title: Swanzey Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – Swanzey man David MacLean, 78, pleaded guilty today in federal court to one count of failing to register as a sex offender as required by the federal law, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled MacLean’s sentencing for December 3, 2026. According to the court documents and statements made in court, the Sexual Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”) requires individuals convicted of certain sex offenses to register as a sex offender in the state in which they reside or work. Among other things, SORNA requires sex offenders to register their online identifiers such as email addresses and online accounts and usernames. MacLean is required to register as a sex offender under SORNA due to his 2018 conviction for possessing child sex abuse material (“CSAM”). The defendant was released from prison in January 2021 and registered as a sex offender in November 2021, listing only one online identifier, a Yahoo email address. While under court supervision, MacLean admitted to his probation officer that he used an AI (or “Artificial Intelligence”) image generator to create an AI CSAM image, which he later deleted. A subsequent criminal investigation revealed that the defendant in fact subscribed to an AI generator website and that he had multiple unregistered online identifiers, including for Facebook, X, and Reddit. For example, investigators searched MacLean’s iPad, where they found evidence of MacLean’s use of these online identifiers, including a CSAM video in the “cache” data for MacLean’s Reddit Application. This data indicates that MacLean accessed this video through the Reddit Application and his unregistered Reddit account. MacLean knew he was required to register his online identifiers, including those he used for illicit conduct, yet he never reported these online identifiers in his sex offender registration paperwork. The charge of failure to register carries a sentence of up to 10 years incarceration, at least 5 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. The United States Marshals Service investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Kearneysville Man Sentenced After Traffic Stop Uncovers Large Quantities of Dangerous Drugs and Firearm

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Kearneysville, West Virginia man was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison for possessing large quantities of controlled substances and a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Bradley Allen Wilt, 45, was caught transporting large quantities of narcotics. A traffic stop of Wilt’s vehicle in Martinsburg, West Virginia, resulted in the seizure of 63 grams of cocaine, 169 grams of cocaine base, 282 grams of fentanyl, and 12 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride. Officers also recovered a .45 caliber handgun from the vehicle. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated. Fentanyl has been designated by President Donald Trump as a weapon of mass destruction due to its extreme lethality which poses a grave threat to public safety, even in trace amounts. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.


title: Berkeley County Woman Sentenced for Defrauding Small Business Out of Nearly $300,000

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia, woman will spend nearly four years in federal prison for defrauding a small business out of nearly $300,000, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Brittaney Allura Hall, 37, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for wire fraud. Hall worked as an office manager and accountant for a business in Martinsburg, giving her access to accounts and financial information for the company. Hall caused overpayments of payroll in reimbursements and commissions for her own benefit, wrote checks to herself without authority, and created false invoices which caused unauthorized payments to be made in her name. Hall was ordered to pay $258,143.51 in restitution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The FBI and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.


title: Federal prosecutors in North Texas move swiftly, charge nearly 200 criminal alien repeat offenders for illegal reentry

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced that federal prosecutors have charged 184 defendants with illegal reentry after removal since June 1, marking one of the District’s most significant recent efforts to confront illegal aliens with egregious criminal history who have reentered the United States in violation of federal law. By swiftly bringing these cases forward in coordination with federal law enforcement partners, the Department of Justice is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding our communities. These prosecutions help ensure that individuals with prior removals who continue to engage in unlawful activity are promptly identified, charged and ultimately removed from the United States. “Those who repeatedly break our immigration laws, especially individuals with serious criminal histories, should understand that they are not welcome in the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Illegal reentry is a federal felony, and we are moving swiftly to charge and remove criminal offenders who endanger our communities. North Texas will not serve as a refuge for those who persist in violating federal law.” “ERO Dallas remains focused on arresting and removing individuals who unlawfully return to the United States after removal, especially those with serious criminal histories,” said Miguel Vergara, ERO Dallas Field Office Director. “This initiative strengthens coordination with our partners and supports safer communities.” “HSI Dallas works closely with our federal partners to identify and investigate individuals who illegally reenter the United States after removal, particularly those with serious criminal histories,” said Antwoine Jones, HSI Dallas Deputy Special Agent in Charge. “These cases reflect the value of strong law enforcement coordination and our shared commitment to protecting public safety and upholding federal law.” Illegal reentry carries statutory penalties that may increase based on prior criminal history. Previous criminal convictions of defendants presently charged for illegal reentry include: Aggravated sexual assault of a child Indecency with a child Hit & run causing fatality Aggravated robbery Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon Assault on a public servant ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigations. This initiative is being led by the Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Calvert, Major Crimes Section Chief, and the cases are being prosecuted by the following Assistant U.S. Attorneys: Myria Boehm, John Boyle, Alexander Fryer, Katy Garner, Ashley Koos, Michael Murtha, Eli Sterbcow, David Thomas and Patrick Vickery, as well as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys: Eric Bales, Paul Lichlyter, Marbel Munoz, and Sarah Stefaniak. An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Six Texas Men Indicted for Robbing a Broken Arrow Man and Stealing 70 Pounds of Illegal Marijuana

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – Six Texas men have been indicted and detained for trial for their involvement in an interstate robbery conspiracy. The scheme, part of which was captured on a home video security system, allegedly involved kicking in a door at a residence in Broken Arrow, wearing masks, carrying a firearm, striking an occupant of the home, and stealing approximately 70 pounds of illegal marijuana. According to court documents, Jabriel Williams , 33, Darius Devvoin Hinton , 28, Blake Alexander Calvillo , 25, Nathan Haywood Strong , 36, Remond Reeshon Williams , 39, all of Dallas, Texas, and Jeremy Romel Conner , 44, of Athens, Texas, are charged with Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery after allegedly conspiring among themselves and others to commit robbery within the Northern District of Oklahoma. During detention hearings, prosecutors detailed the robbery in Broken Arrow, which occurred shortly after 4:00 a.m., in July 2025. Some of the defendants wore masks, brandished a firearm, and pistol-whipped a victim after announcing themselves as “Police!” and kicking in the front door of the home in Broken Arrow. When the defendants left, they stole approximately 70 pounds of illegal marijuana and were driven from the scene by co-conspirators. In the unsealed indictment, Hinton, Calvillo, Conner, and Strong are further charged with Hobbs Act Robbery, which affected interstate commerce. Additionally, Hinton, Conner, and Strong are charged with Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Lastly, Conner is charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. The FBI and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies, with the assistance of the Dallas Police Department and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John W. Dowdell and John Brasher are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 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. PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. It 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: Corinth Man Sentenced for Trafficking Child Exploitation Materials from the Dark Web

body_text: OXFORD, Miss. – A Corinth, Mississippi man was sentenced today by Senior District Judge Michael P. Mills, to 10 years in prison for transporting images and videos of children under 12 and engaging in sexually explicit conduct from the dark web to an online cloud storage. According to court documents, Zachary “Zach” Alan Little, 36, was found with almost 4,000 child sexual abuse files. Many of the images and videos portrayed children between 7 and 10 years old. In addition to his prison term, Little was sentenced to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender where he lives, where he works, and where he is a student. U.S. Attorney Scott Leary of the Northern District of Mississippi, FBI SAC Robert Eikhoff, and Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch made the announcement. The FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office were involved in the investigation of the case. U.S. Attorney Leary said, “I am honored to work with such dedicated law enforcement officers, while at the same time angered that we continually face such crimes. Understanding that we have small children being victimized in this case, society must respond. These child exploitation cases are heartbreaking. It takes extremely dedicated and professional agents to work these investigations, and that is what we have in Mississippi. Child exploitation cases are growing in complexity and proliferation. Thank goodness we have officers and prosecutors that can carry the load. Excellent job FBI and Mississippi Attorney General’s office, perhaps one day these type cases will be outliers rather than common.” Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, “There is absolutely no place in our communities for individuals who prey on children. Little’s exploitation of our youth is a profoundly egregious crime, and it will not be tolerated under any circumstance. The FBI, together with our federal and state law enforcement partners, is unwavering in its commitment to identify and bring to justice anyone who seeks to rob our minors of their innocence.” “Predators who exploit children will be held accountable for their crimes,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “The young children depicted in the thousands of images recovered in this case are revictimized every time one of those images is shared or viewed. I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the partnership that secured this sentence. Together, we are making Mississippi a safer place for all children." Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. 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: Mexican National Sentenced to 18 Months for Immigration Offense

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: HAMMOND – Miguel Angel Garcia-Ortiz, 36 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien with a prior conviction allegation, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Miguel Angel Garcia-Ortiz was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. The supervised release term will go into effect if Garcia-Ortiz remains in, or returns to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings. According to documents in the case, Garcia-Ortiz was previously removed from the United States on three prior occasions in December 2012, October 2015, and April 2018. Garcia-Ortiz has been convicted twice of driving while intoxicated in Texas and convicted twice for illegal re-entry in the Western District of Texas in October 2015 and August 2017. “Garcia-Ortiz was found in the Northern District of Indiana when he was arrested by the Whiting Police Department for Public Intoxication. An investigation revealed that he was an illegal alien who was previously removed three times in 2012, 2015, and 2018, two of which followed federal convictions for illegal re-entry. By his own admission, he returned to the United States without inspection by an immigration officer. Each time he has done so, he has violated our nation’s laws, borders, and sovereignty. Once he is released, Garcia-Ortiz must return to his home country and not return to the United States illegally,” said U.S. Attorney Mildred. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nadia Wardrip.


title: Tallahassee Armed Drug Trafficker & Serial Felon Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison

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

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Christopher Adams Jr., 34, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Mark E. Walker to seven years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute synthetic cathinone, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to this successful prosecution by my office, this serial felon will be kept off our streets for several years. Anyone who thinks they can peddle poisonous drugs in the Northern District of Florida should be on notice that our state and federal law enforcement partners are coming for them, and my office will send them to federal prison.” Court documents reflect that the Tallahassee Police Department encountered the defendant as the driver of a vehicle with a stolen tag and illegal window tint. The officer could smell the odor of synthetic cathinone (“molly”) coming from inside the vehicle and conducted a search. The officer found a pistol in the driver’s side door pocket. Directly next to the handgun was a zippered pouch approximately the size of a make-up bag, which was found to contain an ounce and a half of synthetic cathinone split up into one large bag and multiple smaller baggies, along with small unused baggies typically used by street-level drug dealers. The defendant acknowledged ownership of the “molly” in the car and knowing the firearm was present. The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms because of multiple prior felony convictions for armed burglary, drug trafficking, and firearm offenses. He has been to prison on four separate occasions, with his longest prior sentence being 5 years. The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain. 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: Former Head Of Tribal Telecom Company Sentenced To Two Years In Prison For Half-Million Embezzlement From Yurok Tribe

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN FRANCISCO – Jessica Engle was sentenced today to two years in federal prison for embezzling more than $550,000 in funds of an Indian Tribal Organization. U.S. District Judge Maxine M. Chesney handed down the sentence. Engle, 43, of Oregon, was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 25, 2024. Engle pleaded guilty on September 3, 2025, to Embezzlement from an Indian Tribal Organization in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1163. In her plea, Engle admitted to stealing nearly all of the funds held in the account of Yurok Telecommunications Company (“YTC”), a company created at the direction and largely funded by the Yurok Tribe, based in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties. Specifically, Engle admitted to stealing over $550,000 from the YTC bank account between September 2021 and May 2022. “The tribes deliver critical services—like schools, healthcare, and the basic necessities of life—that their communities need and on which they have come to depend. This theft of tribal funds and the betrayal of trust it represents makes it far more difficult for tribal governments to serve those communities,” said United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian. “The United States made a promise to the many sovereign tribal nations that call the Northern District of California home that we will do all we can to keep them safe and we are committed to working with the tribes to make good on that promise.” “Embezzling funds meant to support the Yurok Tribe and its essential services is a serious breach of trust,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble. “The FBI remains committed to working closely with our tribal partners to protect their resources and ensure those who exploit their positions of authority are held accountable. Today’s sentence reflects that commitment and reinforces our ongoing efforts to safeguard tribal communities.” In handing down the sentence, Judge Chesney stated that the embezzlement was a “calculated risk on [Engle’s] part” and that “[t]his wasn’t a one-time thing.” In addition to the prison term, Judge Chesney also sentenced Engle to a 3-year period of supervised release and ordered restitution of over $590,000. Engle will begin serving the sentence on December 1, 2026. United States Attorney Craig Missakian and Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement. The prosecution was handled by the National Security, Cyber & Special Prosecutions and General Crimes Sections of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Sampson and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Sophie Cooper prosecuted the case with the assistance of Laurie Worthen. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, with the assistance of the Yurok Tribal Police.


title: Australian Man Indicted For “TeamPCP” Cyberattacks On Software Supply Chain

body_text: SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury has indicted Ruben Ian Thomson on charges of conspiracy to commit Computer Fraud and Abuse Act violations and obtaining information from a protected computer related to cyberattacks conducted in the Spring of 2026 under the moniker “TeamPCP.” Thomson was arrested yesterday by the Australian Federal Police with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and he is currently in the custody of the Australian authorities. According to the indictment filed on August 25 and unsealed yesterday, Thomson, 21, a national of Australia and South Africa, is alleged to have conspired with others to exploit trusted software supply chain security tools, and inject malicious software code into these companies’ tools. The exploitation of the computer systems of these companies then cascaded, affecting the companies’ downstream customers that utilized these tools. Specifically, the malicious code would scan downstream customers’ computer environments for sensitive data to steal. If sensitive data was identified, the malicious code attempted to exfiltrate that data to other infrastructure controlled by Thomson and/or his coconspirators. The malicious code also enabled them to maintain persistent access in the company’s computer environment. Following the exfiltration of data from the computer systems of the company, Thomson and/or his coconspirators extorted ransom payments in exchange for a promise to not publicly release the data exfiltrated from the company. United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI San Francisco Special Agent-in-Charge Scott Schelble of the FBI’s San Francisco Division made the announcement. An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss from the conduct for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371 (Conspiracy) and 18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(2)(C), (c)(2)(B), and 2 (Obtaining Information from a Protected Computer; Aiding and Abetting). Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553. The prosecution is being handled by the National Security, Cyber & Special Prosecutions Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Kassabian is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Helen Yee and Kristie Yee. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation San Francisco and Las Vegas Field Offices.


title: Red Lodge man sentenced to six years in prison for possessing child pornography

body_text: BILLINGS – A Red Lodge man who had Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM) on his phone was sentenced Wednesday to six years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Jeremy Dean Ruby, 50, pleaded guilty in April 2026 to possessing child pornography. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. A hearing was scheduled for Nov. 5, 2026, to determine how much Ruby should be required to pay his victims in restitution. The government alleged in court documents that Ruby kept videos on his phone that contained Child Sex Abuse Material. From July 2024 to March 2025 law enforcement suspected Ruby of trafficking illegal drugs and obtained a warrant to search his home where they collected his cell phone. On the phone, investigators found hundreds of videos of CSAM involving children between the ages of 2 and 12. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus prosecuted the case. The FBI and the Red Lodge Police Department 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: Missoula man sentenced to more than 16 years in prison for distributing child pornography

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: MISSOULA – A Missoula man who admitted distributing Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM) online was sentenced today to 16 years and eight months in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Johnathan Key Tucker, 39, pleaded guilty in March 2026 to distributing and receiving child pornography. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged in court documents that Tucker collected over 27,000 images of Child Sex Abuse Material and distributed at least three CSAM videos. Tucker was on probation after having been convicted in 2014 of child sex abuse and surreptitiously watching someone without their knowledge. His parole officer, while meeting with Tucker on Sept. 11, 2023, became suspicious that Tucker was using an unauthorized phone. The officer went to Tucker’s home and searched his room where he found the phone. A forensic analysis found 27,000 images of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct and screenshots that showed he had been using an online app to find the material. Analysis also showed Tucker had shared at least three videos with another user through the app. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The Missoula Police Department 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: Michigan man sentenced to 18 months in prison for trafficking fentanyl on Rocky Boy

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Michigan man who trafficked fentanyl onto the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 18 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Deion Vincent Brown, 32, pleaded guilty in April 2026 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that Brown was part of group based out of Detroit that was bringing fentanyl into Montana and selling it around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. Following a tip, law enforcement pulled Brown over near the Reservation in October 2020 and found $15,756 in cash and 81 fentanyl pills. They learned Brown and others from his group had been staying at a home on the reservation. Investigators learned the group had used the house as a base of operations to distribute fentanyl onto the reservation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.


title: Lame Deer man sentenced to more than 3 years  in prison for involuntary manslaughter

body_text: BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man who ran over an acquaintance after a night of drinking was sentenced today to three years and six months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Kristopher Aiden Blackwolf, 36, pleaded guilty in April 2026 to involuntary manslaughter. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided. The government alleged in court documents that Blackwolf spent a night drinking with friends and, while still intoxicated, ran over and killed one of his companions. Law enforcement first responded after hearing reports the next morning of a man lying unresponsive in a driveway. Blackwolf had called the victim’s nephew earlier that morning, saying he’d just come from the victim’s house where he saw him lying on the ground outside. Blackwolf told the nephew he didn’t know if the victim was alive. A medical examiner later ruled that the man had died from multiple blunt force traumas. Officers contacted Blackwolf later that day after his mother called authorities. They found Blackwolf sitting in the driver’s seat of his minivan, still intoxicated, and crying. After a medical evaluation, officers interviewed Blackwolf and learned that he had gone out the night before with the victim and another friend, all sharing a gallon of vodka they’d purchased in Colstrip. Blackwolf told officers he had returned home around 6:30 a.m. and, after eating, he fell asleep. At some point later in the morning, Blackwolf realized that he had reversed his van into the victim and run him over. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Yerger prosecuted the case. The FBI and the BIA conducted the investigation.


title: Kalispell man pleads guilty to child pornography charges

body_text: MISSOULA – A Kalispell man who coerced an 11-year-old girl into sending him Child Sex Abuse Materials (CSAM) over Snapchat admitted to charges Wednesday, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Cameron Lee Powell, 24, pleaded guilty to one count of producing child pornography and one count of distributing child pornography. Powell faces up to 30 years in prison on the first count, a $250,000 fine, and over $70,000 in special assessments. On the second count he faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and over $50,000 in special assessments. U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided and sentencing was set for Jan. 13, 2027. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Powell remained in custody pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents Powell used Snapchat to solicit explicit CSAM photos from an 11-year-old girl in May 2022. Once she sent the photos, Powell then threatened to share the images publicly if she didn’t provide more. The girl told her parents, who then called police. Law enforcement searched the girl’s phone and found a history of her chat with Powell, who was pretending to be a sixth-grade girl. Using that information, law enforcement obtained a warrant and searched Powell’s Kalispell residence in August 2022, where they found electronics with visual depictions of CSAM. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney is prosecuting the case. Homeland Security Investigations and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office helped conduct 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: Three Defendants in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme Sentenced to Total of 155 Months’ Imprisonment

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that three defendants in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme have been sentenced to a total of 155 months in prison for their role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Abdihakim Ali Ahmed , 40, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, was sentenced to 54 months in prison for one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Ahmed was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 26, 2026. He pleaded guilty on March 24, 2025 . Ahmed Abdullahi Ghedi , 35, of Minneapolis, was sentenced to 65 months in prison for one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Ghedi was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 26, 2026. He pleaded guilty on June 26, 2025 . Ahmed Sharif Omar-Hashim , aka “Salah Donyale,” 43, of Minneapolis, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for one count of wire fraud. Omar-Hashim was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 27, 2026. He pleaded guilty on December 13, 2023 . Ahmed, Ghedi, and Omar-Hashim are the 24th, 25th, and 26th defendants, respectively, to be sentenced in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. “These sentences represent my office’s commitment to restoring the integrity of publicly funded programs. The Department of Justice will continue to hold accountable those who steal funds meant for vulnerable children and seek accountability for American taxpayers,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “These defendants helped generate outlandish and impossible meal counts at Safari Restaurant and associated sites. The numbers defied reality and exposed a scheme built on wanton greed,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “They stole millions from programs meant to feed children in need, and now they are being held to answer for it. The FBI will continue to follow the evidence, build solid cases with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and work closely with our federal counterparts to ensure every fraudster who exploits American taxpayer funded programs is identified, investigated, and brought to justice.” “These defendants saw a program meant to help Americans through one of the hardest times in recent memory and saw an opportunity to line their own pockets,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “They hid their greed behind a web of fraud, bribery and money laundering, but money leaves a trail. Working shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners, IRS Criminal Investigation special agents unraveled that web, dollar by dollar, and made sure deceit and grift came with a price.” “The Feeding Our Future investigation reflects the United States Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to holding accountable anyone who abuses the U.S. mail to defraud government programs” said Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division, Bryan Musgrove. “We commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota and our other federal partners for the success of this investigation. These sentences should serve as a deterrent to any would be criminals: if you defraud the U.S. Government, you will face serious consequences.” The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Austin L. Bowyer prosecuted these cases. Assistant United States Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets. Note: Previous press release on the three defendants’ indictments ( September 20, 2022 ) linked here.


title: Serial Child Predator Sentenced to 204 Months’ Imprisonment for Producing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Christopher Robert Nelson, 45, of Eagan, Minnesota, was sentenced to 204 months in prison with five years of supervised release for the production of child pornography. According to court documents, on or about January 13, 2023, Nelson knowingly enticed and coerced a then-11-year-old girl to engage in sexually explicit conduct. The defendant communicated with the girl through a messaging application and directed her to send sexually explicit content to him, and he would send money through a peer-to-peer money transfer application. On September 9, 2023, Nelson returned to the United States from the Philippines and a Customs and Border Patrol agent conducted a border search of the defendant’s phone as his passport was flagged for possible involvement in child sex trafficking. Agents found several videos that appeared to be child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Following a forensic extraction of Nelson’s phone, agents found approximately 400 images and videos of CSAM. The images and videos found on the defendant’s phone were sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) for victim identification. The NCMEC report revealed 25 known victims across 46 different CSAM series. Law enforcement also found videos on Nelson’s phone depicting children, with ages ranging from eight to twelve years old, from Thailand engaging in sexual acts. Additionally, law enforcement found messages between Nelson and an individual who claimed to be a mother in the Philippines and on his plans to travel to the country to have sex with children. Nelson was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on August 27, 2026. Nelson previously pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025. “The defendant is a serial child predator whose heinous actions have created irreparable harm to vulnerable children in the United States and other countries. My office has an unwavering commitment to protect children and bring justice to the victims and their families,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Today, alongside our partners, we stopped a serial sexual abuser from harming children for the next 204 months,” said HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “Christopher Nelson’s crimes were monstrous, and they underscore why our work with the Angel Watch Center and our law enforcement partners is so critical. We will keep fighting to bring predators to justice and protect children in our communities and around the world.” This case was the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and other law enforcement partners. Assistant United States Attorney Raphael B. Coburn prosecuted this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Man Pleads Guilty to Selling and Stealing $4 Million in Embezzled Products from Employer in Minnesota

body_text: ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Paul Joseph Kroes, 42, of Shorewood, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. His initial appearance and change of plea hearing were before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson on August 27, 2026. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. From approximately November 2019 to March 2025, Kroes engaged in a scheme to embezzle approximately $4 million from his employer, Victim Company, a retailer of transport temperature control systems for refrigerated trucks and containers. Since 2007, Kroes held several different roles and a variety of responsibilities at the Victim Company, and his last role was as a Product Manager. Kroes abused his positions and sold Victim Company products to third-party buyers and misappropriated the proceeds for his own personal benefit. Kroes would pull the products himself, or directed another employee to do so, and disguised the missing items from Victim Company’s inventory. Kroes had no authority to sell the products and concealed the payments he received through selling the embezzled products. “The defendant exploited his access and authority to cause significant financial harm to his employer. Today’s guilty plea is one step closer to holding Kroes accountable for his actions,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Paul Kroes abused his position over multiple years to systematically siphon millions of dollars from his employer. White collar criminals may think they can hide behind clever accounting and their knowledge of internal systems, but financial fraud always leaves a trail,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “The FBI will continue to work shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners to detect and disrupt fraud.” This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Austin L. Bowyer and Rebecca E. Kline are prosecuting the case.


title: Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Conspiracy

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PORTLAND, Maine: A Massachusetts, man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and three counts of distributing methamphetamine. According to court records, Danny Sun , 38, was part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine between November 2024 and January 2025. In late November 2024, an FBI confidential source met with Sun and a co-conspirator in southern Maine and received approximately 220 grams of methamphetamine pills. On two subsequent dates, the confidential source contacted Sun for the purchase of additional drugs. Sun told the confidential source he would send someone with the drugs. Sun’s co-conspirator provided the FBI source with approximately 361 grams of methamphetamine pills in December 2024 and 419 grams in January 2025. Sun faces a mandatory minimum prison term of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10 million fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Portland Police Department, and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency. ###


title: Northampton County Man Sentenced To 60 Months’ Imprisonment For Possessing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Wei Fu, age 40, of Easton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion to 60 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for possessing child pornography. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, following the execution of a search warrant at Fu’s Easton residence in March 2024, investigators found over 10,000 videos and pictures of child pornography on Fu’s electronic devices. The images and videos included those showing the sexual assault of infants and toddlers. Homeland Security Investigations, the Bethlehem Township Police Department, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. # # #


title: Mechanicsburg Man Sentenced To 78 Months’ Imprisonment For Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Connor Waterman, age 25, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Keli M. Neary to 78 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, for possessing child pornography. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, following the execution of a search warrant at Waterman’s Mechanicsburg residence in February 2023, investigators found numerous videos and pictures of child pornography on Waterman’s smartphone. The images and videos included those showing the sexual assault of infants and toddlers. Homeland Security Investigations, the Upper Allen Police Department, Cumberland County Criminal Investigation Division, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. # # #


title: Inmate Charged with Threatening Federal Officers

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert Foust, age 42, an inmate at United State Penitentiary (USP), Allenwood, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of threatening federal officers. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that August 5, 2025 and November 6, 2025, at USP Allenwood, Foust threatened to assault and murder multiple employees of the federal Bureau of Prisons, including a corrections officer, a corrections counselor, and a prison physician, all of whom were engaged in the performance of their official duties. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 40 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Florida Man Charged With Conspiracy To Commit Wire Fraud

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kevin Gan, age 24, of Wellington, Florida, was charged by a federal grand jury with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that between June of 2026 and July 16, 2026, Gan was part of a group that executed a scheme to defraud victims in the State College, PA area of money and property. It is alleged that members of the conspiracy would transmit electronic communication to the victims. The communication, often in the form of a home computer screen “pop-up,” was purportedly from “Microsoft” or a government agency and informed the victim that the victim’s computer had been “hacked,” and that financial account security was compromised. The “pop-up” or caller provided a phone number for the victim to call. It is further alleged that upon calling the phone number, the victim would be connected to a member of the conspiracy, who provided the victim with disinformation and falsely informed the victim that there was a problem with the victim’s bank account, that the victim’s bank account was not secure, or that there was illegal activity on their computer, and that the victim needed to transfer money from the account to keep the money secure. It is alleged that the member of the conspiracy directed the victim to withdraw cash from the victim’s bank account or convert cash into gold bars or coins and meet them at locations or “couriers” were used to retrieve the money. It is further alleged that on July 16, 2026, Gan traveled from New York to State College to collect $30,000 in cash from a victim of the conspiracy. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the State College Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Dominican National Charged With Illegal Reentry

body_text: HARRISBURG -The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Daniel Frias Rodriguez, age 50, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was indicted on August 26, 2026, by a federal grand jury on the charge of illegally reentering the United States after having previously been removed. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, the indictment alleges that Frias Rodriguez illegally reentered the United States without proper authorization and was found in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, on August 14, 2026. Frias Rodriguez was previously removed from the United States through New Orleans, Louisiana, on July 16, 2013, after a conviction for an aggravated felony. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF York comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: ILLEGAL ALIEN PLEADS GUILTY IN FEDERAL COURT TO ATTEMPTED COERCION AND ENTICEMENT OF A MINOR

component: USAO - Louisiana, Middle

body_text: Francisco Javier Villanueva Castro, age 29, of Mexico, who is present in the United States without authorization, pleaded guilty before United States Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall. According to admissions made during his plea, in February 2025, Castro used online phone messaging applications to convince someone he believed was a 14-year-old male to have an illegal sexual relationship with him. He traveled to Denham Springs, Louisiana, to meet the supposed 14-year-old male and engage in sexual acts. An undercover law enforcement officer posed as the 14-year-old male, and officers arrested Castro when he arrived at the agreed-upon location. U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen L. Ross leads the prosecution. 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: The Villages Health System LLC Agrees to $541.5M Settlement to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL — The Villages Health System LLC (TVH), a healthcare provider group headquartered in The Villages, Florida, has agreed to a $541.5 million settlement to resolve self-disclosed allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes in order to increase payments that they received from the Medicare Advantage program. “The Villages Health System LLC knowingly submitted false diagnosis codes to increase their payments from the Medicare Advantage program and increase their profits,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our Office will continue protecting the integrity of the Medicare program and hold those who seek to defraud federal health care programs accountable.” “The Medicare Advantage program relies on accurate diagnoses to protect the federal fisc,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s settlement reflects that we will hold accountable entities that inflate payments through invalid diagnoses; at the same time, we will continue to credit organizations that disclose wrongdoing, take appropriate remedial actions, and fully cooperate with the government’s investigation.” “The accuracy of diagnosis information submitted to Medicare Advantage is vital to protecting taxpayer dollars,” 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). “This case underscores that entities will be held accountable when they submit unsupported information that inflates payments. The provider’s use of the OIG Self Disclosure Protocol and its cooperation were important factors in resolving this matter, and the protocol remains available for managed care entities and other providers that bill managed care entities that seek to disclose potential liability.” Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays the MAOs a fixed monthly amount for each Medicare beneficiary enrolled in their plans. CMS adjusts these monthly payments to account for various “risk” factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs and less for healthier beneficiaries expected to incur lower costs. To make these “risk adjustments,” CMS collects medical diagnosis codes from the MAOs. The diagnoses must be supported by the medical record from a face-to-face visit between a patient and a provider, and for outpatient visits, must have required or affected patient care, treatment, or management at the visit. Providers generally submit diagnosis codes to MAOs that are, in turn, submitted to CMS to increase payments. At times, MAOs agree to pay provider groups like TVH a set percentage of what the MAO receives from CMS. Under such agreements, the provider groups receive more reimbursement for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs and less reimbursement for healthier beneficiaries expected to incur lower costs. On Dec. 27, 2024, TVH made a submission pursuant to the HHS-OIG’s Health Care Fraud Self-Disclosure Protocol disclosing that it had submitted invalid diagnosis codes to multiple MAOs for certain beneficiaries enrolled in their plans and that these diagnosis codes increased the capitated payments made by CMS to the MAOs under the MA program. The settlement announced today resolves allegations that, from 2020 through 2024, TVH violated the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. §§ 2729-3733, by knowingly submitting false diagnosis codes to MAOs and causing MAOs to submit false diagnosis codes to the MA program resulting in inflated payments from CMS to MAOs. The diagnosis codes were invalid because they did not have adequate support in the patient’s medical record or were based on amendments to the medical record that were not initiated by the rendering provider and were not timely or were not approved by the rendering provider. TVH’s knowing submission of the unsupported and/or undocumented codes identified above caused CMS to make inflated payments to the MAOs, which inflated the MAOs’ payments to TVH. In connection with the settlement, the United States acknowledged that TVH took a number of significant steps entitling them to credit for cooperating with the government. TVH promptly took remedial actions and self-disclosed the invalid diagnoses to HHS-OIG. TVH also provided the government with a detailed and thorough written disclosure and cooperated with the government throughout its investigation. On July 3, 2025, TVH filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. In re Villages Health System, LLC, Case No. 6:25-bk-04156-LVV (Bankr. M.D. Fla.). The bankruptcy court approved the settlement announced today on Aug. 25. TVH submitted the invalid diagnosis codes covered by the settlement announced today to three MAOs: Humana Inc., UnitedHealthcare (UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, United Healthcare of Florida Inc., Preferred Care Partners Inc., and Care Improvement Plus South Central Insurance Company, Inc.), and GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc. and Florida Blue Medicare Inc.). Pursuant to their contracts with CMS, the MAOs are returning overpayments they received as a result of TVH’s conduct by deleting invalid codes and/or by entering into agreements with the Department of Justice and CMS to return the funds. This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from HHS-OIG. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at www.oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/ or 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Edward Crooke and Martha Glover and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Emden for the Middle District of Florida. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. Note: Read the agreements with United here and Florida Blue here .


title: San Diego Man Sentenced to Eleven Months for Mailing a Threatening Letter

body_text: Tampa, Florida – George Russell Isbell, Jr. (70, San Diego) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge John L. Badalamenti to eleven months in federal prison for mailing a threatening communication. He pleaded guilty on June 24, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on or about September 18, 2025, Isbell mailed an angry, offensive, and threatening letter from San Diego, California to his victim, a media personality located in Tampa. In the letter, Isbell referenced one of the victim’s friends, Mr. Charlie Kirk, a conservative political activist who had recently been murdered during a public engagement on a college campus. The letter went on to state: “Maybe someone will blow your head off!!! We can hope! Planning any public engagements? Love to see your head explode and your blood stain the concrete red. What a sight!” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Tampa Field Office, the Tampa Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Additional support was provided by the FBI San Diego Field Office, the San Diego Police Department, and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.


title: Naples Felon Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine

body_text: Fort Myers, Florida – Miguel Lauzado Hernandez (37, Naples) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kyle C. Dudek to 16 years in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine. Hernandez pleaded guilty on June 3, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on September 12, 2024, Hernandez sold approximately one pound of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source in Naples. Hernandez and his co-defendant, Juan Carlos Rodriguez Perez, distributed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source in Naples on February 19, 2025. Perez was previously sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his role in the offense. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.


title: Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Restaurant Investors

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – George Joshua Floyd (45, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Floyd has agreed to forfeit $1,159,596.26, the proceeds of the scheme to defraud that he personally obtained. He also agreed to make full restitution to the victims of his offense conduct. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the plea agreement, beginning in April 2022, Floyd raised approximately $1.44 million from investors for a new restaurant he planned to open in Jacksonville, making various representations as to how the money would be used and how he would manage the restaurant. After the restaurant opened in November 2022 and generated significant cash flow, Floyd maintained control of the business’s bank account. He began embezzling funds by withdrawing large amounts of cash, wiring money to his personal account, using a business credit card for personal expenses, and causing the restaurant to enter into unauthorized merchant cash advance loans—the proceeds of which he transferred to himself or used to cover deficits that he had already created—which also led the restaurant to owe interest and fees. Further, in 2024, Floyd began soliciting individuals to invest money into a second restaurant concept to be opened in Clay County, raising approximately $570,000. Floyd stole those investors’ funds by using them to pay for personal expenses, trade in cryptocurrency, and repay losses he had caused at the first restaurant. The total fraud loss caused by Floyd through his scheme was approximately $1,397,500. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint J. Locke.


title: Washington D.C. Man Charged With Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A repeat fraud offender faces indictment in connection with access-device-fraud and identity theft charges, stemming from an 11-month credit card scam. Curtis Larnell Russell, 73, of Washington D.C., is charged with one count of unauthorized use of access devices and three counts of aggravated identity theft. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Chief Scott Brecht of the United States Park Police (USPP). According to the indictment, beginning in April 2025, and continuing into March 2026, Russell used one or more access devices, such as credit cards, issued to other people. He engaged in this crime to receive things of value exceeding $1,000. As alleged in the affidavit in support of a criminal complaint, Russell used credit cards stolen from vehicles parked at recreational areas and other locations. Soon after the thefts, Russell used the stolen credit cards fraudulently to purchase gift cards, merchandise, and other items. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. If convicted, Russell faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for access-device fraud and a mandatory minimum of two years for aggravated identity theft to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the USPP for its work in the investigation, along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Harford County Sheriff’s Office, and other local police departments for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Andrea Duvall who are prosecuting the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Father and Son Charged in Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy HSTF Case

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that authorities arrested and charged a Maryland father and son with illegally distributing more than a kilogram of fentanyl. Rashad Deondre Hicks, 36, of Largo, is charged by complaint with distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Lawrence Alonzo Hicks, 62, of District Heights, is also charged with possession with intent to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl. The charges are in connection with a months-long investigation involving multiple sales of fentanyl. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the arrests with Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Washington Division; Assistant Director in Charge Darren B. Cox, FBI Washington Field Office; Clinton J. Fuchs, U.S. Marshal for the District of Maryland (USMS); Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, Metropolitan Police Department; Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD); and Sheriff Troy D. Berry, Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). According to court documents, beginning in January 2026, the DEA, FBI, and CCSO began investigating Rashad Hicks, who authorities believed was selling large quantities of fentanyl that was provided to him by Lawrence Hicks. During the investigation, law enforcement utilized an undercover officer to make eight controlled purchases of fentanyl from Rashad Hicks. The controlled purchases totaled more than 1,300 grams of fentanyl with a street value of more than $100,000. Additionally, at the time of the arrests, law enforcement executed several search warrants. Law enforcement recovered from Rashad Hicks’s residence approximately 230 grams of suspected fentanyl, 1018 grams of suspected cocaine base, two loaded firearms, and approximately $5,000 in U.S. currency. Law enforcement recovered from Lawrence Hicks’s residence approximately 9.51 kilograms of suspected cocaine, 2.6 kilograms of suspected cocaine base, 4.4 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, and approximately $10,000 in U.S. currency. The street value of the recovered illegal narcotics is approximately $1,700,000. A criminal complaint is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by criminal complaint are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. If convicted, Rashad and Lawrence Hicks face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum of up to life in federal prison for distributing 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This prosecution is part of the HSTF initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DEA, FBI, USMS, MPD, PGPD, and CCSO for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Scarpelli and William Moomau who are prosecuting this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Annapolis Felon Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Maryland felon received a federal-prison term, today, for firearm-possession charges. Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Dalonte Ray Jones, 22, of Annapolis, to 42 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. 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, and Acting Chief Amy Miguez, Annapolis Police Department (APD). According to court documents, on November 11, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Jones’s apartment. During the search, law enforcement found a Glock 17 semi-automatic handgun, with an extended magazine, in Jones’s bedroom. The magazine, which can hold 45 rounds of ammunition, was loaded with 17 live rounds. In 2023, the firearm was reported stolen. Jones’s DNA, along with the DNA of three other individuals, was on the firearm. Investigators also searched Jones’s iPhone pursuant to a warrant. Law enforcement uncovered numerous videos of Jones holding a variety of firearms, including the firearm he possessed on November 11. Jones’s previous felony convictions prohibited him from possessing a firearm and ammunition and included two separate convictions for second-degree assault in January 2023 and April 2023. Jones was on probation for the April 2023 assault conviction at the time he possessed the handgun in this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and APD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who prosecuted this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Idaho man sentenced for drug trafficking

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: TOPEKA, KAN. – An Idaho man was sentenced to 70 months in prison after being caught with packages of fentanyl that he was transporting cross-country. According to court documents, Brian Hilario Delgado Mayorga, 24, of Burley, Idaho, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. In May 2024, a Geary County Sheriff’s deputy stopped Mayorga on Interstate 70 after observing him make an unsafe driving maneuver. When the deputy asked Mayorga questions about his route, Mayorga said he was coming from Idaho and was on his way to visit his grandparents in Missouri. The deputy became suspicious partly because Mayorga didn’t know his grandparents’ address and because license plate readers placed him in California and Nevada on the previous day, not Idaho. Mayorga refused to allow the deputy to search his vehicle, and a K9 unit was dispatched to the scene. After the K9 detected the odor of narcotics coming from Mayorga’s vehicle, deputies had probable cause to search. Inside the vehicle, officers found several heat-sealed packages of narcotics that laboratory results later determined to be approximately 4,000 grams of fentanyl. Mayorga was arrested and admitted he picked up the narcotics in the Los Angeles area. The defendant stated it was his second trip and that he was paid $8000.00 on the first trip. Officers also found a firearm and $1,419 in cash in the vehicle. “The Midwest is often used as a corridor for drug traffickers transporting their products from one region of the country to another,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The Department of Justice is grateful to the Geary County Sheriff’s Office for its vigilance and attention to detail. Local law enforcement agencies are on the front line when it comes to foiling the plans of criminals on these road trips and seizing illegal narcotics. We are happy to stand beside them and prosecute these cases federally when warranted.” “At the time of his arrest, Mayorga was traveling across the country with roughly 390,000 deadly doses of fentanyl,” DEA St. Louis Field Division Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer said. “The sentencing is due in part to the astute work of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office and collaboration of federal and local resources. It’s because of partnerships like this that drug traffickers are dealt blow-after-blow in their attempt to turn profits in the Midwest.” The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Geary County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough prosecuted the case. ###


title: Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: BOISE – Juan Carlos Delfin, 47, of Salem, Oregon, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today. A federal jury convicted Delfin of the crimes following a jury trial in December of 2025. According to evidence presented at trial, Delfin was a leader in a multi-state and international drug trafficking organization with ties to Mexico. Delfin’s son, Cesar Delfin-Cervantes, was also a member of the drug trafficking organization. The organization arranged for large shipments of methamphetamine to be delivered through a network of couriers from Mexico to California and then to Salem, Oregon, where Delfin and his son resided. From there, Delfin and his son organized delivery of the drugs to the Treasure Valley area. Over a span of approximately five months, investigators seized over 215 pounds of methamphetamine from the drug trafficking organization. Over a period of approximately two years, the organization transported and sold hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine. “This significant sentence is well-deserved and reflects the danger posed to our communities by importing methamphetamine from Mexico and distributing it in our state” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “I am proud of the cooperative efforts of our federal and state law enforcement agencies. Together we will continue to aggressively target and prosecute illegal drug trafficking in Idaho.” Chief U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Delfin to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Judge Brailsford previously sentenced Delfin-Cervantes to 188 months in prison and five years of supervised release for his involvement in the organization. Delfin’s daughter, Esmeralda Delfin-Cervantes, is also alleged to be a member of the drug trafficking organization and has federal drug trafficking charges pending in the District of Oregon. U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (the Boise and Salem Resident Agencies), the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, the Oregon High Desert Drug Task Force, the Salem Police Department, and the Oregon State Police, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Morse and Christopher Booker prosecuted this case. These cases were investigated through the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, which is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency, prosecutor-supported approach. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug program. ###


title: Woodbridge man pleads guilty to secretly filming children in his bathroom

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former employee of the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration pled guilty today to sexual exploitation of children and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, beginning at least in March 2008, Jackson Quentin Crocker, 54, of Woodbridge, used hidden cameras to secretly record minors in the bathroom of his residence. Between 2008 and 2025, Crocker created thousands of these videos, many of which show minors removing their clothing, using the toilet, and showering. Crocker also created multiple videos of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct next to sleeping children at his house. In addition to the hidden camera videos he created, Crocker also used the Internet to collect thousands of images and videos depicting minors, some of whom are prepubescent, engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Crocker is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 2. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeffrey L. Tyler, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga accepted the plea. The Prince William County Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Halper and Jacob Mercer are prosecuting 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 . 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. 1:26-cr-148.


title: Illegal immigrant from Honduras with multiple previous felony convictions sentenced to over two years in prison

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An illegal immigrant from Honduras was sentenced today to two years and nine months in prison for illegally reentering the United States subsequent to the commission of an aggravated felony. According to court documents, Catalino Vigil Diaz, 44, was removed from the United States pursuant to a final order of removal in 2003. He was removed again in 2004, in 2008 following a conviction for domestic abuse in Louisiana, and in 2015 following a conviction of felony aggravated assault and unlawful restraint. In 2014, Vigil Diaz was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping, false imprisonment, unlawful restraint, simple assault, harassment, and aggravated assault. According to a police report from Indiana, Pennsylvania, Vigil Diaz grabbed a stranger by the neck, pulled her towards his waiting car, and attempted to shove her into his car. He pled guilty to unlawful restraint and aggravated assault and in 2015 was removed from the United States pursuant to the previous order of removal. Vigil Diaz then unlawfully reentered the United States. On May 23, 2024, he was arrested for assault and battery of a family member in Fairfax County. According to a police report from Goshen, Indiana, in 2025, Vigil Diaz entered his girlfriend’s residence, grabbed her by the throat, held her against a wall, and punched her in the face with a closed fist. Before leaving the residence, he took $300 from her. When law enforcement attempted a traffic stop following the assault, Vigil Diaz fled, first in his vehicle and then on foot. Vigil Diaz was charged with and convicted of felony intimidation, domestic battery, and resisting law enforcement. Vigil Diaz also has two pending arrests warrants for his arrest for alleged assault and battery—one out of Virginia based on conduct that took place in 2024, and another out of Tennessee based on conduct that took place in 2025. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Robert Guadian, Field Office Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amber N. Rieff prosecuted the case. 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. 1:26-cr-48.


title: Former U.S. government employee pleads guilty to attempting to provide classified information to a foreign government

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Nathan Vilas Laatsch, 29, of Alexandria, a former IT specialist for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), pled guilty yesterday to transmission of national defense information. “U.S. government employees entrusted with our nation’s secrets must always protect our nation’s security, not cavalierly toss aside this responsibility out of disagreement, selfishness or greed,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Laatsch faces serious consequences for violating his position of trust. This case shows that if you unlawfully disclose national defense information, we will find you and hold you accountable to the fullest extent the law allows.” “Political disagreement is not a justification for jeopardizing the security of the United States and the lives of those who protect it,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Theophani K. Stamos for the Eastern District of Virginia. “No one is entitled to break the law or violate the public trust, no matter their motivations, and this office will aggressively prosecute those who recklessly and illegally compromise national security.” “Laatsch’s animus toward the U.S. government gave him no license to betray the oath he took to the Constitution of the United States nor the duty he had to the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect our Nation,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Unlawfully disclosing national defense information to a foreign government is a serious crime, not a form of principled dissent.” “By his own admission, Laatsch betrayed his oath by offering classified information to a foreign government, the very thing he was supposed to prevent as an employee of DIA’s Insider Threat Division,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “Those entrusted with our nation’s most sensitive information must not exploit their access for personal gain - in this case offering to sell American secrets to buy foreign citizenship. The FBI and our partners will continue to hold accountable all those who betray the trust of the American people.” “As an employee of the DIA Insider Threat Office, the American people relied on Nathan Laatsch to detect spies and other insider threats within our midst,” said Darren B. Cox, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “Laatsch betrayed that trust and instead became the very threat he was sworn to defend against. Fortunately, the swift action of the FBI and our partner agencies prevented even greater harm and brought him to justice. This case underscores a fundamental truth: The strength of our national security depends not only on our capabilities, but also on the integrity of those entrusted to safeguard it. When that trust is violated, the consequences can be profound.” According to court documents, Laatsch became a civilian employee of the DIA in 2019, where he worked with the Insider Threat Division and held a Top Secret security clearance. In March 2025, the FBI learned that Laatsch offered to provide classified information to a friendly foreign government. Soon thereafter, Laatsch began communicating with an individual he thought was affiliated with that foreign government but was actually an FBI agent. In late April 2025, Laatsch began transcribing classified information to a notepad at his desk and, over the course of approximately three days, repeatedly took the information from his workspace. After those three days, Laatsch deposited the classified information on a thumb drive at a public park in northern Virginia for the foreign government to retrieve. The FBI retrieved the drive, which contained multiple typed documents, each containing information up to the Secret or Top Secret level. It also contained a message from Laatsch, in which he indicated that he had chosen to include “a decent sample size” of classified information to “decently demonstrate the range of types of products” to which he had access. After receiving confirmation that the drive had been received, Laatsch communicated that he was interested in “citizenship” to the foreign country. Laatsch also stated that, though he was “not opposed to other compensation,” from a financial standpoint, he did not need “material compensation.” A week later, in mid-May 2025, the FBI agent advised Laatsch that the agent was prepared to receive additional classified information. Between May 15 and May 27, 2025, Laatsch again repeatedly transcribed multiple pages of notes while logged into his classified workstation and took the classified information away from his workstation hidden in his clothing. On May 29, 2025, Laatsch arrived at a prearranged location in northern Virginia, where he again transmitted multiple classified documents. Laatsch was arrested upon the FBI’s receipt of the documents. Laatsch is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 27, 2027. He faces up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by the FBI’s Global Counterespionage Unit and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations and with thanks to the Defense Intelligence Agency for its cooperation. Trial Attorney Mark Murphy of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gordon Kromberg for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. 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. 1:25-cr-156.


title: Beaumont felon convicted of federal firearms offense in the Eastern District of Texas for illegally possessing a firearm

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Beaumont convicted felon has been found guilty of a federal firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. David Michael Gilliam, 45, was found guilty by a jury of being a felon in possession of a firearm following a trial before U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on August 27, 2026. According to information presented in court, on November 15, 2024, local law enforcement responded to a burglary alarm at an apartment complex on Magnolia Road in Beaumont. As the officer arrived, he observed an apartment with broken windows and a door that appeared to have been forced open. Upon entering the apartment, the officer encountered Gilliam, who stated he had been evicted from the apartment the previous day. Gilliam gave consent to be searched, which resulted in the discovery of a firearm in a cross-body bag he was wearing. Further investigation revealed Gilliam was a convicted felon and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. Gilliam faces up to 15 years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office. 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 Beaumont Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell James and Chris Jackson. ###