title: Member of South L.A.-Based Crips Street Gang Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Role in $2.8 Million Bank Fraud Advertised on Instagram

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A member of the South Los Angeles-based Crips street gang was sentenced today to 108 months in federal prison for his role in a $2.8 million scheme in which he stole checks in the mail, altered them, then used Instagram to recruit bank account holders to give him access to their accounts so he could deposit the checks and quickly withdraw the funds before banks could detect the fraud. Chase Matthew Griffin, 26, a.k.a. “Trey,” of Atlanta, who also resided in Ontario and South Los Angeles, was sentenced by United States District Judge Josephine L. Staton, who also ordered him to pay $307,386 in restitution. Griffin pleaded guilty on March 5 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. He has been in federal custody since September 2025. According to court documents, from 2022 to September 2025, Griffin participated in a criminal conspiracy in which he and others obtained checks stolen from the mail, then altered them or created counterfeit versions so they appeared to be payable to their accomplices. Griffin recruited these accomplices online, often through Instagram, where he posted photographs of himself holding stacks of currency that were more than one foot high. He advertised for holders of various bank accounts to give him access to their accounts. After he recruited an accomplice, Griffin and his co-conspirators deposited these fraudulent checks, which were typically for tens of thousands of dollars, into the accomplice’s bank account, then raced to withdraw the funds before the bank could detect the fraud. For example, in December 2023, a North Hollywood business reported to law enforcement that it had mailed three checks totaling approximately $84,490 from a United States Postal Service collection box in Tarzana. However, the checks were stolen then deposited into JPMorgan Chase accounts not belonging to the intended recipients. The business representative provided images of the checks that had been deposited and confirmed the listed payee on each check had been changed from the intended recipient. A law enforcement review of a Chase bank account where one of those checks was deposited revealed a previous deposit of approximately $22,487 made at an ATM in Upland. This check, along with another check for approximately $29,081, was stolen and used to create counterfeit checks with the same date, check number, and amount as the original, but with different payees. The money was quickly withdrawn from the account and used for ATM withdrawals, Zelle and CashApp payments, a plane ticket, and card purchases at a San Bernardino County casino. Law enforcement later traced the scheme to Griffin. The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated this matter with assistance from Upland Police Department Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Brown of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted this case.


title: Two Key Members of Chinese Money Laundering Network Charged with Laundering $43 Million in Investment Fraud Proceeds

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A New York man and woman made an initial appearance today in Brooklyn, New York on charges of conspiracy to launder money derived from cyber investment fraud scams. According to the indictment unsealed today, between 2020 and 2022, Zhuoying Chen, 27, of Brooklyn, New York and Haojie Zhang, 38, of Queens, New York managed a network of more than a dozen individuals based in Queens and Brooklyn, who opened 140 bank accounts in the name of approximately 45 shell companies to launder at least $43 million in proceeds of investment scams. Then, Chen and Zhang allegedly conspired with China-based co-conspirators to transfer the funds involved in the fraud schemes abroad. According to the indictment, the fraud schemes consist of perpetrators contacting victims via messaging services or social media applications. The perpetrators would initiate relationships with the victims and gain their trust, convincing victims to send money for lucrative investment opportunities. The perpetrators would show the victims fake profits on the purported investment and encourage the victims to invest more. The perpetrators would then steal the victim’s funds. “As alleged in the indictment, the defendants laundered fraud proceeds, enabling scammers to continue to victimize Americans and deprive them of their hard earned money,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Dismantling Chinese money laundering networks that support investment fraud schemes is critical to protecting Americans. The Criminal Division will relentlessly pursue the financial networks that fuel and profit from these fraud schemes.” “As alleged, the defendants were key members of a sophisticated money laundering network that funneled over $40 million in victim funds to bank accounts in China,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. for the Eastern District of New York. “Our Office will continue in its strong tradition of holding accountable anyone who seeks to prey on vulnerable victims with investment fraud schemes.” “The defendants’ alleged operation laundered more than $40 million from American victims and deposited them directly in Chinese accounts overseas,” said Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “The FBI is committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle scam compounds that seek to steal the hard-earned money of our citizens.” “For nearly two years, these two Chinese nationals allegedly ran a sophisticated, illicit network that laundered funds stolen from unsuspecting victims’ life savings,” said Acting Executive Associate Director John A. Condon of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of HSI and our partners on the Homeland Security Task Force, this dangerous criminal enterprise has been exposed. HSI special agents remain relentless in their pursuit to dismantle money laundering networks and bring to justice anyone who seeks to profit from defrauding hard-working Americans.” “Today’s indictment shows we’re not backing down against fraudsters who target innocent people — justice is coming for those who steal from hardworking Americans,” said Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis Jr. of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York. “This case reflects how IRS‑CI and our partners work side‑by‑side to uncover money‑laundering networks and protect the public. Together, we’re pushing forward to ensure Americans’ hard‑earned money is safe from schemes like these.” “Investment fraud schemes exploit the trust of victims through false promises of favorable returns,” said Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS)’s New York Division. “The US Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigating fraud and protecting the community from those who seek to profit through deception.” The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The case is being investigated by FBI New York, HSI New York, IRS-CI New York, and USPIS New York. Trial Attorneys Claire Galasso, David Ginensky, and Adrienne Rosen of the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Weintraub and David Berman for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting this case. MNF Financial Investigator Sheila Olander supported the investigation alongside former MNF Financial Investigator Kelly O’Mara. The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations. MNF’s Money Laundering and Forfeiture Unit investigates and prosecutes sophisticated money laundering schemes involving financial facilitators, gatekeepers, and other individuals and entities laundering criminal proceeds, and litigates complex civil forfeiture cases to recover assets on behalf of victims. This prosecution is also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Successful Transfer of Abdikerm Eidleh from Somalia to Minnesota to Face Charges for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

component: Criminal - Office of International Affairs

body_text: WASHINGTON – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was successfully transferred to Minnesota on July 16, 2026, after his lawful surrender in Somalia. Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme in September 2022 and is facing 31 charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. In September 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota signed a warrant for Eidleh’s arrest. Almost four years later in June 2026, Eidleh was located by law enforcement in Somalia. As a result of strong international law enforcement partnerships between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia, and the Somali Police Force, Eidleh was escorted to the District of Minnesota by Special Agents of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Eidleh’s return to the United States. “Fraudsters like Abdikerm Eidleh should know full well that they cannot escape the full weight of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “I commend our law enforcement partners for swiftly and securely returning Eidleh to the United States, where he will now face justice for his crimes.” “Abdikerm Eidleh is second only to Aimee Bock in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. His capture and transfer back to Minnesota show how far the arm of American law enforcement can reach, and that you can run, but you cannot hide,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Today is a historic moment in this FBI’s war on fraud,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The transfer of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota – where this FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department. These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic – and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation. He fled overseas after being charged in 2022, but thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, our partners at the Justice Department, and counterparts in Somalia, this FBI got him. Criminals around the world should note: this is the 25 th such transfer executed by this FBI in the last month alone, meaning no matter where you try to hide, we will find you.” “The FBI will exercise all of its lawful authorities at home—and all of its extensive law enforcement partnerships abroad—to bring alleged criminals and fraudsters to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “There is no safe harbor for criminals, no corner of the planet, where we will not work to seek justice for crime victims and the American taxpayer. The FBI extends its sincere gratitude to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia and the Somali Police Force for their dedicated work in locating and apprehending an alleged leader in one of the most significant frauds against the American taxpayer ever detected in Minnesota. We also recognize the cooperative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Federal Republic of Somalia in facilitating this defendant’s transfer to the United States to answer the charges brought in this case.” “While families relied on a vital assistance program to feed their children during the pandemic, Abdikerm Eidleh stole from it and fled the country rather than face justice,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “His return makes clear that time and distance cannot shield those who steal from the American people. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents used their forensic accounting expertise to follow the money, unravel this massive fraud scheme, and help bring Eidleh back to answer for his crimes alongside his already convicted co-conspirators.” Eidleh is expected to make his initial appearance on July 17, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty. 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. Note: Previous press release detailing Eidleh’s apprehension here .


title: South Carolina Man Sentenced to Nine Years for Racially Motivated Shooting

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department announced that Jonathan Andrew Felkel, 34, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Columbia, South Carolina to 9 years in prison for violating the housing rights of his black neighbor, J.M., in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 3631. “Today, we have delivered justice for Jonathan Andrew Felkel’s disturbing, racially motivated attack on the victim,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Hate crimes not only harm individuals, but undermine the fabric of our communities. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute such cases to restore safety and confidence in our neighborhoods.” “Racially motivated violence will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The defendant’s violent actions last July caused irreparable harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “It is our hope that the victim and this community can begin to heal, knowing that we remain fully committed to their safety. Anyone who commits a crime motivated by race or by any other class under the Fair Housing Act will be met with the full weight of the justice system.” At his earlier plea hearing, Felkel admitted that on July 17, 2025, he was driving into the community where both he and J.M. lived when he fired a gun and shouted at J.M., “You better keep running, boy!” while J.M. was standing at the community gate. During the investigation, Felkel admitted to law enforcement officers that he believed black people were committing crimes in his neighborhood, that he had assumed J.M. was a criminal due to his race, and that he had hoped to convey to J.M. that he should “leave” and “not be around this area.” The FBI Columbia Field Office and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle Klein and Lamar Fyall of the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Sarah Armstrong of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.


title: Man Charged With Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center Arson

body_text: The Department of Justice announced that Vincent Lang, 60, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was arrested today and charged by criminal complaint with one count of maliciously damaging or destroying by means of fire any building or property used in interstate commerce, or attempting to do so, in connection with an arson fire last week at a city mosque. The criminal complaint alleges that, in the early hours of July 5, 2026, the defendant approached the Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center, located on the 1400 block of Tyson Avenue, ignited an improvised incendiary device, and threw the device into the entryway of the mosque, causing a fire inside the structure. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of five years’ imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by the Eastern District of Pennsylvania with the assistance of the Civil Rights Division. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Arson and Explosives Task Force, with assistance from the FBI, Philadelphia Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Special Investigations Unit, Philadelphia Police Department, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda R. Reinitz and J. Jeanette Kang. The charges and allegations contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.


title: Idaho Man Indicted For Tax Evasion

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: An indictment was unsealed yesterday in the District of Idaho charging an Idaho man with evading payment of taxes owed to the IRS. According to the indictment, from approximately December 2022 through at least February 2026, Joshua Laine Bennett, of Caldwell, Idaho, evaded the payment of personal income taxes for several years and the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty (“TFRP”) that the IRS assessed against him for multiple calendar quarters for failing to pay taxes related to a company he owned. According to the indictment, Bennett evaded payment of those outstanding tax liabilities by, among other things, providing false information on IRS collections forms, using cashier’s checks to keep his bank balance low, purchasing nearly $700,000 in gold bars, using a nominee bank account to receive payments for industrial equipment and real property and making withdrawals from that nominee bank account for personal expenses, all in an effort to thwart IRS collections efforts. In total, Bennett allegedly caused a tax loss to the United States of approximately $888,313, including penalties and interest. Bennett was charged with one count of tax evasion related to his personal income taxes and one count of tax evasion related to the TFRPs assessed against him. If convicted, he faces a maximum of five years in prison for each count of tax evasion. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Trial Attorney David F. Scollan of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittney Campbell for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 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.


title: Former Census Bureau Program Manager Sentenced to Prison for Bribery and Procurement Fraud Conspiracy

body_text: A former supervisory official with the U.S. Census Bureau was sentenced today to two years in prison followed by a year of supervised release for conspiring with a subcontractor to receive $790,000 in kickbacks. She was also ordered to forfeit the proceeds of the scheme. On April 2, Camille T. Jones, 47, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging her with conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud in connection with a procurement fraud scheme. According to court documents, as part of her guilty plea, Camille Jones admitted that she steered a large employee assistant program contract to a prime contractor and a subcontracting company, YMJ Consulting, which is owned by Camille Jones’s relative, Yolanda M. Jones. The contract was worth millions of dollars. In exchange for steering the contract and modifications, Jones received kickbacks from YMJ Consulting and Yolanda Jones. Additionally, Camille Jones attempted to obstruct the investigation by drafting a service agreement between YMJ Consulting and a mental health company that she owned to make the kickbacks appear like legitimate consulting payments between the two companies. Both Camille Jones and Yolanda Jones signed the agreement in 2024 but backdated it to 2020. Yolanda Jones then provided the document to law enforcement during the investigation. Camille Jones further admitted that she used her official position to share the Census Bureau’s confidential procurement information with another government contractor. While receiving preferential treatment, the contractor hired another one of Camille Jones’s relatives for a minimal-work job. Camille Jones largely performed the work but the relative received $83,000. On Aug. 14, 2025, Yolanda Jones pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud. She is awaiting sentencing. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland; and Eric Maddox, Assistant Inspector General for Investigations of U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Inspector General, made the announcement. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General. Acting Chief Edward P. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case.


title: The Department of Justice Sues Maryland, Challenging its State Laws that Provide In-State Tuition to Illegal Aliens

component: Civil Division

body_text: Today, the Department of Justice sued Maryland, challenging its state law and regulation that provide in-state tuition and financial assistance for illegal aliens. The Department alleges in its filing that these laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens who are not afforded the same reduced tuition rates or scholarships, create incentives for illegal immigration, and reward illegal aliens with benefits that U.S. citizens are not eligible for, all in direct conflict with federal law. “Congress long ago made clear that Maryland cannot deny educational opportunities to American citizens that it gives to illegal aliens in the State,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “By granting illegal aliens in-state tuition, Maryland is not only violating federal law but subsidizing education for illegal aliens, costing Maryland taxpayers roughly $9M for just one academic year. This Department of Justice is committed to fulfilling President Trump’s promise that illegal aliens will not obtain taxpayer benefits or preferential treatment over our own citizens.” “This is a simple matter of federal law: colleges cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This Department of Justice will not tolerate American students being treated like second-class citizens in their own country.” In the complaint, the United States seeks to enjoin enforcement of a Maryland statute and regulation that requires colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition rates for all aliens who maintain in-state residency, regardless of whether those aliens are lawfully present in the United States. Additionally, the complaint seeks to enjoin Maryland from enforcing those laws to afford financial assistance and scholarships to illegal aliens. Today marks the Department’s 13th lawsuit challenging in-state tuition for illegal aliens. The Department’s efforts have already delivered wins for the American people, as four similar lawsuits in Texas , Kentucky , Oklahoma , and Nebraska have resulted favorable orders permanently enjoining and declaring unconstitutional analogous laws that gave reduced tuition to illegal aliens, including an order from the Fifth Circuit . Lawsuits against other states that similarly put illegal aliens ahead of U.S. citizens are pending across the country in Illinois , Minnesota , Virginia , California , New Jersey , Kansas , Massachusetts , and Rhode Island .


title: Madison Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Homeland Security Task Force Case Involving Methamphetamine and Fentanyl

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Andre B. Morriss, 49, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced on July 1, 2026 by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 7 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Morriss pleaded guilty to this charge on April 15, 2026. On March 12, 2024, investigators purchased 28 grams of methamphetamine and 15 grams of fentanyl from Morriss at his residence in Madison, Wisconsin. The next day, Morriss was arrested during a traffic stop in Sauk Prairie based on an active Wisconsin Department of Corrections warrant. After his arrest, Morriss remained in custody, but he continued to communicate with an associate via jail video visit calls, often discussing their drug trafficking business. Over the following weeks, Morriss and the associate discussed their drug trafficking customers, specific drug sales that were to take place, and Morriss gave the associate advice on drug trafficking, including prices, how to keep customers happy while making money, and to have the associate tell customers that Morriss was still in charge. During the period of these calls, investigators purchased hundreds of grams of methamphetamine and smaller quantities of fentanyl from the associate. At sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted Morriss’ lengthy criminal record and said the number of times he had previously been revoked from supervision was concerning. Judge Conley felt Morriss should be outgrowing his criminal behavior at his age, but instead, his conduct was escalating. The charge against Morriss was the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Wisconsin State Patrol, and Madison Police Department. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven P. Anderson and Kathryn Ginsberg prosecuted this case. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) Program 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 federal 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.


title: La Crosse Man Sentenced to 6 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Eugene Spears, 42, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 6 years in federal prison for possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine intended for distribution. The prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Spears pleaded guilty this charge on March 23, 2026. On February 28, 2025, law enforcement learned Spears was traveling to a drug transaction and stopped his vehicle in Ferryville, Wisconsin. Agents found over 250 grams of methamphetamine that Spears admitted he intended to sell to multiple individuals. At the time of the traffic stop, Spears was out on bond for a state drug case. At sentencing, Judge Peterson acknowledged Spears’s substantial substance addiction was a driving factor for his criminality. However, Judge Peterson noted that Spears’s lengthy criminal history, poor performance on supervision, and escalation in the quantity of drugs he was distributing warranted a long sentence to protect the public and promote deterrence. The charge against Spears was the result of an investigation conducted by the Prairie du Chien Police Department, Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, City of La Crosse Police Department, and Wisconsin State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala prosecuted this case. Federal prosecutions by the U.S. Department of Justice involving drugs are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Drug Investigation in Dane County Successfully Concludes After Last Defendant Sentenced

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Chadwick M. Elgersma, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced the successful conclusion of a multi-year drug trafficking investigation in Dane County, following the sentencing of the last of thirteen defendants. U.S. Attorney Elgersma praised the tireless efforts of the law enforcement agents throughout the State who worked together to dismantle this large-scale narcotics distribution organization. “These thirteen convictions mark a decisive blow against a multi-state criminal organization that threatened the safety of our communities. The success of this investigation is the direct result of a coordinated effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement partners who worked together, through a whole of government strategy, to dismantle a high-level fentanyl trafficking operation. I commend the investigators who worked tirelessly to protect families and hold the individuals who sell this poison accountable.” The investigation revealed a large-scale drug trafficking organization led by Lloyd McKire-Bennett that was responsible for bringing kilograms of fentanyl pills into Madison from Arizona. Law enforcement began investigating the organization in January 2022, following the seizure of two mail packages that each contained a kilogram of fentanyl pills (almost 20,000 pills in total). Both packages were mailed by individuals in Arizona to addresses in Madison. The year-long investigation involved twenty-three controlled purchases of fentanyl pills, the seizure of a third drug-laden mail package (which contained 1.75 kilograms of fentanyl pills), arrests and warranted searches of residences and vehicles where narcotics and firearms were seized. As part of the investigation, officers seized almost 5 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 10 firearms, and over $97,000 in U.S. currency. Photos from the case include: Photos of two kilograms of fentanyl pills seized from the mail in January 2022. Photo of fentanyl, cocaine, and cash seized from McKire-Bennett’s residence on November 28, 2022. The following defendants were sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson as part of the federal prosecution: • Messiah A. Fleming, 24, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in December 2023 to 4 years in federal prison followed by 4 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as a felon and possessing fentanyl intended for distribution. • Lloyd M. McKire-Bennett, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in May 2024 to 164 months in federal prison followed by 6 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possessing firearms and ammunition as a felon. • Deshawn P. Davis, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in May 2024 to 66 months in federal prison followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. • Dejon C. Glover, 25, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in May 2024 to 4 ½ years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release, for attempting to possess fentanyl intended for distribution. • Alicia M. Allen, 40, Windsor, Wisconsin, was sentenced in May 2024 to 4 years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possessing 40 grams or more of fentanyl intended for distribution and money laundering. • Yoshi R. Walker, 27, New Brighton, Minnesota, was sentenced in July 2024 to 6 years in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, for attempting to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. • Christopher S. Wilson, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in July 2024 to 5 years in federal prison followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. • John A. Maser, 37, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in August 2024 to 4 months in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release, for attempting to possess fentanyl intended for distribution. • Davonte F. King, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in September 2024 to 7 years in federal prison followed by 6 years of supervised release, for possessing fentanyl intended for distribution and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. • Tyez D. D. Boyd, 28, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced in November 2024 to 3 years in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as a felon. • Dantrell T. Stevenson, 33, Matteson, Illinois, was sentenced in December 2024 to 2 years in federal prison followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute fentanyl. • Jessica E. Leyvas, 40, Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced in January 2026 to 5 years of probation, for attempting to distribute fentanyl. • Kevin L. Simmons, 32, Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced on June 30, 2026, to 12 years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute fentanyl. The charges against these individuals were the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS Criminal Investigation, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and Dane County Narcotics Task Force. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The task force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. The investigation was awarded the 2023 Wisconsin Narcotics Officers Association Investigation of the Year. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) Program 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 federal 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.


title: Illegal Alien Sent to Federal Prison for Attempted Meth Smuggling Following Homeland Security Task Force Investigation

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – A Homeland Security Task Force investigation resulted in an illegal alien from Mexico being sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 20 years in prison for trafficking methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons. According to court documents, on April 20, 2025, Veronica Sanchez-Pineda, 47, of Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico, approached the Eagle Pass Port of Entry in a pickup truck and gave Customs and Border Protection officers a negative declaration for contraband including narcotics. A secondary inspection resulted in the discovery of a crystal-like substance inside an auxiliary tank in the bed of the truck. The substance tested positive for 521.03 kg of methamphetamine. Sanchez-Pineda consented to a search of her cell phone, which contained a text message about a “job” in Eagle Pass as well as screenshots of money transfers between the defendant and another individual. Sanchez-Pineda was arrested at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry. She was named in a four-count indictment on May 14, 2025, and pleaded guilty on Dec. 22, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Court Judge Ernest Gonzalez presided over the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Warsame Galaydh and Daisy Gonzalez 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 comprises agents and officers from FBI; ICE HSI; DEA; ATF; U.S. Border Patrol; USMS; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Texas Department of Public Safety; as well as local police departments and sheriff’s offices, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas. ###


title: Houston Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Smuggling Meth into United States

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – A Houston man was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 30 years in prison for trafficking methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. According to court documents, Yobany Vega, 25, attempted to enter the U.S. through Eagle Pass Camino Real Bridge 2 on Dec. 6, 2024. Customs and Border Protection Officers noticed a non-factory compartment during secondary inspection and discovered 41 bundles hidden in the vehicle. Further inspection revealed that the bundles contained 40.5 kgs of 100% purity level methamphetamine. Vega was arrested on Dec. 6, 2024. He pleaded guilty on Sept. 19, 2025, to all four counts of his indictment, which included conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, conspiracy to import methamphetamine, and importation of methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Ernest Gonzalez presided over the case. Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Duarte II and Nallely Duarte 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: Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Results in the Sentencing of a Memphis Man to Over 19 Years in Prison for Trafficking Narcotics While on Supervised Release for Trafficking Narcotics

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – Antonio Caldwell, aka “Joe”, 40 , of Memphis, was sentenced to 235 months in prison for narcotics trafficking. D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. U.S. Attorney Dunavant said, “Caldwell is a recidivist drug dealer who was brazenly distributing deadly fentanyl into our communities while on supervised release. Every minute of his 19-year sentence is well-deserved and will ensure better public safety for the citizens of Memphis and West Tennessee.” According to information presented in court, in 2023 a multi-agency investigation began into a suspected drug trafficking organization. Investigators determined that Caldwell was obtaining and supplying large quantities of narcotics, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, to other redistributors in West Tennessee. Investigators further determined Caldwell was committing these acts while on supervised release for two prior federal narcotics convictions. While on supervised release, Caldwell traveled to California and mailed a parcel containing fentanyl hidden in rice. Investigators were able to intercept the parcel and seize approximately three kilograms of fentanyl. Investigators further determined Caldwell maintained a drug distribution house located in the area of Hollywood and Pershing. Caldwell directed individuals to this location to obtain narcotics. In November of 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at the drug distribution house and recovered fentanyl, methamphetamine, and three firearms. “Drug traffickers like Mr. Caldwell have no regard for the lives they destroy, and the broken families left in their wake,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division. “As a result of his own actions, Mr. Caldwell will spend nearly two decades in prison, giving him an opportunity to reflect on the harm he has caused and hopefully come out a better man upon his release.” In April of 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Caldwell and nine others: Michael Merritt, Darius Carter, Deandre Eubanks, Jimmy Gibson, Telly Hammond, Deandre Howard, Marc Pharr, Samuel Washington, and Rico Winston, for narcotics offenses. Merritt, Eubanks, Gibson, Hammond, Howard, and Winston have all pleaded guilty and are pending sentencing. In December of 2025, Caldwell pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute narcotics, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, and distribution of narcotics. On July 9, 2026, Senior U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays, Jr. sentenced Caldwell to 235 months' incarceration to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. “Antonio Caldwell continued trafficking dangerous narcotics despite being on supervised release for a prior drug conviction, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the law,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “Working alongside our partners, HSI will continue to pursue those who profit from the distribution of dangerous drugs into our communities and hold them accountable.” “Fighting drug crimes is a crucial mission, and the Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard our communities,” said SCSO Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner. “Our cooperation with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners has reaped huge rewards in this case. Getting narcotics traffickers such as Caldwell off the streets is a win for all the citizens of Shelby County.” “Our agency, alongside our dedicated law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who fuel this deadly epidemic by illegally distributing fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics,” said TBI Director David Rausch. This operation was 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 Memphis comprises agents and officers from ATF, Bartlett Police Department, Collierville Police Department, DEA, FBI, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Germantown Police Department, HSI, ICE/ERO, IRS, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office, Memphis Airport Police, Memphis Police Department, Shelby County Sherriff's Office, SMILE OIG, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tipton County Sheriff’s Office, USMS, USPIS, USSS, West Tennessee 25th Judicial District Drug Task Force, West Tennessee Drug Task Force, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Allen prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf. ### 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: Suspected gang member and prior felon arrested, charged with drug and gun charges

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Otis Williams a/k/a Skino, 39, Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of drug trafficking, and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, which carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of life. According to the criminal complaint, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Buffalo Police Department’s Gang Intelligence Unit have been investigating the criminal activities of the Black Soprano Family (BSF) Gang, a violent street gang operating in and around the City of Buffalo. The FBI has identified numerous gang members as well as gang territory located on the east side of Buffalo. BSF members have been arrested by several police departments for violent criminal acts, including drug and firearm trafficking. They commit violent criminal acts to protect gang-controlled territory and associated houses. Williams and others have been identified as suspected gang members, in part because of various gang-related tattoos indicating gang membership and their associations with other known BSF gang members. Law enforcement has also determined that Williams is a narcotics trafficker who supplies various individuals within the Western District of New York. On July 14, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at William’s Ericson Avenue residence, seizing a handgun, approximately 88 grams of crack cocaine, quantities of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, suspected ecstasy pills, drug paraphernalia, and three cell phones. Williams was convicted of felony charges in 2008, 2015, and 2016, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm Williams made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was detained pending a detention hearing on July 21, 2026. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Louis A. Testani, Katerina Powers and Joshua A. Violanti. The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis II and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Erika Shields. 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: Rochester man going to prison for 12 years on drug and gun charges

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Todd J. Romig, 29, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 kilograms or more of marijuana, and possession and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to serve 144 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. Between June 2024, and April 10, 2025, Romig conspired with others to sell marijuana. He obtained multi-pound quantities of high-end marijuana and resold it to customers at a markup. On April 10, 2025, Rochester Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired at a Monroe Avenue apartment building. Officers went to the second floor and heard someone yelling inside one of the apartments. They knocked on a door and Romig confirmed from inside that he had yelled. As officers made entry into the apartment, Romig was in an upstairs loft. He was directed to come down and was then detained while the officers cleared the apartment and looked for possible victims or other suspects. During their sweep, officers observed two large open cardboard boxes filled to the top with vacuum sealed packages of what appeared to be marijuana, spent bullet casings and a rifle. As a result, officers obtained a search warrant during which they seized 34 pounds of marijuana, ammunition, a loaded magazine, a loaded rifle, and $50,672 in cash, which were proceeds from prior sales of marijuana. During the investigation, another approximately 146 pounds of marijuana was seized from a Union Street residence in Spencerport, NY, where Romig also stored marijuana. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo A. Rodriguez. The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, and the Ogden Police Department, under the direction of Chief Travis Gray. # # # #


title: Prior felon going to prison on drug and gun charges

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Stacy Spencer, 60, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of firearm, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. In 2021, the DEA and Niagara Falls Police Department began an investigation into Spencer, which included four controlled purchases of cocaine. On May 2, 2022, law enforcement executed search warrants at Spencer’s residence and at an Ontario Avenue residence in Niagara Falls, which Spencer utilized for his drug trafficking related activities. During the execution of a search warrant at the Ontario Avenue residence, officers located a locked safe in the basement, which contained approximately 93.5 grams of cocaine, and a pistol. They also recovered approximately $6,385 in cash from Spencer. In October 1993 and October 2009, Spencer was convicted of felony crimes in Niagara and Erie Counties, respectively, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler. The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Chief Nick Ligammari. # # # #


title: Buffalo man sentenced to more than 14 years in prison for narcotics conspiracy, sentence to be served consecutive to previous murder sentence

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ernest Brown, a/k/a Wayne Perry, a/k/a Wayne Brown, 43, Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams of fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 175 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. Brown’s federal sentence will be served consecutive to the sentence of 25 years to life that he received after an Erie County Court jury convicted him of Murder, 2nd degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 2nd degree. During the conspiracy, Brown was a source of supply for Joseph Zaso. Zaso met Brown through co-defendant James Jackson, a middleman for narcotics transactions. Brown met his co-conspirators at various locations in Buffalo, including Zaso’s and Jackson’s residences. At times, Jackson delivered fentanyl to Zaso on behalf of Brown. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing. Charges remain pending against James Jackson. This case was 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 Buffalo comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Emergency Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Diplomatic Security Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Forster, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone. # # # #


title: Amherst man going to prison for receipt of child pornography

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Marcus Elliott, 40, of Amherst, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison followed by 30 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. In September 2020, Elliott began to communicate with a 12-year-old female on Snapchat, during which the minor victim took a sexually explicit photograph and sent it to Elliott. In June 2025, following a disclosure by the minor victim, Elliott’s cellular telephone was searched, and the sexually explicit image of the minor victim was recovered. In addition, Elliott admits that he engaged in sexual activity with the minor victim on one occasion and requested that she produce child pornography on other occasions. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis II, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove, and the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Chamberlin. # # # #


title: Gladstone Man charged with Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, MO. – Scott R. Smith, 35, of Gladstone, Mo., was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court today. Smith had his initial appearance this afternoon. The federal complaint charges Smith with one count of Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor. According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Smith, over the course of four days, engaged in online communications with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing online as a 15-year-old minor. During his communications with the person he believed to be a minor, Smith arranged to meet the purported minor to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for $200.00 and asked the purported minor to send him sexually graphic images. Smith was later arrested on July 13, 2026, after he arrived at a hotel where he had arranged to meet the minor to engage in sexual conduct. The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced for Re-Entry into the United States after Previous Felony Child Endangerment Conviction

component: USAO - Louisiana, Western

body_text: SHREVEPORT – On July 8, 2026, District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Johnny Salazar-Ruano, 41, of Honduras, to one year in federal prison after his March 19, 2026, Guilty Plea for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. Salazar-Ruano had been residing in Bossier City. Salazar-Ruano was previously removed from the United States on July 3, 2014, on August 17, 2015, and a third time on February 1, 2021, after being convicted in Caddo Parish of felony Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment. In that case, Salazar-Ruano pled guilty to assaulting a woman in the presence of her 12-year-old child. On January 10, 2026, Salazar-Ruano was again in the United States. Bossier City Police Department (BCPD) officers conducted a traffic stop on a van after observing the driver fail to signal before turning. Officers had prior information from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) that the registered owner of the vehicle had an active federal warrant for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. The driver, later identified as Salazar-Ruano , was ordered to exit the vehicle but refused to comply. When officers opened the driver's door, Salazar-Ruano attempted to crawl toward the passenger side of the vehicle to avoid being detained. After a brief struggle, officers removed Salazar-Ruano from the van, secured him in handcuffs, and verified the active warrant for his removal from the United States. In this incident, Salazar-Ruano was also charged with resisting an officer. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. The BCPD, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and HSI investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison Foster with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot. This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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 on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00037-01. ### Public Affairs United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Louisiana USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Previously Removed Illegal Alien from Mexico and Utah Man Arrested and Charged After Law Enforcement Seized Meth and Heroin in Utah

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging a previously removed illegal alien from Mexico and a Utah County man with drug crimes after law enforcement seized a large quantity of methamphetamine and heroin during a traffic stop and at a residence in Lehi, Utah. Martiano Ralph Estrada, 51, of Orem, Utah, and Alejandro Alberto Alvarado-Gutierrez, 34, of Mexico, residing illegally in Lehi, were charged and arrested on July 8, 2026. According to court documents, on June 29, 2026, law enforcement stopped Estrada for a traffic violation. Estrada was the driver and Alvarado-Gutierrez was the front passenger. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found approximately 31 grams of methamphetamine and 33 grams of heroin hidden under the steering wheel of the vehicle. Law enforcement also searched a residence in Lehi and located an additional 223 grams of heroin and 1,108 grams of methamphetamine. At the residence, law enforcement also located packaging for two cell phones which matched the phones found on Alvarado-Gutierrez during the traffic stop. A brief search of the phones revealed messages that appeared to be about drug distribution. In total, law enforcement seized 1,139 grams of methamphetamine and 256 grams of heroin. According to court documents, Alvarado-Gutierrez is not a citizen of the United States and was previously removed from the United States in November 2025. Estrada and Alvarado-Gutierrez are charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and possession of heroin with intent to distribute. Alvarado-Gutierrez is also charged with reentry of a previously removed alien. Their initial appearance on the indictment was July 13, 2026. Estrada’s detention hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Alvarado-Gutierrez is scheduled for a three-day jury trial on September 18, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Utah County Major Crimes Task Force. Special Assistant United States Attorney Pete Reichman for the District of Utah is prosecuting 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. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Jury returns guilty verdict in corruption trial

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 50-year-old Mission resident has been convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering, violating the Travel Act, and witness tampering. The jury deliberated for approximately three hours before convicting Veronica Inez O’Cana following a three-day trial. O’Cana had conspired with others to launder approximately $30,000 in funds for the benefit of a member of the Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board in return for favorable consideration and official actions. The jury heard that co-conspirators attempted to disguise or conceal the payments made to influence official actions through the use of third parties, fraudulent memo lines, and cash. The jury learned that payments were made in attempts to influence a series of actions that would lead to the awarding of an energy savings contract to Performance Services Inc. An employee of that company was also a conspirator in the scheme. Testimony revealed the ultimate contract was expected to be worth $20-25 million. However, although an initial assessment contract was awarded and an investment grade audit contract signed, the final contract was never approved. Testimony revealed O’Cana obtained $24,000 during the scheme. Text messages and recordings also showed that she had received the payments. Law enforcement uncovered the scheme in 2022 and subsequently served O’Cana with a federal grand jury subpoena. She was then recorded on WhatsApp calls with a co-conspirator discussing the need to have the same story regarding the reason for the payments. The defense attempted to convince the jury there was no proof O’Cana sent the messages and that the witnesses were not credible. They did not believe those claims and found her guilty as charged. U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton presided over the trial and set sentencing for Oct. 7. At that time, O’Cana faces up to 20 years for the conspiracy to commit money laundering and witness tampering violations and a maximum of five years for the Travel Act violation. O’Cana was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing. FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from McAllen Police Department and Texas Department of Insurance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Ryan Sim, and Alexa Parcell prosecuted the case.


title: Human smuggler with cartel ties sentenced for trafficking fentanyl laced with xylazine as part of Homeland Security Task Force investigation

body_text: LAREDO, Texas - A 24-year-old Laredo man has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. Jorge Humberto Medrano Jr. pleaded guilty Jan. 6. U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen has now ordered Medrano to serve 135 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard how Medrano was closely tied to Cártel del Noreste. The court also considered the danger of fentanyl to include its high lethality and that Medrano trafficked fentanyl laced with xylazine which compounds its danger and possibility of death. Xylazine is a veterinary tranquilizer that is not affected by Narcan often used to save people overdosing on fentanyl. Xylazine can also lead to severe skin and soft tissue injuries characterized by deep ulcers that often expose tendons and bones. In handing down the sentence, Judge Kazen noted how Medrano compounded the already extreme danger of fentanyl as compared to other drugs by lacing it with xylazine. The court also noted the fentanyl epidemic and related overdoses and deaths in the community and how Medrano’s actions contribute to that. The investigation revealed Medrano trafficked fentanyl and smuggled aliens for multiple years. Medrano had sold fentanyl laced with xylazine to undercover law enforcement on over 20 occasions and attempted to recruit others to smuggle illegal aliens. His alien smuggling operation was directly tied to Cártel del Noreste. Authorities identified members in ledgers and intercepted alien smuggling events which included nearly 2,000 illegal aliens. During a search of Medrano’s residence, law enforcement recovered evidence of his criminal conduct and a hat bearing the insignia of Cártel del Noreste. He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling prosecuted the case. This prosecution is now part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF South Texas comprises agents and officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations; FBI; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Interpol/Department of State; and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas leading the prosecution. Texas Department of Public Safety also provided significant assistance with this investigation.


title: Grand jury indicts Iola man for online threats that included blowing up White House and killing law enforcement

body_text: HOUSTON – A 35-year-old man from a small town in Grimes County has been indicted for allegedly transmitting interstate threats via social media. Peter James Bloomfield remains in custody following his arrest June 24. A federal grand jury has now returned the three-count indictment, and he will appear for his arraignment before a U.S. magistrate judge in Houston in the near future. The charges allege authorities discovered a Texas-based X account with multiple threatening messages directed at federal law enforcement and others. The account allegedly made several posts about where the closest FBI building was, killing federal agents and others, spending money to blow up the White House, and negative comments about America. Bloomfield is linked to that account, according to the indictment. Law enforcement also allegedly identified a Facebook account in Bloomfield’s name that used the same profile image as the X account which posted additional threats against federal agents and notable figures. The indictment further alleges the Facebook account included comments about making a hit list that included President Trump during a Fox News broadcast of a recent Senate floor hearing. A federal search warrant of Bloomfield’s residence allegedly resulted in the discovery of over 20 firearms and a significant amount of ammunition. If convicted, Bloomfield faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine per count. The FBI - Bryan Resident Agency conducted the investigation with the assistance of Texas Department of Public Safety; Houston County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office; Secret Service; and Grimes County Constable’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Ganz is prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Venezuelan illegal alien pleads guilty to assaulting federal officer

component: USAO - Ohio, Southern

body_text: COLUMBUS, Ohio – An illegal alien from Venezuela pleaded guilty in federal court here today to assaulting a federal officer. Kendry Jose Cubian-Perez, 40, admitted to punching a federal officer during apprehension. According to court documents, on May 8, law enforcement officials were conducting surveillance of a residence in Powell, attempting to apprehend a known criminal alien. Cubian-Perez exited the residence and entered a vehicle registered to the target of the enforcement operation. When an apprehension team officer turned on their emergency vehicle lights, Cubian-Perez attempted to flee. The defendant encountered an Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officer and punched the officer in the face, causing the officer’s tooth to puncture his bottom lip. Cubian-Perez tried to escape as the officer and others on scene responded to apprehend him and place him in handcuffs. Cubian-Perez was charged by criminal complaint on May 8 and indicted by a federal grand jury the same month. Assault of a federal officer inflicting bodily injury is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a future hearing. Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Kevin Raycroft, Acting Field Office Director, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Detroit Field Office; announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Pakiz and Jennifer M. Rausch are representing the United States in this 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: Defendant who continued to traffic drugs after federal indictment sentenced to more than 14 years in prison

body_text: DAYTON, Ohio – A Georgia man who continued to traffic drugs after being indicted federally was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 170 months in prison. David Gullatte, 39, of Lithonia, Georgia, was a prolific drug trafficker who brought bulk amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine into the Southern District of Ohio from a source of supply in California. According to court documents, between 2020 and 2021, law enforcement intercepted multiple kilograms of narcotics being mailed to Gullatte. Gullatte would buy the drugs from California then arrange for the supplier to mail the drugs to homes in Atlanta and Dayton. Upon receiving the drug shipments, Gullatte resold them in southern Ohio and elsewhere. For example, in September 2020, Gullatte obtained a drug shipment of more than 20 kilograms of methamphetamine in Atlanta and then arranged for another person to transport the drugs for delivery and resale in Dayton. While under indictment for this conduct and pending trial, investigators caught Gullatte supplying cocaine and other drugs to a drug trafficking ring in Xenia. Throughout the drug conspiracies, Gullatte was responsible for the trafficking of more than 30 kilograms of various controlled substances including cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Gullatte was originally indicted in May 2024. He was charged for his continued drug trafficking in March 2025. He pleaded guilty in both cases in September 2025. Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the sentence imposed by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Walter H. Rice. Deputy Criminal Chief Brent G. Tabacchi, Assistant Deputy Criminal Chief Amy M. Smith and Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth McCormick are representing the United States in these cases. # # #


title: Champaign County man pleads guilty to distributing child pornography

body_text: DAYTON, Ohio – Christopher Creamer, 40, of Urbana, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to distributing child pornography. The plea agreement includes a recommended sentence of between 60 and 210 months in prison. According to court documents, from June to August 2025, Creamer communicated online with who he believed to be a Telegram user but was actually an FBI agent. Creamer admitted to sending two images and 16 videos of child pornography to the agent. He also discussed his interest in the sexual abuse of children. In a subsequent search of Creamer’s electronic devices, agents discovered more than 3,000 images and 130 videos depicting child pornography, including images of the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers and sadomasochistic abuse. Creamer was arrested and charged by federal criminal complaint in March 2026. Sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a future hearing. Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the guilty plea entered today before Senior U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Rose. Assistant United States Attorney Christina E. Mahy is representing the United States in this case. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. # # #


title: Federal Correctional Officer Charged With Sexual Abuse Of An Inmate At FCI Otisville

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (“DOJ OIG”), Ryan T. Geach, and Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (“BOP”), William K. Marshall III, announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging KYLE BROWN, a former federal correctional officer with the BOP, with three counts of sexual abuse of a ward for engaging in sexual acts with an inmate he was responsible for guarding. BROWN was arrested this morning and presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Victoria Reznik. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Philip M. Halpern. “Sexual abuse will be met with federal charges throughout our society; it has no place anywhere and victims deserve protection everywhere,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “When a correctional officer abuses their power and harms an inmate, it is not only a violation of federal law—it is a betrayal of the trust that New York families place in our institutions. We will continue to protect victims, pursue the truth, and hold accountable anyone who abuses their power for their own sexual gratification.” “As alleged, Kyle Brown abused his authority to engage in sexual acts with an inmate under his protection,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “The FBI is committed to holding corrupt civil servants accountable.” “The safety and security of federal prisons are of the utmost importance, and the DOJ OIG vigorously investigates allegations of abuse of inmates by Federal Bureau of Prisons staff to ensure that those who break the law and the public’s trust are held accountable,” said DOJ OIG Special Agent in Charge Ryan T. Geach. “The allegations in the case represent a profound abuse of authority and a betrayal of public trust,” said BOP Director William K. Marshall III. “Anyone who exploits their position of authority disgraces this profession and has no place in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Working alongside our law enforcement partners, we will pursue anyone who violates the law and ensure they are held accountable.” According to the allegations in the Indictment and other public filings: Between in or about 2024 and on or about July 1, 2026, BROWN was employed as a federal correctional officer at Federal Correctional Institution, Otisville (“FCI Otisville”). On three occasions between December 26, 2025, and April 4, 2026, BROWN engaged in anal and/or oral sex with an inmate who was incarcerated at FCI Otisville and over whom BROWN had authority. * * * BROWN, 27, of Newburgh, New York, is charged with three counts of sexual abuse of a ward, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 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. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and DOJ OIG, as well as the FBI Hudson Valley White Collar Crime Task Force and Otisville FCI Special Investigative Swift Response. The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit in the Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Morel and Madison Reddick Smyser are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Eight Sentenced to Federal Prison for $1.2 Million  Travel Insurance Fraud Scheme

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS - Eight individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a $1.2 million travel insurance fraud kickback scheme. Each defendant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Defendant Sentence Restitution Jennifer Fleener, 60, Indianapolis 57 months’ imprisonment; 2 years of supervised release $1,199,149.32 Mike Fleener, 54, Camby 48 months’ imprisonment; 2 years of supervised release $1,188,470.58 Asha Mimms, 46, Indianapolis 12 months’ and 1 day imprisonment; 2 years of supervised release $365,570.85 Jasmin Aldava Grimes, 44, Martinsville 3 years’ probation $788,321.14 Jennifer Thompson, 45, Indianapolis 3 years’ probation $604,745.12 Amber McDaniel, 45, Indianapolis 2 years’ probation $85,894.94 Christopher Perdue, 38, Indianapolis 3 years’ probation $89,403.49 Dasha Pearson, 28, Indianapolis 2 years’ probation $42,628.32 According to court documents, beginning in 2016, Jennifer Fleener devised a scheme to submit and approve fraudulent travel‑insurance claims through Jennifer’s employer, “T.M.” T.M., headquartered in Houston with a travel division in Indianapolis, sells short‑term travel medical insurance to individuals traveling outside the United States. Jennifer Fleener received money from the fraudulent claims. Jennifer Fleener worked at T.M. from 2012 to 2021 as a case‑management supervisor and claims handler. In this role, she had detailed knowledge of T.M.’s policy‑issuance and claims‑processing procedures. In 2016, Jennifer Fleener’s ex-husband Mike Fleener joined the scheme and began recruiting individuals, most of whom lived in the Philippines, to participate in the fraud. He recruited Jasmin Aldava Grimes, a Philippine national, who purchased travel‑insurance policies from T.M. using her own information and the information of others, despite having no intention of traveling as stated on the applications. When T.M. paid out the fraudulent claims, Grimes shared a portion of the proceeds with Mike Fleener, who in turn provided a portion of the proceeds to Jennifer Fleener. Grimes participated in the scheme for roughly two years and recruited additional participants. Beginning in 2019, Jennifer Fleener expanded the scheme by recruiting T.M. employees, their families, and associates. She recruited T.M. auditor Asha Mimms, who then recruited her daughter, Dasha Pearson, and associate Amber McDaniel. She also recruited former T.M. employee, Jennifer Thompson. Jennifer Fleener instructed each recruit to purchase insurance policies for themselves or others and then submitted falsified claims. As a claims handler, Fleener approved fraudulent submissions without secondary review. T.M. mailed payout checks directly to the claimants, and the proceeds were divided among the co‑conspirators, with Fleener receiving a share. Christopher Perdue, the husband of Fleener’s niece, knowingly allowed his personal information to be used to obtain fraudulent policies and submit false claims. In return, he received a portion of the kickbacks. Perdue also pled guilty to making false statements and false declarations before a federal grand jury. When interviewed by FBI agents about his involvement in the scheme, he lied and denied any knowledge of the conspiracy and later repeated those falsehoods under oath before the grand jury. In total, the conspiracy was responsible for filing 441 fraudulent claims, resulting in $1,199,149.32 in losses to T.M. “Fraud schemes of any kind erode trust in programs designed to protect people in times of need,” said Tom Wheeler, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These defendants abused their positions and exploited legitimate insurance processes for personal gain, resulting in significant losses. Today’s sentences reflect our office’s commitment to holding accountable those who engage in coordinated, long‑running fraud and to protecting businesses and consumers from financial harm.” "Complex fraud schemes often rely on calculated deception and abuse of trust for personal enrichment," said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley. "The FBI, alongside our law enforcement partners, remains committed to uncovering these schemes, following the money, and ensuring those responsible are held accountable under the law.” FBI Indianapolis investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley P. Shepard and Meredith Wood, who prosecuted this case. ###


title: U.S. Attorney Urges Senate to Confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – Today, U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft issued a public statement urging the Senate to confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General. “As U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, I strongly support the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General," said U.S. Attorney Weinhoeft. “Under his leadership, U.S. Attorneys across the country are laser-focused on the right priorities: combating violent crime, dismantling gangs, targeting transnational criminal organizations, and securing our communities. These are the fights that matter most for the safety of the American people. I urge the Senate to confirm him swiftly.”


title: Montezuma Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child Pornography and Cyber Stalking

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Montezuma man was sentenced on July 8, 2026, to 15 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography and 11 counts of cyber stalking. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Jack James Erselius, 20, procured and created computer-generated child pornography images of 13 different victims under the age of 18. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Erselius’ Story County residence. A forensic examination of the seized electronic devices showed that Erselius used the devices to create AI-generated images containing child sexual abuse material of real girls with their clothes removed. Erselius would send screenshots of satellite views of victims’ homes, their family’s contact information, and live updates on victim’s locations to the people online that Erselius solicited to stalk and rape the victims. After completing his term of imprisonment, Erselius will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Erselius also ordered to pay $5,979.46 in restitution and a special assessment of $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The University of Iowa Police Department and Johnson County Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team investigated 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Five Quad City Individual Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl Charges

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – Five Quad City individuals were sentenced to federal prison for charges related to their conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, specifically counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, between April 2022 and March 2024, five individuals conspired together to distribute fentanyl across the Quad Cities area. In total, more than 26,000 pills containing fentanyl were attributed to the drug trafficking organization. Kendrick Eugene Lee, Jr., 25, was sentenced to a 292-month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release on May 26, 2026, following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fentanyl. Juwan Dupri Crawford, 26, was sentenced to a 144-month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release on May 27, 2026, following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Dreyko Ryan Paul Veronie, 24, was sentenced to a 312-month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release on May 27, 2026, following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Kisha Renee Rockwood, 42, was sentenced to a 216-month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release on July 14, 2026, following her guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Kee Syonne Arthur Edgar Rockwood-Brown, 23, was sentenced to a 300-month prison term, followed by a seven-year term of supervised release, on July 14, 2026, following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.


title: Davenport Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Charges

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced on July 14, 2026, to 18 years in federal prison for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to public court documents, Anthony Michael Duyvejonck, 33, conspired with others to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine across Iowa. In July 2025, officers located 3.5 pounds of methamphetamine in Duyvejonck’s vehicle. In total, Duyvejonck distributed nearly 13 pounds of methamphetamine. Duyvejonck was paroled from state prison in late March 2025, just four months before his July arrest. After completing his term of imprisonment, Duyvejonck will be required to serve a six-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Bettendorf Police Department investigated the case.