title: Honduran Criminal Alien Apprehended in Pensacola Pleads Guilty to Production of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Osman Edgardo Cubas-Alvarenga, 38, a Honduran illegally present in the United States, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography and one count of illegal reentry of an alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “For more than a year, this criminal alien preyed upon and sexually exploited a minor child while he was illegally present in our country. This heartbreaking story underscores the commonsense reason why we must secure our borders and aggressively enforce our nation’s immigration laws: because the safety of our communities depends upon it. I appreciate the incredible investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to help bring this criminal alien to justice, and commit that my office will continue to aggressively prosecute sexual predators, like this defendant, to keep our kids and our communities safe.” Court documents reflect that between January 2025 and February 2026, the defendant was engaging in a secret “relationship” with a sixteen year old victim in Pensacola. The defendant would communicate with the minor via encrypted social media applications, which included them exchanging sexually explicit material. The defendant video recorded sexual acts with the victim. Law enforcement obtained search warrants to uncover all the digital evidence and arrest the defendant. The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 30 years’ imprisonment, and a lifetime of supervision upon release as well as registration as a sexual offender. He also faces removal from the United States. Sentencing is scheduled for September 24, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood and Operation Take Back America. Project Safe Childhood is 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 . Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The 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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Fourteen New Indictments Returned for Immigration Offenses in June

body_text: Tallahassee, Pensacola and Gainesville – Today, United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced that 14 previously deported illegal aliens have been separately indicted by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States in the month of June. According to court records, the 14 illegal aliens indicted in the month of June include: Marcelino Mendez-Gomez, 42, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Walton County in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2013 and 2019. Change of plea and sentencing took place on July 8, 2026, at 11:30 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Adelmo Alvarado-Lopez, 55, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in May 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2018. Trial is scheduled for July 20, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. Salvador Martinez Andrade, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2012. Trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, at 8:00 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Bernado Perez Bartolon, 46, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in May 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2024. Trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, at 8:00 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Pedro Flores-Perales, 40, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Walton County in May 2026, after previously being deported seven times: once in 2010; once in 2013; and five times in 2014. Trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, at 8:00 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Jonathan Gonzaelz-Resendiz, 35, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Walton County in May 2026, after previously being deported four times in 2012. Trial is scheduled for August 17, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II in Pensacola, Florida. Josue Orlando Medina-Lira, 35, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2009 and 2023. Trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, at 8:00 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Ernesto Perez-Vasquez, 36, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2010 and 2014. Trial is scheduled for August 3, 2026, at 8:00 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida. Miguel Angel Quiroz-Perez, 53, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2017. Trial is scheduled for August 17, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II in Pensacola, Florida. Selvin Fernandez Ruis, 33, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2023. Trial is scheduled for August 17, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II in Pensacola, Florida. Denis Eduardo Garache Moncada, 33, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in May 2024 and on or about March 2024, after previously being deported in 2019. Trial is scheduled for August 24, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. Hugo Angeles-Cruz, 42, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2016. Trial is scheduled for August 24, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. Andres Antonio Mendez, 34, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Jackson County in June 2026, after previously being deported three times in 2015. Trial is scheduled for August 24, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. Ramon Alfredo Solano-Cruz, 36, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in May 2026, after previously being deported 2012 & 2019. Trial is scheduled for August 24, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida. The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Mendez-Gomez faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine pursuant to allegations of prior convictions qualifying for an increased maximum sentence. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The cases involved investigations by Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with the assistance of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, and the Lynn Haven Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith L. Steer, Alicia H. Forbes, Jeffrey M. Tharp, Emma Schwann, Walter E. Narramore, Thomas S.P. Geeker, Brooke Lindsay, Joseph A. Ravelo, and Tyler Fleming are prosecuting the cases. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The 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: Graduate Student Arrested For Hateful And Threatening Message At San Jose State University

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN JOSE – The Justice Department announced today that Ziheng “Tony” Fang was arrested on a federal charge of false information and hoaxes. Fang made an initial appearance on July 10, 2026 in federal court in San Jose. According to the allegations in a criminal complaint and court documents filed on July 9, 2026, Fang, 30, of San Jose, wrote a hateful and threatening message placed in a plastic cover sheet taped to the bathroom wall of a men’s restroom on the campus of San Jose State University (SJSU). Fang is a graduate student at SJSU, pursuing his Master’s Degree in Data Science. The message was discovered on November 5, 2025, and began with “!WARNING! MASS BOMB NEXT WEEK,” among other statements, accompanied by multiple swastika symbols. A photograph of this message is below: Fang’s fingerprint was found on this paper. A second message was also discovered on the wall of the same bathroom at the same time. It read “Kill all Jews, Muslims, Chinks, and Mexicans,” “Mass bombing 11/11 and 11/12 guess.” As alleged in the complaint, since October 2024, SJSU Police Department personnel have recorded more than 20 instances of hateful and threatening messages written in men’s and gender-neutral restrooms around the SJSU campus. In many instances, these messages included threats specifying a particular date that an attack was allegedly intended to take place and/or weapons and methods that would be used such as bombs, knives, and shooting. The most recent hateful and threatening message was discovered on May 14, 2026. Fang accessed buildings in the days leading up to the discovery of hateful and threatening messages in 16 of the 18 instances where key card access is required, according to the complaint. The next closest number of entries was from a SJSU staff member who worked with facilities and had a reason to be in each building. Surveillance footage also shows FANG entering and exiting the restrooms or restroom areas where some of the messages were written up to a day before their discovery. According to the complaint, the SJSU President’s Office provided several email/text message alerts to notify students and staff before dates that attacks were allegedly set to take place. When alerts were issued, SJSU professors independently decided whether to cancel class or hold it virtually. University police and the college administration received multiple calls from people worried about coming onto campus because of the threats. Campus buildings on the dates specified in the messages were described as “ghost town,” as described in the complaint. United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Schelble made the announcement. Fang is currently in federal custody. Fang is next scheduled to appear in federal court on July 13, 2026 for identification of counsel before Chief Magistrate Judge Nathanael Cousins. A criminal complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Griswold of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Trial Attorney Connor Cheadle of the Civil Rights Division. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, with the assistance of the San Jose State University Police Department.


title: 2 Montana women sentenced to prison for Billings carjacking homicide

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: BILLINGS – Two women who helped carjack a pickup truck that ended with the driver’s death in a South Side Billings neighborhood were sentenced to prison last week, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Violet Jean Littlelight, 23, from Hardin, who pleaded guilty in March 2026 to one count carjacking that resulted in death, was sentenced Wednesday to 24 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Shyanna Jo Whitewolf, 21, from Billings, who pleaded guilty in March 2026 to one count carjacking that resulted in death, was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The government alleged in court documents that Littlelight, along with Whitewolf and a third conspirator, Brian Contreraz , 31, lured an acquaintance of Littlelight’s to South Park in Billings to rob him and steal his pickup truck. Littlelight was spending time with Whitewolf and Contreraz in Billings on May 16, 2025, and had been texting that evening with Keith Breckenridge, 51, asking if he would come pick her up. When Littlelight told Whitewolf and Contreraz she’d asked Breckenridge for a ride, the three made plans to steal his truck and take it to a drug dealer they knew in Hardin to exchange for drugs or money. Littlelight told Breckenridge to meet her at South Park; Whitewolf and Contreraz came along under the pretense of needing a ride. When Breckinridge arrived and saw the two additional people, he grew suspicious and kept the doors on his pickup locked, asking to know who Whitewolf and Contreraz were. Littlelight vouched for them and told Breckenridge they just wanted a ride. With Littlelight’s assurances, Breckenridge opened the doors and the three climbed into his truck. Contreraz told Breckenridge to drive to the alleyway behind Adams Street on Billings’s South Side while Whitewolf chatted with Breckenridge to keep him calm. Once there, Breckenridge stopped the truck and Contreraz leaned over and stabbed him approximately 20 times in the neck, chest, and stomach. Littlelight, Whitewolf, and Contreraz then pulled Breckenridge from the truck, placed him on the ground and drove away. Breckenridge died in the alley from his stab wounds. The three drove the pickup to a house in Hardin where they changed their blood-stained clothes and placed them in the truck. From there they drove to a house on the Crow Reservation, where Littlelight and Contreraz decided they would clean the interior of the pickup and burn their bloody clothes along with other evidence from the truck. As they were cleaning the pickup, BIA officers pulled up. Littlelight and Contreraz ran off; Whitewolf stayed and told officers she had nothing to do with the truck. By the end of the month, law enforcement had all three in custody. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Rubich prosecuted the case. The Billings Police Department conducted the investigation. The FBI adopted the case to assist with expedition of laboratory testing and for federal prosecution purposes.


title: Crookston Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Production of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Joseph Robert Thompson, a Crookston man, has pleaded guilty to one count of attempted production of child pornography. According to court documents, on October 13, 2024, Thompson took a series of photos of sexually explicit conduct of a then-six-year-old minor for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. Thompson had previously come to law enforcement’s attention after soliciting illicit images from an undercover officer posing as a 14‑year‑old on August 28, 2024. On October 15, 2024, Thompson was arrested, and during a search of his home, investigators seized multiple electronic devices which included additional evidence, including child sexual abuse material and communications between Thompson and an adult male in Missouri. Thompson and the Missouri male exchanged child sexual abuse material and discussed abusing minors. Thompson admitted to distributing and receiving illegal material between August and October 2024. Thompson pleaded guilty to attempted production of child pornography before United States District Court Judge Nancy E. Brasel on June 29, 2026. This federal felony offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, along with a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. “Today’s guilty plea demonstrates the unwavering commitment of federal, state, and local partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who prey on children,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Our office will continue to use every available resource to protect vulnerable victims and bring those who harm them to justice.” “I am extremely proud of the outstanding collaboration between the Crookston Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI's Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force, which culminated in the successful arrest and charging of a dangerous child predator. Protecting our children is one of our highest priorities. We will continue to pursue these offenders relentlessly to hold these offenders responsible to ensure our community is a safer place for our most vulnerable residents,” said Crookston Police Chief Darin Selzler. “Joseph Robert Thompson's conviction in this case is just one example of how strong law enforcement partnerships keep our communities safer,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Christopher D. Dotson. “FBI resources, paired with tenacious work from our Task Force Officers from Crookston Police and detectives from Polk County Sheriff's Office, have combined to take another child predator off of our streets. The Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force continues to work throughout the state to keep our kids safe online and in our neighborhoods.” This case was investigated by the Crookston Police Department and Polk County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the FBI's Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Kristian Weir 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 United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's 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: Repeat Offender Sentenced to Prison for Armed Drug Distribution

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – A South Georgia resident with three prior felony convictions for drug distribution was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison for armed drug distribution. Quentin Hall, 30, of Valdosta, was sentenced to serve 204 months in prison to be followed by six years of supervised release by Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands on July 8, after he previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm in the furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on April 8. There is no parole in the federal system. “Repeat offenders with guns will face long prison sentences without parole for continuing to endanger others and breaking the law,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Our office is committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure career criminals are held fully accountable.” “This case highlights the critical need for collaboration among law enforcement agencies. Together, we are dedicated to safeguarding our communities and ensuring that those who threaten public safety are brought to justice,” said ATF Atlanta’s Resident Agent in Charge Robert Davis. According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Hall was pulled over for a traffic violation on Nov. 26, 2024, on 7th Avenue in Moultrie, and didn’t immediately pull over, but instead continued driving and entered the Art Center Apartments. While the car he was driving was still moving, Hall jumped out and ran away holding a bookbag. A Moultrie Police Department officer chased after Hall; Hall threw his bookbag as he ran, then lost his balance and fell to the ground. Hall ignored the officer's verbal commands to lie on the ground and not move, but pulled out a handgun, pointed it at the officer, and said to “go on” before he turned and ran. The chase continued, with Hall again falling and dropping the gun before picking it up and continuing to run. He ran behind a stairway and eventually surrendered to officers. Law enforcement retrieved the firearm that Hall had pointed at the police officer, which had a round in the chamber. Inside Hall’s backpack, officers found several small baggies containing cocaine and other drugs. Later, Hall admitted to officers that the drugs belonged to him and that the gun was not his, but a family member’s. He said he blacked out when he pointed the gun at the officer. Hall told officers that he was on parole and had been out of prison for 16 months. Hall has three prior drug distribution state convictions, two in Colquitt County, Georgia, and one in Bulloch County, Georgia. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The Moultrie Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara Jarrett and Monica Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.


title: St. Petersburg Sexual Offender Sentenced to 11 Years for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Nathaniel McAlpine (48, St. Petersburg) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian Miller to 11 years in federal prison for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. McAlpine was found guilty by a jury on September 24, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, McAlpine, while on supervised release for possession of child pornography, engaged in conversations with the purported mother of a child wherein he coerced, encouraged and persuaded the purported mother to engage in sexual activity with her child. Through investigation, agents determined the purported mother to actually be an online scammer. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry. 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Mexican National Previously Twice Removed from the United States and Previously Convicted of Illegal Reentry Indicted Again for Same Offense

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Hilario Sifuentes-Cordero (42, Mexico) has been charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and subsequent removal from the United States. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the indictment, on June 30, 2026, Sifuentes-Cordero was found to be unlawfully present in the United States after having previously been removed from the United States on May 24, 2007, and November 1, 2008. Sifuentes-Cordero had not applied for or received permission from government authorities to re-enter the United States after his last removal. Sifuentes-Cordero was previously convicted of illegal re-entry on October 15, 2008. An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Guatemalan National Previously Removed from the United States Three Times and Previously Convicted of Illegal Reentry is Indicted Again for Same Offense

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Gaspar Mateo-Morales (41, Guatemala) has been charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Mateo-Morales faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and subsequent removal from the United States. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the indictment, on June 28, 2026, Mateo-Morales was found to be unlawfully present in the United States after having previously been removed from the United States on February 25, 2011, March 25, 2011, and September 14, 2016. Mateo-Morales had not applied for or received permission from government authorities to re-enter the United States after his last removal. He was previously convicted of illegal re-entry on August 16, 2016. An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Montgomery Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Prison Following Federal Drug and Gun Convictions

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Today, United States Attorney Thomas Govan announced that a Montgomery, Alabama man has been sentenced to prison following convictions for methamphetamine distribution and the illegal possession of a firearm. On July 9, 2026, a United States District Court Judge sentenced 33-year-old Robert Marshall Jr. to 140 months in prison. Following his term of imprisonment, Marshall will serve four years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. According to his plea agreement and other court records, on February 6, 2023, law enforcement in Montgomery conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Marshall. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 20 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, and a handgun. Marshall has previous felony convictions in Autauga County and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On February 25, 2026, Marshall pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Montgomery Police Department investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Andreu and John J. Geer, III prosecuted. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Maryland Man Indicted on Domestic Terrorism Charges Against Federal Official and Others

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that a Maryland man faces indictment in connection with domestic terrorism charges. Daniel Amos, 51, of Aberdeen, is charged with three counts of repeatedly making harassing telephone calls and one count of influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Akil Baldwin, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Maryland, and Chief Henry Trabert, Aberdeen Police Department (APD). According to the indictment, between April 15, 2024, and April 16, 2026, Amos repeatedly made telephone calls, and initiated communication with a telecommunications device, solely to harass Individuals 1, 2, and 3. Additionally, Amos threatened to assault Individual 3, a federal law enforcement officer working for the Supreme Court of the United States Police Department. Through Amos’s threats, he intended to impede, intimidate, and interfere with Individual 3’s ability to perform his official job duties. Amos also intended to retaliate against Individual 3 for performing his official duties. 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, Amos faces a maximum of two years in prison for each count of repeatedly making harassing telephone calls and 10 years for influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official. 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 FBI, Supreme Court of the United States Police Department – Protective Intelligence Unit, HSI, and APD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia McLane, who is prosecuting the federal case, along with Investigator William Nickoles, for his valuable assistance. 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: Illegal Alien from Romania Receives Federal Sentence for Role in SNAP Benefits Fraud Conspiracy

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – An illegal alien, who is a citizen of Romania, received a federal-prison term, today, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Judge Julie R. Rubin sentenced Florin Serdaru, 29, to 39 months in prison for his role in a Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits fraud conspiracy. Judge Rubin also ordered Serdaru to pay $343,756 in restitution, and a money judgment of $91,873.52. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker, U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) Northeast Region; Chief Marc R. Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD); and Chief Gregory Der, Howard County Police Department (HCPD). SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, was a federally funded, national program established by the United States to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among lower income families. Each SNAP recipient receives an EBT authorization card that acts as a debit card and which electronically stores personal identifying information and other data concerning the applicant. According to his plea agreement, Serdaru participated in a conspiracy to defraud the United States and multiple recipients of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits. In 2022, Serdaru and his co-conspirators obtained EBT information from victims throughout the U.S., including in Maryland, California, Kentucky, Tennessee, New York, and other states. They used skimming devices and other means to carry out the conspiracy. The co-conspirators played various roles in skimming operations, including acquiring skimming equipment, shipping equipment to co-conspirators, and installing or removing the equipment at the point-of-sale terminals at various commercial establishments. They also monitored the activity at the terminals where skimming equipment was installed and duplicated victims’ EBT cards using the information collected from the skimming devices. Co-conspirators then fraudulently purchased large bulk items using cloned EBT cards containing numerous victims’ personal identifying information. On November 15, 2022, Serdaru, used a debit card, issued under the alias “Florin Florea” to upgrade a Sam’s Club membership plus account in Canton, Ohio. A review of the account revealed that approximately 168 unique EBT cards were used to make purchases using the account from July 2022, until at least June 2023, in Maryland and six other states. The co-conspirators made approximately $175,612.76 in SNAP purchases through the Sam’s Club account. Approximately $12,484.78 of the purchases were made in Maryland, using 14 separate victims’ EBT cards. Law enforcement learned that an additional Sam’s Club account, in the name of “Alex Stan,” also used the phone number attributed to Serdaru in its account creation. After reviewing the “Alex Stan” Sam’s Club account, law enforcement found that the co-conspirators used approximately 29 unique EBT cards to make purchases from June 2022, until at least July 2022, in Maryland and four other states. The co-conspirators used the account to make approximately $46,439.84 in SNAP purchases. Approximately $43,449.60 of the purchases were made in Maryland, using 28 separate victims’ EBT cards. Authorities also discovered that in June 2022, Serdaru created a BJ’s Wholesale account in the name of “Alex Stan,” using Serdaru’s home address. After reviewing the “Alex Stan” BJ’s account, authorities found that from June 2022, until at least October 7, 2022, the co-conspirators used approximately 179 unique EBT cards to make purchases on the account in Maryland and seven other states. The co-conspirators used the “Alex Stan” BJ’s account to make approximately $107,541.92 in SNAP purchases, using the EBT cards of 57 separate victims. Additionally, on multiple occasions, Serdaru personally purchased items in bulk using cloned EBT cards containing the personal identifying information of victims. Due to the loss of their SNAP benefits, at least 15 victims were unable to obtain food items until after the replenishment of their funds the following month. The total loss attributed to the conspiracy in Maryland is approximately $343,756. Judge Rubin previously sentenced co-conspirator Fabritio Sardaru , 22, an illegal alien who is a citizen of Romania and Ireland, to two years in prison, and Maria Roza Tomescu , 22, to 28 months in prison, for their roles in the conspiracy. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the USDA-OIG, MCPD, and HCPD for their work in the investigation, along with the Maryland Department of Human Services, Office of Inspector General, for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Higgins who prosecuted the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Career Offender on Federal Supervision Sentenced to More Than 25 Years in Prison for the Murder of a Yakama Nation Man

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Yakima, WASHINGTON — First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on July 13, Antonio Montellano, 44, was sentenced by Chief District Court Judge Stanley Bastain to 328 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release stemming from his murder conviction of a Yakama Nation man in January 2025. Based upon information presented at the time of sentencing, Montellano was under federal supervision for his conviction of Importation of Cocaine and Methamphetamine in 2012 in the Southern District of California after serving an over 10-year prison sentence. Montellano’s supervision was transferred to the Eastern District of Washington and specifically Yakima in 2023. In January 2025 while at the home of the victim, Montellano and the victim got into an argument. The defendant had been ingesting methamphetamine and had not slept for several days. Likely due to his drug usage and lack of sleep, Montellano acted impulsively in response to what he considered to be an inappropriate act. Montellano picked up a shovel and struck the victim in the head and continued to strike him after he had fallen to the ground. After the murder, Montellano covered the victim’s body with a blanket, searched his home for surveillance cameras, took additional items and fled. During the late hours of January 28, 2025, the victim’s family discovered his body. Due to the quick investigative efforts of the Yakama Nation tribal police and FBI, they determined that the victim’s new cellular phone was missing. The FBI called the victim’s phone and Montellano answered the call. Montellano provided a fake name and lied about how he came into possession of the phone. Utilizing phone data and Flock camera footage, the FBI was able to identify Montellano as the primary suspect. Due to the egregious facts of the case, multiple citizens cooperated with law enforcement which greatly assisted the investigation. As the investigation progressed, the FBI learned that Montellano fled to California and then crossed the border into Mexico. Based upon the cooperative efforts between the Department of Justice and Mexican authorities, specifically Fuerza Estatal de Seguridad Ciudadana (FESC) in Baja California and the Instituto Nacional de Migracion (INM), Montellano, a U.S. citizen, was deported from Mexico to the United States. On June 10, 2025, the Grand Jury returned an indictment charging the defendant with Second Degree Murder. After Montellano was returned to the United States from Mexico, he admitted to killing the victim. On November 4, 2025, Montellano pled guilty to Second Degree Murder. The victim’s family noted that he had a large family including several grandchildren that dearly missed his presence. Multiple family members and friends attended the sentencing hearing and addressed the court. The family’s loss can never be made whole commenting on the tragic impact his senseless murder had on their family especially on those who found him that tragic morning. In imposing sentence, Chief District Court Judge Bastian noted Montellano’s criminal history and the need for the court to impose a sentence to protect the public. The Court had concerns of the defendant’s impulsive behavior which, in this case, led to the death of the victim. First Assistant Pete Serrrano stated, “Behind every senseless act of violence is a family member forever changed whose loss echoes far beyond the crime scene. Justice cannot restore a life lost to senseless violence, but it can confirm that every victim matters and that repeated criminal behavior has devastating consequences. I am thankful for the efforts of all involved to bring this repeat violent offender back to face his crimes.” “Not only did Mr. Montellano violently and repeatedly attack this victim, but he also took steps to cover up the murder before fleeing the state and country,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “Nevertheless, he could not escape the consequences of his crime. No matter how far a subject may run, and how many borders he may cross, the FBI will work diligently with our partners to bring them back to face justice.” The case was investigated by the Yakama Nation Tribal Police and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tom Hanlon. 1:25-CR-2065-SAB


title: Admitted Leader of La Nuestra Familia Prison Gang Sentenced to 10 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl from his Prison Cell

body_text: Yakima, Washington — First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that on July 9, 2026, Felipe Feliciano Ramirez (a/k/a “Casper”), age 45, was sentenced by Chief District Court Judge Stanley Bastain to 120 months of incarceration to be followed by 8 years of supervised release stemming from his conviction for Distribution of Fentanyl while inside the Bureau of Prisons. Ramirez was convicted in 2014 in the Eastern District of California for his role as a Regimental Commander for La Nuestra Familia (“NF”), a violent prison gang, where he was responsible for the trafficking of a significant amount of methamphetamine and cocaine into the community. He was sentenced to 336 months of imprisonment in the Bureau of Prisons (“BOP”). While serving this sentence, Ramirez was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in NF’s paramilitary organizational structure. He was ultimately housed at the United States Penitentiary in Florence, Colorado. From there, he continued his drug trafficking activities, which included the distribution of a significant amount of fentanyl via the mail, which he orchestrated from his prison cell. The Bureau of Prisons’ National Gang Unit (“NGU”) learned Ramirez was utilizing the recorded BOP phone line and email system to broker drug deals, the proceeds of which he used to pay his mandatory ‘contribution’ to his NF superiors. Ramirez would source drugs, mostly fentanyl, from NF’s Mexican Regiment, and direct their distribution into various communities. Through the NGU’s diligence, they uncovered this scheme, broke the code being used, and determined there was a package of fentanyl pills heading to Spokane, Washington. They passed this information to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, who located and seized the package from the commercial carrier preventing their distribution into the community. During the process of resolving his case, Ramirez admitted he was a leader in this criminal organization and affirmed he was an NF Lieutenant. In imposing sentence, the Court noted Ramirez’s 20 plus years of involvement in the criminal justice system and the commission of this serious offense while already serving a significant drug trafficking sentence. The Court declined Ramirez’s request to impose his sentence concurrent to his 336 months sentence, noting there is no free crime. Ultimately, the Court decided to impose the 120-month sentence with 80 months running consecutive to his current sentence with the rest to run concurrently. It was also noted Ramirez’s initial sentence would be extended by the loss of “good time” credits with this new criminal conduct. “This prison-based gang is a threat to our communities. From within the prison walls, they are trying to assert their influence, power, and control through the recruitment of our youth forcing themselves into our communities, coordinating, directing and engaging in ongoing criminal conduct,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Pete Serrano. “This admitted Lieutenant is just one example. We are thankful for the hard work of our partners within the BOP and the ATF for targeting this threat and remaining vigilant to continue to hold them accountable for their conduct.” ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais stated, “Mr. Ramirez is a textbook example of recidivism. Not only was he already serving a significant prison sentence for his prior offenses, but he continued to push poison into our neighborhoods from behind bars. Mr. Ramirez and La Nuestra Familia are a plague on our communities, and ATF will continue to bring the full might of the Department of Justice to their doorstep.” "This case demonstrates how the BOP's intelligence capabilities extend far beyond our institution walls," said Federal Bureau of Prisons Director William K. Marshall III. "Our NGU worked with law enforcement partners to disrupt a fentanyl trafficking scheme and protect the community from these deadly drugs. This additional sentence sends a clear message that criminal activity will be pursued relentlessly, and those who continue to orchestrate crimes from behind bars will be held fully accountable." For additional information, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington. 4-CR-02027-SAB-3


title: Two sentenced to federal prison in Eastern District of Texas cocaine trafficking conspiracy

body_text: PLANO, Texas – Two individuals were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Jonathan Guerra, 30, of Irving, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan on July 10, 2026. Laura Loera-Flores, 38, of Mexico, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison by Judge Jordan. According to information presented in court, Guerra and Loera-Flores were involved in a conspiracy with others to traffic more than five kilograms of cocaine from Mexico into the Eastern District of Texas and beyond. Loera-Flores played an integral role in the conspiracy and was responsible for driving her vehicle loaded with hidden drug proceeds from the United States into Mexico so that Mexican drug traffickers could receive the profits from the illegal drug trade. Loera-Flores was found with ten bundles totaling $198,902 in cash on one trip. She made multiple trips between Mexico and the United States during the conspiracy. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley Brooks. ###


title: Houston man guilty of drug trafficking as part of Homeland Security Task Force investigation in the Eastern District of Texas

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Houston man has pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations following a Homeland Security Task Force investigation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Indolfo Hernandez, 36, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2026. According to information presented in court, in January 2024, law enforcement began investigating a drug trafficking organization that was distributing large amounts of methamphetamine throughout Texas and neighboring regions. The organization, based in Houston and operating within the Eastern District of Texas, was led by Hernandez. During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than 16 kilograms of methamphetamine that had been distributed by Hernandez and his coconspirators. 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 Houston comprises agents and officers from the FBI; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations - Houston (ICE-HSI); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Eastern District of Texas; DEA Beaumont HIDTA Task Force Group D23; Houston Police Department; Liberty County Sheriff’s Office; and Harris County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office with the prosecution being led by Eastern District of Texas Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Lee. Hernandez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison at sentencing. The actual sentence 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. ###


title: Frisco furry enthusiast sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for transporting child for sexual exploitation

body_text: PLANO, Texas – A Frisco man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for transporting a minor for sexual exploitation, announced Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. Joseph Ray Robertson, 37, pleaded guilty to transportation of minors and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Richard Schell on July 13, 2026. Judge Schell also imposed lifetime supervised release on the defendant. According to information presented in court, in May of 2024, Robertson, a furry enthusiast, transported a minor from Frisco to Atlanta, Georgia for a furry convention. Furry refers to a subculture of enthusiasts of anthropomorphic (human-like) animals in which fans create animal characters with human personalities and traits. Robertson commissioned an elaborate, custom-made costume to further facilitate his furry persona. While at the convention, Robertson sexually abused the child by engaging in acts that would constitute child molestation and sodomy under Georgia State law. Additionally, Robertson purchased sexual stimulants and devices at the convention, and commissioned artwork depicting his furry persona engaged in sex acts with the minor victim. “This defendant’s actions were depraved and absolutely justify every day of the imposed 20-year sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Most children’s experiences with people costumed as animals comes in the context of fun encounters in theme parks. This defendant turned a furry costume into a nightmare of sexual abuse. It shocks the conscience that a child was allowed into a convention where adults were dressed up as furry animals and sex devices were being sold. Not one person in that convention contacted the authorities to protect the child. Every child deserves security, dignity, and a community that stands fiercely in their defense. Protecting children is one of our most solemn responsibilities, and we will act ferociously against anyone who threatens their safety.” This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. 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. This case was investigated by FBI and the Frisco Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller. ###


title: U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle Visits TSA Officials at RDU

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle and his team recently visited the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials at Raleigh–Durham International Airport for an inside look at the vital work TSA performs to keep travel safe and moving efficiently. TSA plays a crucial role in protecting the nation’s transportation systems—not only for millions of daily air travelers, but across rail, maritime, pipelines, highways, and the broader supply chain. During the visit, both agencies reaffirmed their strong partnership, working side‑by‑side by maintaining a coordinated, united approach to keeping the transportation system secure.


title: Nicaraguan Illegal Alien Sentenced For  Illegal Re-Entry of a Deported Alien

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ORLANDO JOSE JARQUIN OROZCO (“JARQUIN”) , age 36, a native of Nicaragua, was sentenced on July 9, 2026, by United States District Judge William J. Crain after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. JARQUIN was sentenced to forty-two months imprisonment, a fine of $100,000, a three-year term of supervised release, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. According to the indictment, JARQUIN reentered the United States after he was previously deported on November 16, 2016. Prior to his deportation, he was convicted of second-degree battery in Jefferson Parish. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration in investigating this matter. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman. * * *


title: New Orleans Man Guilty of Machinegun Possession and Drug Trafficking

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RALPH PRICE (“PRICE”) , age 28, pleaded guilty on July 9, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 841(b)(1)(E); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and possession of a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(o) and 924(a)(2), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, since at least 2024, PRICE had been selling drugs in the New Orleans area. On March 13, 2025, law enforcement officers executed search warrants on PRICE ’s vehicle, and an apartment where PRICE was staying. Officers found Suboxone strips inside PRICE ’s vehicle, and marijuana and methamphetamine inside the apartment. Near the drugs in the apartment, officers also recovered a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter caliber pistol equipped with a loaded extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device. The machinegun conversion device transformed PRICE ’s semi-automatic handgun into a fully-automatic machinegun. Casings from PRICE ’s machinegun were a ballistic match to casings recovered from a shooting at a gas station on Crowder Boulevard one week earlier. Surveillance footage of the shooting shows PRICE walk towards a man standing near a vehicle, confront him, and then fire at the man several times while retreating across the parking lot. Pursuant to the plea agreement, PRICE will serve 15 years in prison. The Court took PRICE ’s guilty plea but deferred its decision on whether to accept or reject the negotiated plea until sentencing. PRICE also faces a term of supervised release of at least three years up to life. Each count also carries a maximum $250,000 fine and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ***


title: Marrero Resident Guilty of Federal Firearm Violations and Mail Theft

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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – TREMAINE MYLES (“MYLES”) , age 34, a resident of Marrero, pled guilty on July 8, 2026, to a four-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, and theft of mail, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. Specifically, MYLES pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1028A; making a false statement to a firearms dealer, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6) and § 924(a)(1)(A); being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), and theft of mail, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1708. Together, these charges expose him to a mandatory consecutive sentence of up to 2 years for aggravated identity theft; up to 15 years for the felon‑in‑possession charge; up to 5 years for the mail‑theft offense; and up to 5 years for the false‑statement offense. Each count also carries potential supervised‑release terms of up to three years, fines of up to $250,000, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count. Sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2026. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Postal Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. * * *


title: Honduran Illegal Alien Sentenced for Illegal Re-Entry of Removed Alien

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – OBLAN ANTONIO CANALES-MARTINEZ (“CANALES-MARTINEZ”) , age 51, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on July 9, 2026, after previously pleading guilty to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to the charging document, the defendant was found in the United States on December 13, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on July 18, 2005. According to court documents, federal agents arrived at an apartment complex in Metairie, Louisiana, and saw a white Toyota Tundra leaving the area. A search of the truck’s license plate revealed its owner to be CANALES-MARTINEZ , a Honduran national previously deported on July 18, 2005. The truck was followed to a Shell station located on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie, Louisiana. CANALES-MARTINEZ exited the truck and began filling it with gasoline. When the truck was stopped at a gas station, the uniformed federal agents approached CANALES-MARTINEZ . CANALES MARTINEZ then threw coffee in one of the agents’ faces and fled. After chasing and apprehending CANALES–MARTINEZ , the agents arrested him. CANALES-MARTINEZ was sentenced to time served. He has been in federal custody since December 29, 2025. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: Former Deputy U.S. Marshal Sentenced for Assault on Prisoner in Louisiana Courthouse

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: WASHINGTON — A former Deputy U.S. Marshal was sentenced today to 45 months in prison for assaulting a federal inmate and writing a false report about the incident. In April 2026, after a three-day trial, a federal jury in the Western District of Louisiana convicted Joshua Firmin, 49, of one count of Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law and one count of Falsification of Records. “The great majority of law enforcement officers do essential work honorably and lawfully under difficult and high-risk conditions,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “But Joshua Firmin knowingly overstepped his authority when he assaulted a shackled prisoner and failed to uphold the trust placed in him when he lied about it in official documents. Today’s sentence represents appropriate accountability, and we are grateful to the law enforcement personnel who reported the misconduct and cooperated with the investigation.” “The civil rights protections afforded to all U.S. citizens are a fundamental part of the Constitution,” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “The unlawful civil rights violation committed by Mr. Firmin against a shackled inmate, not only tarnishes the reputation, it also engenders public distrust of the innumerable law enforcement officers who so honorably protect and serve all of us. Today’s sentencing ensures that Mr. Firmin is being held accountable for his actions.” “Firmin violated his oath as a law enforcement officer by abusing his authority,” said Special Agent in Charge Cloey Pierce of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) South Central Region Houston Office. “The DOJ OIG will continue working with its law enforcement partners to ensure that anyone participating in this type of behavior will be brought to justice.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on February 29, 2024, Firmin, who was then assigned to operations duties at the federal courthouse in Lafayette, Louisiana, learned that a prisoner awaiting a court appearance in the courthouse cell block had made insulting remarks about Firmin to another courthouse employee. Shortly thereafter, Firmin entered the courthouse cellblock and unlocked the cell where the prisoner was being held, yanked the prisoner, who was restrained in handcuffs, waist shackles, and leg irons, out of the cell by his hair and slammed his head into the cellblock wall. As a result of the assault, the prisoner suffered a laceration to his scalp that required staples to close. Following the assault, Firmin wrote an official use of force report in which he falsely stated that the prisoner had attempted to spit on him and then inadvertently struck his head on a door while resisting efforts to escort him to another cell. However, another Deputy U.S. Marshal, who had witnessed the assault, promptly reported the misconduct to his chain of command, leading to an investigation by the DOJ OIG. The case was investigated by the DOJ OIG South Central Region Houston Office. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Re-Issued 7/13/2026


title: Convicted Drug Trafficker Sentenced for Violating Federal Controlled Substances Act

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana announced today that LIKE CHEN , age 36, was sentenced on July 8, 2026 by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 24 months’ imprisonment, 4 years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, a mixture and substance containing one hundred (100) kilograms or more of a detectable amount of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. According to court documents, on April 14, 2025, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agents observed an individual identified as Yilei Zhou pick up Hanjie Wu, a known marijuana distributor, from an airport in Houston, Texas and drive him to a residence in Katy, Texas. While at that residence they picked up Zihang Zeng, and then drove to Denham Springs, Louisiana. The following day, two other individuals, Wei Bin Chen and LIKE CHEN , left Denham Springs, traveled to a nearby storage facility and retrieved multiple large trash bags from a storage unit. They then drove to another storage facility in Slidell, Louisiana. Zhou and Wu then drove to same facility in Slidell where they all met with an individual identified as Aaron Steele. Wei Bin and LIKE CHEN then loaded the large trash bags into Steele’s vehicle and all parties left the storage facility. Forrest County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop of CHEN’S vehicle on Interstate 59 headed towards Hattiesburg, Mississippi. A consensual search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 43.5 kilograms of marijuana. Mississippi Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of Steele’s vehicle on Interstate 59 in Picayune, Mississippi. A consensual search of his vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 22.7 kilograms of marijuana. Based on the seizures that occurred in Slidell and Mississippi, Livingston Parish officers obtained search warrants for the residence and storage facility in Denham Springs. When the officers arrived at the residence, Zeng ran from the residence and was arrested. Inside the residence, officers located $1,552.00 in currency, hundreds of rubber bands, a vacuum sealer and a money counter. From the storage unit, officers seized 38.5 kilograms of marijuana. On the drug conspiracy count, LIKE CHEN faced a minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a maximum term of imprisonment of forty (40) years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four (4) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Forrest County Mississippi Sheriff’s Office, and the Picayune, Mississippi Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys André Jones and Nolan D. Paige of the Narcotics Unit. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Re-issued 7/13/2026 * * *


title: Stockton and Modesto Men Indicted in Separate Felon in Possession Firearm Cases

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announces the separate indictments of a Stockton man and a Modesto man that highlight the Office’s commitment to prosecuting felons who unlawfully possess firearms and to reducing gun violence in the Eastern District of California. Man with prior manslaughter conviction charged for illegal firearm possession George Onesavanh, 43, of Stockton, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on April 27, 2026, Onesavanh was found in possession of a gun in Stockton. Onesavanh is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions that include voluntary manslaughter and carrying a concealed weapon. The Stockton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Multiple Instagram posts lead to arrest Samian Sivansay, 27, of Modesto, was charged with being a felon in possession of firearms after posting photos and videos of guns on Instagram on June 14 and 16, 2026. According to court documents, law enforcement tracked Sivansay’s vehicle from Arizona to California, attempted a traffic stop, and briefly pursued him in a high‑speed chase before ending the pursuit for safety reasons. Soon after, officers found the vehicle abandoned and recovered nine firearms inside, many matching those shown on Sivansay’s Instagram. Sivansay is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions that include robbery with a firearm and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Stockton Police Department, the Stanislaus County Sheriff, and the California Highway Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole M. Vanek is prosecuting both cases. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Fresno Man Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Patrick Kasper, 33, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley to eight years and six months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court records, on March 16, 2022, Kasper failed to yield when law enforcement attempted to pull him over for a traffic stop. Kasper engaged law enforcement in a vehicle pursuit at speeds of over 110 miles per hour. Kasper stopped at a residence and fled inside, leaving on the ground a black Smith & Wesson M&P 40 Shield .40-caliber pistol loaded with seven rounds of .40-caliber Smith & Wesson ammunition. Kasper is a five-time convicted felon for offenses that include possession of a controlled substance for sale, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and domestic violence. Because of these felony convictions, Kasper is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. On April 21, 2025, Kasper pleaded guilty. The Fresno Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Arelis M. Clemente prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Former Corrections Sergeant Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Dealing in Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Former corrections sergeant at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, Ralph Contreras Jr., 40, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff to 15 years in prison for receipt and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, between Sept. 29, 2024, and Jan. 2, 2025, Contreras received and distributed CSAM through social media apps. He specifically sought out CSAM that depicted prepubescent minors. At the time of his arrest, Contreras was working as a corrections sergeant. Contreras pleaded guilty on April 13, 2026. Homeland Security Investigations, the Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Madera County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the DOJ to combat the 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 those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue the victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.


title: Fairfield Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of Ammunition

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Nicolas Vasquez II, 46, of Fairfield, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb to five years in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, on Feb. 25, 2025, during a traffic stop, Vasquez was found with a loaded 9 mm pistol without a serial number and a loaded, spare high-capacity magazine. In total, Vasquez possessed 22 rounds of 9 mm ammunition. Vasquez has prior felony convictions — assault with a firearm and evading a police officer — and is prohibited from possessing ammunition and firearms. Vasquez pleaded guilty on April 6, 2026. The Fairfield Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heiko P. Coppola prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: D.C. Man Found Guilty of Armed Carjacking and Armed Robbery

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Orlin Lemus-Cruz, 22, of the District, was found guilty today in D.C. Superior Court on charges related to the armed robbery of two victims on March 26, 2025, in Northwest, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Lemus-Cruz was found guilty of one count of armed carjacking, two counts of armed robbery and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld scheduled sentencing for October 30, 2026. The armed robbery conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment. The armed carjacking conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than 15 years and a maximum sentence of not more than 40 years of imprisonment. According to the government’s evidence, on the afternoon of March 26, 2025, Lemus-Cruz and his two co-conspirators, Jason Benitez-Umanzor and Julio Villafranco, approached two victims watching a soccer game at the Bell Athletic Field in the 3100 block of Hiatt Place, NW. The victims were then pistol-whipped and robbed at gunpoint of a coat and a moped. Lemus-Cruz was arrested on April 5, 2025, and has been in custody since. Co-conspirators Jason Benitez-Umanzor and Julio Villafranco previously pleaded guilty to armed robbery on November 19, 2025. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nickolas Reck and Michael Dal Lago. Assistant United States Attorney Rashmika Nedungadi indicted the case. 2025 CF3 003832 Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: Honduran National Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S.

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that YOVANI DE JESUS ALVAREZ MURILLO, 42, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegal reentry of a removed alien. The criminal complaint alleges that Alvarez was first encountered in the U.S. in February 2005 when he was arrested by the New York State Police in Tarrytown, New York, and charged with driving while ability impaired by the consumption of alcohol. In August 2008, Greenwich (Conn.) Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs/alcohol. In December 2008, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the names “Geovany Alvarez-Murillo” and “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” for two counts of failure to appear in the second degree. In November 2009, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of larceny in the third degree. In December 2011, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs/alcohol. In June 2012, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” on a charge of failure to appear in the first degree. In October 2012, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, under the name Geovany Alvares-Murillo, on a charge of forgery in the second degree. Alvarez was convicted of, and sentenced for, these offenses. The complaint further alleges that, in October 2012, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) interviewed Alvarez while he was serving a sentence in the custody of Connecticut Department of Correction. During the interview, Alvarez admitted that had illegally entered the U.S. in approximately 2002 by crossing the border from Mexico. Alvarez was removed to Honduras in October 2013. The complaint further alleges that, Alvarez illegally reentered the U.S. and, in August 2021, under the name “Geovany Alvares-Murillo,” was arrested by Stamford Police on a charge of breach of peace in the second degree. He was convicted of the offense and ordered to pay a $150 fine. In May 2023, Alvarez, under the name “Geovany Alvares Murillo,” was arrested by Stamford Police on a charge of criminal trespass in the third degree. He was convicted of the offense and was ordered to pay a $300 fine. The complaint further alleges that, in November 2024, Connecticut State Police arrested Alvarez, under the name “Geovanny Alvares,” on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. In August 2025, Stamford Police arrested Alvarez, also under the name “Geovanny Alvares,” for operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device (breathalyzer). Alvarez was convicted of these offenses on May 14, 2026, in Stamford Superior Court. He served a 60-day state sentence and was transferred to ICE custody today. Alvarez appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and was ordered detained. If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Alvarez faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael S. Deel and Neeraj N. Patel. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Chicago-Area Gun and Drug Trafficker Resentenced to Forty Years in Prison for Firearms and Drug Offenses in East Central Illinois

body_text: URBANA, Ill. – A Markham, Illinois, man, Deon Evans, 42, was sentenced on July 13, 2026, to forty years and eight months’ imprisonment in the Federal Bureau of Prisons for trafficking heroin and methamphetamine, carrying and possessing a firearm during his drug trafficking crimes, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. At the resentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Colin S. Bruce found that Evans faced a mandatory consecutive twenty-five-year sentence for his offense of carrying a firearm while distributing heroin and possessing a firearm in furtherance of his possession of methamphetamine (“ecstasy”) with the intent to distribute it. Judge Bruce further determined that Evans was involved in the trafficking of at least eight to twenty-four firearms and found that Evans had obstructed justice by providing false testimony during his case. Evans faced an enhanced sentence because he was on federal supervised release at the time of his offenses from a 2007 conviction for possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in the Southern District of Iowa. Evans was originally convicted following a jury trial in January 2020. During the three-day trial, the government presented evidence that, in July 2016, Evans traveled from his residence in Markham to a gas station in Gilman, Illinois, where he sold 48.4 grams of heroin in exchange for $4,500. In August 2016, Evans again traveled to the gas station to meet the same buyer, this time bringing an associate and two loaded firearms. During this meeting, Evans sold 124.3 grams of heroin for $11,250. After the August 2016 heroin sale, Evans was stopped by troopers with the Illinois State Police on Interstate 57. Troopers searched Evans’ vehicle and found the cash hidden under the back seat, two fully loaded firearms, an extra magazine, and 173 ecstasy pills that contained methamphetamine. The trial evidence established that Evans obtained one of those firearms, a Glock, Model 30, .45 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, by trading two grams of heroin and $100 in exchange for the gun. It was also established that the firearm had been stolen from Indiana. Additional evidence showed that Evans used two individuals, known as “straw purchasers”, to purchase fourteen guns for him in Birmingham, Alabama, which he then sold illegally in Chicago. Some of the firearms were later recovered after they were used in violent crimes. Judge Bruce originally sentenced Evans in January of 2022. Following an appeal, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals remanded the case for an evidentiary hearing to determine if Evans’s trial counsel was constitutionally ineffective, and for resentencing. Judge Bruce determined that Evans’s trial counsel did not provide ineffective assistance before proceeding to resentencing. Judge Bruce ordered the new sentence to be served consecutively to Evans’s 27-month sentence of imprisonment imposed in the Southern District of Iowa for violating his conditions of federal supervised release. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Chicago Division, Springfield Resident Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Springfield, Illinois, and Birmingham Field Offices; and the Illinois State Police investigated the case. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugene L. Miller represented the government throughout the case.


title: Philippine National Pleads Guilty to Knowingly Bringing Nearly 200 Kilograms of Cocaine on El Segundo-Bound Oil Tanker

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Philippine national pleaded guilty today to knowingly bringing nearly 200 kilograms of cocaine on an oil tanker inbound from Ecuador to El Segundo earlier this year. Ceasar Tubay Gelacio, Jr., 43, of The Philippines, pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly bringing cocaine on a vessel arriving in the United States. He has been in federal custody since May 21. According to his plea agreement, in May 2026, Gelacio was an able-bodied seaman on the Aquatravesia , an oil tanker that was scheduled to arrive in El Segundo. While at port in Ecuador, Gelacio agreed with an unknown person using the moniker “Luis” to possess and conceal more than five kilograms (11 pounds) on the vessel. Gelacio concealed approximately 195 kilograms (430 pounds) of cocaine in the vessel’s garbage space and in his room aboard the vessel. On May 21, 2026, the Aquatravesia traveled near the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. When it arrived in U.S. territory, Gelacio knew the cocaine remained on the vessel. On that day, law enforcement recovered approximately 195 kilograms of cocaine concealed in trash bags in the vessel’s garbage space area. According to court documents, the vessel’s crew had discovered the cocaine and alerted the ship’s captain, who later discovered Gelacio possessed the drugs. The captain then secured the cocaine and notified law enforcement. United States District Judge Stephen V. Wilson scheduled an October 19 sentencing hearing, at which time Gelacio will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Coast Guard are investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Monika L. Hara and Kyle W. Kahan of the General Crimes Section are prosecuting this case.


title: Former L.A. County Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Obstructing Federal Probe into Crypto ‘Mogul’ Threats Against Victim

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputy was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for obstructing a federal investigation into a now-jailed, self-styled cryptocurrency businessman by lying that he never witnessed the wannabe crypto mogul threaten and extort $25,000 from a party planner at his Bel Air mansion. Scott Allen Simpkins, 34, of Brea, was sentenced by United States District Judge Percy Anderson, who fined him $10,000. Simpkins pleaded guilty on March 17 to one count of obstruction of justice. He resigned from LASD’s Special Enforcement Bureau after pleading guilty to the felony. According to his plea agreement, Simpkins was a deputy assigned to LASD’s Lakewood Station and worked for LASD’s Special Enforcement Bureau and SWAT team. He also worked approximately six to eight shifts as a private security guard for Saavedra & Associates and received cash payments for his services. Saavedra & Associates was a private company owned and operated by then-LASD Deputy and one-time federal task force officer Eric Chase Saavedra, 43, of Chino, that employed active LASD deputies and law enforcement officers and provided private security services for clients. One of those clients was Adam Iza, 25, who resided in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach, was a self-styled cryptocurrency businessman who called himself “The Godfather,” and who has been in federal custody since September 2024. Iza pleaded guilty in January 2025 to one count of conspiracy against rights, one count of wire fraud, and one count of tax evasion, and awaits sentencing. On June 1, 2026, Iza pleaded guilty in the District of Connecticut to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act) related to his involvement in an attempted robbery of Bitcoin and a kidnapping in Danbury, Connecticut, in August 2024. In August 2021, Iza hired Simpkins, fellow then-LASD Deputy Christopher Michael Cadman, 34, of Fullerton, and other law enforcement officers to provide private security at a party at his Bel Air mansion. At the time, Simpkins knew Iza possessed at least one firearm. After the party ended, at around 3 a.m. or 4 a.m. on August 15, 2021, Simpkins learned the party planner – identified in court documents as “R.C.” – had been kicked out of the party for erratic behavior. The next day, Simpkins worked another shift at Iza’s Bel Air mansion and – along with Cadman – escorted R.C. to Iza’s office and closed the door behind them. Iza – seated behind his office desk – then took steps to intimidate R.C. to obtain $25,000 by placing four or five rounds of live 9mm ammunition on his desk across from R.C. While speaking to the victim, Iza picked up the live ammunition and twirled a bullet in his hand as he spoke threateningly to R.C. During this meeting, Iza accessed R.C.’s phone after demanding that $25,000 be transferred from R.C.’s bank account to an Iza-controlled bank account. After the transfer occurred, Simpkins and Cadman escorted R.C. out of Iza’s mansion. After this incident, Iza hired Saavedra & Associates as his private security provider and made substantial payments to Saavedra and his employees. Simpkins and Cadman each earned $1,400 for their shifts during the August 2021 party and the August 16 incident with R.C. In response to Simpkins and Cadman helping to secure a long-term contract with Iza, Saavedra & Associate paid them approximately 10% of the company’s total profits for the contract’s first month. After Iza’s arrest in September 2024 and the R.C.-related conduct being charged – along with other crimes – in a federal criminal complaint and an indictment against Iza, the FBI executed a search warrant on Simpkins’ person and seized his phone. In a November 2024 meeting with federal law enforcement concerning Iza and corrupt LASD deputies and in which Simpkins was warned that lying would result in criminal prosecution, Simpkins lied repeatedly to FBI agents and federal prosecutors that he saw no ammunition or shell casings inside Iza’s office during the incident with victim R.C. Simpkins further lied when he said he saw no financial transactions occur. Simpkins admitted in his plea agreement that he knew his lies had the natural and probable effect of interfering with the criminal investigation and legal proceedings against Iza and were material to the investigation. In addition to Iza, Saavedra and Cadman, among others, have pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges and await sentencing. Former LASD Deputy Michael David Coberg, 44, of Eastvale, is serving a 63-month federal prison sentence and was ordered to pay $127,000 in restitution for helping Iza extort a rival and arrange the sham illegal drug possession arrest of another adversary in Paramount in 2021. The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department provided assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Maxwell K. Coll of the National Security Division prosecuted this case.


title: TransDigm Abandons Proposed Acquisition of Stellant Systems in Response to Justice Department’s Decision to Block Transaction

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: TransDigm Group has abandoned its attempt to acquire rival defense and industrial component manufacturer Stellant Systems. TransDigm and Stellant compete, in addition to industrial products, to supply and repair components used in radar systems for the U.S. Navy’s Aegis Combat System and the U.S. Air Force’s F-16 fighter jets. The acquisition would have left the Department of War with a single source for critical products, increasing supply chain risks and removing the benefits of competition. TransDigm abandoned the transaction after the Justice Department informed the parties that it would file a lawsuit in federal court to block the transaction. “This Justice Department will rigorously investigate and challenge mergers that create monopolies and harm competition. Our decision to put a stop to this deal preserved critical competition that protects American taxpayers and warfighters,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “We are grateful to our War Department partners who were crucial to this investigation.” “The Department of War is committed to building the Arsenal of Freedom, which requires resilient supply chains and competition,” said Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment. “Maintaining a robust, diverse, and competitive defense industrial base is vital to preventing single-source vulnerabilities and ensuring our warfighters are equipped with superior capabilities at the best value to the American taxpayer.” TransDigm Group Incorporated is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. Stellant Systems Inc. is headquartered in Torrance, California.