title: Illinois Man and Indiana Woman Sentenced Respectively to 70 Months and 16 Months in Prison For Selling Unapproved Drugs in Interstate Commerce

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Matthew J. Kawa, 48 years old, of Grant Park, Illinois, and his sister Jennifer L. Stechkober, 32 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to introducing unapproved new drugs into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Additionally, Kawa pled guilty to illegally importing merchandise into the United States. Kawa was sentenced to 70 months of prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. Stechkober was sentenced to 16 months of prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. Both defendants were ordered to pay $78,317.52 in restitution. The Court also entered a money judgment against Kawa in the amount of $5 million. “The owner of Paradigm Peptides and his accomplice have been held accountable, sentenced to prison, and ordered to pay restitution to the identified victims. He and his accomplice lied to the world at large saying their company was legitimate; their products were safe, pure, tested, and manufactured in the United States; and that they were approved by the FDA. They were all lies. What’s worse is that the two defendants fleeced an estimated 54,000 people out of over 5 million dollars, in total, and acted with callous disregard for the truth and the significant harm that could and, in some cases, was inflicted on those customers. These customers trusted them and consumed the products in the hope of improving their health or physique and instead were poisoned with known and unknown substances that were illegally imported from China, India, and other countries. Hopefully this outcome will deter bad actors who would try to make quick, easy money selling unregulated and untested products in interstate commerce. Thanks to the extensive efforts by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander and with cooperation of brave victims and witnesses, the Defendants have been held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. “The Defendant operated a business called Paradigm Peptides that marketed products online. Through his website, the Defendant and his sister/accomplice illegally sold peptides, Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (“SARMs”), Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (“HCG”), and other drugs for human consumption without approval from the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”). He then shipped his products to customers through the mail. On the business website and in representations to customers by email, the Defendant and his employees falsely said that his business was licensed and registered with the FDA, that the business manufactured its products at its own laboratories in the United States, that it tested its products to ensure the highest quality, and that its products were safe and of pharmaceutical quality. In reality, the Defendant imported the products from Asia, including China and India, and he did not test the products for quality before selling them to customers. It was later determined that many of the SARMs sold by Paradigm Peptides were actually testosterone and not the SARM listed on the product’s label. Stechkober worked in the business’s location in Michigan City, Indiana, where they packaged and shipped products to customers,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred. “Kawa continued to sell these products online despite receiving letters in 2020 and 2022 from the FDA warning him that he was marketing and selling unapproved drugs in violation of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. From 2019 to 2024, he sold products to more than 54,000 customers in each of the 50 United States and throughout more than 80 countries worldwide. Kawa derived $5 million in proceeds from the illegal sales. Several customers, including those who ingested testosterone mislabeled as SARMs, reported severe negative effects on their physical, psychological, and mental health after using the products. In particular, customers reported skin irritation and chronic acne; drops in natural testosterone requiring testosterone replacement therapy; cardiac health issues; and stress, anxiety, and other psychological issues up to suicidal ideation,” U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred said. “The FDA’s requirements help ensure that individuals receive safe and effective drugs. Evading the FDA process and distributing unapproved drugs to consumers poses a serious risk to public health and safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office. “FDA will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who traffic in unapproved drugs.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity, preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail, and protecting the United States Postal Service employees,” said Inspector in Charge Felicia B. George, United States Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Division. “The public has a right to expect the U.S. Mail and its contents to be safe, and Mr. Kawa and Ms. Stechkober eroded that trust by distributing unsafe and dangerous substances through the United States Postal Service. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service works tirelessly with our Local, State, and Federal law enforcement partners to protect the public from dangerous substances.” This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.


title: Third Georgia State Representative Pleads Guilty to Pandemic Unemployment Fraud

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ATLANTA - Sharon Henderson, a suspended member of the Georgia House of Representatives, pled guilty today in federal court to making false statements to fraudulently obtain thousands of dollars of emergency pandemic-era unemployment assistance payments. “While running for and holding political office, Representative Henderson was fleecing taxpayers, lying to steal money from federal programs intended to help people who lost their jobs due to the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Her prosecution and conviction demonstrate that elected officials who enrich themselves through fraud will be held accountable for violating the public’s trust.” “Sharon Henderson, while holding elected office in the Georgia House of Representatives, illegally obtained taxpayer-funded unemployment benefits that were intended to provide financial assistance to workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own,” said Nigel Lange, Inspector General for the State of Georgia. “Our office remains committed to investigating and holding accountable those who misuse public funds and defraud American taxpayers.” “Sharon Henderson was elected to serve the people of Georgia—not steal from them,” said Anthony P. D’Esposito, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor. “By exploiting her position for personal gain, she violated the public’s trust and undermined the integrity of our institutions. Public officials who betray the American people and abuse their power for personal benefit will be held fully accountable for their despicable actions. No one is above the law. My office will aggressively investigate those who dare to exploit public trust and defraud the American people.” “Pandemic relief programs were created to help Americans facing genuine hardship—not to enrich those willing to lie for personal gain,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “When an elected official abuses taxpayer-funded programs through fraud, it undermines public confidence in both government institutions and the integrity of public service. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who exploits federal programs for personal benefit.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: In 2020, in response to unprecedented economic hardship resulting from the COVID-19 emergency, Congress created special unemployment compensation programs to provide cash assistance to individuals who lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Applicants had to provide their recent work histories and confirm, among other things, that COVID-19 was the reason they were unemployed. Applicants also had to provide a weekly certification attesting that they were actively seeking work and providing the reason they were unemployed. In June 2020, while a candidate for a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives, Henderson applied for federal pandemic unemployment benefits, claiming that her current employer was Henry County Schools. However, Henderson had not worked for Henry County Schools for almost two years. Before that, she had only worked for five days as a substitute teacher. Additionally, when she worked those five days in 2018, Henderson signed an acknowledgment that noted substitute teachers were not eligible to draw unemployment wages. Nevertheless, in her unemployment benefits application, Henderson falsely stated that she had worked for the school system throughout 2019 and as recently as March 10, 2020; that she had paystubs as evidence of that employment; and that her place of employment was closed as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency. She then submitted fraudulent weekly certifications claiming that she was unable to reach her place of employment because of a COVID-19 quarantine. She filed eight of those fraudulent certifications in June 2021, after she was sworn in and serving as the state representative for District 113, which covers western Newton County and part of Covington, Georgia. Henderson fraudulently collected $17,811 of pandemic unemployment benefits as a result of the false statements in her application and weekly certifications. Sharon Henderson, 67, of Covington, Georgia, pled guilty this morning to making false statements to obtain funds administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. Sentencing is scheduled for November 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Michael L. Brown. Two other Georgia State Representatives were previously convicted of similar pandemic unemployment assistance fraud: Karen L. Bennett, former State Representative for District 94, pled guilty on January 21, 2026, to federal charges of making false statements to collect $13,940 of pandemic unemployment benefits. Dexter L. Sharper, former State Representative for District 177, pled guilty on March 11, 2026, to federal charges of making false statements to collect $13,825 of pandemic unemployment benefits. This case is being investigated by the Georgia Office of the State Inspector General, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Garrett L. Bradford is prosecuting the case. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Texas Laboratory, Former CEO, and Florida Businessman Pay $36.4 Million to Settle Health Care Fraud Allegations

component: Civil Division

body_text: ATLANTA – Access DX Laboratory (“Access DX”), its former CEO Michael Stewart, and Florida businessman Harold Shatz will pay a combined total of $36.4 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by paying kickbacks and billing Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary genetic testing. “This settlement sends a clear message that we will not tolerate fraudulent schemes that waste taxpayer dollars and undermine trust in our medical system,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We will aggressively pursue any provider or entity that seeks to exploit federal programs through excessive billing and illegal kickbacks.” “Healthcare referrals must reflect the best decision for patients, not the influence of kickbacks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This resolution demonstrates the Department’s commitment to hold accountable both corporations and individuals who profit from improper kickback arrangements and who burden federal healthcare programs with claims for medically unnecessary services.” “Kickbacks and medically unnecessary genetic testing schemes not only drain taxpayer-funded federal health care programs, but undermine the integrity of our U.S. health care system and drive up health care costs for all of us,” said Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Miranda L. Bennett of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”). “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue health care fraud and protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the people who rely on them.” The government’s investigation arose after a whistleblower filed a complaint alleging that, from January 2018 through January 2020, Access DX, a laboratory based in Houston, Texas; Stewart; and Shatz paid kickbacks to marketers in return for referrals of patients for genetic testing, unbundled billing codes for genetic testing, paid telemedicine providers for false and fraudulent doctors’ orders, and submitted and caused the submission of false claims for genetic testing. Based on this conduct, Shatz and Stewart pleaded guilty in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas to conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks. The $36.4 million civil settlement resolves a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, U.S. ex rel. Green v. Access DX Lab LLC, et al. , No. 1:19-cv-2845. In connection with its settlement, Access DX entered into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement (“CIA”) with HHS-OIG. The CIA requires Access DX to implement auditing and accountability provisions, including implementation of a robust compliance program, training and education requirements, and a review of arrangements with referral sources. Except to the extent admitted by Stewart and Shatz in their plea agreements, the claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Under the False Claims Act, private citizens may bring suit for false claims on behalf of the United States and share in any recovery obtained by the government. Douglas Green, the whistleblower and president of a Massachusetts marketing company hired to market genetic testing to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, will receive $7.2 million from the settlement. The investigation and resolution of this matter were handled by Northern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeli Ben-David and Senior Litigation Counsel Laurie A. Oberembt of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, with substantial assistance from HHS-OIG. This year, the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Department of Justice’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Department’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement affecting federal health care programs can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Tallahassee Woman Federally Indicted for Defrauding Tallahassee Housing Authority of $378,000

component: Office of the Inspector General

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Lekishaann Huggins, 45, of Tallahassee, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with 39 counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, four counts of spending money laundering, and two counts of filing a false tax return. This investigation is a part of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud launched by President Donald J. Trump, a whole-of-government effort to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today. The defendant appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for September 8, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before United States Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment for each of the 39 counts of bank fraud, 2 years’ imprisonment consecutive to any other imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft count, up to 10 years’ imprisonment for each spending money laundering count, up to 3 years’ imprisonment for each filing false tax return count and, restitution, and forfeiture of assets. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Tallahassee Man Faces 25 Years in Prison After Conviction for Federal Drug-Trafficking and Possession of Firearms

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

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Christopher L. Daniels, 47, of Tallahassee, Florida, was found guilty yesterday by a federal jury of possession with intent to distribute various controlled substances including more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The guilty verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. Evidence at trial demonstrated that the Tallahassee Police Department conducted an investigation into drug-trafficking by the defendant that culminated in the execution of a search warrant at his home on January 21, 2026. Officers found approximately 2.75 ounces of methamphetamine, an ounce of cocaine, half an ounce of crack cocaine laid out in plain view on an ironing board, approximately an ounce of “molly” (two different synthetic cathinones), 64 suspected MDMA tablets which were found to actually just be low-purity methamphetamine, and a pound of marijuana. Four pistols were also found in the house, including a “Draco” AK-47-style pistol found near the plate of crack cocaine. Evidence on the defendant’s cellphone showed that he was engaged in drug-trafficking. The defendant is a 12-time convicted felon with convictions dating back to 1996 and he faces enhanced sentencing due to multiple prior convictions for serious drug felonies. Sentencing is scheduled for October 15, 2026, at 10:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle. The defendant faces 25 years to life imprisonment, 10 years to life on supervised release, and a fine of up to $20,000,000. This conviction was the result of a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain 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. 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 . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Forsyth man sentenced to 27 years for producing, collecting child pornography

body_text: BILLINGS – A Forsyth man who was messaging boys over social media and requesting nude images was sentenced Wednesday afternoon to 27 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Schifferns was also ordered to pay a total of $40,200 in special assessments and $15,000 in restitution. Zachary Dean Schifferns, 38, pleaded guilty in March 2026 to one count of producing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided. The government alleged in court documents that Schifferns sought Child Sex Abuse Material from a 14-year-old boy and that Schifferns maintained a cache of illicit images of children. Law enforcement interviewed the 14-year-old on Dec. 25, 2024, after the boy spoke up about Schifferns reaching out to him on social media and requesting nude images. In the interaction, Schifferns had sent the boy a picture of his own genitalia and told him he was interested in 12- to 15-year-old boys. In response, the 14-year-old sent Schifferns a fake image he photoshopped from material online. The next day, law enforcement obtained a warrant, and over the next few weeks searched Schifferns’s residence, electronic media, and social media. They discovered dozens of sexually explicit images and videos of children, including some that involved children under 12. They also discovered similar messages he had sent to other boys. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus prosecuted the case. The FBI, Rosebud County Sheriff’s Office, and Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: El Salvadorian man sentenced for illegal reentry into the country

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: MISSOULA – An El Salvadorian citizen who was in the country illegally after having been removed in 2019 was sentenced Wednesday to time served of 208 days, which will be followed by his removal from the United States, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Gabriel Dejesus Portillo-Abrego, 37, pleaded guilty in March 2026 to one count of illegal reentry into the United States. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged in court documents that Portillo-Abrego had illegally returned to the U.S. after having first been deported in 2019. Local law enforcement in Belgrade stopped the vehicle Portillo-Abrego was driving for speeding and driving under the influence on March 1, 2025. After he was detained, U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement learned of his arrest and determined Portillo-Abrego had been removed from the country in 2019 and lacked the proper authorization to return. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement conducted the investigation. 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: Luzerne County Man Sentenced To 151 Months’ Imprisonment For  Drug Trafficking And Firearm Offenses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ricky Charles Patterson, age 45, a resident of Plymouth, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment by Senior United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, for one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, on May 2, 2025, ATF agents served a federal search warrant at Patterson’s residence in Plymouth, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Pursuant to the warrant, agents seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, and a loaded Smith & Wesson revolver. Patterson, a previously convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Kingston Police Department, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson. 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. # # #


title: LOUISIANA U.S. ATTORNEYS HIGHLIGHT NINE RECENT FRAUD PROSECUTIONS ACROSS THE STATE

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. DOJ efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a comprehensive effort led by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. United States Attorneys in Louisiana are proud to stand unified in this critical effort on behalf of Louisiana citizens and made this joint statement: “The cases highlighted include some of the most expansive and complex fraud cases that DOJ has investigated and prosecuted, and which emphasize the combined missions of the DOJ and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of Louisiana to safeguard the nation’s coffers from fraudulent schemes. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute alleged perpetrators of fraud, hold them accountable, and seek justice for those directly impacted by fraud. It is the hardworking American taxpayer who ultimately bears the financial burden of fraud, waste and abuse,” stated David I. Courcelle, United States Attorney, Eastern District of Louisiana; Kurt L. Wall, United States Attorney, Middle District of Louisiana; and Zachary A. Keller, United States Attorney, Western District of Louisiana. “The Louisiana Department of Justice is proud to partner with our three U.S. Attorneys – David Courcelle, Kurt Wall, and Zachary Keller – to fight fraud,” stated Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill. “Since I assumed office, the LDOJ has secured more than 100 convictions and $73 million in court-ordered restitution. Those kinds of results only happen when all levels of government work together toward the same mission. Under the leadership of the Trump administration, Acting Attorney General Blanche, Governor Landry, the Louisiana Legislature, and our many other state and federal partners, we are holding criminals accountable and delivering real results for the taxpayers of Louisiana and the nation.” “Louisiana’s business records should never become a tool for criminals. This partnership reflects our commitment to protecting businesses, consumers, and the integrity of our state’s business registration system,” stated Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry. “By working more closely with our law enforcement partners at both the state and federal levels, we can better identify fraudulent activity, disrupt criminal schemes, and protect businesses from those who seek to exploit them. Collaboration like this strengthens public confidence and helps ensure Louisiana remains a safe place to live, work, and do business.” “Louisiana is all in with President Trump and Vice President Vance. To anyone stealing from a Louisiana program: the State of Louisiana and the United States Department of Justice are working from the same file, and there is no seam left to hide in,” stated Angele Davis, Louisiana Inspector General and Chief Integrity Officer. “We thank the U.S. Department of Justice for its partnership in combating fraud and for bringing together investigative partners from across the Southeast to strengthen our shared efforts,” stated Michael “Mike” Waguespack, Louisiana Legislative Auditor. What follows are cases that particularly exemplify the effort to investigate and prosecute fraud in Louisiana and restore confidence to citizens. EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA On June 3, 2026, Amanda Clayborne-Williams was charged with wire fraud and tax evasion. According to the bill of information, in 2020 and 2021, Clayborne-Williams submitted twelve fraudulent Small Business Administration loan and loan forgiveness applications for Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”). Clayborne-Williams applied for approximately $1.3 million in loans. It is alleged she received approximately $447,305.98. Clayborne-Williams also attempted to evade paying income tax by filing a false form with the IRS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni. On June 17, 2026, Scharmaine Lawson Baker, a nurse practitioner, was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,508,868 in restitution for her role in a health care fraud scheme resulting in over $12 million in fraudulent Medicare claims for medically unnecessary cancer genetic tests. Baker received tens of thousands of dollars in illegal kickbacks. Trial evidence showed that Baker ordered ovarian and cervical cancer tests for male patients. The case was prosecuted by DOJ Gulf Coast Health Care Fraud Strike Force Trial Attorneys Samantha E. Usher, Gary A. Crosby II, and Kelly Z. Walters; and by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses. On June 22, 2026, Dr. Christopher Whipple, a New Orleans physician, was charged by indictment with two counts of health care fraud. Whipple owned and operated two health care companies that are alleged to have submitted $5.9 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and Humana. Whipple allegedly submitted claims on behalf of patients for which he did not provide care and billed for in-person care for Louisianians despite their being outside the state. Whipple is also alleged to have submitted claims using the identities of other providers without their permission. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Zakeria Haidary, Acting Assistant Chief Sara Porter of the Gulf Coast Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Knight. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Giavotella is handling asset forfeiture. MIDDLE DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA Chakesha Scott, Eric Scott, Courtney Scott, and Sam Green, all of Zachary, were indicted on July 15, 2026, for conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds. Beginning around June 2018 and continuing until at least December 2024, the defendants allegedly conspired to embezzle or steal funds from Impact Charter School for personal use. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis, who also serves as the office’s District Fraud Counsel. Oscar Hills, IV, of Baton Rouge, was convicted following a three-day jury trial in September 2025 of two counts of wire fraud and two counts of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions. The jury found that, between March 2020 and May 2020, Hills submitted fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs), which were created or expanded by Congress under the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on these applications, Hills fraudulently obtained over $835,000. He is awaiting sentencing. The case is currently being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Casey. Damian Raby, of Gonzales, was sentenced to 18 years in prison in October of 2025 following his conviction for conspiracy to launder money and obstruct the due administration of internal revenue laws. Raby was also ordered to pay over $2.6 million in restitution based on his filing of over three dozen fraudulent applications for pandemic-era tax credits under the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) program, which was implemented by the CARES Act to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payrolls. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan A. Stevens, who also serves as the office’s Senior Litigation Counsel, and John B. Casey. WESTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA Jane Francis Pierce, of Boyce, is charged with running a multi-year fraud scheme in which she filed false tax returns on behalf of a trust she controlled, seeking almost $10 million in refunds, and successfully obtaining more than $1 million from the IRS. She allegedly used the money for personal expenses, including a home and vehicle, and then obstructed the IRS’s efforts to reclaim the fraudulent refunds. On April 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging her with mail fraud, money laundering, filing false tax returns, and interfering with an IRS investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Johnson, and Trial Attorney with the Criminal Division Tax Section, Isaiah Boyd. Chandrakant Patel, of Oakdale, a business owner, and four co-defendants, Chad Doyle, Michael Slaney, Glynn Dixon, and Tebo Onishea, were paid thousands of dollars by foreign nationals to be named as false “victims” of crimes to obtain U-visas in and around Oakdale. Patel conspired with his co-defendants, prominent members of local law enforcement, who used their official positions to certify the fraudulent reports. Patel also attempted to bribe a Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office employee with $5,000 for an additional fraudulent report and the group used the U.S. Postal Service and other carriers to submit falsified documents. They were indicted on July 2, 2025, and all have now pled guilty. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Nickel and Danny Siefker. On May 7, 2026, Mya Carter, of Shreveport, and nine co-defendants, were indicted after a multi-year investigation of individuals applying for fraudulent loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program provided by the Small Business Administration (SBA) of the Federal Government. The 10 individuals indicted in this case applied for, or had others apply in their place, for multiple loans using fraudulent documents and false information to claim ownership of mostly non-existent businesses to enrich themselves. A total of 12 loans were funded for a loss of approximately $260,000 with an additional 46 loans that attempted to obtain over one million dollars in federal funds. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Aaron Crawford.


title: Southwest Georgia Man Sentenced on Federal Dog Fighting, Firearms, and Drug Trafficking Charges

component: ENRD - Environmental Crimes Section

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – Dun Terrius Bradford, 55, of Sale City, Georgia, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release after being convicted in December of 69 counts of illegally possessing dogs for fighting purposes, one count of manufacturing and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base, and one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of those offenses. The 67 pit bull-type dogs rescued from Bradford’s residence were, at the time of the offense, the third-most dogs rescued in any federal case. This case also marks the nation’s first federal conviction for possessing firearms in furtherance of dog fighting. One of the 67 dogs rescued from Bradford’s residence in Case No. 1:24-CR-31 in U.S. v. Bradford. “Dog fighting is organized crime, and it’s a magnet for other criminal activity, as this case demonstrates,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division. “Americans detest animal cruelty and the illegal drugs and guns that come with it. The Department of Justice is fighting to get these criminal elements out of our neighborhoods.” “Dog fighting is a grave act of animal cruelty that breeds crime and depravity, bringing illegal drugs, firearms, and violence into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes for the Middle District of Georgia. “This first-ever federal conviction for possessing firearms in furtherance of dog fighting demonstrates our commitment to working with law enforcement partners to dismantle these criminal organizations and protect both animals and the communities they harm.” “This investigation exposed a dangerous criminal operation involving organized dog fighting activities that inflicted horrific abuse on animals while also serving as a breeding ground for other serious criminal activity such as the narcotics and firearms violations that this defendant engaged in,” said U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Inspector General John Walk. “This case demonstrates USDA OIG’s commitment to aggressively pursuing those who profit from animal cruelty, and we thank our law enforcement partners and the prosecutors who worked with us to ensure this defendant was held accountable.” “This case demonstrates the good results achieved when local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies collaborate to rescue dogs suffering at the hands of those involved in dog fighting and related crimes,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Joseph “Joe” Chapman for the Middle District of Georgia. “The U.S. Marshals remain committed to supporting law enforcement in bringing those responsible for dog fighting to justice and ensuring that rescued canines are placed in protective custody, giving them a chance at a better life.” According to court documents and trial evidence submitted in this case, Bradford maintained a stock of 67 fighting dogs at his home in Sale City. At this compound, agents also recovered tools and supplies used in the training and keeping of dogs used for fighting, including: blood-splattered treadmills that had been modified to hold dogs in place conditioning; injectable veterinary steroids; a homemade “breeding stand” used to immobilize female dogs too aggressive for breeding; a cattle shock prod with dog DNA on the tip; and a large cinder-block water tank used to tether dogs that had to tread water to keep from drowning. Officers also recovered cocaine base and the pot in which it was cooked, plus four firearms. A water tank (l) and a blood-spattered treadmill (r) used to train dogs in Case No. 1:24-CR-3 in U.S. v. Bradford. Under federal law, it is illegal to fight dogs in a venture that affects interstate commerce and to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase, or receive dogs for fighting purposes. This case was the first in the nation in which prosecutors obtained a federal conviction for possessing firearms in furtherance of dog fighting. USDA-OIG and the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case with assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service. Criminal Chief Leah McEwen of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia and former Senior Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Morrill and Paralegal Kristi Cote for the Middle District of Georgia handled a parallel civil forfeiture proceeding to ensure that the dogs did not have to be returned to Bradford. The Seized Canine Program of the U.S. Marshals Service cared for the rescued dogs pending legal process.


title: South Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Filing a False Tax Return and Agrees to Pay the IRS More Than $34 Million in Restitution

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: Tampa, FL – Daniel Liburdi (37, Miami) has pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return. Liburdi faces a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison and has agreed to pay $34,846,381 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Liburdi has also agreed to the civil forfeiture of three real properties in Miami Beach and the U.S. Virgin Islands, valued, collectively, at approximately $37,500,000; two Ferraris and one Land Rover Range Rover, valued, collectively, at approximately $1,127,000; and the contents of several financial accounts that total $414,508.49. A sentencing date is set for August 18, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. The action is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. According to court documents, Liburdi misreported his income on his 2021, 2022, and 2023 tax returns. For example, on his 2023 tax return, Liburdi falsely stated that business income was sourced by a U.S. Virgin Islands-based entity, rather than U.S.-based entities that had actually sourced the income. The false statement facilitated Liburdi’s claim of EDC Beneficiary exclusions of income not otherwise eligible for this exclusion. As a result, Liburdi misreported the amount of tax due to the IRS in the amount of nearly $10 million on his 2023 tax return. Liburdi also misreported income on his 2021 and 2022 tax returns, resulting in an additional tax loss to the government of over $24 million. “Liburdi’s actions represent a flagrant disregard for our nation’s tax laws as he engaged in a deliberate scheme to evade taxes, defraud the U.S. Treasury, and exploit public coffers for his personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to combat fraud and ensure that those who violate federal laws are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “This defendant earned tens of millions of dollars in income and then devised an elaborate scheme to not pay taxes,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “This case demonstrates that high net-worth individuals, like all Americans, are held accountable for filing false documents with the IRS, and IRS Special Agents will join forces with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who choose similar paths.” “Fraud of this magnitude is not a victimless crime—it undermines public trust, harms honest taxpayers, and threatens the integrity of our financial systems,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael S. Calvo. “Combating fraud and tax evasion requires unwavering commitment and collaboration across agencies, and no single organization can tackle these complex crimes alone. By forging strong partnerships, we ensure thorough investigations and hold offenders accountable, protecting the integrity of our financial systems and the public trust.” On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. Additional assistance was provided by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ross Roberts and Whitney Mackay. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.


title: Cuban National Sentenced for His Role in an International Alien Smuggling, Asylum Fraud, and Money Laundering Conspiracy

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL — A Cuban National was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for his role in an international alien smuggling, asylum fraud, and money laundering conspiracy. “Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is essential to maintaining safe and secure borders,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The conspirators in this case used sophisticated methods to violate those laws and engaged in an elaborate human smuggling scheme, for profit. The diligence demonstrated by our law enforcement partners in this case ensured that this defendant was brought to justice.” “Ventura-Castro was part of a complex conspiracy responsible for smuggling aliens into the United States on a massive scale,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendant and others recruited aliens using social media, charged thousands of dollars to bring them into the country illegally, and helped them get immigration benefits to which they were not entitled.” “The exploitation of vulnerable people through these types of intricate schemes are egregious crimes that threaten our national security and exploit the integrity of our immigration system,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa. “They knowingly orchestrated a sophisticated scheme to recruit and smuggle thousands of Cuban nationals into the United States, and unlawfully obtained immigration benefits through fraudulent applications, deliberate misrepresentations, and illicit financial transactions. Such calculated criminal conduct undermines the integrity of our immigration system and will be met with the full force of the law.” “Today’s sentencing is evidence of our all-out war on immigration fraud,” said Director Joseph Edlow of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is proud to have worked with our law enforcement partners to dismantle this criminal enterprise, which churned out thousands of fake asylum claims and flooded the country with illegal aliens. As Ventura-Castro and his criminal associates are being brought to justice, we will continue our mission protecting Americans from those who seek to exploit our laws and endanger our communities.” According to court documents, Erik Ventura-Castro, 24, of Hialeah, Florida, between January of 2021 and June of 2025, conspired with others to operate an alien smuggling organization (ASO) which encouraged or induced thousands of Cuban aliens to enter the United States through the southern border and used fraudulent Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and visa waivers. The defendants advertised their smuggling services and bogus visa services across multiple social media platforms to solicit Cuban nationals and other aliens to attempt to illegally enter the United States and fraudulently obtain lawful status in the United States. The alien smuggling organization (ASO) advertised services included assisting Cubans with making false claims of European citizenship to enter the United States on a European tourist visa waiver or ESTA and filing hundreds of fraudulent ESTA applications with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), using fake addresses and fabricated documents. To obtain admission under the ESTAs, the defendants made false representations that the applicants had not been in Cuba since 2011. The defendants knew that Cubans are not eligible for the ESTA program, and that the applicants were actually in Cuba at the time the ESTA applications were submitted. Passports and Boarding Passes obtained as part of the scheme Social media account advertising ASO services Social media account using photo from human smuggling event to advertise ASO services Ventura-Castro furthered the conspiracy by advertising trips for aliens to travel from Cuba to the United States through third-party countries and assisting the aliens in obtaining fraudulent ESTAs. The defendant submitted over 40 electronic payments to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for fraudulent ESTA applications. As part of the conspiracy, aliens were charged between $1,500 and $40,000 for smuggling services. Co-conspirators sometimes even chartered private planes to move groups of aliens. Ventura-Castro and co-defendants conspired with each other to regularly move funds to companies operating outside of the United States and to other places outside the United States, such as by purchasing international flights for aliens to travel into the United States. Ventura-Castro transmitted over $97,000 from the United States to the Cayman Islands, Colombia and Mexico to purchase flights for aliens to unlawfully enter the United States. Ventura-Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments on May 7. Twelve individuals were charged in a superseding indictment for their roles in the conspiracy. Defendants Liannys Yaiselys Vega-Perez, 31, Miguel Alejandro Martinez Vasconcelos, 31, Layra Libertad Treto Santos, 30, Emanuel Martinez Gonzalez, 29, and Walbis Pozo-Dutel, 31, have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Defendants Lazaro Alain Cabrera-Rodriguez, Luis Emmanuel Escalona-Marrero, and Gisleivy Peralta Consuegra are awaiting trial scheduled to begin on Sept. 21. The investigation and superseding indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including HSI and CBP U.S. Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 465 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 424 U.S. convictions; and more than 368 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets. HSI Tampa, U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, and USCIS’s’ Fraud Detection and National Security led U.S. investigative efforts, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force. Authorities in the Cayman Islands provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Derry for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Amanda Brown of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case.


title: North Carolina Man Sentenced for Investment Fund Theft Scheme

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A North Carolina man, who posed as an investment advisor, is headed to prison for running an investment fund theft scam in which he stole from at least 64 investors in the District of Maryland. Today, U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox sentenced Hunter Haithcock, 25, aka Hunter Elliott, of Matthews, to 42 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for committing wire and investment adviser fraud. Judge Maddox also ordered Haithcock to pay $655,498.93 in restitution and forfeiture. Through Haithcock’s scheme, he stole at least $650,000 in funds from the victims. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office. According to court documents, beginning in September 2019, and continuing through October 2022, Haithcock stole at least $655,498.93 from the victims. The victims entrusted Haithcock with their funds after he deceptively claimed he worked for Company #1 with a registered investment adviser (the “victim investment advisor”). Then Haithcock told the victim investors if they invested with him, he would guarantee their investment principal and provide them significant returns on their investments. In connection with the scheme, Haithcock routinely provided investors with fabricated reports that purported to show investors’ portfolio gains. But Haithcock created the fictitious documents to perpetuate and conceal his scheme. Instead of investing his clients’ investment funds, Haithcock stole them. Haithcock funneled the money to accounts he controlled and used the funds for his own purposes. Specifically, he used the stolen funds to pay for credit card bills, meals, entertainment, car payments, travel expenses – including hotels and flights, and to trade cryptocurrency for his own benefit. As described in his plea agreement, Haithcock met his victims in a variety of ways, including through a local church and by word-of-mouth referrals. Haithcock routinely represented himself as Hunter Elliott, a licensed securities broker for Company #1, who could invest their money in securities and provide them with very large, 100-200 percent or larger, returns. But Haithcock was never employed with Company #1 or any other broker-dealer. Haithcock also never had a license to trade securities and does not know the victim investment advisor. Additionally, Haithcock promised investors that their investment principal was protected from loss regardless of the risk of the performance of the market and the size of their initial investment. Some victims invested tens of thousands of dollars while others invested $10,000 or less. Haithcock routinely lied about the future projected performance of anticipated investments. After victims invested funds with Haithcock, he routinely provided investors with fraudulent “Statement Reports,” often on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. These reports purported to list, among other things, each investor’s portfolio value and purported stock trades Haithcock made on their behalf. Eventually, when investors began to ask for the return of their funds, Haithcock fabricated reasons why he could not return their money. Haithcock used a small portion of the client investor funds he received from other investors to pay a few of them back, but most victims received nothing. Eventually, Haithcock stopped returning their calls and text messages. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation and praised the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Cecil County Sherriff’s Office, and the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Maryland for their assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Wenner who prosecuted the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Persuading and Inducing Individuals, Including Two Minors, to Travel to Engage in Prostitution

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Maryland man pleaded guilty on July 23, 2026 in federal court in Springfield, Mass. to inducing three individuals, including two minors, to travel across state lines to engage in prostitution. David Kaufman, 45, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging three counts of knowingly persuading, inducing, enticing and coercing an individual to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution and aiding and abetting, as well as one count of conspiring to do the same. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for Nov. 13, 2026. Kaufman was arrested in April 2025 . In May 2025 , a federal grand jury charged Kaufman in a superseding indictment that included additional charges against Kaufman as well as a co-conspirator. In January and February of 2024, Kaufman and a co-conspirator made arrangements for a victim to travel to Baltimore to stay with Kaufman, who paid for the travel. Once at Kaufman’s residence in Baltimore, Kaufman persuaded and enticed the victim to allow Kaufman to perform sex acts on the victim in exchange for money and things of value. In March, the victim and co-conspirator again traveled from Massachusetts to Maryland, where Kaufman once again persuaded and enticed the victim to allow Kaufman to perform sex acts on the victim in exchange for money and things of value. In June 2024, a minor victim and a co-conspirator traveled from Massachusetts to Maryland to stay with Kaufman. Kaufman again paid for the travel. Once there, Kaufman persuaded and enticed the minor victim to allow him to perform sex acts on the minor victim and paid the victim money to do so. Kaufman continued to communicate with the minor victim and encouraged the victim to return to Maryland to engage in additional sex acts for money. In late June, the minor victim and the co-conspirator again traveled from Massachusetts to Baltimore, and Kaufman paid for the tickets in anticipation of the victim engaging in additional sex acts with him for money. Once back in Baltimore, Kaufman and the minor victim engaged in sex acts in exchange for money in Kaufman’s bedroom. At that time, the victim was 16 years old but, at the co-conspirator’s urging, told Kaufman that he was 18 years old. In July 2024, Kaufman traveled to Boston, Mass.. Kaufman and his co-conspirator arranged to meet in Boston and the co-conspirator introduced Kaufman to another minor victim, convincing the minor to travel from Connecticut to Massachusetts to meet Kaufman for prostitution. Once Kaufman, his co-conspirator and the minor victim were in Boston, Kaufman engaged in sex acts with the victim in exchange for money. At that time, the minor was 17 years old but, at the co-conspirator’s urging, told Kaufman that he was 18 years old. If you have information or questions about this investigation, or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking or child exploitation, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov. The charge of knowingly persuading and inducing a person to travel for purposes of prostitution provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to knowingly persuade and induce a person to travel for purposes of prostitution provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Maryland; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and the Baltimore Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Torey B. Cummings, Craig E. Estes and Kunal Pasricha of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Kansas man indicted for robbing a bank at gunpoint

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with robbing a bank. According to court documents, Daniel J. Young, 41, of Kansas City, Kansas, was indicted on one count of bank robbery and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. In June 2026, Young is accused of brandishing a firearm while robbing a bank on Parallel Parkway in Kansas City, Kansas, and using intimidation to force an employee to give him money. Photo created from bank surveillance. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case. 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: Convicted felon indicted for firearm possession

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a man for allegedly having a pistol when he is prohibited from legally possessing guns because of a prior felony conviction. According to court documents, Jey Lewis, 27, was indicted on one count of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting the case. OTHER INDICTMENTS Juan Carlos Duron, 50, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously deported alien convicted of an aggravated felony. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting the case. Michell Gonzalez-Diaz, 33, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case. Jose De Jesus Martinez-Chavez, 48, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Robert Moreno-Rodriguez, 46, an illegal alien from Mexico, was indicted on one count of reentry of a previously removed alien. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Fadler is prosecuting the case. 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: Manitowoc Man Sentenced to 7 Years’ Imprisonment for Transportation of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 28, 2026, Zachariah R. Breihof (age 28), of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Byron B. Conway to 84 months' imprisonment after pleading guilty to one count of Transportation of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(1). According to court documents, in January 2025, the defendant was the subject of a CyberTip indicating that he had uploaded approximately 130 images of child pornography to a popular cloud storage platform. Law enforcement investigated further and subsequently executed a search warrant at Breihof's residence. A review of the defendant's electronic devices revealed more than 28,000 files containing suspected child pornography and an additional 5,000 files were identified as "high-risk" child pornography. Judge Conway described the defendant's crime as extremely serious and noted that the types of images possessed and transported by Breihof are "reviled by every culture." He further stated that Breihof exhibits "impulse problems" and emphasized the need to protect the public and deter similar conduct in the future. Following his seven-year prison sentence, the defendant will serve 10 years of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender under state and federal law. “Every image of child pornography is a graphic memorialization of a child being abused,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Schimel. “The abuse of children to create these images is driven by the demand from those who seek and view these materials. We have no higher priority than protecting our children, and Federal, state and local authorities will continue to aggressively pursue and lock up those who traffic in this vile trade.” "Crimes against children remain one of the highest priorities for the Manitowoc Police Department,” said Manitowoc Police Chief John R. Musial II. “I am incredibly grateful for the dedicated members of our department who possess the skill, compassion, and professionalism to thoroughly investigate these difficult cases and seek justice on behalf of vulnerable victims. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to the United States Attorney’s Office for its steadfast partnership and commitment to protecting children, supporting victims, and aggressively prosecuting those who exploit our most vulnerable. Holding offenders accountable requires strong collaboration between local and federal law enforcement, and that partnership plays a vital role in making our communities safer. Thank you for your exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice.” This case was investigated by the Manitowoc Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' 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. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: Previously convicted child sex offender sentenced to 16 years in prison for latest crimes

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Hampton man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for attempted coercion and enticement of a child and receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and an additional year for violating the terms of his supervised release. According to court documents, on Oct. 22, 2018, Christopher Charles Collins, 40, was convicted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia of attempted transfer of obscene material to a person under 16 years of age and possession of CSAM. He was sentenced to six years and six months in prison and a five-year term of supervised release. Collins was released from prison on Nov. 24, 2023. On October 28, 2025, using the moniker “SinningPastor,” Collins engaged online with an undercover officer who was posing as a 14-year-old girl on the social media platform Chatiw. After moving their communications to Discord, Collins sexually propositioned the undercover officer and arranged to pick her up from a home in Newport News and take her to his residence. Law enforcement arrested Collins when he arrived at the home. At the time of his arrest, Collins possessed two cellphones. A search of the phones revealed that Collins possessed CSAM, of which he was attributed with over a thousand images. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Eric Weindorf, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Washington D.C. Field Office and Newport News Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa R. McKeel prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ 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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit Know2Protect.gov. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:26-cr-19.


title: Louisiana man sentenced to 25+ years in federal prison for Jefferson County violent crime spree that included carjackings, a shooting, and a convenience store robbery

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Sunset, Louisiana, man has been sentenced to over 25 years in federal prison for a violent crime spree in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Bracelon Armon Charles, 23, pleaded guilty to attempted carjacking; carjacking; Hobbs Act robbery; and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 308 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 30, 2026. According to information presented in court, on October 6-7, 2023, Charles and a juvenile engaged in a violent crime spree that included the attempted carjacking of a vehicle in Beaumont, the shooting of the vehicle’s owner, another carjacking in Port Arthur, and an attempted armed robbery of a convenience store in Beaumont. 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 . This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Beaumont Police Department; the Port Arthur Police Department; and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy Coleman.


title: Jefferson County man sentenced to federal prison for burglarizing Beaumont gun store

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont man has been sentenced to federal prison for burglarizing a gun store in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Leonard Joseph Flowers, 60, pleaded guilty to theft of a firearm from a licensed firearms dealer and was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 30, 2026. According to information presented in court, on July 17, 2025, a federally licensed gun store on East-Tex Freeway in Beaumont was burglarized and three firearms were stolen. Soon after, an investigation began and Flowers turned himself in to law enforcement and admitted to smashing the front door of the gun store and stealing the firearms. Video surveillance identified the getaway car which led to James Christopher Moffett, a convicted felon. Moffett was stopped for a traffic violation that same day and found to be in possession of two of the firearms stolen in the earlier burglary. As a convicted felon, Moffett is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms. Moffett, 56, of Beaumont, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison on June 4, 2026. 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 . This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Beaumont Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell James. ###


title: McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Drug And Firearm Charges

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Justin Leon Westbrook, 43, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine, punishable by a minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5,000,000 fine, and one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The Indictment charged Westbrook with knowingly and intentionally distributing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, on July 23, 2025. The Indictment also charged Westbrook with knowingly possessing one semi-automatic pistol, serial number obliterated, on July 29, 2025, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment. The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Westbrook will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chuck Sullivan represented the United States.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty To Unlawful Reentry

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Eastern

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Adan Cruz Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz-Castillo, a/k/a Adan Cruz, a/k/a Adam Cruz, 33, a Mexican national unlawfully present in McIntosh County, Oklahoma, plead guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00. The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Checotah Police Department. The Indictment alleged that on June 18, 2026, Cruz Castillo, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on June 23, 2022, and January 12, 2018. 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. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Cruz Castillo will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.


title: Adult Day Care Provider Accused of $1.47 Million Missouri Medicaid Fraud

body_text: ST. LOUIS – An adult day care provider has been indicted and accused of defrauding Missouri Medicaid out of $1.47 million. Tony King, 63, was indicted July 22 on five counts of health care fraud. King turned himself in Thursday and appeared in U.S. District Court in St. Louis, where he pleaded not guilty. The indictment says King operated Agape Love Adult Day Care LLC, holding out the company as a provider in Missouri’s Adult Day Care Waiver (ADCW) program. That program provides for continuous care and supervision of older and disabled adults for up to 10 hours per day, five days a week to provide a community-based alternative to those who might otherwise be placed in a nursing facility. The Missouri Medicaid Program reimburses for ADCW services including planned group activities, food service and transportation. The indictment says King submitted false claims for reimbursement to Missouri Medicaid for services that were never provided. King falsely claimed that Agape provided 10 hours of care per day when the company only provided half that amount, the indictment says. King also submitted claims for providing day care services to patients that were either not present at Agape or were hospitalized. The indictment says that King submitted a total of $1.47 million in false claims from at least as early as February 2021 through March 2026. King, formerly of St. Louis County, now lives in Georgia. Health care fraud is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine. Restitution is mandatory. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and Missouri Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karin Schute is prosecuting the case.


title: Louisiana U.S. Attorneys Highlight Nine Recent Fraud Prosecutions Across the State

body_text: On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. DOJ efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a comprehensive effort led by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. United States Attorneys in Louisiana are proud to stand unified in this critical effort on behalf of Louisiana citizens and made this joint statement: “The cases highlighted include some of the most expansive and complex fraud cases that DOJ has investigated and prosecuted, and which emphasize the combined missions of the DOJ and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of Louisiana to safeguard the nation’s coffers from fraudulent schemes. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute alleged perpetrators of fraud, hold them accountable, and seek justice for those directly impacted by fraud. It is the hardworking American taxpayer who ultimately bears the financial burden of fraud, waste, and abuse,” stated David I. Courcelle, United States Attorney, Eastern District of Louisiana, Kurt L. Wall, United States Attorney, Middle District of Louisiana, Zachary A. Keller, United States Attorney, Western District of Louisiana. “The Louisiana Department of Justice is proud to partner with our three U.S. Attorneys - David Courcelle, Kurt Wall, and Zachary Keller - to fight fraud. Since I assumed office, the LDOJ has secured more than 100 convictions and $73 million in court-ordered restitution, stated Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill. “Those kinds of results only happen when all levels of government work together toward the same mission. Under the leadership of the Trump administration, Acting Attorney General Blanche, Governor Landry, the Louisiana Legislature, and our many other state and federal partners, we are holding criminals accountable and delivering real results for the taxpayers of Louisiana and the nation,” stated Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill. “Louisiana’s business records should never become a tool for criminals. This partnership reflects our commitment to protecting businesses, consumers, and the integrity of our state’s business registration system. By working more closely with our law enforcement partners at both the state and federal levels, we can better identify fraudulent activity, disrupt criminal schemes, and protect businesses from those who seek to exploit them. Collaboration like this strengthens public confidence and helps ensure Louisiana remains a safe place to live, work, and do business,” stated Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry. “Louisiana is all in with President Trump and Vice President Vance. To anyone stealing from a Louisiana program: the State of Louisiana and the United States Department of Justice are working from the same file, and there is no seam left to hide in,” stated Louisiana Inspector General and Chief Integrity Officer Angele Davis. “We thank the U.S. Department of Justice for its partnership in combating fraud and for bringing together investigative partners from across the Southeast to strengthen our shared efforts,” Louisiana Legislative Auditor Michael “Mike” Waguespack. What follows are cases that particularly exemplify the effort to investigate and prosecute fraud in Louisiana and restore confidence to citizens. EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA On June 3, 2026, Amanda Clayborne-Williams was charged with wire fraud and tax evasion. According to the bill of information, in 2020 and 2021, Clayborne-Williams submitted twelve fraudulent Small Business Administration loan and loan forgiveness applications for Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”). Clayborne-Williams applied for approximately $1.3 million in loans. It is alleged she received approximately $447,305.98. Clayborne-Williams also attempted to evade paying income tax by filing a false form with the IRS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni. On June 17, 2026, Scharmaine Lawson Baker , a nurse practitioner, was sentenced to 87 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,508,868 in restitution for her role in a health care fraud scheme resulting in over $12 million in fraudulent Medicare claims for medically unnecessary cancer genetic tests. Baker received tens of thousands of dollars in illegal kickbacks. Trial evidence showed that Baker ordered ovarian and cervical cancer tests for male patients. The case was prosecuted by DOJ Gulf Coast Health Care Fraud Strike Force Trial Attorneys Samantha E. Usher, Gary A. Crosby II, and Kelly Z. Walters; and by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses. On June 22, 2026, Dr. Christopher Whipple , a New Orleans physician, was charged by indictment with two counts of health care fraud. Whipple owned and operated two health care companies that are alleged to have submitted $5.9 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and Humana. Whipple allegedly submitted claims on behalf of patients for which he did not provide care and billed for in-person care for Louisianians despite their being outside the state. Whipple is also alleged to have submitted claims using the identities of other providers without their permission. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Zakeria Haidary, Acting Assistant Chief Sara Porter of the Gulf Coast Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Knight. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Giavotella is handling asset forfeiture. MIDDLE DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA Chakesha Scott , Eric Scott , Courtney Scott , and Sam Green , all of Zachary, were indicted on July 15, 2026, for conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds. Beginning around June 2018 and continuing until at least December 2024, the defendants allegedly conspired to embezzle or steal funds from Impact Charter School for personal use. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis, who also serves as the office’s District Fraud Counsel. Oscar Hills, IV , of Baton Rouge, was convicted following a three-day jury trial in September 2025 of two counts of wire fraud and two counts of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions. The jury found that, between March 2020 and May 2020, Hills submitted fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs), which were created or expanded by Congress under the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on these applications, Hills fraudulently obtained over $835,000. He is awaiting sentencing. The case is currently being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Casey. Damian Raby , of Gonzales, was sentenced to 18 years in prison in October of 2025 following his conviction for conspiracy to launder money and obstruct the due administration of internal revenue laws. Raby was also ordered to pay over $2.6 million in restitution based on his filing of over three dozen fraudulent applications for pandemic-era tax credits under the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) program, which was implemented by the CARES Act to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payrolls. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan A. Stevens, who also serves as the office’s Senior Litigation Counsel, and John B. Casey. WESTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA Jane Francis Pierce , of Boyce, is charged with running a multi‑year fraud scheme in which she filed false tax returns on behalf of a trust she controlled, seeking almost $10 million in refunds, and successfully obtaining more than $1 million from the IRS. She allegedly used the money for personal expenses, including a home and vehicle, and then obstructed the IRS’s efforts to reclaim the fraudulent refunds. On April 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a four‑count indictment charging her with mail fraud, money laundering, filing false tax returns, and interfering with an IRS investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Johnson, and Trial Attorney with the Criminal Division Tax Section, Isaiah Boyd. Chandrakant Patel, of Oakdale, a business owner , and four co-defendants, Chad Doyle , Michael Slaney , Glynn Dixon , and Tebo Onishea , were paid thousands of dollars by foreign nationals to be named as false “victims” of crimes in order to obtain U-visas in and around Oakdale. Patel conspired with his co-defendants, prominent members of local law enforcement, who used their official positions to certify the fraudulent reports. Patel also attempted to bribe a Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office employee with $5,000 for an additional fraudulent report and the group used the U.S. Postal Service and other carriers to submit falsified documents. They were indicted on July 2, 2025, and all have now pled guilty. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Nickel and Danny Siefker. On May 7, 2026, Mya Carter , of Shreveport, and nine co-defendants, were indicted after a multi-year investigation of individuals applying for fraudulent loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program provided by the Small Business Administration (SBA) of the Federal Government. The 10 individuals indicted in this case applied for, or had others apply in their place, for multiple loans using fraudulent documents and false information to claim ownership of mostly non-existent businesses in order to enrich themselves. A total of 12 loans were funded for a loss of approximately $260,000 with an additional 46 loans that attempted to obtain over one million dollars in federal funds. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Aaron Crawford. ###


title: Former Executive Director of Stanford Housing Authority Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Federal Funding Theft

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Junction City, Ky., woman, Ashley Nicole Lear, 43, was sentenced on Wednesday to 13 months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Chad Merdith for three counts of wire fraud and one count of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds. According to her plea agreement, Lear engaged in multiple acts of financial misconduct during her tenure as Executive Director of Stanford Housing Authority (SHA) in Lincoln County. From July 2023 to March 2025, Lear, whose contracted salary was $58,000, paid herself unauthorized bonuses and inflated her salary. Investigators found that Lear provided forged board meeting minutes to auditors to support the falsified salary increases and bonuses. Lear also used SHA’s credit card for personal purchases including restaurant bills, salon services, retail shopping, travel accommodations, and concert tickets. She also used the agency’s vehicle for personal travel. Specific incidents detailed in the charges include unauthorized wire transfers from SHA’s bank account to her personal Chime account which were labeled as bonuses and using the SHA credit card at a tanning salon. During the period of the misconduct, SHA received more than $10,000 in federal funds, including a $138,528 payment from HUD Treasury. Lear embezzled or misapplied more than $5,000 in SHA property while serving as an agent of the federally funded organization. As part of her sentence, Lear was also ordered to pay $120,358.21 in restitution. Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; and Shawn Rice, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by HUD-OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Mattingly Williams prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 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. – END –


title: Yuba County Senior Citizen Indicted in Heroin Distribution Case

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury today has indicted Jose Gilberto Alvarez, 70, of Olivehurst, charging him with four counts of heroin distribution, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, between April and July 2026, Alvarez sold heroin on four occasions in the Yuba-Sutter County area. In total, he is accused of distributing about one pound of heroin. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Campbell is prosecuting the case. Alvarez is in custody. If convicted, Alvarez faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years in prison, and a $5 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.