special Agent in Charge, DEA San Diego; TJ Holland, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Diego Field Office; Executive Assistant United States Attorney Victor White Jason Powell, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations SAC Kevin Murphy, together representing the Homeland Security Task Force At the end of the statements, we will provide an opportunity for questions related to this case and have Spanish language media availability. Sagitario. Chavo Felix. Flaquito. Payo. Valdez-Ruiz. They’re here. They’re charged. They’re only the beginning. Less than 300 days ago, these cartel kingpins were free and unafraid. Now they sit in federal custody in the Southern District of California. When I told them that they were no longer the hunters, they were the hunted, that wasn’t a threat, it was a certainty. Foreign terrorist organizations may operate across borders – but justice doesn’t stop at them. Recent reports regarding cartel leadership in Mexico underscore a simple truth: criminal organizations built on fear and violence are inherently unstable. Individuals may rise and fall, but the rule of law endures. Building on these unprecedented successes, today we are announcing a superseding indictment against Rene Arzate Garcia, infamously known as “La Rana,” a high-ranking, ultra-violent Sinaloa Cartel lieutenant who has controlled the Tijuana drug corridor for 15 years through fear and force. We are also announcing that the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is offering up to $5 million each for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of La Rana and his brother, Alfonso Arzate-Garcia, a/k/a “Aquiles.” This partnership is a credit to President Trump’s and Attorney General Bondi’s vision of the complete eradication of foreign terrorist organizations. In 2014, the Arzate-Garcia brothers were charged in the Southern District of California with drug trafficking offenses in separate indictments and have been fugitives since that time. After that, La Rana has taken a greater role in the Sinaloa Cartel and is one of the cartel’s most prolific drug traffickers and enforcers. The new indictment unsealed this morning adds far more serious allegations. La Rana is charged with narco-terrorism, material support of terrorism, conducting a continuing criminal enterprise, international conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, and money laundering. You’ll hear shortly about the specific ways that La Rana has brutally controlled the Tijuana Plazas for the Sinaloa Cartel through intimidation and bloodshed. These charges reflect the devastating harm inflicted on communities on both sides of the border — through violence, addiction, and intimidation. As we can all see, the remaining free members of the Sinaloa cartel have become liabilities to one another. Each knows too much about the other. In that world, betrayal is not a question of if – but when. To those cartel leaders that remain at large, here’s the question: Who can you trust when you can’t trust anyone? When the fear you once used to control others now controls you. Because for those who remain at large: Hide. Run. Fight. Flee. The illusion is that you have a choice. The reality is simple: surrender to justice or you’ll be brought to justice. What unites us in law enforcement is a belief in the rule of law – and in the inevitability of justice. Today, we reaffirm that commitment. The rule of law does not blink. It does not back down. To describe the indictment in detail, I’d ask Assistant United States Attorney Josh Mellor to come up. END


title: Conferencia de prensa del 26 de febrero de 2026 sobre “La Rana”

body_text: Buenos días. Mi nombre es Adam Gordon, y soy el Fiscal Federal del Distrito Sur de California. Hoy me acompañan: Los principales fiscales de este caso, los fiscales federales adjuntos Joshua Mellor y Matthew Sutton; James M. Nunnallee, agente especial interino a cargo de la DEA en San Diego; TJ Holland, agente especial interino a cargo de la oficina local del FBI en San Diego; Victor White, fiscal federal ejecutivo adjunto; Jason Powell, agente especial adjunto a cargo de la División de Investigación Criminal del IRS; y Kevin Murphy, agente especial a cargo de la Oficina de Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional, en representación del Grupo Operativo de Seguridad Nacional. Al final de las declaraciones, ofreceremos la oportunidad de hacer preguntas relacionadas con este caso y estaremos a disposición de los medios en español. Sagitario. Chavo Félix. Flaquito. Payo. Valdez-Ruiz. Todos ellos se encuentran aquí. Están acusados de delitos federales. Y ellos son solo el principio. Hace menos de 300 días, estos cabecillas del cártel andaban libres y sin temor. Hoy están detenidos y en custodia federal en el Distrito Sur de California. No era una amenaza cuando les dije que ya no eran los cazadores, sino los cazados. Era una certeza. Las organizaciones terroristas extranjeras pueden operar a través de fronteras. Pero la justicia no se detiene allí. Los recientes informes sobre el liderazgo de los cárteles en México subrayan una sencilla verdad: las organizaciones criminales construidas sobre el miedo y la violencia son inherentemente inestables. Los individuos pueden ascender y caer, pero el estado de derecho perdura. Sobre la base de estos éxitos sin precedentes, hoy anunciamos una imputación de cargos federales sustitutiva contra René Arzate García, infamemente conocido como “La Rana,” un lugarteniente de alto rango y ultraviolento del Cártel de Sinaloa que ha controlado el corredor de drogas de Tijuana por 15 años mediante el terror y la violencia. También anunciamos que la Oficina de Asuntos Internacionales de Narcóticos y Aplicación de la Ley del Departamento de Estado está ofreciendo hasta 5 millones de dólares por información que conduzca al arresto y/o condena de “La Rana” o de su hermano, Alfonso Arzate-García, alias “Aquiles”. Esta colaboración es un logro de la visión del presidente Trump y de la fiscal general Bondi de erradicar por completo a las organizaciones terroristas extranjeras. Desde 2014, los hermanos Arzate-García se encuentran prófugos tras ser acusados por separado por delitos de narcotráfico en el Distrito Sur de California. A partir de entonces, “La Rana” asumió un papel aún mayor dentro del Cártel de Sinaloa y se ha convertido en uno de sus más activos narcotraficantes y operadores del brazo armado. La nueva imputación federal hecha pública esta mañana incorpora cargos mucho más graves. “La Rana” está imputado por narcoterrorismo, por proporcionar apoyo material al terrorismo, por dirigir una empresa criminal continuada, por conspiración internacional para distribuir metanfetamina, cocaína, fentanilo y marihuana, y por lavado de dinero. En unos momentos escucharán detalles específicos sobre cómo “La Rana” ha ejercido un control brutal sobre la plaza de Tijuana para el Cártel de Sinaloa mediante la intimidación y el derrame de sangre. Estos cargos reflejan el daño devastador causado a comunidades a ambos lados de la frontera, mediante la violencia, la adicción y la intimidación. Como todos podemos ver, los restantes miembros libres del Cártel de Sinaloa se han convertido en un riesgo mutuo. Cada uno sabe demasiado sobre los demás. En ese mundo, la traición no es una cuestión de si ocurrirá, sino de cuándo. A los líderes del cártel que aún siguen prófugos, les planteo esta pregunta: ¿En quién pueden confiar cuando no pueden confiar en nadie? Cuando el miedo que antes usaban para controlar a otros ahora los controla a ustedes. Y para los que siguen libres: Escóndanse. Corran. Peleen. Huyan. La ilusión es que tienen una opción. La realidad es simple: entréguense a la justicia o serán traídos ante la justicia. Lo que nos une en las fuerzas del orden público es la convicción de que impera el estado de derecho y de que la justicia es inescapable. Hoy reafirmamos ese compromiso. El estado de derecho no vacila. No claudica. Para describir la imputación en detalle, invito al fiscal federal adjunto Josh Mellor que pase al frente. Gracias. END


title: Former American Embassy Employee Receives Life Sentence for Rape of Burkinabé Minors

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A Maryland man learned his fate in federal court today for committing child sex abuse crimes. The Honorable Lydia Kay Griggsby sentenced Fode Sitafa Mara, 41, to life in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for forcibly sexually assaulting two minor girls in Burkina Faso, in 2022 and 2023. In October 2025, after a two-week trial, a federal jury convicted Mara of four counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor, along with one count each of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, and attempted obstruction of justice. Mara, a U.S. citizen, was an employee at the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, at the time of his offenses. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, Department of Justice Criminal Division; Deputy Assistant Director George Semertsidis, U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service (DSS); Laura Rousseau, Acting Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations, U.S. Agency for International Development’s Office of Inspector General (USAID OIG); and , Acting Executive Director John Condon, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Our message is clear, those who prey on our children will pay a hefty price,” Hayes said. “Mara targeted and abused two innocent young girls, and now he’ll be behind bars for a long time where he belongs. We’re committed to partnering with our community and law-enforcement partners to ensure that justice is served by relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting predators who commit these deplorable acts.” “The defendant, while representing the U.S. government abroad, violently sexually abused two acutely vulnerable child victims,” Duva said. “His crimes were reprehensible. While no sentence could undo the harm he caused, today’s outcome demonstrates that those who abuse children – domestically or abroad - will face significant consequences in the American justice system. We thank our partners at the U.S. State Department for helping us pursue justice for these victims.” “The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is committed to protecting the integrity of U.S. diplomatic missions and ensuring the safety of local communities where we serve,” Semertsidis said. “We will thoroughly investigate any allegations of criminal conduct by those associated with U.S. diplomatic facilities and work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to bring offenders to justice. This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to accountability and the protection of the most vulnerable.” “Protecting children and safeguarding vulnerable populations from sexual exploitation and abuse is a core priority of the U.S. Agency for International Development Office of Inspector General (USAID OIG) and we will continue to pursue those who violate that trust wherever they operate," Rousseau said. “With continued oversight jurisdiction over foreign assistance, USAID OIG will ensure significant consequences for perpetrators, holding accountable anyone who exploits their overseas positions — including individuals employed by the United States, aid organizations, or the United Nations.” “Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents in Maryland, with assistance from federal law enforcement partners, demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in bringing justice for the victims in this case,” Condon said. “Their relentless pursuit of the facts and commitment to protecting vulnerable children across the world exemplifies HSI’s mission to investigate crimes that threaten the safety and security of our communities at home and abroad. HSI remains steadfast in its efforts to combat child exploitation and ensure that those who harm children are held fully accountable. I commend our agents for their outstanding work and unwavering dedication to uphold the values of justice and integrity.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Mara, on multiple occasions, forcibly raped two teenage Burkinabé girls at his Embassy-leased residence in Ouagadougou. Since the residence was reserved for use by U.S. diplomatic personnel, it fell under the United States’ jurisdiction for prosecution. The minor victims lived in abject poverty in a structure without running water a short distance from what became Mara’s residence. The previous resident of Mara’s residence developed a relationship with the minor victims and their family, providing them with nourishment and safety. When Mara arrived, he saw opportunity and immediately capitalized on his access to the victims. Mara repeatedly sexually abused them for approximately one year, beginning when the victims were 13 and 15 years old. He used the girls’ mother’s life-threatening illness as an opportunity to demand sex, telling them he could not help them without receiving something in return. He provided the girls with phones so he could summon them while his wife was away at work. Mara was also convicted for sending sexually enticing messages to one of the minor victims and for attempting to persuade his housekeeper to lie to U.S. investigators to help him conceal his crimes. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit justice.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DSS Office of Special Investigations, along with its Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou; USAID OIG; and HSI for their work in the investigation, and the Burkinabe authorities for their significant assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ranganath Manthripragada and Brooke Oki, along with Trial Attorney Adam Braskich, Department of Justice – Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, who prosecuted the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Cedar Rapids Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who trafficked cocaine base, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana was sentenced yesterday to more than 12 years in federal prison. Cleveland Stephens, also known as “Schmitty,” age 63, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 27, 2025, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. Information at sentencing showed that between August 2022 and June 2024, Stephens sold pounds of methamphetamine to multiple people. In October 2022, he was in a car that was stopped in Davenport, Iowa. Law enforcement officers searched the car and found cocaine base, cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. In June 2024, law enforcement officers searched Stephens’s house and car in Cedar Rapids and found methamphetamine, marijuana, and nearly $4,500 in cash. Stephens was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Stephens was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Kansas City is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, covering Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska. HSTF Kansas City is composed of agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the State Investigative Agencies for Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska, and the Kansas City Missouri Police Department. This HSTF case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra T. Hake and Dillan Edwards and investigated by HSTF Kansas City, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, and 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-92. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: West Columbia Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Gun, Drugs

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cedrick Exzavius Reese, 45, of West Columbia, has been sentenced to three years in federal prison for possession of crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl and for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that a Richland County deputy observed a car speeding and running a stop sign. The deputy initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle, driven by Reese. After failing to provide a driver’s license, Reese gave consent to the deputy to search him. The deputy located suspected methamphetamine in a clear plastic bag in his waistband. He stated the narcotics were for “personal use.” When the deputy searched the vehicle, he found a gun and ammunition in the car, along with crack cocaine and fentanyl. Reese had prior convictions for multiple drug offenses which prohibit him from possessing a firearm. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Reese to 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision on each count, to run concurrently. Reese must also pay a $5,000 fine. 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. This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case. ###


title: New Boston Woman Arrested and Charged with $4.6 Million Child Modeling Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – Today, the FBI arrested a New Boston woman in connection with an alleged multi-million-dollar fraud scheme involving supposed child modeling events, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan, Federal Bureau of Investigation. Chanise Coyne, 46, was charged via indictment with seven counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering. According to the indictment, Coyne obtained over $4.6 million from a family by claiming that money would be used for advance fees associated with the participation of the family’s young daughter in various modeling events across the country. The indictment alleges that Coyne generated false and fraudulent records relating to the supposed placement of that girl in modeling events and also impersonated a third party as part of the alleged scheme. According to the indictment, the money obtained by Coyne was fraudulently misappropriated for her own benefit and not used in connection with the placement of the young girl in a single modeling event. The indictment alleges that Coyne used her fraud proceeds for significant gambling expenditures, including multiple alleged money laundering transactions involving the online sports gambling platform FanDuel. “Fraud schemes that prey on the emotional bonds of families are egregious. This defendant allegedly took advantage of a family’s love for their daughter, stole their nest egg, and then gambled it away. We will pursue fraud schemes in all their forms,” stated U.S. Attorney Gorgon. “Those who think they can scam Michigan families out of their hard-earned money need to think again. The FBI will identify you, investigate you, and arrest you,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The defendant allegedly participated in a fraud scheme designed to deprive a family of millions of dollars under the false pretense the funds would be used for their daughter's future career. FBI Detroit will always work to protect Michigan families from these schemes and will disrupt those who exploit our citizens and betray their trust.” An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Yahkind.


title: Man Charged with Nine Counts Related to Child Exploitation and Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: Brandon Scott Baker, age 39, formerly from Grundy Center, Iowa, has been charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a child, two counts of transporting a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, one count of receipt of child pornography, one count of transportation of child pornography, and four counts of possession of child pornography. The charges are contained in an Indictment filed on February 24, 2026, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids. The Indictment alleges that, over the course of several years, Baker used or attempted to use a minor to produce visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct, transported a minor across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual activity, and received, transported, and possessed child pornography. If convicted on all charges, Baker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life in prison and supervised release for life following any imprisonment. Baker is next scheduled to appear in court on March 6, 2026, to be arraigned on the charges in the Indictment. He was previously charged via criminal complaint and last appeared in court on February 23, 2026, in Cedar Rapids. Baker is being held without bond. As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Telluride, Colorado, Police Department, and the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 26-cr-00012. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Kansas City Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Fraud

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has pleaded guilty in federal court to fraudulently receiving a $487,600 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan, a program that was part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Lorenzo Boles, 56, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays today to wire fraud and money laundering. The purpose of the CARES Act was to provide emergency financial assistance due to the economic impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized the Small Business Administration to provide PPP Loans to eligible small businesses that experienced substantial financial disruption due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. By pleading guilty today, Boles admitted that on April 30, 2020, a co-defendant filed an application for a PPP loan under the CARES Act for a business, Burnes Family Investments, LLC (BFI). The application listed Lorenzo Boles as 82% owner and a co-defendant as 18% owner. The application and supporting documents submitted stated that BFI had an average monthly payroll of $195,067. A 2019 Profit and Loss Statement for BFI, submitted as part of the application, listed gross income of $3,910,582, expenses of $3,263,451, and a net profit of $647,131. Forms 941 and 944 (Employer’s Quarterly and Annual Tax Reports) were also provided as part of the PPP application process. In fact, the income and expenses listed in the P&L Statement do not match the tax returns filed by Boles, the Forms 941 and 944 were never filed with the IRS, and the payments listed on the Forms were never received by the IRS. On May 8, 2020, BFI received a $487,600 PPP loan in its bank account. Bank records show that Boles paid himself $50,000 in the month following the loan. Overall, Boles received approximately $90,000 of the PPP loan proceeds which he used for personal expenses. Under federal statutes, Boles is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department.


title: Lehigh Valley Man Pleads Guilty to Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Fraud and Defrauding Local Car Dealerships

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Justin Heimbach, 34, of Bath, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Judge John M. Younge on six counts of mail fraud and four counts of wire fraud. The defendant was charged with those offenses by indictment in August 2024, arising from his schemes to defraud the federal government and multiple local car dealerships. In March of 2020, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program (PUA). The PUA program provided unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation, or extended unemployment benefits. As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, Heimbach, who operated a construction company called TeamKJ Construction, engaged in a scheme that caused fraudulent PUA applications to be filed in the names of individuals allegedly no longer employed by TeamKJ as a result of COVID-19. In reality, the applications contained a number of materially false statements, including that the applicant had lost their job with TeamKJ as a result of COVID-19 and the date the applicant lost their job with TeamKJ due to the pandemic. In addition, Heimbach successfully defrauded multiple Lehigh Valley car dealerships by purchasing vehicles in the names of other construction companies registered to or associated with him, and writing checks for those vehicles on bank accounts that had an insufficient balance to cover the transaction. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on June 11, 2026. This case was jointly investigated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, and FBI Philadelphia’s Allentown Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney S. Chandler Harris.


title: Chicago Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Running Fentanyl Distribution Operation

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Chicago, Illinois man was sentenced today for operating a drug distribution organization that transported fentanyl from Chicago, Illinois, to Weirton, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Gerald Henry, also known as “Unc,” “G,” and “G-ball,” age 41, was sentenced to 480 months in federal prison for the possession and distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Henry transported large quantities of fentanyl to Hancock County, West Virginia to distribute to others for sale. Investigators seized more than 400 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and ammunition from a search of Henry’s Weirton residence. Agents linked 1,435 grams of fentanyl to Henry during the investigation. Henry has a lengthy criminal history that includes multiple drug convictions. “Henry was responsible for enough fentanyl to kill every man, woman, and child of the Upper Ohio Valley six times over,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “I commend our law enforcement partners for their diligence in getting this poison out of our communities and saving lives.” Jasmine McCullough, 42, of Chicago, Illinois; Stephen Price, 40, of Chicago, Illinois; Daniel Pail Truax, 47, of Weirton, West Virginia; Paula Jean Truax, 45, of Weirton, West Virginia; and William Dean Tredway, 36, of Colliers, West Virginia have each previously entered guilty pleas for their roles in the operation. Tredway was sentenced to 9 months in prison. The others’ sentencings are pending. Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clayton Reid and Carly Nogay prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. Investigative agencies include the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; the West Virginia State Police; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office; the Steubenville, Ohio, Police Department; and the Wheeling Police Department. U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.


title: Two Members of the Folk Nation Gangster Disciples Indicted for Murders in Brooklyn in 2012 and 2015

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, a five-count superseding indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn that includes new racketeering charges relating to defendants Kwyme Waddell and Paolo Alfarobarber, who, along with co-defendant Joel Myrie, are alleged to be members of the Folk Nation Gangster Disciples (GD). The superseding indictment charges both Waddell and Alfarobarber with racketeering conspiracy including predicate acts of murder, robbery, fraud, and narcotics trafficking. Waddell is charged with the murder of Franklin McPherson in September 2012 and Alfarobarber is charged with the murder of Armani Thomas in November 2015. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James C. Barnacle, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Jessica Tisch, Commissioner, New York Police Department (NYPD) announced the charges and arrests. “Today’s superseding indictment charging two murderers demonstrates our Office’s commitment to seek justices for all victims, regardless of how long it takes,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “We intend to eradicate street gangs and hold their members accountable for senseless acts of gun violence that endanger our communities.” Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to FBI/NYPD Metro Safe Streets Task Force for their outstanding work and assistance in this investigation and prosecution. As alleged in the superseding indictment and in court filings, GD is a violent gang that engages in murder, robbery, narcotics trafficking, fraud, and counterfeiting. GD members elevate their statuses in the gang by engaging in these types of criminal activities. Specifically, GD members are known to engage in violent acts against rival gang members to enhance their reputation in the gang. Waddell and Alfarobarber were previously charged with their alleged participation in a drive-by shooting on Father’s Day in 2022 in a rival gang neighborhood during which a victim was shot and injured. The superseding indictment charges Kwyme Waddell for the murder of Franklin McPherson on September 25, 2012, Waddell’s birthday. Waddell shot and killed McPherson while McPherson was sitting on his front porch outside of his home in East Flatbush, New York. The superseding indictment also charges Paolo Alfarobarber with the murder of Armani Thomas on November 10, 2015, while Thomas was hanging out in the stairwell of his apartment building located in Brooklyn, New York. The charges in the superseding indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Dana Rehnquist, Sophia Suarez, Daniel Marcus, and Rebecca Urquiola are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Elizabeth Reed. The Defendants : KWYME WADDELL Age: 34 Brooklyn, New York PAOLO ALFAROBARBER Age: 34 Bridgeport, Connecticut JOEL MYRIE Age: 28 Brooklyn, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-351


title: Bridal Shop Owner Pleads Guilty to Employment Tax Crimes Spanning a Decade

body_text: A Parker, Colorado woman pleaded guilty today to willfully failing to pay over employment taxes for more than a decade. According to court documents, Donna M. Savoy owned and operated Donna Beth Creations (“DBC”), a bridal studio in Denver, Colorado. In her role, Savoy was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from her employees’ wages, paying those funds over to the IRS and filing quarterly employment tax returns. For a decade – that is, from the first quarter of 2014 through the fourth quarter of 2024 – Savoy admitted that she withheld taxes from her employees’ wages but willfully failed to pay them over to the IRS. Savoy also willfully failed to file employment tax returns for that entire period. According to her plea agreement, Savoy spent the tax money she held in trust on personal and business expenses. In total, Savoy caused a tax loss to the United States exceeding $1.3 million. Savoy pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to account for and pay over trust fund taxes. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Trial Attorney Stuart A. Wexler of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section is prosecuting the case.


title: Passaic County Man Convicted of Drug Trafficking, Possession of A Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Illegal Possession of A Firearm And Ammunition

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County man was convicted of firearms and narcotics offenses following a three-day trial, Senior Counsel Philip Lamparello announced. David Reams, 37, of Paterson, was convicted by a federal jury on January 27, 2026, of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime following a trial before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler in Newark federal court. The sentencing date is scheduled for June 30. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: On May 6, 2024, Paterson Police Department observed Reams conducting movements consistent with possession of a firearm. When Paterson detectives attempted to stop Reams, he attempted to flee. Paterson detectives ultimately recovered a 9-millimeter pistol, loaded with an extended magazine, as well as over 450 individual doses of fentanyl and crack cocaine from Reams’s person. The felon in possession charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The possession with intent to distribute controlled substances charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years of imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine. The possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment, which must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence imposed, up to life imprisonment, and a maximum fine of $250,000. Reams was previously convicted in 2017 of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Judge Chesler sentenced him to serve 103 months’ imprisonment for that offense. Senior Counsel Lamparello credited with the investigation special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas Kalogiros, as well as the Paterson Police Department, under the direction of Officer in Charge Patrick Murray, with the investigation leading to this conviction. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Kober, of the Organized Crime/Gangs Unit, and Daniel H. Rosenblum, of the Narcotics and International Trafficking Unit. ### Defense counsel: John McMahon reams.indictment.pdf


title: Morgantown Man Sentenced for Child Pornography Charges

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Morgantown, West Virginia man will spend the next 20 years in federal prison for multiple counts of receiving and possessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Christopher Harp, 41, was sentenced today to 240 months in prison. Harp was convicted at trial in April 2024 of three counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. “Despite Harp’s efforts to deny responsibility and place blame elsewhere, a jury of his peers found him guilty as charged. This sentence will ensure that his criminal activity is punished, and the community is protected,” said U.S. Attorney Harvey. “Child predators will be held accountable and face the maximum sentence in the Northern District of West Virginia.” “Behind every image and every video is real child who has been harmed. Today’s sentence makes clear that exploitation of children in our community will never be tolerated.,” said FBI Pittsburgh Acting Special Agent in Charge Amie Loos. “The FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate these cases, bring every resource available to root out perpetrators, and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.” FBI agents identified Harp as someone who was sharing and receiving child pornography online. Investigators searched his devices and flash drives, discovering hundreds of downloads, many of the videos and images including children under the age of 12. Evidence showed that Harp had been engaging in this illegal activity for nearly 10 years. Harp will serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and was ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution to victims of child exploitation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Conklin and David Perri prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Romanian Man Guilty of Card Skimming Conspiracy

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – DANIEL IULIAN TEUTOC (“TEUTOC”) , also known as “Simon Mikula,” a citizen of Romania, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 1349, in connection with a scheme to use skimmers to steal credit card information, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, TEUTOC and his codefendant, Constantin CALIN, went to Walmart stores across the Eastern District of Louisiana, including Laplace, Slidell, Harvey, Boutte, Chalmette, and New Orleans. TEUTOC and CALIN captured card information at different points of sale, where card skimming devices had been previously installed by other members of the conspiracy. TEUTOC and CALIN used magnets to activate the card skimmers and send the card information electronically to TEUTOC and CALIN’s cell phones. After gaining possession of the customer’s credit, debit, and EBT card information, TEUTOC and CALIN sent the information to another coconspirator with the intent to allow members of the conspiracy to make fraudulent charges with the stolen card information. Under the terms of his plea agreement, TEUTOC agreed to pay over $11 million in restitution to the victims of the scheme. At sentencing, TEUTOC faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The Honorable Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for June 4, 2026. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Secret Service, New Orleans Police Department, St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, and St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas Moses, Healthcare Fraud Coordinator; Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit; and André Jones, lead OCDETF Narcotics Task Force Attorney, are in charge of the prosecution. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Attleboro Man Charged with Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: BOSTON – An Attleboro man has been arrested and charged for allegedly possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Gerard R. Proulx, Jr., 59, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of possession of child pornography. Proulx was arrested on Feb. 25, 2026, and made an initial appearance in federal court in Boston later that day. He is currently detained. In 2012, Proulx was convicted of possession of child pornography in the District of Rhode Island and sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. According to the charging documents, in the summer of 2025, law enforcement investigating the receipt and distribution of child pornography via the internet downloaded multiple files from an IP address determined to be registered to Proulx. On Feb. 25, 2026, during a search of Proulx’s residence, various electronic devices including a desktop computer were recovered. It is alleged that an initial forensic examination of Proulx’s desktop computer revealed over 1500 files consistent with CSAM. Further review of Proulx’s devices remains on-going. Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . Because of Proulx’s prior conviction, the charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $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 Randy Maloney, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Zacks of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . 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: Defendant Pleads Guilty in Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy Targeting a Federal Witness

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Providence to charges related to a conspiracy to murder a federal witness to prevent the witness from testifying in a criminal matter pending before the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, announced United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. Kareem Pires, 27, of Wareham, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to tamper with a witness or informant by killing or attempting to kill, in a murder-for-hire plot. Pires will be sentenced on May 18, 2026. The sentence imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The charges to which Pires pleaded guilty carry significant potential penalties. According to court documents, Pires participated in a conspiracy to arrange for the killings of a federal witness connected to a pending federal criminal case. The agreement between Pires and a co-defendant, to kill a witness in an official proceeding in the District of Massachusetts was formed while co-defendant Elijah Melton was awaiting trial at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility. “Threats or acts of violence against witnesses, or anyone involved in the administration of justice strike at the very foundation of our legal system,” said United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “This guilty plea reflects our commitment, along with law enforcement partners, to investigate and prosecute anyone who seeks to intimidate or harm those who are witnesses in court proceedings.” “Kareem Pires not only wanted the witness dead, but he was also willing to help kill other intended targets,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Given Mr. Pires' lack of respect for human life, he belongs behind bars, and that’s exactly where today’s conviction will keep him. We refuse to cede our cities to criminals who think solving a problem means pulling a trigger. That's why your FBI and our partners will continue to work together and bring all our resources to bear to disrupt deadly plots like this one in an effort to keep our communities safe.” The matter is being prosecuted by Criminal Chief Stacey A. Erickson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter I. Roklan. The matter was investigated by the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service for the District of Massachusetts, with the assistance of the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Rhode Island.


title: Memphis Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Preparing False Returns for Clients

body_text: Memphis, TN – A Memphis tax return preparer pleaded guilty to filing false tax returns on behalf of clients. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today. The following is based on court documents and statements made in court: Rebecca Gilley , 41 , who also went by the names Rebecca Green and Rebecca Maxwell, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Memphis. Gilley prepared tax returns for clients for tax years 2018 through 2022 that included false education credits and sick and family leave credits. As a result of these and other false items, Gilley caused her clients to receive fraudulently inflated tax refunds that they were not entitled to receive. For tax years 2020 and 2021, Gilley filed more than 1,000 tax returns seeking more than $9.25 million in fraudulent sick and family leave credits. She generally added these false items to her clients’ returns without their knowledge and rarely reviewed the final returns with the clients. In total, Gilley’s scheme caused a loss to the United States exceeding $350,000. Gilley pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10, 2026 before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L Parker and faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison. There is no parole in the federal system. As part of her plea agreement, Gilley agreed to pay $386,661 in restitution to the IRS and to be permanently enjoined from operating as a tax return preparer. She also faces a period of supervised release and monetary penalties. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Protection of the United States Treasury and taxpayer resources is a top priority for the Department of Justice and this office. Income tax fraud schemes strike at the very heart of our federal government’s financial ability to provide services and protection for our citizens, and we will use all available resources to punish and deter such dishonest criminal behavior.” IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Caroline Pearson and Max Willner-Giwerc of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. ### For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.


title: Garland man sentenced to federal prison for trafficking drugs  in the Eastern District of Texas

body_text: PLANO, Texas –A Garland man has been sentenced to over 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Jessie Zavaleta Peralta, 37, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine and was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan on February 26, 2026. According to information presented in court, Peralta was part of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked methamphetamine that had been imported from Mexico. Peralta stored large amounts of methamphetamine, and other narcotics, at his Garland residence before distributing in the Metroplex. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William R. Tatum. ###


title: New York Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Involvement in a Scheme to Steal Checks and Defraud Banks

body_text: A Brooklyn, New York man was sentenced on February 18, 2026 to 30 months in prison for his role in a scheme to steal and alter checks from the mail and fraudulently obtain funds from banks by depositing the stolen and altered checks into bank accounts fraudulently accessed by others, senior counsel Philip Lamparello announced. Noah Aranzamendi, 27, of Brooklyn, New York, previously pled guilty in July 2025 before U.S. District Judge Edward Kiel in Camden federal court to a two-count indictment with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and the receipt and possession of stolen mail. According to documents filed in these cases and statements made in Court: From February 2020 to February 2022, Aranzamendi conspired with others to steal checks from the mail in Bergen County and elsewhere, which he then sold to third parties or deposited, sometimes in altered or duplicate form, into the bank accounts of complicit accountholders who had provided access to their bank accounts for the scheme. Aranzamendi obtained stolen official USPS arrow keys, which Aranzamendi used to access mail and steal checks directly from USPS boxes. Aranzamendi and his conspirators then targeted the accounts associated with the checks he stole and created false identifications in the names of the accountholders, which he and his conspirators used to make fraudulent withdrawals from those accounts. The scheme resulted in losses to victims of at least $240,213. This conviction is Aranzamendi’s fifth conviction arising out of similar schemes. Senior Counsel Lamparello credited postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, under the direction of Postal Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division; and special agents with the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, Northeast Area Field Office. He also thanked the Teaneck Police Department under Chief Andrew R. McGurr. The government is represented by Assistant United States Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering, and Recovery Unit in Newark. ### Defense counsel for Aranzamendi: Ikram Ally, Esq.


title: Zuni man pleads guilty to triple homicide

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with the deaths of three individuals on July 4, 2025. According to court documents, on July 4, 2025, Willis Kylestewa , 42, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, drove while intoxicated with four passengers in a vehicle without working headlights. When law enforcement attempted a traffic stop, Kylestewa fled, speeding and swerving through traffic before losing control of the vehicle, which flipped and crashed. Kylestewa and three passengers were ejected from the vehicle and two died at the scene. A third passenger died inside the vehicle. At the hospital, Kylestewa ’s blood alcohol level was .317, and THC was also detected in his system. Kylestewa pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree murder. At sentencing, Kylestewa faces any number of years up to life in prison. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department and Zuni Open Space. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Marshall and Amy Mondragon are prosecuting the case.


title: Nigerian citizen who attempted to unlawfully obtain U.S. residency through fraudulent marriages sentenced in $4 million conspiracy

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A 40-year-old man who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to federal prison for his role in a romance scam and business email compromise scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Leslie Chinedu Mba pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit false statements in immigration documents Dec. 4, 2025. U.S. District Judge David Hittner has now ordered Mba to serve 228 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard that victims were defrauded of over $4 million. “Romance scams are among the lowest and most despicable forms of fraud because they prey upon the lonely and vulnerable, and disproportionately victimize senior citizens,” said Ganjei. “These online scams Mba and his friends perpetrated jeopardized the livelihood of family-run businesses, the ability of elderly individuals to retire, and exploited the trust that fuels our economy. Even worse, Mba and his confederates committed these crimes while attempting to remain in our country under false pretenses by deceiving immigration authorities. Now, Mba has prison to look forward to, followed by a one-way ticket back to Nigeria.” “Out of all the frauds perpetrated by Leslie Mba and his co-conspirators, their weaponization of romance scams to deliberately target vulnerable and elderly Americans is most disturbing,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Jason Hudson. “Romance scams cruelly manipulate trust, callously exploit the fear of loneliness, and leave victims both financially devastated and emotionally shattered. The FBI will continue to combat fraudsters whose schemes leave a wake of misery behind.” From April 2018 to December 2023, Mba and others inside and outside of the United States carried out business email compromise and romance scams targeting unsuspecting victims. The schemes began overseas, where co-conspirators gained unauthorized access to business email accounts and redirected payments to fraudulent bank accounts. Victims believed they were sending money to legitimate businesses, but Mba and others instead funneled the funds to accounts they controlled. Mba and others acted as money mules, opening or using existing bank accounts to collect and move proceeds from the fraud. Additionally, Mba tried to obtain U.S. permanent residency through multiple fraudulent marriages after his initial application was denied and he was ordered to be removed from the country. The scheme resulted in a total loss of $4 million. Four others had also previously pleaded guilty Grace Morisho, 30, Rodgers Kadikilo, 30, Kristin Smith, 38, and Alexandra Golovko, 36, all of Houston. Morisho, Kadikilo and Smith received sentences ranging between 15 to 25 months while Golovko received five years probation. Mba will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Alum prosecuted the case.


title: Dulce man charged after violent assault

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce was man indicted on federal charges alleging he seriously injured another individual during an assault. According to court records, on October 27, 2025, Russell Alan Veneno , 50, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, assaulted John Doe with a table and a knife, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury. Veneno is federally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted, Veneno faces up to 10 years in prison. First Assisting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case. View the Indictment (Veneno).pdf An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.