title: Justice Department and FBI Seize Platforms Operated and Used by China State-Sponsored Hackers to Target U.S. Critical Infrastructure

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department and FBI announced court-authorized domain seizures today to deny malicious cyber actors access to two complementary hacking platforms known as “QScan” and “QTRouter,” used to target U.S. critical infrastructure and other sensitive networks. As described in court documents unsealed in the Southern District of California, a People’s Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored group known as “QTFY,” employed by China-based Nanjing Xinjiuwei Network Technology Company (南京鑫玖维网络科技有限公司), created and operated QScan and QTRouter. Among the targets of QTFY are the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Federal Reserve, Department of Energy, Department of Justice, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, and the U.S. Senate. “State-sponsored malicious hackers preying on America’s critical infrastructure will be stopped and prosecuted. We are here to ensure security for the American people and will use every tool we have to keep that promise,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Federal law enforcement investigated and disabled the PRC’s malicious software, the latest in a series of technical operations to dismantle indiscriminate hacking activities sponsored by the People’s Republic of China.” “Today we announced the disruption of a global botnet and hacking platform used by Chinese state-sponsored hackers to target U.S. critical infrastructure,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “These tools were used by PRC cyber actors to hide the origin of their attacks. Thanks to the work of FBI San Diego, FBI Cyber Division, and DOJ partners, we seized adversary infrastructure and shut these platforms down. Today’s action is just the latest technical operation against PRC-sponsored hacking - and in support of President Trump’s Cyber Strategy for America, the FBI is surging efforts to shape adversary behavior and defend the homeland in cyberspace.” “Today’s announcement demonstrates the Justice Department’s steadfast commitment to going on the offensive against cyber threats to the national security,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “These court-authorized seizures deny PRC-linked hackers access to tools they use to mount online attacks against our Nation’s critical infrastructure. ” “We’re taking the fight to PRC sponsored cybercriminals to protect the critical services Americans rely on every day,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California. “The FBI remains relentless in our efforts to counter nation state cyber actors, taking decisive action against those threatening the United States and our critical infrastructure,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “Through complex investigations, aggressive technical operations, and strong partnerships, FBI San Diego will continue to identify, disrupt, and impose costs on our cyber adversaries. We are committed to dismantling the tools behind these state-sponsored crimes and protecting the American people from malicious cyber activity.” According to court documents, QTFY offers computer hacking services to its paying customers, including the PRC’s Ministry of State Security and the People’s Liberation Army. These computer hacking services include QScan and QTRouter, which work in conjunction. QScan scans and automatically infects thousands of “internet-of-things” (IoT) devices worldwide, which are then added to the QTRouter network of QTFY-controlled devices. QTRouter consists of these compromised IoT devices, as well as commercial proxy service devices and leased virtual private servers. QTRouter then serves as an “obfuscation network” – meaning it allows QTFY and other malicious cyber actors to conceal the PRC-origin of their computer intrusion activities because the malicious communications appear to originate from computers (such as those compromised by QScan) that are outside of the PRC and may even be local to the targeted networks. Because the seized domains were hard-coded into both the QScan and QTRouter malware and used for essential tasks such as communication and authentication, the court-authorized seizures made QScan and QTRouter inoperable. This disruption announced today is among a series of court-authorized technical operations against indiscriminate hacking activities by the PRC. In 2025, the FBI removed PlugX surveillance malware from over 4,000 U.S. computers after they had been infected by the PRC-sponsored hacker group Mustang Panda. In 2024, the FBI disabled a botnet consisting of hundreds of thousands of infected internet-of-things devices, which the PRC-sponsored hacking group Flax Typhoon was providing to customers in the Chinese government. In 2023, the FBI disrupted a different botnet used by the PRC-sponsored hacking group Volt Typhoon to conceal their exploitation of U.S. and foreign critical infrastructure. Also today, the FBI and National Security Agency published a cybersecurity advisory providing indicators-of-compromise by QTFY based on their analysis of QTFY malicious cyber activity dating back to at least 2018. In addition, Lumen Technologies’ threat intelligence group, Black Lotus Labs, published a description of QTFY’s tactics, techniques, and procedures: www.lumen.com/blog/en-us/the-infrastructure-quartermaster-inside-a-china-nexus-state-enablement-model . The FBI’s San Diego Field Office and Cyber Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, and the National Security Cyber Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division investigated this hacking activity and led this disruption effort. Note: View the affidavit here . Edits have been made to ensure this press release accurately reflects the government’s allegations in the affidavit in support of the domain seizures.


title: Former Tribal Police Officer Indicted for Using Excessive Force and Falsifying a Report

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: A former tribal police officer with the San Carlos Apache Police Department (SCAPD) was charged in an indictment today with two federal crimes arising out of his use of excessive force against a handcuffed arrestee and his falsification of another officer’s report. The indictment charges Jacob Christopher Slawson, 29, with deprivation of rights under color of law, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242, and falsification of records, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1519. According to the indictment, after an arrestee was handcuffed and secured in the back of a police vehicle, Slawson punched the arrestee in the face, knocking him unconscious, and then yanked him out of the vehicle causing N.G. to split his head open on the concrete, resulting in bodily injury. The indictment further alleges that when Slawson learned he was under investigation for excessive force, he falsified the report of a fellow detective by adding false and misleading information to the report with the intent to obstruct the investigation. If convicted of both charges, Slawson faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona, and Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Phoenix Field Office made the announcement. This case was investigated by agents with the FBI’s Tucson Resident Agency and Phoenix Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gordon Davenport III for the District of Arizona and Special Litigation Counsel Christopher J. Perras of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: DermTech Inc. to Pay Up to $5M to Resolve Allegations It Submitted False Claims to Medicare for Unreliable Skin Cancer Tests

component: Civil Division

body_text: A skin cancer testing company formerly known as DermTech Inc. has agreed to settle allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims for unreliable skin cancer tests to the Medicare program. DermTech is now liquidating as DTech Liquidating Inc. after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the District of Delaware in June 2024. As part of the resolution announced today, the United States received an Allowed Class Three General Unsecured Claim of $5,038,011 in the bankruptcy proceeding. The settlement resolves allegations that DermTech submitted claims to Medicare for skin cancer tests despite knowing the tests had quality control issues. First, from October 2022 to March 2023, DermTech billed Medicare for skin cancer tests that it conducted after switching to an unvalidated positive control range for one of the test’s two key melanoma markers. Without a validated positive control range, it is impossible to confirm that the positive control is working and thus impossible to verify whether the test results are accurate. Second, from January 2020 to February 2022, DermTech billed Medicare for skin cancer tests that did not contain enough patient RNA to be tested but still generated positive or negative test results. For both categories of tests, DermTech reported results to patients. When concerns were raised about these tests, DermTech neither retracted the test results nor adequately refunded Medicare. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting Medicare patients, especially in an area as serious as skin cancer testing,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will hold accountable health care providers who put patients at risk by billing Medicare for grossly substandard services.” “This company billed Medicare for unreliable tests that may have misled patients and their doctors,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California. “This settlement is a perfect example of why the Department’s focus on fraud against the taxpayer directly leads to improved health and safety for Medicare patients.” “Patients must be able to rely on the accuracy and integrity of diagnostic testing when making critical healthcare decisions,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Miranda L. Bennett of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Submitting claims to Medicare for tests that fail to meet established clinical standards undermines patient safety and public trust. HHS-OIG remains committed to ensuring that healthcare providers deliver services that meet federal requirements and to pursuing accountability for alleged misconduct.” “DermTech Inc. allegedly administered inadequate skin cancer tests that led to the fraudulent billing of Medicare, raising serious concerns about the company’s practices,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “FBI San Diego, along with our law enforcement partners, remains committed to investigating any company whose illicit actions may undermine the integrity of our healthcare system and ensure they are held accountable.” The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by a former DermTech employee. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. Luong v. DermTech, Inc. et al. , No. 3:23-cv-01404 (S.D. Cal.). Ms. Luong will receive 20% of the recovery received from the bankruptcy court in connection with the settlement. The claims resolved by the settlement pertain to DermTech Inc., a company that is now bankrupt. These claims do not pertain to DermTech LLC, a company that purchased DermTech Inc.’s assets in 2024 as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. The resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act (FCA). Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. This matter was handled by Trial Attorney Clare Elizondo and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen H. Wong for the Southern District of California. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Cartel Commanders Charged with International Cocaine and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy and Firearm Offenses

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment today charging Ramon Alvarez Ayala, 44, and Rafael Alvarez Ayala, 42, both Mexican nationals, with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine for importation into the United States and possessing a firearm, including a machinegun, in furtherance of the drug trafficking offense. According to court documents, brothers Ramon Alvarez Ayala, also known as “R1,” and Rafael Alvarez Ayala, also known as “R2” and “Rafa,” were regional commanders for the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) in Michoacán, Mexico. On Feb. 20, 2025, the U.S. Secretary of State designated the CJNG as a foreign terrorist organization. “The Department of Justice is committed to the total elimination of drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “By targeting these regional commanders, we take another step towards fulfilling that commitment to eliminate the scourge of cartels like CJNG.” “Every indictment secured against members of drug trafficking cartels, like CJNG, sends a clear message: DEA is committed and focused on dismantling violent and ruthless terrorist organizations,” said Special Agent in Charge and National Coordination Center Deputy Director Cindy Marx of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Special Operations Division. “Using all of the resources provided by the Homeland Security Task Force, DEA is pursuing the leaders, facilitators, financiers, and corrupt enablers of narco-terrorist organizations and bringing them to justice in the United States at unprecedented levels.” The Alvarez Ayala brothers are charged with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine for importation into the United States from 2004 through December 2023, and using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm, including a machinegun, in relation to the drug trafficking conspiracy. If convicted, the Alvarez Ayalas each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 40 years in prison and a maximum penalty of two consecutive life prison sentences. The DEA’s Special Operations Division Bilateral Investigations Unit Los Angeles is investigating the case. The Department of Justice thanks the Government of Mexico for securing the arrest of Ramon Alvarez Ayala. Chief Kaitlin Sahni of the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit (NDDU) and Trial Attorneys Nicole Lockhart, Lernik Begian, and Douglas Meisel of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section are prosecuting the case. The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations. MNF’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit investigates and prosecutes the top command and control elements of international drug cartels, drug trafficking organizations and related transnational criminal organizations. 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 U.S. 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. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Aryan Brotherhood Associate Convicted of Two Murders

body_text: An associate of the prison gang Aryan Brotherhood was convicted today of executing two men in Lomita, California, on orders given by an Aryan Brotherhood member incarcerated in Kern Valley State Prison, in Kern County, California. “This verdict reflects the serious problem gang violence represents, even from people doing lengthy prison sentences,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Department will continue to focus its resources on holding gang members accountable, even if they are already behind bars. Clement, who ordered these executions and has been sentenced to life, and now Gray, who carried them out, will pay a severe price for taking life thanks to the good work of the investigators and prosecutors as well as the careful attention of the jury.” “These murders are a stark reminder that criminal organizations can direct violence from behind prison walls,” said Director Rob Cekada of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “ATF and our law enforcement partners are committed to dismantling these networks and holding accountable the individuals responsible for these senseless murders.” “This case lays bare the ruthless reach of the Aryan Brotherhood and the violence its members and associates are willing to inflict,” said U.S. Attorney Eric Grant for the Eastern District of California. “Justin Gray executed two men at point‑blank range because an incarcerated gang member ordered it. Our office remains committed to dismantling violent prison gangs and protecting our communities from their deadly influence.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on Oct. 4, 2020, Justin Gray, 40, of San Pedro, California, executed two men on the orders of Aryan Brotherhood Brother Francis Clement, who was serving a prison sentence in Kern Valley State Prison. Justin Gray lured the victims from San Diego to Lomita where, with the aid of another Aryan Brotherhood associate, he shot both victims in the head. The order to kill had been given over “disrespect” one of the victims had shown to the Aryan Brotherhood. Gray is a member of Baby Blue Wrecking Crew, a white-only gang that takes orders from and works under the Aryan Brotherhood. Gray was convicted of two counts of committing murder in aid of racketeering. Gray is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston for the Eastern District of California on Nov. 23. Gray faces a mandatory life sentence. This trial was part of a larger investigation charging Gray and 20 other defendants with a variety of criminal offenses, including RICO conspiracy, VICAR murder, and narcotics offenses, all related to their criminal activities as members and associates of the Aryan Brotherhood. The following individuals charged in the investigation were convicted at trial on Feb. 18, 2025. John Stinson, 72, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity. Francis Clement, 60, was found guilty of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity and five counts of murder in aid of racketeering for the murders of the two victims and three other individuals he also ordered to be murdered as part of the racketeering activity of the Aryan Brotherhood. Kenneth Johnson, 65, was found guilty of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering for the murders of the two victims. Additional individuals charged in the case and still pending trial include the following: Jayson Weaver, 49, scheduled for trial in September 2027. Waylon Pitchford, 48, scheduled for trial in September 2027. Andrew Collins, 42, scheduled for trial in September 2027. Alexander Van Beusekom, 41, scheduled for trial in September 2027. Evan Perkins, 41, scheduled for trial in September 2027. This case is being investigated by the ATF, with assistance from the Office of Correctional Safety (CDCR), U.S. Marshals Service, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office, Pomona Police Department, Torrance Police Department, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sheriff’s Office, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Kern County District Attorney’s Office, the California Department of Justice and California Highway Patrol Special Operations Unit, the FBI, the Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, the Clovis Police Department, and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. Trial Attorney Amanda J. Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Conolly for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Michigan Man Sentenced for Threats to Law Enforcement

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Justin Ward, 32, Ironwood, Michigan, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James Peterson to time served and three years of supervised release for making threats to injure law enforcement. Ward pleaded guilty to this charge on May 22, 2026. On January 29, 2026, the Gogebic County (Michigan) Sheriff’s Office was investigating Ward for threatening to kill an Ironwood law enforcement officer. Deputies learned that Ward was not at his residence and viewed his Facebook page, which showed that he was travelling through Northern Wisconsin toward Duluth. While enroute Ward posted threats that he was on his way to kill ICE agents. At the time, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was engaged in a widely publicized operation in Minneapolis. Ward was arrested and charged with making threats to kill ICE agents. At sentencing, Judge Peterson considered that Ward had suffered a mental health crisis leading up to his conduct in the case and also found that Ward, who had remained in custody since his arrest, had already served a sentence consistent with the guideline range for the offense. Judge Peterson imposed strict supervised release conditions, including a curfew and GPS monitoring. The charge against Ward was the result of an investigation conducted by the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan prosecuted this case.


title: La Crosse Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jerome Sinclair, 36, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 5 years in federal prison for distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Sinclair pleaded guilty to this charge on June 15, 2026. In September 2025, investigators with the La Crosse Police Department identified Jerome Sinclair as a methamphetamine and fentanyl dealer operating in La Crosse. In October 2025, investigators purchased 60 grams of methamphetamine from Sinclair. In November 2025, investigators purchased 5 grams of fentanyl from Sinclair at his apartment. During that controlled purchase, Sinclair weighed and packaged the fentanyl in close proximity to a young child. Later in November, investigators purchased 114 grams of methamphetamine from Sinclair, again at his residence. In December 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at Sinclair’s residence and found methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. At the sentencing hearing, Judge Peterson noted that he was concerned that Sinclair already had a serious prior felony, for Armed Robbery, and was now facing another serious charge in this federal case. The charge against Sinclair was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and the ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, which is comprised of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. The La Crosse County District Attorney’s Office also with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Jennifer R. Remington and Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case. Federal prosecutions by the U.S. Department of Justice involving drugs and guns are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe.


title: Martinsville Woman Pleads Guilty in Social Security Fraud Case

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – A Martinsville woman, who stole almost $30,000 in Social Security benefits intended for her deceased boyfriend, was ordered to repay the money she stole and sentenced to two years of supervised release. Jackie Cayton, 55, previously pled guilty to one felony count charging her with theft of government money. According to court documents, from January 1, 2024, through September 16, 2025, Cayton used the deceased’s debit card to steal $29,988 in Social Security Administration (SSA) retirement benefits to which she was not entitled. Law enforcement was made aware of Cayton’s action in September 2025 when a family member of the deceased SSA beneficiary (“the Deceased”) reported that his romantic partner, Cayton, was in possession of the Deceased’s Social Security benefits card and was spending the money. Further investigation confirmed that the benefits were paid directly to a Truist bank account belonging to the Deceased through September 2025; even though he had died in December 2023. Agents determined that Cayton used her deceased boyfriend’s benefits to make large ATM withdrawals of $400, online payments for cosmetics, as well as purchases at a Collinsville furniture store, Aldi, Walmart, Food Lion, and Appalachian Power Company. First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci made the announcement. The Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General investigated the matter with significant contribution from the Henry County Sheriff's Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Browne prosecuted the case.


title: Blacksburg Man to Serve 50 Months for Possessing More than 30,000 Child Exploitation Images and Videos

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – A Blacksburg, Virginia man, who used peer-to-peer filesharing software to download more than 30,000 images and videos of child exploitation material, was sentenced yesterday to 50 months in federal prison. Rafael Bedia, 39, pled guilty in January 2026 to one count of possessing material involving the sexual exploitation of minors. “This office will continue to target those who produce or possess child exploitation materials. The sentence imposed in this case should send a clear message that those who abuse and exploit children in the Western District of Virginia will be investigated and prosecuted for their crimes. I commend the FBI for their outstanding assistance in this case,” First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci said today. “FBI Richmond is determined to continue to seek justice for victims of child exploitation. Today's hearing is the culmination of years of relentless work and dedication by our agents and analysts,” Ian Kaufmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division said following yesterday’s hearing. “This sentencing shows how the collective efforts of our investigators, the strength of the evidence, and the power of the law can partner to ensure predators like Bedia will never target another innocent child.” According to court documents, on July 13, 2021, Bedia used peer-to-peer filesharing software to download a nearly 45-minute-long video depicting a minor victim. Several months later, in February 2022, Bedia downloaded another lengthy video that depicted another young girl engaged in sexually explicit conduct. On May 11, 2022, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Bedia’s electronic devices. Upon executing the warrant, investigators found an extraordinarily large collection of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors, including over 30,000 images and nearly 1,500 videos. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason M. Scheff and Drew O. Inman prosecuted the case for the United States. The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. 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 identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/ .


title: U.S. Attorney Announces Surge in Federal Violent Crime Prosecutions in Austin

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

body_text: AUSTIN, Texas – United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons announced on Tuesday that assistant U.S. attorneys in Austin have filed approximately 40 federal cases against defendants for gun-related crimes in recent months. Simmons made the announcement in a press conference, joined by representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Austin Police Department. He said that, as part of an initiative to tackle violent crime in the community, his team has worked closely with the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, as well as the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, to identify cases for federal prosecution. “It is imperative that we focus our law enforcement resources and efforts on individuals who commit violent crimes, especially when those crimes are committed with firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Simmons. “According to data from the Major Cities Police Chiefs Association, Homicides in Austin are up 187% since 2015. Rape and Aggravated assault are up 65% and 38% respectively during that same period. Many of these crimes are committed by bad guys with guns. Just this year, we’ve seen multiple violent criminals engage in acts which endangered the lives of peace-loving Austinites, including the March 1 st shooting on 6 th Street. It’s plain to see that gun crime poses a significant threat to the law-abiding citizens of Austin, and the U.S. Attorney’s office takes that threat seriously. Our goal through this initiative is to emphasize that felons, or anyone else, who illegally possess or uses firearms will face serious consequences.” “ATF is proud to stand alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners in this united effort to make Austin safer and hold violent offenders accountable,” said ATF Houston Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. “Our agency brings unique expertise in firearms investigations, and we remain committed to disrupting those who use firearms to facilitate violent crime by working with our partners to ensure dangerous offenders face the consequences of their actions. This partnership is a powerful example of what we can accomplish when law enforcement agencies work together toward protecting our communities.” Simmons highlighted multiple significant cases the Western District of Texas attorneys are currently prosecuting, including charges for felon in possession of a firearm, drug trafficking, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and illegal possession of machine guns. The penalties for convicted defendants include 10-, 15-, and 30-year minimums with maximum penalties for some reaching life in federal prison. “It is true that this U.S. Attorney’s Office and others across the Department of Justice are prosecuting immigration crimes, taking on alien smugglers, drug traffickers, and Mexican cartels designated as foreign terrorist organizations,” Simmons added. “But we have not let up on our overall mission to ensure individuals who seek to harm our neighbors, friends, and loved ones, by violating federal laws with no regard for human life, are met with the full weight of the U.S. Department of Justice. We do this as law enforcement professionals so that Americans can live their lives, enjoy the blessings of liberty, and pursue happiness.” An indictment/criminal complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms Offense

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – A federal judge sentenced Juan Sanchez-Palacios, 32 , an illegal alien from Mexico, to 60 months and one day in prison for possessing marijuana with intent to distribute and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. On November 12, 2025, Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers in Memphis performed a traffic stop for suspected DUI and encountered Sanchez-Palacios, the driver of the vehicle. After observing a strong odor of marijuana while speaking with Sanchez-Palacios, troopers searched the vehicle and discovered multiple bags of marijuana, scales, a grinder, plastic baggies, a large amount of cash, and a loaded pistol. On August 20, 2026, United States District Court Chief Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Sanchez-Palacios to 60 months and one day in prison. There is no parole in the federal system. Federal immigration officers determined that Sanchez-Palacios had been illegally present in the United States since 2022. Sanchez-Palacios will be remanded to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal from the United States following his federal prison sentence. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Criminal aliens not only threaten the sovereignty of our nation but also threaten the safety of our communities. This case demonstrates our focus on those dangerous criminal aliens who continue to violate our laws after illegal entry.” “HSI is committed to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to eliminate crime and dangerous drugs from our communities,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “This sentence reflects that commitment and holds the defendant accountable for his actions.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) as part of the Memphis Safe Task Force operation. Special Assistant United States Attorney Clinton Crosier, of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS), prosecuted this 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: Turtle Creek Resident Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years of prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $15,000 to his victims for his conviction on charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Robert Bookshar, 49, on August 24, 2026. Bookshar pleaded guilty in March 2026 to two counts of production and attempted production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of children. According to information presented to the Court, from in and around September 2021 through in and around June 2023, Bookshar communicated with an online criminal organization offering child sexual abuse material for sale through a social media app. Specifically, on August 23, 2022, and May 12, 2022, Bookshar purchased live video calls with two different female minors, during which the defendant requested that each minor “get naked” and engage in sexual conduct. Bookshar secretly recorded the video calls and saved them to a folder labeled under each girl’s name on an external hard drive. Bookshar paid for these calls and other child sexual abuse material with gift cards and various mobile payment apps. Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman condemned the defendant’s criminal conduct and expressed significant concern regarding Bookshar’s claim that he did not realize that he was harming real girls. Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Tampa (Florida) and Colorado Springs (Colorado) police departments for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bookshar. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Chickasha Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – BRANDON SCOTT MASSEY , 29, of Chickasha, has been sentenced to serve 480 months in federal prison for sexual exploitation of children, attempted sexual exploitation of children, and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “This adult predator repeatedly targeted, deceived, and manipulated multiple young victims for years for his own sexual gratification,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “The 40-year prison sentence imposed by the Court holds him accountable for his deplorable conduct and safeguards the community from further harm to child victims.” “This defendant attempted to hide his reprehensible conduct targeting young victims by using a social media platform with a false identity, but the FBI tracked him down and worked diligently to stop him,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “Now, Brandon Massey will spend the next 40 years in prison for his detestable crimes manipulating and exploiting children. I commend the work of the FBI team and our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their dedication to justice for these victims.” According to public records, in April 2025, the FBI began investigating allegations that Massey had solicited photographs of a minor while posing as a teenaged boy in a Facebook group. During the investigation, agents discovered that Massey had joined many Facebook groups intended for teenagers and used the platform to solicit sexually explicit images from minor girls. Agents also determined that Massey possessed images and videos depicting child pornography. In December 2025, Massey was charged by Superseding Information with sexual exploitation of children, attempted sexual exploitation of children, and possession of child pornography. Massey pleaded guilty on January 13, 2026, and admitted that he coerced at least five minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct and send him images and videos through Facebook over the course of several years. Massey admitted to persuading these minors that he was in love with them, and, sometimes, threatening to break up with them, in order to get the minors to send him this material. He also admitted to possessing child pornography of these minors and other minors. At a sentencing hearing on August 24, 2026, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Massey to serve 480 months in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. In imposing this harsh sentence, Judge Wyrick noted Massey’s horrific and sadistic behavior in humiliating the child victims. This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Joynes prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Prior felon arrested on gun charge

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Gerald Harper, 31, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250.000 fine. In June 2023, Harper was convicted on a federal charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and sentenced to serve 60 months’ probation. As a result, he was prohibited from possessing firearms and/or ammunition. According to the complaint, on August 13, 2026, a North Tonawanda police officer conducted a traffic stop of Harper’s vehicle for a suspended registration. During the stop, when Harper lowered the window, the officer observed heavy smoke consistent with the scent of marijuana. The officer also observed an open backpack in the vehicle that contained bundles of United States Currency, later determined to be approximately $7,055 in cash. The officer asked Harper to step out of the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle recovered a quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Harper is still on federal supervised release, which led to a search of his residence. During that search, investigators located two firearms and ammunition. Harper made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroder, Jr. and was detained. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Strafford Woman Sentenced to 300 Months for Producing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Strafford, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for her role in a “throuple” who sexually abused two children to produce child pornography. Jessica Nicole Pickett, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton to a total of 25 years in federal prison without parole, to be followed by a life term of supervised release. Pickett will be required to register as a sex offender upon her release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout her life. Pickett pleaded guilty on Jan. 22, 2026, to conspiracy to commit sexual exploitation of children and transfer of obscene material to a minor. Pickett admitted that she participated in a conspiracy with Mallory Bunch and Thomas Bunch (now deceased, formerly Mallory Bunch’s husband with whom they were involved in a polyamorous relationship) to sexually abuse two minor victims and to produce child pornography depicting that abuse from Sept. 2, 2016, to May 23, 2024. Pickett also admitted to sharing an iCloud link that contained 376 images and two videos of the sexual activity of Mallory and Thomas Bunch and Pickett with one of the minor victims. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Greene County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, and Webster County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Springfield Man Sentenced to 15 Months for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for his illegal possession of a firearm. William Thomas Alexander Moore, 30, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This defendant was charged as a part of Operation Spring Cleaning, that was coordinated by the United States Attorney’s Office and law enforcement across Southwest Missouri. On June 26, 2025, Moore was contacted by the Christian County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office for exceeding the posted speed limit. Christian County deputies conducted a search of Moore’s vehicle after a K-9 unit indicated on the vehicle. Deputies discovered two Smith and Wesson .38 caliber firearms. Deputies then learned Moore was a convicted felon and was arrested for his illegal possession of the firearms. Moore was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, followed by three years of post-release supervision, and payment of a $100 Special Assessment as required by law. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Christian County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Illegal Alien from Guatemala Sentenced to 14 Months for Illegal Reentry

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Guatemalan illegal alien residing in St. Joseph, Mo., was sentenced in federal court for reentering the United States after being deported. Byron Perez-Roblero, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 14 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for reentering the United States after deportation. Perez-Roblero was arrested Sept. 18, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo., by investigators and officers with Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals Service, the Missouri Highway Patrol, and the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department, who were serving a federal warrant for another subject. Perez-Roblero had been deported from the United States five times – in 2009, 2011, 2017, 2020, and 2021. Perez-Roblero had a 2021 felony conviction for illegal reentry in United States District Court in Tucson, Ariz. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: As Children Return to School, U.S. Attorney Announces Prosecutions of Six Trusted Adults Accused of Exploiting Minors

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri announced six recent prosecutions involving trusted adults accused of exploiting children while serving in positions of authority. This announcement comes on the heels of back-to-school season and is part of the district’s ongoing commitment to protect children from alleged predators. “When parents send their children to school, they do so with the expectation that their children are in the care of trusted adults,” said R. Matthew Price, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri. “They should never have to question whether a teacher, school administrator, or coach, is exploiting or putting their child at risk. Our office, together with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute those who compromise the safety, security, and well-being of children in our district. Protecting children is among our highest priorities, and we will hold accountable anyone who threatens their safety, to the fullest extent of the law.” “We entrust our educators with one of the most important responsibilities in our communities: helping shape the lives and futures of our children,” said Chris Ormerod, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kansas City Field Office. We trust them to educate our students, to teach them the values of responsible citizenship, and to provide guidance and life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom. The vast majority of educators across this country honor that responsibility every day and we deeply commend them for their dedication and service. But make no mistake: when an educator abuses their position of trust to exploit a child, that will not be tolerated. The FBI will pursue those who prey upon children and will work to ensure that offenders are held accountable under the law.” Matthew Joseph Wick, 35, Independence, Mo., is a guidance counselor at Raytown South Middle School. On Aug. 25, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Wick with one count of possession of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Wick’s telephone provider submitted several cyber tip reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding videos that were uploaded to the provider’s cloud storage for Wick’s account. According to court documents, investigators discovered that there was a secure folder that contained 55 video files that constituted child pornography on Wick’s cellular device. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Independence, Missouri Police Department. Caleb J. Eyde, 21, is a substitute elementary school teacher for the Independence, Missouri. School District. On Aug. 25, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Eyde with four counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Discord Inc., a group communication platform, submitted several cyber tip reports to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding videos depicting Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) that were uploaded to the company’s platform from two accounts. The results of the investigation led local law enforcement and federal agents to Eyde. Investigators obtained Discord Inc. records which investigators believe indicate Eyde was distributing, trading, and purchasing CSAM from other users. Examinations of Eyde’s electronic devices uncovered images and videos depicting CSAM that were saved to Eyde’s devices. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Collins. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Independence, Missouri Police Department. Joel Thomas Rosales, 44, of Independence, Mo., was a former recreational softball coach in Oak Grove, Mo. On Aug. 25, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Rosales with one count of receipt of child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, an adult witness discovered communications from Rosales on a minor victim’s cell phone. The communications were sexually explicit in nature and Rosales received images depicting CSAM. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oak Grove, Missouri Police Department. Jonathan Xavier Valdez, 36, of Blue Springs, Mo., was an area Scouting America Troop Leader. On June 24, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Valdez with one count each of production of child obscenity and possession of child obscenity involving multiple minors. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Valdez, over the course of at least 10 months, allegedly manipulated clothed images of multiple minors to create graphic nude depictions of those children appearing to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Valdez is a troop leader with Scouting America and has been active with the Scouts for several years. Members of the Federal Bureau of Investigations investigated the allegations after a witness came forward on June 12, 2026, and reported having observed obscene images of minors on Valdez’s smart TV screensaver. During a subsequent search of Valdez’s residence, FBI investigators located multiple manipulated still images and videos depicting at least five minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct on Valdez’s TV, cell phone, and other devices. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Richard Villigram, 43, of Kansas City, Mo., a Plaza Middle School teacher, was charged in federal court on attempted child exploitation charges. On May 6, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Villigram with one count each of attempted use of an interstate facility to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, attempted receipt of child pornography, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Villigram, over the course of several days, allegedly engaged in online communications with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing online as a 15-year-old minor. During his communications with the person he believed to be a minor, Villigram arranged to meet the purported minor to engage in sexual conduct and asked the purported minor to send him pornographic images. Villigram was later arrested on April 21, 2026, after arriving at the location he arranged to meet the minor to engage in sexual conduct. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The charges contained in the indictments above are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.


title: Bolivar, Missouri Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Bolivar, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for his illegal possession of multiple firearms, including two AR-15 type rifles, that held 30-round and 60-round extended magazines. Russell Dean Taylor, Jr., 47, was sentenced to five years in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton for being a felon illegally in possession of a firearm. This defendant was charged as a part of Operation Spring Cleaning, that was coordinated by the United States Attorney’s Office and law enforcement across Southwest Missouri. On April 28, 2024, detectives with the Polk County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office received a report of Taylor possessing an AR-15 styled rifle during an argument at his residence. Polk County deputies were aware Taylor was a previously convicted felon and would be prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. Taylor was arrested by Polk County Sheriff’s deputies when he came to the sheriff’s department for an unrelated incident. Following the execution of a search warrant, law enforcement located a CD Defense, AR12A, 12-gauge shotgun, a Diamondback, AR-style, 5.6mm caliber semi-automatic rifle, and a Bushmaster, AR-15 style, 5.6mm caliber semi-automatic rifle. Law enforcement noted that the Diamondback, AR-15 style rifle, was loaded with a 30-round extended magazine, and the Bushmaster, AR-15 style rifle, was loaded with a 60-round extended magazine. Each rifle had a round of ammunition in the chamber. Taylor was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, followed by three years of post-release supervision, payment of a $75,000 fine, and payment of a $100 Special Assessment as required by law. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Polk County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Final Defendant Sentenced in Multi-State Meth Trafficking Conspiracy; Will Spend Almost 20 Years in Federal Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: SHREVEPORT - On August 20, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Jaquez Anthony Flakes , 21, of Natchitoches, to 235 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Flakes was convicted at trial on March 24, 2026. “Methamphetamine continues to tear through our Louisiana communities, leaving families shattered and lives ruined,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Dismantling this 11-member conspiracy and holding them accountable for their crimes reflects our Office’s commitment, alongside our federal and state partners, to invest the resources necessary for investigating and prosecuting drug traffickers across our rural and urban communities.” This sentencing marks the final defendant brought to justice in an eleven-person drug trafficking network dismantled through a years-long investigation. Flakes's involvement came to light during a traffic stop on August 16, 2024, near the Louisiana-Texas state line. Louisiana State Police (LSP) attempted to pull over a vehicle driven by co-conspirator Daniel Efferson. Efferson, Flakes , and co-conspirator Perry Willis fled the scene. This led to a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Officers recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. This incident was the primary catalyst for a broader federal investigation. Subsequent investigations in Houston uncovered the massive scale of the trafficking network: agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine disguised as bottled water and located a meth conversion lab equipped with burners, pots, and an additional 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. Evidence recovered connected Flakes to the same distribution pipeline supplying Willis, Efferson, and eight other members of the conspiracy. With Flakes sentenced, all eleven defendants have been held accountable. Previously sentenced co-conspirators are as follows: Daniel Efferson , of Natchitoches – 360 months (30 years) Christopher Caffey , of Shreveport – 262 months (over 21 years) Joshua Hardy , of Shreveport – 151 months (over 12 years) Delannie Lee , of Shreveport – 168 months (14 years) Crystal Williams , of Mansfield – 60 months (5 years) Kellie Yates , of Shreveport – 3 years' probation Amadeo Penaloza-Meza , of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years) Brayan Sandoval , of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years) Jeffrey Flack , of Shreveport – 120 months (10 years) Perry Willis , of Natchitoches – 292 months (over 24 years) U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Mexican cartels continue to flood the United States with high purity, highly potent methamphetamine. In Louisiana, officials warn that meth remains a serious statewide threat: stimulant related overdose deaths still account for 26.5% of all drug involved fatalities and rural communities have seen rising mortality as meth supplies are increasingly laced with deadly fentanyl. LSP and DEA investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorneys Robert Moody and Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistants Amanda Morgan and Stephanie Stewart. A copy of this press release (and future updates) can be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the District Court's website at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla X: @USAO_WDLA Facebook: USAO_WDLA (337) 262-6704


title: Postal employees charged in $24M stolen-check scheme

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – Five Houston residents have been indicted for conspiracy to commit bank fraud in a scheme that involved the theft of checks from the U.S. mail. Tryston Tremaine Vaughn, 28; Malcolm Tiree Joubert, 35; and Alyssa Nadine Bryant, 27; are all expected to make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Y. Ho at 10:00 a.m today. Catherine Clauzelle Kilpatrick, 29, made her appearance Aug. 24. Also charged is Drakkor Jamar Alexander, 34, who is not as yet in custody. According to the indictment, Vaughn allegedly recruited U.S. Postal Service mail carriers to steal checks from the mail along their routes. Vaughn and others allegedly purchased the stolen checks from postal employees and resold them to buyers through Telegram. They then shipped the stolen checks to buyers, according to the indictment. Telegram is a cloud-based, cross-platform social media, and instant messaging service. Kilpatrick, Joubert, and Alexander worked as USPS mail carriers when Vaughn allegedly recruited them to steal mail. The charges allege the scheme involved approximately $24 million in stolen checks. If convicted, each faces up to 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and a possible $1 million maximum fine. Kilpatrick, Joubert, and Alexander also face up to five years for theft by a postal employee and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. FBI, USPS – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Department of Treasury – OIG, Treasury Inspector for Tax Administration, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments in Houston and Stafford conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Celia Moyer is prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Federal inmate convicted of soliciting murder of prison officials

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old man with ties to New Jersey has been convicted of solicitation of murder of multiple federal law enforcement officers. The jury deliberated for approximately one hour before returning the guilty verdict on all eight counts as charged against Aramis Stuckman following a two-day trial. In October 2024, Stuckman was an inmate at the Three Rivers Federal Correctional Institution. While incarcerated, he wrote three letters seeking the assault, torture, and murder of multiple officers in exchange for up to $50,000. The jury heard that Stuckman passed the letters to three separate guards. They also heard how he threatened one guard, warning that he would be the next victim if he turned the letter over to authorities. The defense attempted to convince the jury that Stuckman did not write the letters himself, or have the resources to follow through on the solicitations. They did not believe those claims and found Stuckman guilty as charged. U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales-Ramos presided over the trial and set sentencing for Dec. 1. At that time, Stuckman faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of solicitation of murder. He also faces up to 10 years for each count of solicitation of assault and for threatening a law enforcement officer. He could also be ordered to pay a possible $250,000 maximum fine. Stuckman has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing. FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Special Investigative Services of the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Martin and Tyler Foster are prosecuting the case.


title: U.S. Attorney Files Civil Fraud Suit Against Network Of Companies For Fraudulently Obtaining COVID Relief Money

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that the United States has filed a Complaint against MICHAEL SHABSELS, SIMAD HOLDINGS LLC, DAMIS HOLDINGS LLC, and 26 related entities (the “Shabsels Companies” and, collectively, the “Defendants”), alleging that the Defendants concealed their interrelationship from the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) in order to improperly obtain PPP funds. The lawsuit seeks damages and civil penalties under the False Claims Act as well as a recovery of government funds under the common law. “Congress enacted the Paycheck Protection Program during a national crisis to help small businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “As alleged, the defendants repeatedly lied to the SBA to exploit this program and fund their sprawling network of companies at taxpayer expense, thereby depleting the funds for small businesses that needed the assistance. The civil process to recover taxpayer funds remains ongoing.” The following allegations are based on the Complaint filed in White Plains federal court on August 24, 2026: To promote the availability of PPP loans to the largest number of borrowers, the SBA limited businesses in a single corporate group to a maximum aggregate loan amount of $4 million for second-draw PPP loans (the “Corporate Group Rule”). The Shabsels Companies were part of a large corporate group that was subject to the Corporate Group Rule’s cap of $4 million. Indeed, the vast majority of the Shabsels Companies were directly majority-owned by a single company. The Defendants, however, sought and obtained over $17 million in second-draw PPP loans for the Shabsels Companies, improperly obtaining over $13 million in PPP loans, all of which were forgiven, as follows: Defendant Camp Name Loan and Forgiveness Amount ACHIM OPERATINGCO LLC Camp Achim, New York $79,527.00 BAHS OPERATING INC CAMP Camp Chen-A-Wanda, Pennsylvania $1,072,529.00 BANNER OPERATINGCO LLC Banner Day Camp, Illinois $1,394,904.00 BELGRADE LAKES SUMMER CAMPS LLC New England Tennis and Golf Camp, Maine $167,415.00 BLUESTAR OPERATINGCO, LLC Blue Star Camps, North Carolina $1,425,091.00 CAMP MED-O-LARK, INC Camp Med-O-Lark, Maine $454,719.00 CLUB GETAWAY OPERATINGCO, LLC Club Getaway, Connecticut $592,039.00 COUNTRY ROADS OPERATINGCO, LLC Country Roads Day Camp, New Jersey $1,134,437.50 DAMIS HOLDINGS, LLC (not a camp at all, but a holding company) $179,730.00 EAGLE'S LANDING DAY CAMP LLC Eagle’s Landing, New Jersey $591,804.00 GREEN LANE OPERATINGCO, LLC Camp Green Lane, Pennsylvania $175,836.00 IAFA OPERATING CO, LLC Indian Acres and Forest Acres, Maine $469,105.00 KIWI OPERATINGCO, LLC Kiwi Country Day Camp, New York $768,410.00 LAVCO LLC Camp Lavi, Pennsylvania $689,132.00 MAINE WEKEELA CO, LLC Camp Wekeela, Maine $424,343.00 MALKA OPERATINGCO LLC Camp Malka, New York $163,628.00 MEADOWBROOK OPERATINGCO, LLC Meadowbrook Country Day Camp, New Jersey $1,380,766.00 MESORAHCO, LLC Camp Mesorah, New York $469,829.00 MOGENAVCO LLC Camp Mogen Av, New York $1,091,353.62 MOHAWKCAMPCO LLC Mohawk Day Camp, New York $2,000,000.00 POLAND CAMPCO LLC Camp North Star, Maine $224,350.00 RDM CAMPS LLC Camp Lokanda, New York $719,446.00 SHAB OPERATING INC Camp Echo, New York $326,893.00 STONY CREEK OPERATING CO, LLC 1000 Acres Ranch, New York $142,015.00 SUMMIT CAMP, LLC Summit Camp, Pennsylvania $613,833.50 WAUKEELA OPERATINGCO LLC Camp Waukeela, New Hampshire $268,170.00 WM CAMP LLC Windsor Mountain Summer Camp, New Hampshire $399,273.00 SHABSELS signed numerous second-draw PPP applications on behalf of the Shabsels Companies. On over 20 occasions, SHABSELS falsely answered “no” to the following question in PPP applications submitted on behalf of the Shabsels Companies: “[i]s the Applicant or any owner of the Applicant an owner of any other business, or have common management (including a management agreement) with any other business.” In fact, SHABSELS and SIMAD HOLDINGS, LLC were owners of the applicants for PPP loans and also owners of various other businesses. The Defendants have all filed for bankruptcy in the District of New Jersey. In this action, the United States seeks to determine the extent of the Defendants’ liability and will then coordinate any recovery for the taxpayers in conjunction with the bankruptcy proceedings. * * * The Government intervened in a whistleblower lawsuit before U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas that had previously been filed under seal pursuant to the False Claims Act, and which was unsealed on August 17, 2026. Mr. McDonald thanked the SBA for its assistance with the case. This case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Frauds Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Kennedy is in charge of the case.


title: Pearl River Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child Pornography

component: Department of Justice

body_text: Jackson, MS – On August 25, 2026, a Pearl River man pleaded guilty to Production of Child Pornography. U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger and Robert Eickhoff, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Jackson Office made the announcement. According to court documents, Eli Joe, 22, knowingly enticed or coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct that were sent to Joe using the internet. Joe is scheduled to be sentenced on January 12, 2027, and faces not less than 15 years up to 30 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. United States Attorney Kruger commended the work of the Choctaw Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Trails Task Force, who investigated the case. The Safe Trails Task Force is comprised of officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Choctaw Police Department, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Department, and various state and local law enforcement agencies. Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Payne, Brian K. Burns and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kalleigh McCoy prosecuted the case.


title: Suspect Indicted in Fairview Heights Bank Robbery

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – a man appeared in federal court last Friday to face a federal charge for allegedly robbing a bank in Fairview Heights, Illinois. He will remain detained pending trial. Kiante M. Brooks, 32, is facing one count of federal bank robbery. According to court documents, around 5:00 p.m. on August 13, 2026, Fairview Heights Police Department (“FHPD”) received a call from a local bank teller advising the police that a co-worker was being robbed. FHPD arrived on scene and Brooks exited the bank. FHPD immediately took Brooks into custody without incident. According to court documents, Brooks was in possession of a black bag at the time of his arrest. The bag allegedly contained the cash stolen from the bank and a demand note stating, “ROBBERY GIVE ME $10,000. I HAVE A GUN.” “The Department of Justice recently announced the largest year-to-year drop in the violent crime rate in American history from 2024 to 2025, and the downward trend is continuing in 2026,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Those statistics included an 18.5 percent decrease in bank robberies, which is explained by a nationwide emphasis on aggressive enforcement. Credit to the Fairview Heights Police Department and the FBI for the quick work that took this defendant into custody without incident.” “The FBI Springfield Field Office remains committed to conducting thorough investigations that help ensure the safety of our communities and the security of our financial institutions,” said FBI Springfield’s Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley. “We appreciate the quick, professional response of the Fairview Heights Police Department and value the strong partnership that supports our work on cases like this.” Jury trial is set for October 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM in the Benton Courthouse. The FBI Springfield Field Office is investigating with support from the Fairview Heights Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Reppert is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.


title: Former Teacher Aide Detained on Two Federal Charges for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

body_text: BENTON, Ill. – yesterday, a former teacher aide appeared in federal court to face two federal charges for sexual exploitation of a child. He was ordered detained pending trial by a federal magistrate judge. Austin L. Knoob, 32, of Carbondale is facing two counts for sexual exploitation of a child. The allegations stem from events occurring in August 2025 and April 2026. According to a criminal complaint filed August 14, Knoob is accused of communicating with a minor victim to request and receive child sexual abuse material from the minor victim. Knoob is also accused of uploading and sending child sexual abuse material involving the minor victim to online groups. According to court documents, Knoob was employed as a teacher aide at Carbondale Community High School for the 2025-2026 school year. “The facts alleged in the complaint paint a chilling picture of how online predators create real-world danger across state lines—from a victim identified in Boston to the defendant’s conduct in Carbondale, said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “We aggressively prosecute these cases because keeping children safe is a top priority.” “Predators are increasingly turning to digital spaces to harm children, but the FBI is equally committed to using every tool and resource available to uncover that conduct,” said FBI Springfield’s Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley. “The allegations in this case are deeply troubling, and we will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to protect children and bring to justice anyone who seeks to exploit them.” A complaint is merely an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. FBI Marion is investigating with support from the FBI Boston Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Bloodworth is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . This story was updated on August 25, 2026 to correct Defendant's age from 33 to 32.


title: Rock Island Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Charge

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Rock Island man was sentenced on August 25, 2026, to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Davaria Shargquil Lewis, Sr., 32, possessed 879 counterfeit oxycodone M30 pills containing fentanyl inside a vehicle, which officers located during a traffic stop in March 2025. After completing his term of imprisonment, Lewis will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.


title: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison  for Possessing a Firearm as a Felon and as a Drug User

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on August 24, 2026. Anthony James Howard, 34, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Howard was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2026. He pleaded guilty on June 29, 2026. According to court records, in early December 2025, Howard was wielding a semi-automatic pistol after consuming methamphetamine. He was prohibited from possessing the firearm due to previous felony convictions. Howard fired the firearm and shot himself in the foot. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case. Howard was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years in Federal Prison  for Receiving Child Pornography

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on August 24, 2026. Hayden Sengua, 26, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $15,685 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The Court also ordered the forfeiture of the defendant’s external hard drive and two cellular phones. Sengua was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on January 21, 2026. Beginning in 2018 and continuing into January 2025, Sengua knowingly downloaded image and video files containing sexually explicit visual depictions of young children. Sengua saved the files on his cell phone, in his Google account, and on an external hard drive. Altogether, Sengua was in possession of approximately 15,000 total media files depicting child sexual abuse. Some of the imagery Sengua collected depicts the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, as well as the bondage and torture of minors. Sengua also used a virtual machine to attempt to hide his collection of child pornography. 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 . This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. Sengua was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Mission Man Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on August 24, 2026. Joseph Running, age 31, was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund . Running was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 6, 2026. Running was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in United States District Court, District of South Dakota in June 2020. As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation, a change in employment, or a change in student status. In March 2025, Running updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at a residence in Rosebud, SD. He left that residence in September 2025 and did not update his registration. An arrest warrant was issued, and on November 18, 2025, Running was arrested in Rosebud, SD. This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case. Running was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Mexican National Sentenced in Federal Court  for Illegal Reentry after Deportation

body_text: RAPID CITY – U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Mexican man convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation. The sentencing took place on August 17, 2026. Angel Takashi Cano-Meza, 36, was sentenced to time served. He will be deported to Mexico. Cano-Meza was indicted for Illegal Reentry after Deportation by a federal grand jury in July 2026. He pleaded guilty on August 17, 2026. Cano-Meza is an illegal alien who was deported from the United States to Mexico in 2022. Cano-Meza was again deported from the United States in 2024. On June 20, 2026, Cano-Meza was in custody for an arrest in Pennington County for possession of a fictitious driver’s license, impersonation to deceive law enforcement, and open container in a motor vehicle. Local authorities notified Immigration and Customs Enforcement, who discovered Cano-Meza’s true identity and history of deportations. It is a federal felony for an alien to be in the United States after having been deported from the United States without obtaining the consent of the Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Attorney General of the United States to apply for lawful admission into the United States. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office, in Partnership with Federal and Local Law Enforcement, Targets Fentanyl Trafficking in Downtown Portland

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—United States Attorney Scott E. Bradford announced in a press conference today that, over the past three years, federal charges have been brought against more than 100 defendants for trafficking fentanyl in downtown Portland. Those arrests included seizures of more than 40 guns. Starting in 2023, at a time when open-air drug markets were commonplace in downtown Portland and the county and state systems were unable to hold and prosecute these street-level fentanyl dealers, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) stepped in to federally prosecute fentanyl dealers in downtown Portland. A unique aspect of this partnership involved a dedicated team that included an FBI special agent, an Assistant U.S. Attorney, PPB’s Bike Squad, and PPB’s Central Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) going on late-night missions to target fentanyl dealers in downtown Portland. As a result, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged more than 100 defendants for selling fentanyl in downtown Portland. Of these defendants, over 80% were illegal aliens from Honduras and Mexico unlawfully residing in Oregon. These cases have resulted in the seizure of more than 100 kilograms of fentanyl, 40 guns, and $1.3 million in proceeds. That is enough fentanyl to kill 50 million people, or Oregon’s population, 11 times. After this project began additional law enforcement agencies became involved as dealers move from downtown to other areas. It has continued to be a growing partnership with local, state, and federal stakeholders in the broader Portland region. “Our message is simple,” U.S. Attorney Bradford said, “if you are dealing fentanyl in downtown Portland, you will be arrested, federally prosecuted, and go to federal prison.” U.S. Attorney Bradford noted, “Three years ago, downtown Portland had notorious open-air drug markets and was in the news for all the wrong reasons. Downtown fentanyl dealers, many of whom were armed, were contributing to higher crime rates and overdoses. To many people, downtown Portland simply felt unsafe – and it was. As a result of these joint efforts, we are changing that.” U.S. Attorney Bradford emphasized, “Our coordinated and dynamic law enforcement response, with local, county, state, and federal partners, is making a difference in downtown Portland—reducing fentanyl trafficking, violent crime, and overdoses. We will continue to work with our partners to make Portland safe.” “Our partnerships with the Portland Police Bureau, the Multnomah and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Offices, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office make all of this possible," said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “To anyone dealing dangerous drugs downtown: it’s not a matter of if we catch you—it's when .” A summary of a few of these downtown fentanyl cases are listed below: United States v. Luis Carlos Moreno-Mencia, Case No. 3:23-cr-354 On December 9, 2024, Luis Carlos Moreno-Mencia pled guilty to possession with the intent to Distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl. According to court documents, on or about September 28, 2023, Moreno-Mencia possessed approximately 167 grams of fentanyl for purposes of further distribution. Moreno-Mencia also possessed a firearm. On March 3, 2025, Moreno-Mencia was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment, followed by 4 years of supervised release. He is facing deportation back to Honduras. United States v. Olvin Fabricio Diaz-Centeno, Case No. 3:23-cr-00301 On October 3, 2024, Olvin Fabricio Diaz-Centeno pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, Diaz-Centeno was working with others distributing fentanyl, in both powder and pills, within the greater Portland metropolitan area. On or about September 6, 2023, Diaz-Centeno and his co-defendant were arrested and a search of the vehicle they were in resulted in the seizure of approximately 1.2 kilograms of counterfeit M30 pills manufactured with fentanyl and 1 kilogram of Super Mannitol, a cutting agent used to mix with fentanyl for purposes of further distribution. A search of a storage unit Diaz-Centeno and co-defendant maintained resulted in the seizure of approximately 460 grams of counterfeit M30 pills manufactured with fentanyl and 2.1 kilograms of powdered fentanyl, as well as additional Super Mannitol. A search of their residence resulted in the seizure of three pistols; ammunition; and equipment for processing fentanyl for purposes of further distribution, to include vice presses, a scale, masks, Super Mannitol, and a blender. On December 13, 2024, Diaz-Centeno was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He is facing deportation back to Honduras. United States v. Bexon Calix-Rivera, Case No. 3:24-cr-00232 On March 12, 2025, Bexon Calix-Rivera pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, from January 2023 through to June 2024 Calix-Rivera was arrested by police on multiple occasions. On June 4, 2024, PPB officers recognized Calix-Rivera from the encounter ten days prior. Officers observed Calix-Rivera carrying a hatchet and engaged in hand-to-hand drug transactions in downtown Portland. Officers attempted to detain Calix-Rivera, but he fled on foot. When officers apprehended Calix-Rivera, they seized fentanyl powder, a firearm, and $755 in cash. PPB officers booked Calix-Rivera in the Multnomah County Jail, and he was released the same day. On June 11, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Calix-Rivera with possession of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine with the intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. On October 28, 2024 he made his initial appearance on the federal charges and remained in custody. On June 5, 2025, Calix-Rivera was sentenced to 78months imprisonment, followed by 4 years supervised release. pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He is facing deportation back to Honduras. United States v. Cristian Laines-Hernandez, Case No. 3:25-cr-00405 On January 15, 2026, Cristian Laines-Hernandez pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, January 18, 2025, Laines possessed to distribute 45 bags of prepackaged fentanyl which weighed approximately 339 grams. He was arrested on state charges and released from custody on January 22, 2025. On September 8, 2025, as part of a separate drug trafficking investigation, Laines was arrested by officers from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigation’s Unit on federal charges. The state case was adopted for federal prosecution. The defendant was held in federal custody since the September 8, 2025, federal arrest. On May 11, 2026, Laines was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He is facing deportation back to Honduras. United States v. Matthew Eugene Garlock, Case No. 3:25-cr-00164 On May 27,2026, Matthew Eugene Garlock pled guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, beginning on or about January 19, 2025, and continuing until on or about April 4, 2025, Garlock sold fentanyl in downtown Portland. Despite multiple arrests by local law enforcement, he continued distributing fentanyl. On each occasion he was arrested his fentanyl and firearm would be seized and he would then go out and acquire additional fentanyl to sell and an additional firearm for protection. A search of his residence resulted in the seizure of three pistols; ammunition; and equipment for processing fentanyl for further distribution, to include vice presses, a scale, masks, Super Mannitol, and a blender. On April 7, 2025, Garlock made his initial appearance on federal charges and was detained. Garlock is in custody and scheduled for sentencing. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org . Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.