title: Three Sentenced in Plot to Rob Marijuana Dealer in Radford

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – Three men who plotted to rob a Radford, Virginia marijuana dealer in April 2025, and the man who they targeted to rob, were sentenced recently in U.S. District Court to federal prison time. Trevion Trevor Johnson, 23, of Roanoke, was sentenced to 108 months. Dominick Latrell Anderson, 24, of Roanoke, was sentenced to 96 months. Sidney Elijah Schwartz, 23, of Elliston, Va., was sentenced to 48 months, and Robert Jason Leonard Jr., 48, of Fairlawn, Va., was sentenced to 36 months. According to court documents, on April 17, 2025, Johnson, Anderson, and Schwartz entered the residence of Leonard with the intention of stealing his marijuana. To prepare for the robbery, Anderson obtained Leonard’s contact information. The morning of the robbery, Anderson, using an alias, arranged with Leonard a transaction involving approximately one and one-half pounds of marijuana. Leading up to the robbery, Anderson, Schwartz, and Johnson agreed upon their respective roles. Anderson would distract Leonard by feigning a payment transfer, Schwartz would seize the marijuana, and Johnson – who obtained a firearm from a juvenile accomplice earlier and agreed to wait in the getaway vehicle- would maintain control of Leonard to ensure the group’s safe retreat. On the night of the planned robbery, the three robbers entered the home, proceeded to the kitchen and began discussing the purported transaction with Leonard. During the encounter, Johnson suspected that Leonard’s wife was armed, causing Johnson to brandish a 9mm pistol and aim it at Leonard’s wife. A physical altercation ensued between Johnson and Leonard, during which Johnson discharged his firearm, shooting Leonard in the buttocks. Schwartz then grabbed a portion of the marijuana and the three men fled. As they fled, Leonard fired multiple rounds at the fleeing assailants, striking Schwartz in the back. Anderson, Johnson, and the juvenile accomplice dropped Schwartz off at a hospital and divided the stolen marijuana among them. First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci and Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm and Explosives and the City of Radford Police Department investigated the case.


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Leadership Role in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 420 months in prison for his role in a criminal conspiracy to import methamphetamine and heroin into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. According to court documents, Juan Alberto Gutierrez-Guerra, 36, was one of five occupants in a vehicle pulled over by Uvalde County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Oct. 4, 2021. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement officers located a backpack with 10 bundles containing methamphetamine and one bundle containing heroin. An investigation revealed that Gutierrez-Guerra and co-defendant Oscar David Perez-Arita conspired together, intending to smuggle the narcotics to San Antonio before returning to Mexico. Gutierrez-Guerra and Perez-Arita were named in a five-count indictment on Nov. 3, 2021. On May 16, 2022, Gutierrez-Guerra pleaded guilty to all five counts. Perez-Arita pleaded guilty only to count one, conspiracy to import methamphetamine, and was sentenced in November 2025 to 292 months in federal prison with credit for time served since the Oct. 4, 2021 arrest. Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses presided over the case. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Miner prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: Gibson County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Jackson, TN – Travis Ray Baird, 40 , of Dyer, Tennessee, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment for distributing child pornography in December 2024. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. The investigation in this case revealed that Baird was distributing child sexual abuse material on the BitTorrent network using his home computer. A forensic examination of Baird’s computer revealed that he distributed over 2,000 child pornographic images. On August 7, 2026, United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Baird to 120 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Following his release from prison, Baird will have to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration & Notification Act (SORNA). U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “Distribution of child pornography is an abhorrent and disturbing crime that endangers and harms real child victims forever. Because demand drives supply for such images, Baird has contributed to both the past victimization and future harm done to children. The internet can be a dark place, but so can a federal prison.” “HSI is committed to identifying, investigating, and bringing to justice those who exploit children and distribute child sexual abuse material. Working alongside our federal, state, and local partners, we will continue to pursue those who victimize children and use every available investigative tool to hold offenders accountable,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. This case was investigated by members of United States Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Caroline Parish 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: Indiana County Man Indicted for Theft of Social Security Benefits

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Indiana, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of government property, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The two-count Indictment named Curtis John Shupe, 61, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, from in and around September 2021 until in and around July 2025, Shupe stole and knowingly converted to his personal use more than $1,000 in Social Security benefits belonging to someone else. Shupe did so through his role as representative payee for the benefits. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Registered sex offender arrested on new child pornography charges

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Eric A. Brown, 42, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years. According to the complaint, in February 2025, the New York State Police began investigating Eric Brown after receiving a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC received a tip from Quora, a social question-and-answer platform, stating that files of suspected child pornography were uploaded by an account subsequently traced to Brown. On June 24, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at Brown’s Van Buren Street residence and seized two cell phones. A preliminary review of one of the cell phones determined that it contained suspected child pornography. Brown is a Level-1 Sex Offender in New York State following a 2015 Conviction for Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child. Brown made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was held pending a detention hearing on August 12, 2026. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone. 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: Genesee County man sentenced for possession of machineguns

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Peter Celentano, 37, of Bergen, NY, who was convicted of illegal possession of machineguns, was sentenced to serve 41 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. On September 29, 2024, the New York State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, executed a search warrant at Celentano’s residence in Bergen. During the search, law enforcement recovered numerous items, including 3D printed pistol frames, firearm parts and accessories, ammunition reloading equipment, tools for constructing privately made firearms, a drill press, and two 3D printed machinegun conversion devices. Law enforcement also conducted additional searches at properties in Lyndonville and Medina, NY, during which they seized numerous AR-style lower receivers, 3D printed handguns, and additional firearm parts and accessories. In total, law enforcement seized over 200 firearms tied to Celentano. During the investigation, law enforcement learned that Celentano provided another individual with nine lower receivers, two of which contained the “third pin hole,” qualifying them as machineguns. An individual known by defendant had subsequently discarded these firearms off the Beals Road Bridge into the Erie Canal. A New York State Police dive team searched the Erie Canal beneath the bridge in Medina, NY, and recovered a cardboard box containing 10 AR-style receivers, an unmarked handgun, ammunition magazines, and additional firearm parts. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Joseph M. Graff, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division. # # # #


title: Charlotte Man Sentenced to Prison for Using U.S. Postal Service Arrow Keys to Steal $963,000

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Tidarian Williams, 32, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 42 months in prison and two years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a USPS arrow key and theft of mail matter, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Williams pleaded guilty to these offenses on October 24, 2025. “Stealing mail causes financial strain and stress on a large number of victims and my office is committed to aggressively prosecuting it,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “Williams not only stole mail from all over the city, he fled, hit a federal officer, and nearly struck an innocent pedestrian. His brazen conduct and disregard for the law put lives at risk just so he could enrich himself by stealing mail.” “This sentencing holds Williams accountable for his actions and sends a clear message that mail theft and the unlawful use of USPS arrow keys will not be tolerated,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division for the Postal Inspection Service. “The Postal Inspection Service remains committed to protecting the safety and security of our personnel and the mail, and we will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who victimize postal customers. “ According to court documents, between October 2024 and May 2025, Williams used arrow keys, which are master keys used by the U.S. Postal Service, to unlawfully access cluster mailboxes and steal mail in and around Charlotte. Williams specifically sought after pieces of mail that contained checks, credit cards, or other financial instruments, which he then used to enrich himself or sell to others. During his crime spree, Williams became increasingly brazen, as he transitioned from breaking into outdoor mailboxes at night to walking into businesses and residential buildings in the middle of the day and breaking into cluster mailboxes located in the lobbies. U.S. v. Williams – Video Stills Capturing the Defendant Stealing Mail Court documents show that Williams’ thefts victimized businesses and residents across the Charlotte area, and at least one property targeted by Williams hired a guard to physically monitor its mailroom. The total loss associated with Williams’s scheme is approximately $963,000 and involved at least 10 victims. Court documents show that Williams used stolen credit cards and other financial instruments to purchase luxury goods, jewelry, and other items. In addition, Williams sold or offered to sell to other individuals the “keys to the city,” meaning arrow keys, as well as stolen checks. U.S. v. Williams – Williams’s Custom Diamond Necklace in the Shape of a U.S. Postal Service Arrow Key (Top); Williams Posing with Custom Arrow Key Necklace (Middle) and Outside a Post Office (Bottom) According to court records, in April 2025, law enforcement responded to a mail theft in progress. When postal inspectors arrived on the scene, they observed Williams driving away in his vehicle. The postal inspectors blocked Williams’s vehicle and attempted to stop him, but when a postal inspector exited his car to approach the defendant, Williams fled by driving on the sidewalk, striking the postal inspector with his vehicle and causing him to sustain minor injuries. Williams then drove recklessly at high rate of speed and nearly struck a pedestrian. In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Office of the Inspector General, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for their investigation of the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Kinlaw and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte handled the prosecution. To report suspected mail theft, tips, or other mail-related crimes, go to https://mailtheft.uspis.gov/ or call USPIS at 1-877-876-2455. Call 911 to report an active crime in progress .


title: Kansas City Man Sentenced to Nearly 12 Years in Prison for Illegal Firearm Possession

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court for illegally possessing a firearm. Authorities recovered the firearm while arresting the suspect in a 2024 homicide. Tracy Parker, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 139 months in federal prison without parole. The sentence consists of 115 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm and an additional 24 months to be served consecutively, for violating the terms of the federal supervised release he was serving for a 2017 firearm conviction. Following his release from prison, Parker will serve a three-year term of federal supervised release. On Oct. 23, 2024, deputies with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Midwest Violent Fugitive Task Force arrested Parker pursuant to a federal arrest warrant for supervised-release violations. As deputies moved in to execute the arrest, Parker fled on foot. During the chase, a deputy saw Parker retrieve a handgun from his waistband, which Parker then dropped behind a parked car. Deputies detained Parker moments later and found the loaded 9mm handgun that Parker had dropped. The firearm had been reported stolen in Olathe, Kansas. After being taken into custody, Parker admitted he possessed the firearm, stating he had found it several days earlier. Parker acknowledged he was a convicted felon and said he discarded the handgun while fleeing because he feared being caught with it. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick. It was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Midwest Violent Fugitive Task Force. 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: Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty for Illegal Reentry Into the United States After a Prior Deportation

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Guatemalan National who had a complaint brought by the United States Attorney’s Office, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with illegal reentry into the United States after being previously deported. Jelber Gomez-Lopez, 33, pleaded guilty to the charge before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge David P. Rush. Under federal statute, illegally reentering into the United States after being previously deported is in direct violation of existing federal immigration law and is subject to a sentence of up to two years imprisonment. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. 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: Grand Jury Returns Indictment Charging Interstate Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Conspiracy

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Timothy VerHey today announced that Lakento Brian Smith, 54, of Houston, Texas; Javon Drevelle Brewer, 58, of Muskegon Heights, Michigan; and Fletcher Lee Salazar, 40, of Muskegon Heights, Michigan, were indicted on criminal charges related to alleged drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracies. Smith, Brewer, and Salazar are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including 400 grams or more of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. Smith and Brewer are also charged with money laundering conspiracy. Brewer and Salazar are charged with possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin. “Today’s indictment highlights our office’s unwavering commitment to protecting our communities from those who traffic in deadly narcotics and attempt to conceal their illicit profits through money laundering,” said U.S. Attorney VerHey. “The charges allege that these individuals conspired to distribute dangerous controlled substances, including more than 400 grams of fentanyl—a poison that continues to drive overdoses across our district—and then sought to hide the proceeds. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who endanger our communities are held accountable.” If convicted, Smith faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and up to life in prison, and Brewer and Salazar face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and up to life in prison. “These indictments demonstrate our commitment to protecting communities across west Michigan from those who profit from the illegal drug trade,” said DEA Detroit Division Special Agent in Charge Joseph O. Dixon. By targeting both the drugs and the money behind them, we are sending a clear message: drug traffickers will be identified, their operations will be dismantled, and they will be held accountable in a court of law for their actions.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains steadfast in our mission to protect communities from lethal narcotics, including those trafficked through the U.S. Mail,” said Inspector in Charge Felicia B. George of the Detroit Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “This indictment highlights the impact of our Homeland Security Task Force partnership. The Postal Inspection Service is proud to stand with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners in identifying, disrupting, and dismantling these criminal operations that endanger our communities and holding the individuals who run them accountable.” “Today’s indictment underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding communities from the devastating impact of drug trafficking and illicit financial schemes. By targeting those who distribute dangerous narcotics and attempt to conceal their profits, we send a clear message: law enforcement agencies across our district will continue to collaborate and pursue justice for those affected by these crimes. We remain steadfast in our efforts to hold accountable anyone who threatens the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods,” said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge for IRS-CI Detroit. “Drug traffickers and money launderers threaten the safety of our communities across Michigan, and this indictment is another example of the work FBI Detroit does every day in coordination with our partners to keep Michigan safe,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “I commend the outstanding efforts of our Grand Rapids Resident Agency, whose dedicated efforts and collaboration were critical to advancing this investigation.” “The trafficking of fentanyl, heroin, and other dangerous narcotics has a devastating impact that reaches far beyond those directly involved—it affects families, neighborhoods, and entire communities,” said Michigan State Police Sixth District Commander Capt. Jason Nemecek. “This indictment demonstrates what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies combine their resources, expertise, and determination toward a common mission. The Michigan State Police and our partners at WEMET remain committed to aggressively disrupting the criminal organizations responsible for bringing these deadly drugs into West Michigan. Those who profit from poisoning our communities should know that we will continue working together, across jurisdictions and agency lines, to identify them, dismantle their operations, and hold them accountable.” DEA, FBI, IRS-CI, USPIS, MSP, GRPD, and KCSO are investigating this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan McGraw is prosecuting it. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Detroit comprises agents and officers from over twenty federal agencies, and state, local, and international partners, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan. The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.


title: Alexandria Man Indicted for Concealing Assets and Making False Statements in Bankruptcy Case

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALEXANDRIA – On August 5, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Edward Joseph Sieja , 47, of Alexandria, with multiple counts of Concealing Assets in Bankruptcy Filings, Making False Statements Under Penalty of Perjury, and Perjury. Sieja faces up to 35 years in federal prison if convicted on all counts. “Bankruptcy laws are meant to provide honest, good-faith debtors a fresh start—not to be exploited by those who seek to hide assets and deceive the court,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will aggressively pursue individuals who attempt to abuse and manipulate our bankruptcy system for personal gain.” According to court documents, Sieja filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition on August 24, 2021, seeking a discharge of more than $3.5 million in debt. The indictment alleges that before and during the bankruptcy process, Sieja concealed the transfer and purchase of multiple properties in Alexandria using undisclosed commission income from construction contracts he performed for Louisiana companies. These properties were purchased in the name of another individual, but Sieja allegedly arranged the transactions, provided the funds, and did not disclose any of them to the bankruptcy court. The indictment further alleges that Sieja failed to disclose significant assets and income, including bank accounts at two financial institutions, over $1 million in gross income, various other business interests, and the donation of a vehicle valued at $28,000. Despite these omissions, Sieja allegedly declared under penalty of perjury that his filings were true and correct and then reaffirmed those statements under oath. The indictment charges that these actions demonstrate a deliberate effort to deceive the bankruptcy trustee, conceal assets from creditors, and unlawfully obtain a bankruptcy discharge. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Trustee Program (USTP), and IRS – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Earl M. Campbell and Amy J. Miller with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) 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 at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 1:26‑cr‑00313‑01. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Shelbyville Man Sentenced to 5 Years for  Firearms Conspiracy, Dealing, Smuggling and False Statements

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – A Shelbyville, Kentucky, man was sentenced on August 6, 2026, to 5 years in prison for conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, dealing in firearms without a license, attempted smuggling of firearms from the United States and making false statements during the purchase of a firearm. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Detroit Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement. Luis Garcia, 29, of Shelbyville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, dealing in firearms without a license, attempted smuggling of firearms from the United States and making false statements during the purchase of a firearm. From April 8, 2021, to January 12, 2024, Garcia conspired with others to obtain firearms by means of false and fictitious statements; engaged in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; and obtained money and profit by illegally dealing in firearms without a license and exporting firearms from the United States to Honduras. During the conspiracy, Garcia purchased 83 firearms from various firearms dealers in Hardin, Jefferson and Nelson Counties. At the time of purchase for each firearm, Garcia made a false and fictitious written statement to a licensed dealer of firearms that he was the actual purchaser of the firearm. On November 14, 2023, a package containing 7 firearms purchased by Garcia was intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The package was examined by U.S Customs and Border Protection. After x-ray inspection of the package revealed unusual materials, the package was seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Inside a large box of household items, a DeWalt Planer contained 7 firearms and magazines shipped to Honduras. United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Illegal firearms trafficking to third-world countries serves to arm drug cartels and fuels violence throughout the Western Hemisphere. In turn, these cartels attempt to flood the United States with poisonous drugs that undermine society and destroy lives. We will continue to combat illegal firearms trafficking by aggressively prosecuting these defendants.” ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes stated, "Federal firearms laws are designed to facilitate the lawful sale and transfer of firearms while preventing prohibited individuals from obtaining them. Garcia knowingly violated those laws by illegally purchasing firearms and smuggling them out of the United States. ATF remains committed to working alongside our partners on the HSTF to aggressively investigate firearms trafficking and straw purchasing schemes while disrupting the illegal flow of firearms." “Illegal firearms trafficking is a serious threat that extends beyond our borders and fuels transnational criminal activity,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “This sentence reflects HSI’s commitment to working with our federal, state and local partners to investigate those who illegally acquire, conceal and attempt to export firearms from the United States.” "The illegal trafficking and smuggling of firearms not only threatens public safety but also undermines the integrity of our financial systems. IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to disrupt criminal networks that profit from these dangerous schemes. Today’s sentencing demonstrates our resolve to follow the money, dismantle illicit operations, and protect communities both here and abroad," said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge for IRS-CI Detroit. “Illegally trafficked firearms are far more likely to end up in the hands of people who use them to commit crimes," said Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey. “This case is a great example of what we can accomplish when local and federal agencies work together to stop illegal activity and hold those responsible accountable.” There is no parole in the federal system. The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division, Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, DEA Louisville Field Division and the Louisville Metro Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky. ####


title: West Rutland, Vermont Man Charged with Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials

component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Andrew Buzzell, 34, of West Rutland, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution of child pornography, also known as Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). On August 10, 2026, Buzzell appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Buzzell be released subject to, among other conditions, home incarceration, which restricts Buzzell to 24-hour-a-day lock-down at his residence. According to court records, in or around November 2024, Buzzell is alleged to have distributed materials containing child pornography, also known as Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) through a free instant messaging mobile application. According to a Cyber Tip submitted by the messaging platform to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), account user “kinkyvt1231” shared four files to other users via private chat messaging on the messaging platform, including, one .mp4 video file categorized as apparent child pornography. Law enforcement’s investigation revealed that the IP address and email address submitted with the Cyber Tip are both associated with Buzzell. In June 2026, an FBI Online Covert Employee (OCE) working within a different application posted a message offering sex that was “Taboo Young.” During that conversation with the OCE, Buzzell solicited photos of the supposed nine-year-old girl who was available for sex and made various statements to the OCE discussing the specifics of a desired sexual encounter. Open-source information identified Buzzell as being an elder at a church in West Rutland, Vermont, and as the state director of the Child Evangelism Fellowship of Vermont. The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Buzzell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Buzzell faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors. First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI, including the Violent Crimes Against Children Unit. The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Arra. Buzzell is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Former New York City Real Estate Developer Sentenced To Four Years For Defrauding Investors

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that Joshua Schuster was sentenced to four years in prison for his role in a scheme to defraud investors in large real estate development projects located in New York City. SCHUSTER pled guilty on February 27, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni, who imposed today’s sentence. “To preserve the integrity of and confidence in our financial markets, this Office will work tirelessly to prosecute fraud and protect investors in these markets,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Joshua Schuster betrayed the trust of investors who believed their money would fund real estate projects throughout New York. Instead, he stole more than $13 million to finance his own lifestyle and repay earlier investors in a Ponzi-like scheme. As a result of his lies and deception at his investors’ expense, Schuster has been sentenced to a term in federal prison.” According to the Indictment, plea agreement, and statements made in Court: Over a five-year period, SCHUSTER engaged in a scheme to defraud investors who had entrusted him with millions of dollars to finance real estate development projects in New York City. SCHUSTER induced investors to contribute capital to his projects by promising them equity in high-end real estate developments, and by representing that investor funds would be used exclusively for the acquisition and development of specific New York-based projects. Instead, SCHUSTER misappropriated in excess of $13 million dollars in investor money to fund his lifestyle, including over $1 million in personal credit card payments and hundreds of thousands of dollars in gambling losses; to repay earlier investors in a Ponzi-like fashion; and to cover unrelated business obligations and payroll. * * * In addition to the prison term, SCHUSTER, 42, of Boca Raton, Florida, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and will be required to pay more than $13,830,665 in forfeiture. SCHUSTER will also be required to pay restitution, which will be determined at a later date. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. McDonald also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a separate civil action against SCHUSTER, for its assistance and cooperation in the investigation. This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel G. Nessim is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Former CFO Charged And Pleads Guilty To Defrauding Hedge Fund Of More Than $3 Million

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, and Inspector in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), Ketty Larco-Ward, announced today the filing of an Information charging THEODORE WOO, the former CFO of a hedge fund, with securities fraud. The charge results from WOO’s yearslong scheme to steal from the fund by submitting and approving falsified invoices, causing the fund to transfer money directly into accounts controlled by WOO, and incurring unauthorized personal expenses on credit cards paid by the fund. WOO pled guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Valerie Figueredo and is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan on November 18, 2026. “For years, Theodore Woo flagrantly abused his position of trust and brazenly stole from his employer to line his own pockets,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “To do so, Woo took advantage of his position as CFO, misled his employer, and falsified documents. Lies and deception are not worth the risk of criminal prosecution. Today’s charge and plea are indicative of this Office’s commitment to holding C-suite executives accountable when they engage in fraud.” “Woo’s arrest shows that greed and deceptive tactics do not pay,” said USPIS Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward. “For years Woo allegedly cheated this company out of millions and used this money as his own personal piggy bank. The United States Postal Service will continue to investigate and prosecute this type of illegal activity, as we seek to protect the public from financial fraudsters.” According to the Information: Beginning shortly after he began working for the fund and continuing until his termination in March 2026, WOO embezzled millions of dollars from the fund through a series of fraudulent transactions, including making millions of dollars in fraudulent payments to entities controlled by WOO and spending thousands of dollars on unauthorized personal expenses using credit cards paid by the fund. As the CFO, WOO handled back-office tasks for the fund and had the authority to authorize the fund’s administrator to process reimbursement requests. In that capacity, WOO instructed the fund administrator to make millions of dollars in payments to two entities, TWDRR LLC and MGTW LLC, for claimed “Research Consulting Services.” WOO also sent invoices from those two entities that falsely represented that they had rendered services for the fund. In actuality, WOO controlled both entities, and neither entity had performed any service for the fund. To further conceal his theft, WOO falsely claimed to the fund’s external auditor that MGTW LLC was an independent research consulting firm engaged by the fund to develop short investment ideas on a project-by-project basis. WOO also had the authority to effectuate transfers of cash from the fund to third parties, as the CFO. Over the course of his employment with the fund, WOO caused over 100 fraudulent transfers from the fund to a corporate entity controlled by WOO and to bank accounts in WOO’s name. Finally, while serving as CFO, WOO opened and controlled multiple credit cards in the name of the fund, and charged unauthorized personal expenses to those cards, including thousands of dollars in charges to adult entertainment establishments and international vacations. * * * WOO, 49, of Miami, Florida, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. McDonald thanked the USPIS for its outstanding work. Mr. McDonald also expressed appreciation for the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Mortazavi and Christy Slavik are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Evansville Man Lands Back in Federal Prison for Dealing Meth and Heroin While on Supervised Release

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

body_text: EVANSVILLE- Deon Dickerson, 45, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 23 years and two months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute and distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. According to court documents, Dickerson was previously sentenced in December 2021 to four years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was released in 2025 and was serving a term of federal supervised release when Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents learned he was continuing to distribute cocaine and crystal methamphetamine. Between September and October 2025, DEA agents observed Dickerson conduct four separate drug transactions, selling a total of 535 grams of methamphetamine. On October 29, 2025, investigators executed a federal search warrant at Dickerson’s residence and recovered 821 grams of heroin containing trace amounts of fentanyl, 170 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, and multiple cell phones. Dickerson was sentenced to 260 months for the new offenses, with an additional 18 months for violating the terms of his federal supervised release. “Deon Dickerson continued trafficking dangerous drugs into our community even after serving a federal prison sentence, and today’s sentence reflects the serious consequences of that choice,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our law enforcement partners closely monitored this offender from the moment he was released, and their sustained efforts underscore their steadfast commitment to protecting the Evansville community.” “Deon Dickerson’s sentencing reflects DEA’s continued vigilance to work with our federal and state partners to protect the citizens of Evansville from repeat offenders who choose to continue to traffic drugs into our community,” said Gerald C. Dooley, DEA Indianapolis Assistant Special Agent in Charge. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Evansville Resident Office Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley, who prosecuted this case. ###


title: Columbia County man pleads guilty in district court to child pornography charges

body_text: AUGUSTA, Georgia: An Evans, Georgia man awaits sentencing after pleading guilty in federal court to child pornography charges. Ryan Thomas Manley , 44, of Evans, pled guilty to six counts of Production with Intent to Distribute Child Pornography and one count of Possession of Child Pornography, said Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. As described in the plea agreement, from January to February 2025, Manley produced morphed images of real minor victims with intent to distribute sexually explicit conduct through electronic means. The guilty plea subjects Manley to a statutory penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment for the six counts of Production with Intent to Distribute Child Pornography and up to 20 years imprisonment for the guilty plea of Possession of Child Pornography. Additional penalties include substantial fines, registration as a sex offender, and a maximum life term of supervised release upon completion of any prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. “The children depicted in this CSAM case are not anonymous victims; they are real children whose suffering will continue long after this defendant is incarcerated,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “Today’s guilty plea is a reminder that every child deserves justice, dignity, and protection. This office along with our law enforcement partners, are committed to investigate and prosecute those who possess or produce CSAM.” If you are or have information about victims of child exploitation, contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tipline at report.cybertip.org or 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). “By receiving and intending to distribute these images, Manley participated in the continuing abuse and exploitation of children,” said Supervisory Senior Special Agent Matt Ploskunak of FBI Atlanta’s Augusta Resident Agency. “Children must be protected from sexual exploitation, and we remain committed to investigating the possession and distribution of child pornography.” This case was investigated by the FBI, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara M. Lyons.


title: Three Members of Florida Keys Cocaine Trafficking Organization Sentenced to Federal Prison

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Three members of a large-scale cocaine trafficking organization operating in the Florida Keys have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a years-long conspiracy to distribute cocaine throughout Monroe County. U.S. District Judge Rodolfo A. Ruiz II sentenced John Robert Strama Jr., 44, Pedro Luis Lugo Jr., 38, and Elvis Lazaro Ruiz, 34, all of Marathon, to 120 months, 85 months, and 65 months in prison, respectively. Strama and Ruiz previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Lugo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. “Fishing for ‘square groupers’ in the waters off the Florida Keys is not a harmless pastime; it is drug trafficking, and it carries serious consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “These defendants recovered kilogram quantities of cocaine from the sea and distributed them throughout the Florida Keys for years. Their sentences send a clear message: whether drugs arrive by land, air, or sea, we will work with our law enforcement partners to find the traffickers, dismantle their networks, and bring them to justice.” The three were among 27 defendants charged in a federal indictment stemming from a long-running cocaine distribution network that operated from at least 2020 through 2023. According to court records, Strama, identified as a leader of the organization, obtained much of the cocaine he distributed by locating and recovering “floaters” — waterproof-wrapped kilogram packages of cocaine found at sea. A professional boat operator, Strama used his knowledge of local waterways, tides, and currents to recover dozens of kilograms of cocaine over the course of the conspiracy. He then distributed the cocaine to co-conspirators and other buyers throughout the Florida Keys. Strama, Ruiz, and Lugo were held responsible for distributing between 15 and 50 kilograms of cocaine during the conspiracy. To date, 25 defendants have been sentenced. Kizmet Yatz Qualls and Daniel Fernando Ramirez are scheduled to be sentenced at a later date. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement. FBI Miami is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean McLaughlin and Frank Tamen are prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 24-cr-20386. ###


title: Former Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – Bradford Simmons, 51, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. Simmons entered his guilty plea on April 27, 2026. According to court documents, from March 2023 through March 2024, law enforcement identified Simmons as a possible distributor of child pornography. Investigators obtained a search warrant for Simmons’ residence and seized several electronic devices, which were subsequently examined. Forensic examinations of the devices revealed hundreds of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. The investigation also determined that, in March 2024, Simmons used a program called File Shredder to forensically wipe his computer every few days. As part of his plea agreement, Simmons admitted that he possessed more than 600 images of child pornography depicting prepubescent children engaged in sexual activity. He also admitted that he used File Shredder with the intent to impede the administration of justice and thereby obstructed justice. United States District Chief Judge Beaverstock sentenced Simmons to 60 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release. As conditions of supervised release, Simmons must participate in sex offender treatment, submit to substance abuse testing and treatment, and participate in mental health treatment. He must also register as a sex offender and is prohibited from having contact with minors. “Mr. Simmons’ possession of hundreds of images of child pornography is reprehensible. This sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s resolve to pursue child exploitation cases aggressively. Under Project Safe Childhood, our national effort to identify, investigate, and prosecute offenders, we will continue working with our partners to ensure those who harm children face justice,” said Christopher Flowers, Special Agent‑in‑Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Mobile Office. In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered Simmons to pay a $100 special assessment and $17,500 in restitution to victims. The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kacey Chappelear prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources


title: Chinese-Owned Company to Pay More Than $11M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program Loan

body_text: MOBILE, AL — Continental Aerospace Technologies Inc. has agreed to pay $11,772,680.14 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to obtain a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which it was not eligible. “This settlement demonstrates our office’s steadfast commitment to relentlessly investigating and resolving fraud against American taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello for the Southern District of Alabama. “It also reflects the effectiveness of our collaborative False Claims Act investigations in holding companies and individuals accountable for fraudulent conduct and returning unlawfully obtained taxpayer funds to the United States, together with significant financial penalties.” “PPP loans were intended to help small businesses in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department remains committed to pursuing those who violated the requirements of this taxpayer funded program.” “PPP loans were meant to help small American businesses survive the economic turmoil caused by the pandemic. Continental, however, was part of a large Chinese-owned corporation and allegedly provided false information to the SBA to obtain taxpayer funds to which it was not entitled,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “This matter is just one of many cases in which our office continues to hold corporations, particularly those owned by a foreign government, accountable when they submit false claims to obtain American taxpayer money.” “The SBA is committed to rooting out every dollar of PPP fraud,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis. “Alongside the Department of Justice Civil Fraud Section, U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Eastern District of Wisconsin and Southern District of Alabama, and our other law enforcement partners, the agency will aggressively pursue bad actors to hold them accountable and recover pandemic relief funds improperly obtained from the program.” Congress created the PPP in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Regulations provide various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the number of individuals the borrower and its affiliated entities employed. In their loan applications, borrowers were required to certify that they were eligible for the PPP and that the information they provided was accurate. Continental designs and manufactures aircraft engines and parts. At the time it applied for its PPP loan, it was part of a large multinational corporation partially owned by Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). AVIC is wholly owned by the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC), an arm of the People’s Republic of China. In applying for its PPP loan, Continental certified that it was eligible for the PPP. The United States alleges that Continental was not eligible because it was affiliated with other companies in the United States and China, and together with its affiliates across the globe, Continental employed more individuals than permitted by SBA’s size standard for its industry. The United States also contends that Continental was not eligible because it was ultimately owned by a government entity in violation of SBA rules. The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The lawsuits were filed by GNGH2 Inc. in the Eastern District of Wisconsin and Andrew McCarley in the Southern District of Alabama. In connection with the settlement, GNGH2 Inc. will receive $1,765,902.02. 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. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of the Inspector General. Trial Attorney Lindsey Roberts of the Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Carter for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nina Herring for the Southern District of Alabama handled the matter. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.


title: International Fugitive Pleads Guilty to Healthcare Fraud Conspiracy and Failure to Appear

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Herbert Leon Kimble, 60, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and failure to appear. In 2019, Kimble was charged for his role in a $1.2 billion telemedicine and durable medical equipment scheme. Kimble previously plead guilty to conspiring to commit healthcare fraud, violate the anti-kickback statute, and defraud the United States. Kimble was scheduled to be sentenced in Fall 2024, but he failed to appear in federal court on three separate occasions. He fled to the Philippines and remained a fugitive. On June 4, 2026, the FBI announced the creation of the Most Wanted Fraudsters List and identified Kimble as one of FBI’s eight most wanted fraudsters. On June 8—just four days later—Kimble was apprehended in the Philippines and sent back to the United States. Shortly thereafter, he was charged with three counts of failing to appear for a statute conference and two sentencing hearings, as part of the 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown . As part of the plea agreement, Kimble and the United States stipulate that the Court should impose a sentence between 15 and 20 years’ imprisonment. Kimble has further agreed to pay nearly $200 million in restitution, including $9 million at his sentencing. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson Jr. accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Kimble after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. This case was investigated by the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samantha Usher is prosecuting the case. ###


title: U.S. Department of Justice Awards Over $3 Million to Oregon Communities to Improve Public Safety

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.— The Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component under the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, awarded over $3 Million in Fiscal Year 2025 to support Oregon’s state, local, and tribal governments in criminal justice activities to keep Oregon communities safe. The awards, provided through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, represent the nation’s leading source of federal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories. Across the United States nearly $290 million was awarded. For more than 20 years, the JAG program has provided critical funding to support law enforcement’s ability to protect the communities they serve, supporting critical needs such as personnel, equipment and supplies, technology, training, information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings, and other operational priorities. JAG funding also supports a wide range of programs that strengthen crime prevention efforts and enhance the effectiveness of prosecutors, courts, corrections agencies, and services for crime victims and witnesses. In addition to foundational uses of JAG funds, specific areas of emphasis were included to the JAG funding opportunities highlighting and encouraging state and local jurisdictions to join federal law enforcement in addressing the most pressing public safety challenges. For Fiscal Year 2025, these areas of emphasis included combatting violent crime, immigration enforcement, safe communities, and safe houses of worship. In Oregon for 2025 many of our cities received grant assistance to support their work in public safety. All recipients for both state and local JAG awards can be found here . About the Office of Justice Programs The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation's capacity to prevent and reduce crime; promote fair and impartial administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its program offices – the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime, and Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking or SMART Office – can be found at ojp.gov.


title: Las Vegas Man Pleads Guilty to Pointing Laser at Police Helicopter

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man pleaded guilty today to aiming a laser pointer at a police helicopter. According to court documents, on September 24, 2025, Daveon Lamar Horn aimed the beam of a laser pointer at and in the flight path of a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter. Horn pleaded guilty to one count of aiming a laser at an aircraft. Sentencing has been scheduled for November 13, 2026. The statutory maximum penalty is five years in prison. Pointing a laser pointer at an aircraft is dangerous and can have serious consequences. Aiming a laser beam at an aircraft poses a serious safety risk for those on board and on the ground. Laser beams can cause disorientation, temporary blindness, and in some cases permanent vision problems or blindness, all of which could potentially cause a midair collision or other incident. According to the FAA, pilots reported 10,993 laser strikes in 2025. “Shining a laser at any aircraft, including a police helicopter is a malicious, intentional act that can lead to danger not only to the pilot, crew, and passengers but to people on the ground,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Office. “A laser beam directed at an aircraft is not a trivial offense - it can have deadly consequences. The FBI will continue to thoroughly investigate incidents involving lasers aimed at aircraft and pursue those responsible.” First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Office made the announcement. The FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney James Gaeta is prosecuting this case. If you spot someone aiming a laser at an aircraft, you can report it to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or visiting tips.fbi.gov . You can also report laser strikes to local law enforcement and the FAA. ###


title: Illegal Alien With Multiple Deportations and Felony Convictions Charged for Illegal Reentry

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Honduran national who has a drug-related felony conviction and was previously convicted for illegal reentry made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country. Darwin Gilberto Rodriguez-Betanco is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 25, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah. According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Rodriguez-Betanco is a citizen and national of Honduras who was previously deported on September 16, 2014, November 18, 2016, and March 18, 2022, and reentered the United States illegally. On July 23, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) took Rodriguez-Betanco into custody after he was encountered in Palm Gardens, Nevada. Rodriguez-Betanco has a prior conviction for felony possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in the Third District Court, Salt Lake City, Utah. Rodriguez-Betanco was sentenced to a term of one to fifteen years. Rodriguez-Betanco was also previously convicted for illegal reentry in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas - the same offense with which he is now charged. If convicted, Rodriguez-Betanco faces the maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement. The CBP Yuma, Arizona Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case. Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form . 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. A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ###


title: Utah Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Woman with Knife

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Utah man admitted he assaulted the victim and threatened her with a pocketknife while she was holding an infant child. According to court records, on October 11, 2023, Kubert Yanito , 54, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, went to the victims’ residence near Sheep Springs, New Mexico, where he assaulted her by striking, biting, and scratching her. When the victim attempted to leave with her infant daughter, Yanito threatened her with a pocketknife. Yanito fled after family members heard the victim’s cries for help. Yanito had previously been convicted of domestic violence, making him a habitual offender. Yanito pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, and according to the plea agreement faces between 60-70 months in prison at sentencing. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nichola J. Marshall.


title: Shiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Sexual Abuse Charge

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing a victim in 2023. According to court records, in December 2023, Jasper Lee Gray , 63, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, knowingly engaged in sexual acts with Jane Doe without her consent, including through coercion. Gray pleaded guilty to sexual abuse and faces up to life in prison at sentencing. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.


title: Little Water Man Sentenced for 2024 Shooting

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Little Water man was sentenced to 46 months in prison for shooting the victim during a drunken altercation. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on July 29, 2024, Anthony Sandoval , 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and the victim were intoxicated when they got into a disagreement at a residence in Little Water, New Mexico. During the altercation, Sandoval shot the victim with a .22 caliber rifle. Sandoval then called emergency dispatch, reported that he had shot someone, and remained at the scene until law enforcement arrived. Responding officers found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the head and transported him to a local hospital, where they were later airlifted to a regional hospital for treatment. Before additional officers arrived, Sandoval fled the scene. Law enforcement located and arrested him later that evening at another residence. During the investigation, officers recovered the rifle and collected evidence from the scene. The victim underwent multiple surgeries to treat injuries sustained during the shooting. Sandoval pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. Upon his release from prison, Sandoval will be subject to three years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.


title: Dulce Man Pleads Guilty to Violent Assault

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man pleaded guilty to a violent assault that left the victim with serious injuries. According to court documents, on December 31, 2025, Dennison Billy, Jr. , 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, struck an adult victim in the face with his fists while the victim was driving a vehicle in Dulce, New Mexico. Responding officers found Billy highly intoxicated in the passenger seat and the victim nearby with visible blood and multiple injuries. The victim reported exiting the vehicle to avoid further assault and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Billy told law enforcement that he had consumed a large amount of alcohol, blacked out, and did not remember the incident. The victim sustained serious injuries, including fractures to the orbital wall and nasal bones. Billy pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing, he faces up to 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.


title: Georgia Man Admits to Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and to Bank Fraud Crimes

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A Georgia man admitted to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, conspiring to defraud banks by negotiating stolen U.S. Treasury checks, and obtaining a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loan, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Elvis Sonson, 51, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb to an information charging him with conspiring to distribute fentanyl, conspiring to commit bank fraud, and bank fraud. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Over the course of several months in 2024, Sonson distributed pills containing fentanyl. Sonson admitted that he distributed pills in person in Camden, New Jersey, distributed pills by mail to Camden, and directed a co-conspirator to distribute pills. In total, Sonson admitted to distributing more than 2,000 pills that collectively weighed more than 730 grams. During the same period, Sonson also worked with others to sell and attempt to sell U.S. Treasury checks that were stolen from the U.S. mail. The goal of their bank fraud conspiracy was to negotiate the stolen checks at banks. As part of this conspiracy, Sonson offered to sell stolen checks valued at more than $1,200,000. Sonson also admitted to obtaining a $325,215 loan from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a federal program that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses. The loan was approved based on a fraudulent application submitted by Sonson stating that a company he owned in Piscataway, New Jersey, had 21 employees and a monthly payroll of $130,086. The application also contained a fake tax return. In fact, Sonson’s business had no employees other than himself and no payroll. The fentanyl conspiracy count carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The bank fraud and bank fraud conspiracy counts each carry a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison. Each count carries a maximum $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for December 16, 2026. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Wayne Jacobs, and agents of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden. ### Defense counsel: Maggie Moy, Assistant Federal Public Defender. sonson.information.pdf


title: Eight Individuals Plead to Roles in $11 Million Bank Fraud Conspiracy

body_text: TRENTON, N.J. – Eight defendants admitted to their roles in a conspiracy to defraud banks by depositing stolen checks and withdrawing the funds, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. The following individuals each pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court to a one-count Information charging them with conspiracy to commit bank fraud: Britany Brown, 39, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on July 21, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 8, 2026. Clarence Semmon, 42, of Trenton, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on July 21, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2026. Joseph Graves-Carmichael, 43, of Trenton, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on July 22, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2026. Andrew Hooper, 38, of New Brunswick, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on July 22, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 7, 2026. Thomas Lee, 56, of Beverly, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on July 22, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 16, 2026. Patricia Kearse, 47, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on July 22, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 7, 2026. Shabazz Rouzard, 34, of Ewing, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on July 22, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 16, 2026. John Gerard Ebert, 42, of Hamilton, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on August 4, 2026. Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2026. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: From March 2023 through June 2025, the Defendants conspired to deposit stolen checks—including U.S. Department of Treasury checks—at various banks in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The conspirators impersonated the businesses or individuals listed as payees on the stolen checks, often by acquiring business documents in the names of the payees. Once the conspirators acquired fraudulent business documents or opened fraudulent bank accounts, they deposited the stolen checks and split the proceeds. In total, the conspirators deposited or attempted to deposit over 100 Treasury and commercial checks totaling over $11 million. Many of the Treasury checks were refunds issued as Employee Retention Credits, a program the Internal Revenue Service created during the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage businesses to retain employees. The bank fraud conspiracy charge is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison and also carries a fine of up to $1,000,000, twice the gross amount of any pecuniary gain that any persons derived from the offense, or twice the gross amount of any pecuniary loss sustained by any victims of the offense. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Newark-Trenton Resident Agency under the direction of Special Assistant in Charge Stefanie Roddy; special agents with Homeland Security Investigations, Cherry Hill, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas; special agents with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Jenifer L. Piovesan; special agents with Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Northeast Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Carpenter; special agents with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Herrington; special agents with the U.S. Air Force – Office of Special Investigations, Detachment 307, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Rebecca B. Bates; and postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge, Christopher Nielson, with the investigation leading to the guilty pleas. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Bleiberg of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark. 26-176 ### Defense counsel: Brown: Vincent J. LaPaglia, Esq. Ebert: Maximillian Novel, Esq. Graves-Carmichael: Kevin Buchan, Esq. Hooper: Jacqueline E. Cistaro, Esq. Kearse: William Strazza, Esq. Lee: Terrell A. Ratliff, Esq. Semmon: Tara Breslow-Testa, Esq. Rouzard: Kathleen Theurer-Platts, Esq. brown.information.pdf ebert.information.pdf graves-carmichael.information.pdf hooper.information.pdf kearse.information.pdf lee.information.pdf rouzard.information.pdf semmon.information.pdf


title: U.S. Department of Justice Awards More than $12 Million to New Hampshire State and Local Governments to Improve Public Safety

component: Bureau of Justice Assistance (OJP)

body_text: WASHINGTON ―The Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component under the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, awarded almost $290 million to support state, local, and tribal governments in criminal justice activities to keep American communities safe, including $12,109,172 distributed to state and local government in New Hampshire during the 2025 fiscal year. The awards, provided through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, represent the nation’s leading source of federal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories. For more than 20 years, the JAG program has provided critical funding to support law enforcement’s ability to protect the communities they serve, supporting critical needs such as personnel, equipment and supplies, technology, training, information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings, and other operational priorities. JAG funding also supports a wide range of programs that strengthen crime prevention efforts and enhance the effectiveness of prosecutors, courts, corrections agencies, and services for crime victims and witnesses. “This funding strengthens our state, local, and tribal partners’ ability to address violent crime, support officers on the front lines, and keep our Nation’s communities safe,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward Jr. “The JAG Program continues to provide essential resources that help jurisdictions meet today’s public safety threats and uphold the rule of law.” “These funds go to hard working local police departments, state and county prosecutors and to directly compensate victims of crime,” said Erin Creegan, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Hampshire. “This is crucial assistance that strengthens our ability to collaborate on the local, regional and national level with law enforcement to disrupt illegal activity, make arrests, seek convictions, and keep dangerous criminals out of our neighborhoods.” In addition to foundational uses of JAG funds, specific areas of emphasis were included to the JAG funding opportunities highlighting and encouraging state and local jurisdictions to join federal law enforcement in addressing the most pressing public safety challenges. For Fiscal Year 2025, these areas of emphasis included combatting violent crime, immigration enforcement, safe communities, and safe houses of worship. BJA awarded more than $199 million in state JAG funding across 56 awards and more than $90 million in local JAG funding across 895 awards. Examples of initiatives supported by these grants include: Providing specialized training to strengthen the prevention, detection, and response to human trafficking and to enhance proactive crime‑reduction efforts through improved officer readiness and increased patrol capacity. Enhancing local crime‑fighting efforts by integrating innovative technology, training, and equipment, and using comprehensive crime‑data analysis to guide decision‑making, measure performance, and strengthen strategies addressing violent crime and other public safety issues. Strengthening enforcement efforts by supporting investigations related to gang activity and narcotics through targeted operations carried out by specialized units. Improving officer safety and readiness by replacing outdated ballistic helmets with modern protective equipment used during high‑risk incidents, tactical operations, active threat responses, warrant service, civil disturbances, and other dangerous calls for service. All recipients for both state and local JAG awards can be found here . New Hampshire JAG funding awards include nearly $5.6 million for the New Hampshire Department of Justice Victim Compensation grant, $600,000 to enhance DNA testing capacity and reduce backlog for the New Hampshire Department of Safety, as well as grants to Cheshire and Rockingham counties as well as the cities of Manchester, Portsmouth, Concord, Laconia and Rochester. A complete list of FY 2025 New Hampshire awardees for U.S. Department of Justice JAG grants can be found here . About the Office of Justice Programs The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation's capacity to prevent and reduce crime; promote fair and impartial administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its program offices – the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime, and Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking or SMART Office – can be found at ojp.gov.


title: New Hampshire Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking in Large Quantities of Methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: CONCORD – A New Hampshire man pleaded guilty today in federal court to two separate drug trafficking conspiracies, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Joseph Lara, 50, pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled Lara’s sentencing for November 23, 2026. According to the court documents and statements made in court, beginning in early 2022, the DEA identified Lara as a New Hampshire-based drug trafficker. DEA’s investigation determined that from late-2020 or early 2021 and continuing through February 2022, Lara conspired with Robert Perez, a California-based drug trafficker, to purchase a total of 30 pounds of methamphetamine over three occasions from Perez in California that Lara shipped back to New Hampshire for distribution. Perez previously pleaded guilty to the conspiracy and in 2023 was sentenced to ten years in federal prison. Lara also pleaded guilty to a second drug trafficking conspiracy investigated by the FBI. From late-2023 through July 2025, Lara obtained large quantities of methamphetamine for distribution in New Hampshire from a Massachusetts-based drug trafficking organization led by Alexander Aguasvivas-Pena, who was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for his crimes. The charge of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of ten years up to life, not less than 5 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $10,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The investigation was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Burau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer C. Davis and Yasir Sadat are prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Dominican National and Leader of Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

body_text: CONCORD –Alexander Aguasvivas-Pena, 32, a citizen of the Dominican Republic who is currently unlawfully present in the United States, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. “Mr. Aguasvivas-Pena led an organization moving huge quantities of illicit narcotics into New Hampshire. He must be held accountable. This sentence imposes that accountability,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. “Through the Homeland Security Task Force, we are targeting and disrupting drug trafficking across international and state borders, trafficking that has caused such damage to our state, and we will continue to do so.” “Alexander Aguasvivas-Pena and other members of this drug organization pumped huge quantities of methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs into our communities,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Today’s sentence puts him out of business and behind bars. The FBI and our partners are committed to taking down and locking up prolific drug traffickers like him who have zero regard for the incredible damage they inflict on people’s lives and quality of life.” According to court documents and statements, in late 2023, law enforcement agencies began investigating a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) operating in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Investigators utilized cooperating witnesses and an undercover officer to conduct controlled purchases of narcotics from various DTO members. Aguasvivas-Pena was the leader of that DTO which was responsible for distributing over 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with other drugs. The Federal Bureau of Investigation Major Offender Task Force led the investigation with valuable assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Hampshire State Police, Strafford County Sheriff’s Office, and Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasir Sadat and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Cherniske prosecuted the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Concord Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Concord man pleaded guilty today in federal court to a one-count indictment charging him with possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. David Dolloff, age 50, was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2026. According to court documents, in July 2025, federal officials began investigating Dolloff after learning he had subscribed to a “Netflix-style” website dedicated to streaming CSAM over the darknet. Local authorities then searched Dolloff’s home last August and found a thumb drive containing nearly 500 files depicting CSAM. Also saved on that thumb drive was a digital business card with Dolloff’s picture and a document listing his name. Dolloff was previously convicted in Hillsborough County Superior Court for possession of CSAM in 2015. The charging statutes provide a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years for possession of CSAM. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes that govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. This investigation was led by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, with valuable assistance from the Concord Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Shannon is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .