title: Billings man pleads guilty to trafficking methamphetamine on Crow and Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservations

body_text: BILLINGS - A Billings man who trafficked methamphetamine on the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservations admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. The defendant, Charles Jesse Sanchez, Jr., 61, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Sanchez faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release. U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided at the change of plea hearing and sentencing will be set for a later date. U.S. District Judge Kathleen S. Lane will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sanchez remained detained pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Charles “Chuck” Sanchez is known to distribute methamphetamine in Billings, and on the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Using a confidential source, BIA and FBI purchased four ounces of methamphetamine from Sanchez on June 19, 2023. The source messaged Sanchez and met with him in Billings. Sanchez provided the methamphetamine hidden inside a package of baby wipes. The source showed agents Facebook messages coordinating the purchase of meth from Sanchez. Sanchez was previously convicted in U.S. District Court for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine (2000) and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (2017). The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and BIA conducted the investigation. XXX


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

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was successfully transferred to Minnesota on July 16, 2026, after his lawful surrender in Somalia. Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme in September 2022 and is facing 31 charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. In September 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota signed a warrant for Eidleh’s arrest. Almost four years later in June 2026, Eidleh was located by law enforcement in Somalia. As a result of strong international law enforcement partnerships between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia, and the Somali Police Force, Eidleh was escorted to the District of Minnesota by Special Agents of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Eidleh’s return to the United States. “Fraudsters like Abdikerm Eidleh should know full well that they cannot escape the full weight of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “I commend our law enforcement partners for swiftly and securely returning Eidleh to the United States, where he will now face justice for his crimes.” “Abdikerm Eidleh is second only to Aimee Bock in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. His capture and transfer back to Minnesota show how far the arm of American law enforcement can reach, and that you can run, but you cannot hide,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Today is a historic moment in this FBI’s war on fraud,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The transfer of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota – where this FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department. These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic – and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation. He fled overseas after being charged in 2022, but thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, our partners at the Justice Department, and counterparts in Somalia, this FBI got him. Criminals around the world should note: this is the 25 th such transfer executed by this FBI in the last month alone, meaning no matter where you try to hide, we will find you.” “The FBI will exercise all of its lawful authorities at home—and all of its extensive law enforcement partnerships abroad—to bring alleged criminals and fraudsters to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “There is no safe harbor for criminals, no corner of the planet, where we will not work to seek justice for crime victims and the American taxpayer. The FBI extends its sincere gratitude to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia and the Somali Police Force for their dedicated work in locating and apprehending an alleged leader in one of the most significant frauds against the American taxpayer ever detected in Minnesota. We also recognize the cooperative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Federal Republic of Somalia in facilitating this defendant’s transfer to the United States to answer the charges brought in this case.” “While families relied on a vital assistance program to feed their children during the pandemic, Abdikerm Eidleh stole from it and fled the country rather than face justice,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “His return makes clear that time and distance cannot shield those who steal from the American people. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents used their forensic accounting expertise to follow the money, unravel this massive fraud scheme, and help bring Eidleh back to answer for his crimes alongside his already convicted co-conspirators.” Eidleh is expected to make his initial appearance on July 17, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. Note: Previous press release detailing Eidleh’s apprehension here .


title: North Carolina Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Materials and Producing Animal Crush Video

component: USAO - North Carolina, Middle

body_text: GREENSBORO, N.C. – Andrew Eric Childs, age 41, of Apex, North Carolina, was sentenced today to 216 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for distribution of child sexual abuse material (one count) and production of an “animal crush” video (one count). Childs was also ordered to pay $24,800 in restitution to the victims. He pleaded guilty to the charges on April 7, 2026. According to court records, the defendant possessed and distributed child sexual abuse material and produced a video depicting his sexual abuse of a dog. Childs worked for Durham Emergency Medical Services at the time of his arrest, though the crimes were not connected to his employment. Dan Bishop, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI Charlotte Field Office, Raleigh Resident Agency and the Durham Police Department with assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Assistant United States Attorney Karla Painter for the Middle District of North Carolina prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . ###


title: Ten Charged in Alleged Peach County Armed Drug Trafficking Ring

body_text: MACON, Ga. – U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes today announced the unsealing of a 38-count federal indictment charging 10 Fort Valley, Georgia, men with alleged crimes associated with an armed drug trafficking ring resulting from an Operation Take Back America investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office. The ATF, the United States Marshals Service, and Peach County deputies assisted in executing arrest warrants early this morning in Peach County, Georgia, and Miami, Florida, resulting in six arrests. As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement seized 68 firearms, two of which were equipped with switches that converted them into machine guns. The initial appearances for the defendants will occur at times determined by the Court. The federal indictment in Case No. 5:26-CR-00029-MTT-CHW, filed on July 14 and unsealed on July 16, charges the following individuals, all of Fort Valley: Kerry Ross, 52, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, six counts of distribution of cocaine base, seven counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of distribution of powder cocaine, and one count of use of a communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of a felony under the controlled substances act and faces life in prison. Bruce Jolly, 37, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of cocaine base, and four counts of distribution of methamphetamine and faces life in prison. Chris Jolly, 19, is charged with one count of illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment and one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces 20 years in prison. Danny Hicks, 60, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and faces life in prison. Paul Leslie, 38 , is charged with two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and seven counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 30 years in prison. Darius Dassau, 37, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison. Taqwan McCrary, 32, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison. Dextric Harris, aka “Young Jefe” and “Jefe Sackright,” 34, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison. Michael Joseph, 59, is charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces 20 years in prison. Jamiei Leslie, 36, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces 20 years in prison. According to the indictment, the defendants conspired in an armed drug trafficking ring, distributing cocaine and methamphetamine in Middle Georgia. Sixty-eight firearms, including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and two machine guns, were seized as part of the ongoing investigation. Six defendants are in custody. Bruce Jolly, Chris Jolly, Kerry Ross, and Dextric Harris are at large. If you have information about their whereabouts, please contact the ATF or the Peach County Sheriff’s Office at 478-825-8269; the USMS at 478-870-1017; or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME. The collaborative effort 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods. The ATF and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case in partnership with the USMS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Lynes is prosecuting the case for the Government. An indictment and criminal complaint are merely allegations of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Methamphetamine Trafficker and Tax Fraudster Sentenced to Federal Prison in Homeland Security Task Force Case

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Leeman Brown has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Virgina M. Hernandez Covington to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and aiding and assisting false and fraudulent tax returns. Brown pleaded guilty on October 27, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe mad the announcement. According to court documents, Brown conspired with others to smuggle methamphetamine, hidden in packages in the mail, from California to the Tampa area. At the same time, Brown submitted more than 80 false tax returns to the IRS that included fraudulent amounts of gambling losses, winnings, and federal income tax withholdings. The submissions requested large refunds from the IRS to which taxpayers are not entitled. Brown earned over $260,000 in proceeds from the scheme. “The expertise and diligence by our HSTF law enforcement partners in this case is a clear example of our commitment to stem the flow of illegal drugs and protect our nation’s financial system against fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “Tax fraud isn’t a game—and anyone who tries to cheat the system will quickly learn that IRS Criminal Investigation plays to win,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “IRS Special Agents are unwavering in their mission: protect America’s taxpayers, defend the integrity of our tax system, and hold offenders accountable. If you think you can beat the IRS, think again.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Stoia. 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. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.


title: Homeland Security Task Force Yields 27 Year Prison Sentence for Hardee County Methamphetamine Trafficker

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Herbert Battle, Jr. (54, Hardee County) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Virgina M. Hernandez Covington to 27 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine. Battle pleaded guilty on August 19, 2025.United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Battle oversaw a drug trafficking conspiracy in which he and others smuggled methamphetamine, hidden in packages in the mail, from California to the Tampa area. At its height, the conspirators received up to 20 pounds of high-purity methamphetamine per week. Battle, whose criminal history dates to 1989, has a 2018 federal drug conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin. 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. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Stoia.


title: Former Marine Charged with Threatening to Kill the President

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – William L. Upham (35, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with threatening the President of the United States. If convicted, Upham faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. Upham appeared in federal court in Jacksonville earlier today and has been ordered detained. According to the complaint , the United States Secret Service (“USSS”) received reports concerning potential threats against the President made by Upham, who is a former Marine and state prosecutor. USSS agents then observed two videos that Upham had posted on his social media accounts. In the first video, Upham was observed wearing his military uniform. Upham stated, in part, that “this is a call to arms” and called for the overthrow of the Trump administration. Upham then provided instructions on how to “overthrow” the President, including that he recommended using a semi-automatic rifle, such as an AR-15, and that “the enemy” should be killed with “two shots to the chest” and “one shot to the head,” which would result in a very high chance of death. Agents observed a second video in which Upham, again wearing his military uniform, made similar statements, including, in part, that President Trump is the enemy and “must be killed.” Subsequent to these videos, the USSS received a communication that Upham had sent to a third-party which stated that he made the videos to “declare war” against President Trump and that he would “kill President Trump at the time that God chooses.” The USSS also became aware that Upham had access to firearms and had made concerning statements to law enforcement as recently as July 2026. A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney. Criminal Complaint


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

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A former supervisory official with the U.S. Census Bureau received a federal-prison term, today, for conspiring with a subcontractor to receive $790,000 in kickbacks. U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby sentenced Camille Jones, 47, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, to two years in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit bribery and honest-services fraud in connection with a procurement fraud scheme. Judge Griggsby also ordered her to forfeit the proceeds of the scheme. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, Department of Justice Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Eric Arcand, U.S. Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General (DOC-OIG). According to court documents, as part of her guilty plea, Camille Jones admitted that she steered a large employee assistant program contract to a prime contractor and a subcontracting company, YMJ Consulting, which is owned by Camille Jones’s relative, Yolanda M. Jones. The contract was worth millions of dollars. In exchange for steering the contract and modifications, Jones received kickbacks from YMJ Consulting and Yolanda Jones. Additionally, Camille Jones attempted to obstruct the investigation by drafting a service agreement between YMJ Consulting and a mental health company that she owned to make the kickbacks appear like legitimate consulting payments between the two companies. Both Camille Jones and Yolanda Jones signed the agreement in 2024 but backdated it to 2020. Yolanda Jones then provided the document to law enforcement during the investigation. Camille Jones further admitted that she used her official position to share the Census Bureau’s confidential procurement information with another government contractor. While receiving preferential treatment, the contractor hired another one of Camille Jones’s relatives for a minimal-work job. Camille Jones largely performed the work but the relative received $83,000. On Aug. 14, 2025, Yolanda Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services fraud. She is awaiting sentencing. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the DOC-OIG for its work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy and Acting Chief Edward P. Sullivan, DOJ Criminal Division Public Integrity Section, who are prosecuting the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Lawrence Man Sentenced to Prison for Bank Embezzlement

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Lawrence man was sentenced yesterday for embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from a Citizens Bank branch in Tewksbury, Mass. Jefry Castro, 34, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Judge Patti B. Saris to one year and one day in prison, five years of supervised release and $375,233 in restitution. In April 2026, Castro pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement by a bank employee. Castro worked as the manager of the Citizens Bank branch in Tewksbury. Between May 2024 and August 2025, he embezzled $374,233 from the bank. Castro embezzled the money primarily by taking cash from two ATMs at the bank. He covered his theft by moving money from cash deposits and cash shipments to the bank to replace the cash in the ATMs. Castro also changed numbers on the bank’s balance sheets to falsify the total amount of cash at the bank. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy E. Moran of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Gardner Woman Sentenced for Social Security Fraud

body_text: BOSTON – A Gardner woman was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for fraudulently receiving Social Security disability benefits for 10 years. Michelle M. DiSalvo, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to one day of prison deemed served, three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $100,080 in restitution. In March 2026 , DiSalvo pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of stolen government money or property; one count of Social Security fraud; and one count of false statements. DiSalvo was charged in February 2026 . In 2001, DiSalvo began receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Eligibility for SSI is based, in part, on the applicant having limited income and resources. In assessing a married individual’s eligibility for SSI, the income and resources of the applicant’s spouse is considered if they live together. If an applicant is awarded SSI, they have a continuing obligation to notify SSA of any changes in their marital status, living arrangements and household income and resources. In June 2014, DiSalvo truthfully reported to SSA that she was married, but falsely stated that she and her husband had separated in September 2013, when, in fact, they were living together. In five additional redetermination interviews with SSA between December 2014 and August 2023, DiSalvo continued to conceal that she lived with her husband with the intent to fraudulently obtain SSI benefits. DiSalvo also submitted a fraudulent lease agreement to SSA in October 2023 in which DiSalvo omitted her husband because she knew that if she reported living with him, DiSalvo’s husband’s income and resources would have made her ineligible for SSI. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case. On March 26, 2026 , United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the creation of the Benefit & Voter Fraud Team, a district-wide initiative established in response to the rampant fraud being uncovered across Massachusetts. The Team is led by two senior federal prosecutors serving as Fraud Coordinators, whose mission it is to aggressively investigate and prosecute misuse of taxpayer-funded benefits in Massachusetts. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected benefit fraud in Massachusetts by calling 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621). On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Sterling man sentenced to five years in prison for trading in child sexual abuse material

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Sterling man was sentenced today to five years in prison for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, in June of 2024, John Joseph Chanel, 37, uploaded two videos depicting CSAM to an Internet-based cloud storage platform and requested and received images and videos depicting CSAM via an Internet-based peer-to-peer platform. Forensic analysis of Chanel’s devices and social media accounts revealed that in June 2024, a user on the KiK social media platform asked the Chanel if he had child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to trade. Chanel confirmed he did and provided a link to his Dropbox account, which contained numerous images and videos of CSAM. The other user reciprocated. Chanel asked for more, and the other user provided more. A similar exchange occurred on the same messaging platform three days later. On Sept. 25, 2024, law enforcement searched Chanel’s residence in Sterling and seized Chanel’s cellphone and computer. Investigators identified dozens of CSAM files on his devices, as well as in his social media and cloud storage accounts. The files included graphic depictions of the sexual abuse of children. Chanel pled guilty on March 13. The FBI Washington Field Office investigated this case. Former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndi McVey and Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa Strobbe prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-44.


title: Petersburg methamphetamine dealer sentenced to 10 years in prison

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

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Petersburg man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2024, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of 102.81 grams of 95% pure methamphetamine from Rayquan Tyrell Coleman, 30. On Dec. 13, 2024, law enforcement searched two residences associated with Coleman in Chester and Colonial Heights, along with two vehicles. In the vehicle and residence in Chester, investigators located a rifle, two safes, vehicle registrations, money count sheets, $69,107, two cellphones, methamphetamine, marijuana, and packaging materials. From the vehicle at the Colonial Heights residence, investigators recovered a handgun, methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, ecstasy tablets, $4,349, packaging materials, and a digital scale with residue. The total weights of the substances recovered were 839.51 grams of methamphetamine, 85.89 grams of cocaine, 310.86 grams of methamphetamine tablets, and 967.16 grams of marijuana. Coleman pled guilty on Jan. 15. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Gilliland prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:25-cr-137.


title: Annandale man sentenced for trafficking “boot” and unlawfully possessing firearms

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Annandale man was sentenced today to five years and four months in prison for possession with intent to distribute N-isopropyl butylone (boot) and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, on May 2, 2024, pursuant to a warrant, law enforcement searched the residence of Tyrice Stanton, 37. From Stanton’s bedroom, investigators recovered 36 individually packaged bags of boot, a Schedule 1 controlled substance, in addition to another larger package of boot, for a total of 41.63 grams. Investigators also recovered a privately-made firearm with an extended magazine and a laser light, another handgun, ammunition, four ammunition magazines, and brass knuckles. On May 22, 2024, after Stanton was charged with armed drug trafficking and had been released, he was photographed in possession of a rifle. On June 26, 2024, while executing a search warrant, investigators found Stanton in possession of another handgun. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division and the Fairfax County Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Walutes Jr. prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-234.


title: City Man Charged With Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center Arson

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Vincent Lang, 60, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was arrested today and charged by criminal complaint with one count of maliciously damaging or destroying by means of fire any building or property used in interstate commerce, or attempting to do so, in connection with an arson fire last week at a city mosque. The criminal complaint alleges that, in the early hours of July 5, 2026, the defendant approached the Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center, located on the 1400 block of Tyson Avenue, ignited an improvised incendiary device, and threw the device into the entryway of the mosque, causing a fire inside the structure. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of five years’ imprisonment. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Arson and Explosives Task Force, with assistance from the FBI, Philadelphia Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Special Investigations Unit, Philadelphia Police Department, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda R. Reinitz and J. Jeanette Kang, with the assistance of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. The charges and allegations contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. US_DIS_PAED_2_26mj1378_COMPLAINT_LANG.pdf


title: Texas Resident Sentenced For Possessing Methamphetamine With Intent To Distribute

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald James Yates, age 61, of Tyler, Texas, was sentenced to 123 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. The charge arose from an investigation by the Hugo Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Regional Laboratory. On October 6, 2025, Yates pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on February 24, 2025, Hugo officers received a tip from TDPS that Yates, who was wanted for a federal probation violation, had crossed from Texas into Oklahoma. Officers apprehended Yates at a Hugo business, and upon arresting Yates on the warrant, discovered Yates in possession of 148.6 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. At the time of arrest, Yates was serving a term of supervised release after having been previously convicted of one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. “The investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the defendant is a textbook example of state, local, and federal law enforcement working together to combat illegal drug trafficking,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “I commend all the agencies that assisted in taking a repeat drug offender off the streets.” The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Yates will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Staubus represented the United States.


title: Mexican National Sentenced For Federal Drug Crime

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jorge Luis Mejia-Mejia, 40, of Mexico, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. According to investigators, on March 29, 2025, an Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 near Sallisaw arrested Mejia-Mejia after discovering over 878 grams of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, concealed in an airbag panel of the vehicle. The Honorable John F. Heil, III, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Mejia-Mejia will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.


title: Two Members of Chinese Money Laundering Network Charged with Laundering Investment Fraud Proceeds

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Zhuoying Chen, also known as “Jolene,” and Haojie Zhang, also known as “Kevin,” with money laundering conspiracy in connection with their participation in a scheme to launder funds derived from cyber investment fraud scams, or “pig butchering” scams. The defendants were arrested today and will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho. Joseph Nocella Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; A. Tysen Duva, Assistant Attorney General, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; John A. Condon, Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI New York); and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge, United States Postal Inspection Service, New York Division (USPIS) announced the arrests and indictment. “As alleged, the defendants were key members of a sophisticated money laundering network that funneled over $40 million in victim funds to bank accounts in China,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Our Office will continue in its strong tradition of holding accountable anyone who seeks to prey on vulnerable victims with investment fraud schemes.” “As alleged in the indictment, the defendants laundered fraud proceeds, enabling scammers to continue to victimize Americans and deprive them of their hard-earned money,” stated Assistant Attorney General Duva. “Dismantling Chinese money laundering networks that support investment fraud schemes is critical to protecting Americans. The Criminal Division will relentlessly pursue the financial networks that fuel and profit from these fraud schemes.” “For nearly two years, these two Chinese nationals allegedly ran a sophisticated, illicit network that laundered funds stolen from unsuspecting victims’ life savings,” stated HSI Acting Executive Associate Director Condon. “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of HSI and our partners on the Homeland Security Task Force, this dangerous criminal enterprise has been exposed. HSI special agents remain relentless in their pursuit to dismantle money laundering networks and bring to justice anyone who seeks to profit from defrauding hard-working Americans.” “The defendants' alleged operation laundered more than $40 million from American victims and deposited them directly in Chinese accounts overseas. The FBI is committed to working alongside our federal partners to dismantle scam compounds that seek to steal the hard-earned money of our citizens,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “Today’s indictment shows we’re not backing down against fraudsters who target innocent people—justice is coming for those who steal from hardworking Americans,” stated IRS-CI New York Special Agent in Charge Chavis. “This case reflects how IRS‑CI and our partners work side‑by‑side to uncover money‑laundering networks and protect the public. Together, we’re pushing forward to ensure Americans’ hard‑earned money is safe from schemes like these.” “Investment fraud schemes exploit the trust of victims through false promises of favorable returns,” stated USPIS Inspector in Charge Larco-Ward. "The US Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigating fraud and protecting the community from those who seek to profit through deception.“ As alleged in the indictment, between 2020 and 2022, Chen and Zhang managed a network of more than a dozen individuals based in Queens and Brooklyn, New York who opened bank accounts in the name of shell companies to launder proceeds of investment scams known as “pig butchering” fraud schemes, a term derived from a foreign-language phrase used by perpetrators to describe the crimes. These schemes consist of perpetrators contacting victims via messaging services or social media applications. The perpetrators then initiate relationships with the victims and gain their trust, convincing victims to send money for lucrative investment opportunities. The perpetrators also show the victims fake profits on the purported investment and encourage the victims to invest more. Ultimately, the perpetrators steal the victims’ funds. Chen and Zhang allegedly conspired with China-based co-conspirators to transfer the funds involved in pig butchering fraud schemes abroad. Chen, Zhang and other co-conspirators oversaw the use of approximately 45 shell companies and 140 company bank accounts located primarily in the Eastern District of New York to launder at least $43 million in criminal proceeds from these schemes. The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment. This prosecution is also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section and by the Department of Justice’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Weintraub and David I. Berman, and Trial Attorneys Claire Galasso, David Ginensky, and Adrienne Rosen are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Laura Mansour. The Defendants : ZHUOYING CHEN (also known as “Jolene”) Age: 27 Brooklyn, New York HAOJIE ZHANG (also known as “Kevin”) Age: 38 Queens, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 26-CR-205 (KAM)


title: Florida Man Charged with Trafficking Thousands of Kilograms of Cocaine from Puerto Rico to John F. Kennedy Airport and Long Island

body_text: An indictment was unsealed yesterday in federal court in Central Islip charging Omar Morales-Negron, also known as “O,” with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Morales Negron was arrested on July 14, 2026 in Florida and will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Pete Gizas, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York); Frank A Tarentino III, Associate Chief of Operations, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Northeast Region (DEA); and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the arrest and indictment. “As alleged, the defendant coordinated the shipments of massive amounts of cocaine into our Long Island community,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “For years Morales-Negron profited from his international trafficking and taking advantage of end users who are addicted to his drugs. These charges will hold him accountable for the harm he has wrought.” “As alleged, Omar Morales-Negron directed a criminal pipeline that moved thousands of kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico into Long Island, hiding drugs inside furniture and sham electronics shipments to flood our neighborhoods with poison. By dismantling this operation and seizing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, HSI New York and our partners have cut off a major source of narcotics that fuels addiction, violence, and instability in our communities. HSI, as a leader of the Homeland Security Task Force New York, together with HSI Tampa and our law enforcement partners will continue to combine intelligence, investigative authorities, and resources to confront transnational criminal organizations and safeguard the American people,” stated HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Gizas. “By concealing cocaine inside furniture and shipments disguised as electronic parts, Omar Morales-Negron deliberately attempted to evade law enforcement while fueling addiction and violence throughout Long Island and our region” stated DEA Northeast Associate Chief of Operations Tarentino. “As alleged, Morales-Negron operated a sophisticated drug trafficking organization responsible for moving thousands of kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico into New York. The seizure of more than 465 kilograms of cocaine, coupled with investigative findings indicating the distribution of more than $100 million worth of cocaine on Long Island, underscores the immense scale of this operation. Thanks to the hard work of the DEA, our prosecutors, and our law enforcement partners, Morales-Negron is now in New York to answer for the harm he inflicted on the very communities he sought to poison.” “Omar Morales-Negron allegedly trafficked large quantities of cocaine right into our backyard. Drug trafficking tears at our communities, fueling violence, addiction, and instability. The FBI, with its partners, continues to disrupt these operations to protect our neighborhoods,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. From 2019 through the present, the defendant coordinated large scale shipments and distribution of narcotics from Puerto Rico to Long Island utilizing, among other methods, freight shipping routes. The defendant’s drug trafficking organization (DTO) shipped narcotics, which were secreted inside furniture, by ocean freight from Puerto Rico to the continental United States. Once the narcotics arrived in the United States, DTO members loaded the furniture containing narcotics onto trucks and transported them to warehouses in New York, including locations in the Eastern District of New York for distribution. The defendant also orchestrated the surreptitious shipment of narcotics through the United Parcel Service. All the suspected narcotics-filled shipments weighed approximately the same amount and were labeled as electronics parts sent from a fictious corporation in Puerto Rico (“Company-1”) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK Airport). Once the purported electronics parts arrived at the JFK Airport, other members of the DTO picked up the shipments for further distribution within the United States. To date, law enforcement has intercepted some of the narcotics trafficked by the defendant’s DTO including: The January 29, 2026, seizure of 312 kilograms of cocaine (valued at $20 million) from two of Morales-Negron’s subordinates. The cocaine was shipped from Company-1 in Puerto Rico, arrived at JFK Airport and was picked up on the same day by a member of the DTO. The DTO member who picked up the shipment arrived driving a U-Haul truck. Later that day, Nassau County Police Detectives observed two individuals in a Plainview, New York hotel parking lot conduct a hand-to-hand narcotics exchange. Police approached the two individuals and observed numerous open suitcases which appeared to contain kilograms of cocaine (some of which is pictured below): The July 3, 2026, seizure of 153 kilograms of cocaine (valued at $10 million) from a shipment container seized in Queens, New York (some of which is pictured below): During the investigation, ledgers detailing Morales-Negron’s large scale and highly profitable narcotics business were recovered allowing law enforcement to determine that his narcotics operation was responsible for the distribution of more than $100 million of cocaine on Long Island. The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges, Morales-Negron faces up to life in prison. The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney Mark E. Misorek and Special Assistant United States Attorney James P. Scahill are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of the Eastern District of New York’s Criminal Investigation Unit and Paralegal Specialist Dejah Turla. This prosecution is also part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Defendant : OMAR MORALES-NEGRON Age: 36 Orange City, Florida E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 26-CR-207 (SJB)


title: Texas Drug Dealer Gets 18 Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy

body_text: WILMINGTON, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Mark Anthony Cavello, 52, of Dallas, Texas, to 18 years in federal prison. He had previously pleaded guilty on May 30, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of meth, distribution of more than 50 grams of meth, and money laundering. “This is another example of federal, state, and local law enforcement working together to rid the poison that Cavello pushed into Eastern North Carolina.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “The residents of Eastern North Carolina will be safer while he’s locked up. Simple Lesson: Drugs Kill; Prison Awaits – Do Right.” The investigation began in March 2021 after federal law enforcement identified Cavello as a key supplier, who led a drug trafficking organization (DTO) based in Dallas, TX. Cavello’s drug trafficking spanned at least a decade. Cavello regularly handled large quantities of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth. His DTO ran its drug business through mailing packages, wire transfers, and phone communication, with occasional in‑person meetings. To evade detection, Cavello used multiple homes to conceal his locations, used a post office box to handle money, changed phone numbers often, and worked a regular construction job during the day. He used his lawful business, and even a bank account under a relative’s name, to hide and launder his drug money. Cavello relied heavily on family members within his DTO and sometimes using drug runners to deliver drugs and collect cash. From 2017 to 2022, Cavello was a major supplier of meth traveling from Texas to Eastern North Carolina. Between September 2021 and March 2022, ATF made three controlled drug purchases from Cavello, totaling about 11 pounds of highly potent meth. He mailed the drugs from Texas to Eastern North Carolina in the mail and received money payments back in the mail to various locations in Texas. “Drug dealing and violent gun crimes are always closely connected,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “When we take down a drug trafficking network, we’re cutting off the flow of dangerous drugs and reducing the level of violence and gun crimes that threaten our communities.” “This investigation highlights the reach and impact of interagency cooperation. This is a testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of our local, state and federal partners to keeping our communities safe,” said Chief Ashley L. Weaver, Jacksonville Police Department. This prosecution is part of Operation Polar Bear which 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. Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. ATF, DEA, Jacksonville Police Department, and Goldsboro Police Department investigated the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for 5:24-CR-121-M


title: Raleigh Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Escape from Residential Reentry Center

component: Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge sentenced Carlos Todd, 31, of Raleigh to one year and three months in federal prison for escaping from the South Raleigh Residential Reentry Center (RCC). Todd began serving the last part of his previous prison sentence at the reentry center on July 8, 2025. The facility is a contracted halfway house operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The reentry program helps by gradually transitioning inmates from prison at the end of their term back into the community by supporting work, treatment, and personal responsibility. However, less than two weeks after arriving, Todd tested positive for marijuana, and the BOP recommended removing him and returning him to prison. “At the end of their time in BOP, Federal inmates have an excellent opportunity to adjust to their return to society by successfully completing a stay in a RCC. These RCCs provide an opportunity for them to reintegrate and land on their feet,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Inmates who abuse this process and escape by leaving without permission will be pursued and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Take your time and learn from it, or we will add years onto your federal prison stay.” On July 30, 2025, officials from the Riverside Regional Prison in North Prince George, Virginia arrived at the halfway house to transfer several inmates including, Todd, to prison because of his noncompliance, but Todd refused to leave and board the bus. After the officials departed, Todd absconded from the center without permission. He remained at large until U.S. Marshals apprehended him on February 27, 2026. “Our deputies responded quickly, worked collaboratively, and safely apprehended the fugitive without incident. This successful outcome reflects the professionalism, preparedness, and unwavering commitment of the men and women of the United States Marshals Service and our law enforcement partners,” said Glenn M. McNeill, Jr., United States Marshal. “Every successful apprehension strengthens public safety and reinforces our commitment to protecting the communities we serve. I am proud of the outstanding work performed by our team and grateful for their dedication to the mission every day.” Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after the sentencing before U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. This investigation resulted from collaboration between the United States Marshals Service, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and the South Raleigh Residential Reentry Center. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:26-CR-00028-FL


title: LS Cable and System USA Inc. Agrees to Pay $4 Million to Resolve Allegedly False PPP Loan and Forgiveness Claims

component: Civil Division

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – LS Cable & System USA, Inc., agreed to pay $4 million to the United States to resolve allegedly false claims for payments under Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and PPP loan forgiveness. “This civil fraud settlement demonstrates our commitment to protect taxpayer money and to guard the integrity of our federal programs,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Our office will zealously pursue those who wrongfully take funds in violation of program requirements.” The settlement arises from allegations that LS Cable knowingly misrepresented the number of its employees and affiliated personnel and unlawfully sought and obtained Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan funds and loan forgiveness totaling over $2,004,414 for which it was not legally eligible. The False Claims Act allows the Government to seek recovery of three times the amount of falsely obtained money, plus substantial penalties for each false claim submitted, and attorneys’ fees to the whistleblower who initiated this action. It should be noted that the civil claims resolved by settlement here are allegations only, and that there has been no judicial determination or admission of liability. LS Cable denies the fraud allegations. This matter was addressed through close partnership and coordinated efforts between the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. A copy of this press release can be located on our website. Related court documents and information can be located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-CV-130-BO.


title: West Bloomfield Resident Charged for Investment Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – A West Bloomfield resident was charged in a criminal complaint for his alleged role in a scheme to obtain millions of dollars in investment funds based on false pretenses, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The complaint charges Kenneth Bardwell, 66, of West Bloomfield with one count of wire fraud. According to the complaint, Bardwell is the operator of a company called “Motown Sports Group Holdings, Inc.” and several related business entities. Through these entities, Bardwell has solicited and obtained millions of dollars from investors for a project involving the purported development of a multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment complex in Romulus, Michigan. Bardwell represented to investors that their money would be used to purchase land and develop the project, but if the land could not be purchased, the money would be returned to investors from an escrow account. According to the complaint, Bardwell has made almost no effort towards the purchase of the land to develop the project. He instead spent most of the investor funds on gentlemen’s clubs, luxury retail goods, rental cars, and lifestyle expenses for himself and his associates. A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Trial cannot be held on felony charges in a complaint. When the investigation is complete, a determination will be made whether to seek a felony indictment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert Moran. The investigation is being conducted by the FBI Detroit Fraud and Financial Crimes Task Force, Birmingham Police Department and Bloomfield Township Police Department, with assistance from West Bloomfield Police Department. The FBI is seeking information from any individuals who may have invested money with Motown Sports Group Holdings, Inc. or Kenneth Bardwell, or who may otherwise have information pertinent to this investigation. Please visit https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-motown-sports-group-holdings-inc-investigation for further information.


title: Man Sentenced for Suborning Perjury in Federal Court

body_text: FLINT —Omar R. Pouncy, 39, of Flint, was sentenced on July 14, 2026, to five years in federal prison for suborning perjury, U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. announced. Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Detroit Field Office. U.S. District Court Judge F. Kay Behm imposed sentence on Pouncy following his guilty plea to suborning perjury. Pouncy pleaded guilty after a trial and while the jury was deliberating. Judge Behm ordered Pouncy’s sentence to be served consecutively to his state sentences for armed robbery and carjacking. Pouncy’s earliest release date for his state sentences is February 2055, and Pouncy’s state sentences could run until December 2074. Pouncy will serve his federal sentence after his state sentences. Judge Behm also ordered Pouncy to pay a $50,000 fine. According to court documents and the testimony and evidence elicited at trial, Pouncy was convicted of committing multiple carjackings and armed robberies in Genesee County in 2005. The trial court sentenced Pouncy to a lengthy term of incarceration. After exhausting all of his appeals in state court, Pouncy filed a federal habeas corpus petition in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in 2013. During the federal habeas proceedings, Pouncy alleged, among other things, that he was innocent of the carjackings for which he had been convicted, and that another man, Jaakawa McGruder, had committed the carjackings instead of Pouncy. On May 22, 2018, the U.S. District Court conducted an evidentiary hearing on Pouncy’s actual innocence claims. During the hearing, Jaakawa McGruder testified falsely that he, not Pouncy, committed the carjackings. During the hearing, McGruder also testified falsely that he had not been offered and was not receiving any money for his testimony or his presence at the hearing, when in fact, Pouncy paid McGruder $10,000 to testify. Pouncy’s scheme was uncovered when employees of the Michigan Department of Corrections found, and later searched, two cell phones that Pouncy was using from inside prison. Text messages on the phones revealed that Pouncy coached McGruder on how to testify, providing him with details of the carjackings and robberies that only the perpetrator would know. The text messages also revealed Pouncy’s directives to others to ensure payment to McGruder in order to secure his testimony in the habeas proceeding. McGruder and another person who assisted Pouncy in his scheme were previously convicted for their roles. “Trying to buy your freedom with lies and fabricated testimony is a foolish attempt to pervert the integrity of our justice system. These deceptive efforts nearly put a violent offender back on our streets, and this sentence ensures he will face the consequences,” said Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “I am grateful for the exceptional work of our FBI Flint Resident Agency and the critical partnership of the Michigan Attorney General’s Office and Michigan Department of Corrections in helping expose this conspiracy. I also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan for its work in prosecuting this case and recognize the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance throughout the trial. Let this sentence serve as a warning to those who attempt to undermine our justice system: the FBI and our partners will pursue the truth, protect the integrity of our courts, and hold you accountable.” This investigation was conducted by special agents of the FBI’s Flint Resident Agency.


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced to a Decade in Prison for Committing Federal Firearms Offenses

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TYRONE WHITTINGTON (“WHITTINGTON”) , age 41, was sentenced on July 16, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, WHITTINGTON was arrested by New Orleans Police Department officers on August 19, 2023, and by Louisiana State Police troopers on December 30, 2024. For each of those arrests, WHITTINGTON was in possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine that he intended to distribute, as well as two handguns that furthered those drug-trafficking crimes. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. ***


title: Jefferson Parish Man Guilty of Being Felon in Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On June 25, 2026, JAEQUAN BAILEY (“BAILEY”) , age 31, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. BAILEY faces up to 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, at least three years of supervised release, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Sentencing in this case is set for October 15, 2026. According to court documents, on September 26, 2024, BAILEY drove a black Acura to the intersection of Tullis Drive and Woodland Drive in New Orleans, accompanied by another individual in the passenger seat. Upon arrival, BAILEY fired multiple shots from a Glock Model 19X, 9-millimeter caliber pistol, while the other individual fired a semiautomatic rifle, at two individuals in the area. After the shooting, BAILEY and his accomplice fled the scene in the Acura. Shortly after the shooting, New Orleans Police Department officers (NOPD) received a 911 call reporting a shooting at the intersection of Tullis Drive and Woodland Drive. Upon arrival, officers learned that a victim was located on Tullis Drive not far from the shooting. When officers arrived at that location, they found a male victim laying on the ground with a gunshot wound to his upper right thigh. A search of the scene revealed five 9-millimeter cartridge casings and seventeen 7.62- millimeter casings. In November of 2024, an arrest warrant for an unrelated matter was issued for BAILEY . On November 26, 2024, NOPD officers confirmed that BAILEY lived in Elmwood, Louisiana (Jefferson Parish) with his girlfriend. Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s deputies assisted NOPD in executing the arrest warrant and a search warrant. Upon arriving at BAILEY ’s residence, deputies discovered the black Acura that BAILEY drove during the shooting on September 26, 2024. Deputies also searched BAILEY ’ s apartment. During the search, deputies recovered BAILEY ’ s cellphone that he attempted to hide in the toilet tank inside the bathroom. Deputies also recovered the Glock Model 19X, 9-millimeter caliber pistol that BAILEY possessed in the September 26, 2024, shooting, hidden in a dresser drawer. During the investigation, officers confirmed that the 9-millimeter cartridge casings found at the scene of the September 26, 2024, shooting ballistically matched the same Glock Model 19X, 9-millimeter caliber pistol, found in BAILEY ’ s apartment. The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, New Orleans Police Department, and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crime Unit. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). * * *


title: Franklinton Woman Sentenced For Social Security Fraud

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – On July 16, 2026, U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced BARBARA AUGUSTIN (“AUGUSTIN”) ,age 59, of Franklinton, Louisiana, to three (3) years probation, ordered her to pay restitution of $43,477 and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney David I Courcelle. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. AUGUSTIN had previously pleaded guilty to theft of government funds in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641. According to the bill of information, beginning in or about November 2018, and continuing until in or about May 2023, AUGUSTIN knowingly converted to her use, Social Security Administration (“SSA”) money belonging to the United States, to which AUGUSTIN knew she was not entitled. AUGUSTIN fraudulently obtained $43,477 in SSA benefits by failing to report her son’s incarceration to Social Security, which allowed her to continue receiving benefits on his behalf as his representative payee. The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright, Financial Crimes Unit. ***


title: Roseville Man Indicted for Possessing Heroin and Cocaine for Distribution

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury today returned a two-count indictment charging Julian Beall, 37, of Roseville, with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, on June 10, 2026, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at Beall’s Roseville residence and a Midtown Sacramento apartment used as a stash location. At the apartment, officers seized more than 51 pounds of heroin, more than 22 pounds of cocaine, and drug-trafficking paraphernalia, including scales and heat-sealing equipment. At Beall’s residence, officers seized $133,420 in cash. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sacramento Police Department, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Cornell is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Beall faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Operation Return to Sender Results in Numerous Arrests and Law Enforcement Seizing More Than 300 Pounds of Methamphetamine Intended for Central Arkansas

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK— A large-scale federal investigation into methamphetamine trafficking in Little Rock and North Little Rock that spanned two years and multiple states resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals in Operation Return to Sender on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Twenty-three defendants accused of participating in an extensive methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy were charged in an indictment unsealed in conjunction with the arrests. Sixteen of those individuals are scheduled to appear today for plea and arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe J. Volpe. Fourteen defendants are in custody, and two defendants remain fugitives. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas and Warner “Brooks” Benson, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Little Rock District Office for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced the arrests that took place in Arkansas, California, and Texas. During Tuesday’s arrest operation, law enforcement seized 120 pounds of methamphetamine, four firearms (two stolen), and approximately $35,000 in U.S. currency. Additional seizures include 186 pounds of methamphetamine seized from packages mailed from October through November 2025, and approximately six pounds of methamphetamine seized directly from defendants. In total, law enforcement involved in the operation recovered approximately 312 pounds of methamphetamine that conspiracy members are alleged to have attempted to distribute in central Arkansas. “If you bring death to our streets, we will come to your doors to bring you to our courts to answer for your crimes,” United States Attorney Ross said. “According to the Arkansas State Crime Lab, methamphetamine is the leading cause of death for Arkansans who die of a drug overdose. And so, in the era of fentanyl and other illicit opioid synthetics, investigating and disrupting methamphetamine trafficking remains essential. Because of the diligence of the DEA and their law enforcement partners on this investigation, 312 pounds of methamphetamine have been removed from the streets. We are grateful to these officers and Special Agents for their grit and resolve to find and remove this poison from our Arkansas communities.” Operation Return to Sender is a Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) investigation headed by the DEA Little Rock Field Office that began in 2024. The DEA Little Rock Field Office and HSTF partnered with numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to dismantle the sophisticated drug-trafficking organization operating throughout central Arkansas and being sourced out of California that is alleged to be responsible for distributing hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement used nine court-authorized wiretaps between December 2024 and November 2025 to investigate the drug-trafficking organization. The indictment alleges that Christerious Wooten directed a drug-trafficking organization based in Little Rock and North Little Rock. The indictment further alleges that after members of the conspiracy transported United States currency from Arkansas to the greater Los Angeles, California, area to pay supplier Ronji Hill for the drug-trafficking organization’s methamphetamine, Hill arranged for methamphetamine packages to be mailed via commercial shipping services to residential addresses in Pulaski County, Chicot County, and other locations in the Eastern District of Arkansas. The indictment further alleges that in October 2025, after members of the conspiracy traveled to Los Angeles to pay Hill, Hill sent eight packages totaling 186 pounds of methamphetamine to Wooten’s drug-trafficking organization in Arkansas. These packages were intercepted by law enforcement in Arkansas between October 27, 2025, and November 3, 2025, before they reached their intended destinations. According to the indictment, members of the conspiracy maintained and purchased residential properties in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Los Angeles for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine and to convert drug proceeds into legitimate property. On Tuesday, during the arrest operation, law enforcement seized an additional 120 pounds of methamphetamine from one of those properties in North Little Rock. Also at that residence, law enforcement seized three firearms, two of which were stolen, and more than $20,000 in U.S. currency. More than $15,000 and an additional firearm were seized in other locations. Previously and during the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized six pounds of methamphetamine. “ Operation Return to Sender is a testament to the unwavering commitment and collaboration of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners in combating drug trafficking organizations that threaten the safety of our communities. This investigation successfully dismantled a significant methamphetamine distribution network by targeting every level of the organization from its California-based source of supply to its local distributors and the assets that fueled its criminal enterprise,” Assistant Special Agent in Charge Benson said. “The DEA remains steadfast in its mission to identify, investigate, and dismantle organizations responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs into Arkansas while holding those responsible accountable under the law.” “Drug trafficking organizations exist for one reason—to generate illicit profits. Working alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, the women and men of IRS Criminal Investigation remain committed to tracing illicit proceeds and exposing the financial networks that support these organizations,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus, Jr. of IRS Criminal Investigation, Dallas Field Office. “ Operation Return to Sender demonstrates how coordinated law enforcement efforts strengthen our ability to protect the safety of our communities.” “Arkansas State Police is committed to helping our local and federal partners make Arkansas communities safer,” said Colonel Mike Hagar, Director of Arkansas State Police. “ Operation Return to Sender is a natural extension of our mission, and we’re proud to support it and other operations that prevent deadly, illegal drugs from entering our state and removing them before they cause additional harm to Arkansas families. The distribution and sale of illicit drugs is the driving force behind criminal activity in Arkansas cities. Fracturing the drug supply pipeline is one of the best ways to make our communities safer.” “With the support of our state, local, and federal partners, the Little Rock Police Department is committed to eradicating methamphetamine from our streets,” said Interim Chief of Police Joe Miller, Little Rock Police Department. “We will relentlessly pursue those who traffic this drug and continue working to improve the quality of life for all who call Central Arkansas home.” “The North Little Rock Police Department is committed to utilizing all possible resources to protect our neighborhoods from drug traffickers and other criminal organizations,” said Chief of Police Hayward Finks, North Little Rock Police Department. “ Operation Return to Sender is a significant example of what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal partners work together to combat criminal activity. Special thanks to all law enforcement personnel that participated in this operation.” This operation 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 Little Rock comprises agents and officers from the DEA, IRS Criminal Investigation, Arkansas State Police, Little Rock Police Department, and the North Little Rock Police Department with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas. Those arrested and their respective charge(s) are listed below. David Ellis and Corey Lucas remain fugitives. Conspiracy to Distribute/Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – 500 Grams or More Penalties: Not less than 10 years, not more than life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, five years to life supervised release Allysia Brown, aka Lisa, aka Liss, 29, Alexander, Arkansas Sergio Burgueno, 51, North Little Rock, Arkansas Jeremie Calvin, 22, North Little Rock, Arkansas Shandreckqualin Chatman, aka Shandra, aka Shan, 34, Little Rock, Arkansas David Ellis, 42, Malvern, Arkansas *fugitive Charnice Frazier, aka Dookie, 29, Fort Worth, Texas Ronji Hill, 57, Los Angeles, California Nicolette Jones, aka Trip, 35, North Little Rock, Arkansas Timothy Jones, 47, Sherwood, Arkansas Robert Raper, aka Bobby, 49, Jacksonville, Arkansas Desmond Rowe, Jr., aka Junior, 19, North Little Rock, Arkansas Tristen Taylor, aka Bag, 28, Little Rock, Arkansas Grealin Thomas, aka Maine, 47, Hot Springs, Arkansas Scott Vest, aka Scotty, 47, Little Rock, Arkansas Santadius Wilbarger, aka G, 44, Little Rock, Arkansas Christerious Wooten, aka CJ, 34, North Little Rock, Arkansas Conspiracy to Distribute/Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – 50-500 Grams Penalties: Not less than 5 years, not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, four years to life supervised release Christopher Chambers, 35, Morrilton, Arkansas Clay Glasco, 46, Lonoke, Arkansas Jacki Hogue, aka Jacki Wylie, 41, Redfield, Arkansas Otis Kelly, 44, Greenbrier, Arkansas Daniella Pruitt, 40, Morrilton, Arkansas Conspiracy to Distribute/Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Less Than 50 Grams Penalties: Not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, three years to life supervised release Alexander Cruz, 54, North Little Rock, Arkansas Corey Lucas, 48, Little Rock, Arkansas *fugitive Distribution of Methamphetamine – 50 Grams or More Penalties: Not less than 5 years, not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, four years to life supervised release Sergio Burgueno, 51, North Little Rock, Arkansas Jeremie Calvin, 22, North Little Rock, Arkansas Desmond Rowe, Jr., aka Junior, 19, North Little Rock, Arkansas Christerious Wooten, aka CJ, 34, North Little Rock, Arkansas Santadius Wilbarger, aka G, 44, Little Rock, Arkansas Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – 50 Grams or More Penalties: Not less than 5 years, not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, four years to life supervised release Christopher Chambers, 35, Morrilton, Arkansas David Ellis, 42, Malvern, Arkansas *fugitive Daniella Pruitt, 40, Morrilton, Arkansas Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – Less Than 50 Grams Penalties: Not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, three years to life supervised release Alexander Cruz, 54, North Little Rock, Arkansas Corey Lucas, 48, Little Rock, Arkansas *fugitive Scott Vest, aka Scotty, 47, Little Rock, Arkansas Attempt to Distribute Methamphetamine – 500 Grams or More Penalties: Not less than 10 years, not more than life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, five years to life supervised release Ronji Hill, 57, Los Angeles, California Attempt to Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine – 500 Grams or More Penalties: Not less than 10 years, not more than life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, five years to life supervised release Christerious Wooten, aka CJ, 34, North Little Rock, Arkansas Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises Penalties: Not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $500,000, not more than three years supervised release Sergio Burgueno, 51, North Little Rock, Arkansas Christerious Wooten, aka CJ, 34, North Little Rock, Arkansas Santadius Wilbarger, aka G, 44, Little Rock, Arkansas Law enforcement partners who worked with the DEA Little Rock District Office and Homeland Security Task Force program, were: IRS Criminal Investigation, Little Rock POD/Dallas Field Office, Arkansas State Police, Little Rock Police Department, and, North Little Rock Police Department. Assisting law enforcement agencies include: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Arkansas National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, Arkansas Highway Police, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, Fifth Judicial Drug Task Force, Benton Police Department, Hot Springs Police Department, Malvern Police Department, Sherwood Police Department, and, Los Angeles, California, Police Department This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie Peters. An Indictment contains only allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Photo courtesy of U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Photo courtesy of U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Two D.C. Men Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for 2024 Shooting of Dunbar High School Student

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Saki Frost, 19, and Azhari Graves, 20, of Washington, D.C., were sentenced today for charges related to a shooting near Dunbar High School in May 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “These defendants opened fire just steps from a school, injuring multiple students, including one who was struck in the head by a bullet and endangering countless others,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Students should be able to learn without fear of violence, and those who seek to disrupt that safety will be met with decisive action.” Frost and Graves each pleaded guilty to aggravated assault while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a pistol without a license on December 19, 2025. Frost, who was 17 years old at the time of the shooting, was prosecuted as an adult under Title 16. As part of their sentences, both defendants will be required to register as gun offenders. The Honorable J. Michael Ryan ordered both defendants to 84 months in prison, suspended as for all except for 60 months, to be followed by two years of supervised probation. According to the government’s evidence, on the morning of May 3, 2024, Graves and Frost went to the area of Kirby Street NW, near Dunbar High School, and opened fire on a sedan that was driving down that street, before fleeing the area in a vehicle. A witness reported hearing machine gun fire and surveillance video captured Frost and Graves running down an alleyway holding firearms prior to the shooting. Surveillance video also captured the shooting, in which an individual appearing to be Frost, fires a gun toward the sedan. Investigators recovered a total of 29 shell casings from the scene of the shooting and numerous fragments from the exterior of Dunbar High School, as well as from classrooms inside the school. Investigators also observed at least six bullet strikes to the N Street side of Dunbar. During the shooting, one Dunbar student suffered a graze wound to the head from the gunfire. Joining in the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Dal Lago, who prosecuted the case. 2024 CF1 004330 2024 CF1 004346


title: El Salvador National Sentenced to 24 Years in Prison for 1997 Double Murder

body_text: WASHINGTON – Oscar Diaz Romero, aka Oscar Alonzo Salguero, 47, of El Salvador, was sentenced today for shooting and killing Jose Roberto Molina, 21, and Jose Noel Coreas, 22, in August 1997, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Diaz Romero was found guilty of two counts of second-degree murder on March 25, 2026. Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman ordered Diaz Romero to serve 24 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised probation. “Nearly thirty years after fleeing justice, Oscar Diaz Romero’s day of reckoning has come,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Let this be clear: if you commit murder in our community and attempt to escape accountability, my office will never rest until you are brought to justice. Today’s sentencing affirms that violent acts against our residents will be met with consequences.” According to the government’s evidence, in the early morning hours of August 9, 1997, Diaz Romero and several friends were out on the 2nd floor of the then-Las Rocas restaurant in the 2400 block of 18th Street, NW. Just before 2 a.m., a group of young men entered the restaurant and began fighting. Then Diaz Romero pulled out a revolver and fired several times. One round hit and killed Jose Molina, a 22-year-old father of two. Another round hit and killed Jose Coreas, who was out celebrating his 22nd birthday. Diaz Romero fled the scene to El Salvador, where he was arrested in 2024. He was extradited to the United States in January 2025, where he has been in custody since. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Dennis Clark and Richard Carlton, who prosecuted the case. 2025 CF1 000555


title: 2022 Murder of Audora Williams Yields Guilty Verdict for Her Children’s Father

body_text: WASHINGTON – Wonell Jones, Jr., 38, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty today in D.C. Superior Court, on charges stemming from the death of 33-year-old Audora Williams in her apartment on July 19, 2022, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Jones was found guilty of one count of first-degree murder while armed, one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon on July 16, 2026. Superior Court Judge J. Michael Ryan scheduled sentencing for October 30, 2026. “Jones flouted a protective order, put in place to keep Audora Williams and her children safe, and proceeded to murder Williams, with her children just feet away,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “He shot Williams over 20 times, traumatizing these children, and changing the trajectory of their lives. Today’s verdict, guilty on all charges, is a step toward justice for Williams and a clear affirmation that such brutality will be met with unwavering accountability.” According to the government’s evidence, on July 19, 2022, around 1:30 p.m., in the 2900 block of Knox Place, SE, Jones returned to Audora Williams’s apartment following a grocery run with one of her young sons. At the time, there were eight children in the apartment, three were Jones’s, three were Williams’s, and a toddler and a baby were shared by Jones and Williams. Shortly after returning, Jones, who was not supposed to be at the home or in contact with Williams because of a temporary protective order she had against him, with a protective order trial scheduled just days later, closed the door to Williams’s room and began a loud argument with her. Jones could be heard accusing Williams of cheating and growing louder and angrier and then the gunshots began. Jones then partially stepped out of the room and fired more shots before exiting the apartment, leaving the kids behind, and ultimately fleeing to Florida. Surveillance video shows Jones entering the building and apartment with Williams’s child. The defendant shot Audora Williams more than 20 times, using two different guns. Jones was arrested and held in Florida on August 29, 2022, and extradited to the District of Columbia on October 26, 2022, and has been in custody since. 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 Zach Horton and Shaniqua Butler. 2022 CF1 006394